Holiday events ready to begin
The 2013 Coeur d'Alene Resort Holiday Light Show will illuminate Coeur d'Alene with 1.5 million lights from Nov. 22 to Jan. 1.
Because Thanksgiving falls near the end of the month, this year's Holiday Light Show will start Nov. 22, with special cruise promotions during "Preview Week."
The opening ceremonies, which include a spectacular fireworks show over the lake, are still scheduled on the traditional day after Thanksgiving, Nov. 29.
"The Holiday Light Show has become one of the Northwest's favorite family traditions," said Jerry Jaeger, president and co-owner of Hagadone Hospitality Co., which stages the annual show.
Journey to the North Pole cruises depart every night (except Nov. 28) from the North Pole Cruise terminal at The Coeur d'Alene Resort Plaza Shops. There, passengers are greeted by friendly elves, and discover that the Grinch is planning to sabotage the voyage.
To every child's delight, the cruise boat gets past the Grinch and finds Santa and his elves at the North Pole, where Santa reads each child's name from his "nice list."
The Holiday Light Show includes room, dining and cruise packages at The Coeur d'Alene Resort, which is lit up inside and out with a holiday glow.
"It's all about the magic of Christmas, and entertaining kids and the kids at heart," said Bill Reagan, general manager of The Coeur d'Alene Resort. "We do absolutely everything we can to accomplish this mission."
In its 27th season, The Coeur d'Alene Resort Holiday Light Show shines brighter than ever with more than 255 displays. What began as a few lights decorating the front entrance of the hotel has grown into a family tradition celebrated by ABC's "Good Morning America" as one of the nation's best holiday destinations.
Holiday festivities in Coeur d'Alene
Lighting Ceremony
The 2013 Holiday Light Show opening ceremony is Nov. 29, beginning at 5 p.m., and includes a lighted parade through downtown, Christmas carols, candle lighting and an incredible fireworks show over Lake Coeur d'Alene.
Journey to the North Pole
The 40-minute Journey to the North Pole Cruise departs nightly from the North Pole Cruise terminal at The Coeur d'Alene Resort Plaza Shops. Cruise dates for 2013 are Nov. 22-Jan. 1. Cruise times are 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $19.75 for adults, $18.75 for seniors 55+, $5 for children 6-12 and free for children 5 and under. No cruises on Thanksgiving Day.
Purchase tickets at cdalakecruises.com or call (208) 664-7268.
Buy one, get one half-price Journey to the North Pole ticket by dining at Beverly's, Cedar's Floating Restaurant, Tito's Italian Grill, Dockside, Bonsai Bistro, Beachouse or Mulligan's.
"A Christmas Cabaret"
An original production by Ellen Travolta, veteran of stage, film and TV, starring Mark Cotter with special guest Jack Bannon in a wonderful evening of holiday music, laughter and stories. Playing exclusively at The Coeur d'Alene Resort. Just 14 performances are scheduled from Friday, Nov. 29 through Saturday, Dec. 21. Thursday through Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. with Sunday matinees at 5 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person or $20 each for groups of eight or more, available at achristmascabaret.com or (208) 765-4000.
For overnight accommodations at The Coeur d'Alene Resort - including Holiday Light Show, Holiday Bed and Breakfast, Holiday Night on the Lake, and "A Christmas Cabaret" Resort special packages - call (800) 688-5253 or visit cdaresort.com