The Holiday season in Custer Country means folks conduct a little friendly competition to see who can decorate their homes or businesses with the most colorful and festive displays.  Neighbor tries to out-do neighbor, neighborhoods compete for bragging rights, and cities and towns go all-out to celebrate the season and welcome a new year.

Every town has a house that’s known for its display of lights, animated figures and computer-generated sounds and colors.  Many Custer Country cities and towns sponsor contests to see who can produce the best Christmas display in different categories.  It’s great to drive through the small and large towns in our region to experience the creativity and ambition that’s obvious in the displays.

One of the most-decorated towns in Custer Country is Laurel, just 12 miles west of Billings.  It’s worth a trip to experience the displays that have earned the city the designation of “one of the  most-decorated” cities in Montana.  The Custer Country Vacation Guide says, “The whole town joins in to make Laurel a true holiday jewel.  One resident’s home, selected as one of the best decorated homes in the United States by USA Today, is on the tour.”

Billings also features the Christmas lights tour at ZooMontana, which helps raise money to improve the exhibits at Montana’s only public zoo.  Glendive, Miles City, Baker, Terry and other towns large and small try to make theirs a festive and entertaining place to be.  In fact, driving along the roads of Custer Country will also reveal some creative displays in rural areas--beacons of holiday spirit on the prairie.

Bundle up, jump in the car and get out and enjoy the color and spirit of the holiday season.  Stop for a cup of hot chocolate or a “toddy” at one of Custer Country’s great restaurants and pubs. It will get you into the Christmas spirit if you need the inspiration.