Have a Holly Jolly Christmas in Rim Country

Visiting Strawberry and Pine in the winter is so special. If you have been here this time of year, you know exactly why! There’s something so magical about having to don a warm winter coat and hat and being surrounded by pine “Christmas” trees. Here at the Inn, we love decorating the outside and inside for our guests to enjoy all season long.

While we are still keeping our fingers crossed for some snow SOON, there are still plenty of fun activities to partake in this month around town! Read below for a rundown on some of our favorite yearly Christmas activities.

Santa Claus is coming to Pine!

One of our favorite local spots, The Rusty Pinecone, hosts a "Santa's Workshop" event every Saturday & Sunday (through December 18th) where you can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus & snap a photo. Santa's helpers will even help little kids search the store & pick out the perfect gift for their parents - isn't that the cutest idea? They even stick within your allotted budget. There's free hot cocoa, and of course, photo ops with Santa! You'll want to include this in your plans especially if you have little ones to get them into the Christmas spirit!

Christmas shopping extravaganza

Sick of giving out the same old scarves and candles to your loved ones and friends this holiday season? Head to Downtown Pine for your Christmas shopping! So many of our local stores are offering Christmas specials and unique gifts.

The Honey Stand: Give the gift of local honey this year. Offering adorable gift boxes and sample boxes filled with unique and delicious honey, this will wow anyone! They also have a wonderful collection of jams, salsas, and more. I know some of my personal favorite gifts to give and receive are from small, local businesses.

The Pine-Strawberry Farmer's Market: Loaded with more local Christmas goodies and gifting options, your Strawberry-loving friend or family member will be so thrilled! The market is open Fridays and Saturdays, so plan accordingly.

Pine Provisions: Stock up on Christmas treats and sweets galore! Our friends over at Pine Provisions have created a whole section dedicated to exciting holiday goodies. They have a fantastic beer and wine selection too!

Payson Electric Light Parade

Head to Payson on Saturday, December 3rd for the 23rd annual Electric Light Parade! The theme is "Vintage Christmas," and I can't wait to see what the entrants come up with this year! Wear warm clothes, grab some hot cocoa, and have a great time!

Bandits Christmas Light Parade on Fossil Creek Road

Our neighbors, Bandits Restaurant, is having a Christmas Light Parade on Fossil Creek Road on Saturday, December 17 at 7PM. Bandits is a local favorite and they do a lot of fun events in the community, so this will be a must see if you're in town!

Staying Over Christmas and Need a Place to Eat?

Just a few doors down from the hotel, Sportsman's Chalet, is open 365 days a year - so if you head up for a wintry getaway, you'll have a delicious option for a Christmas meal!

Go for a Brisk Winter Hike

You all know there’s no shortage of great hiking up here. Check our hiking blog posts and pick your favorite! This time of year, the trails are less crowded, making it a great time to explore.

Have a very merry holiday season,

-Carson & Amber