Journey to the North Pole

Lake Coeur d’Alene Holiday Light Show

Cruise to one of the Pacific Northwest’s very best holiday light shows on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Since family members moved to Spokane it’s become a tradition to spend one evening at the Coeur d’Alene Resort for their “Fantasy Cruise to the North Pole.” Boats depart from the Boardwalk Marina for the forty minute cruise, magically transporting us across the lake to Santa’s North Pole workshop.   

After a good dose of fresh winter air passengers usually retreat to the enclosed lower deck until the boat starts to slow down. Then almost everyone bundles up and heads outside to marvel at the light display.

Santa awaits our arrival, generally accompanied by Mrs. Claus. He unrolls his list and reads off names of good girls and boys, promising a visit on Christmas Eve. Magically there’s snow at the North Pole every evening.

The boat slowly passes  close to shore for views of the the expansive lighted buildings and decorations. Favorites include Santa’s Toy Company and Santa, sleigh and reindeer lifting off for their rounds. Reflections in the lake add mesmerizing effects. Color themes and displays have a new look every year.

This year the resort promises The World’s Tallest Living Christmas Tree, lit by over 30,000 sparkling LED lights, at the North Pole. The 161-foot giant rises more than twice as high as the famous Rockefeller Center tree.

A cup of hot chocolate is a popular accompaniment during the return trip. Approaching the resort is almost as spectacular as the North Pole. Thousands and thousands of lights outline buildings, bridges and walkways. 

Unless the weather is bitter we enjoy walking the boardwalk for upclose looks at a multitude of lighted characters and venues. In all, more than 1.5 million lights sparkle across Lake Coeur d-Alene during the Holiday Light Show.

Several departures are scheduled each evening beginning the day after Thanksgiving and continue until after New Years. Tickets and information available at 208-664-7268.

Reservations are essential.

Don’t forget the camera for lasting reminders of your “Fantasy Cruise to the North Pole.” It might become one of your family holiday traditions.