With a touch of wintry weather, and snowmaking operations in rapid-fire mode, Schweitzer Mountain Resort opened Thanksgiving weekend to kick off what's sure to be a fantastic new season of skiing and boarding. More snow is in this week's forecast, giving outdoor enthusiasts lots to cheer about!

    Christmas arrives on the mountain this weekend when the holiday lights go up, casting a festive glow in the village. Enjoy some of the many upcoming events, including this month's always-popular Santa Skis at Schweitzer. On Tuesday, Dec. 23, catch Santa on the slopes with Mrs. Claus between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. He'll be cruising around several beginner and intermediate runs, passing out candy to good boys and girls - so be on the lookout! On Wednesday, Christmas Eve, Santa leads a balloon parade to the village from the top of the Basin Express chairlift. There's no cost, and it's open to everyone! Arrive by 1:45 p.m. to get a balloon and be part of the group photo. The parade leaves at 2 p.m. and arrives in the village a few minutes later. At 3 p.m., Santa will be in the Selkirk Lodge to hear last-minute wishes from all the kids, young and old.

   The arts are alive during the holidays! Sandpoint hosts myriad holiday presentations, including performances at local venues such as the historic Panida Theater. Anticipation is always high when Eugene Ballet's The Nutcracker arrives with its professional dancers, gorgeous costumes and lavish sets. Local dancers are incorporated into the performance for a truly memorable evening. Tickets for the ballet, held Monday, Dec. 15, are on sale at Panida.org.

   Other dance recitals include the Danceworks Christmas Show Thursday, Dec. 18, and The Jazzy Nutcracker Saturday, Dec. 20. Also, the Pend Oreille Orchestra and Chorale Classical Concert is held Friday, Dec. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 14 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. In addition, live music fills the air at many downtown eating and drinking establishments -- go to the Visit Sandpoint events calendar to see 'em all.

    Celebrate the new year with one of many great parties happening Wednesday, Dec. 31, in the Sandpoint area. For starters, check out the New Year's Eve Bistro Rouge Prix Fixe Dinner at the Pend d'Oreille Winery, 301 Cedar St. First reservation is at 6 p.m., and second reservation is at 8 p.m. Enjoy live music featuring Ron Criscoine from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. in the Tasting Room. Call 208-265-8545 for reservations. Then there's the New Year's Eve parties at Schweitzer (there's one for 'most any age) including the rockin’ party at Taps. Tickets are now on sale in the Activity Center. These parties sell out every year, so buy your tickets early! Go to Schweitzer.com or call 208-255-3081. Finally, The Hive, 207 N. First Ave., hosts a New Year's Eve Extravaganza with The Earful and DJ Logic. Get more info at LiveFromTheHive.com. Happy New Year!

    Looking for a unique way to celebrate the holidays? How about an old-fashioned sleigh ride through the woods to pick out a Christmas tree. Gather the family together, bundle up and enjoy A Simple Christmas outing at the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch, 1413 Upper Gold Creek Rd. Everyone loads up on a horse-drawn sleigh for a scenic ride to the tree lot, then pick out a fresh cut locally grown Christmas tree. Ride the sleigh back to the lodge and enjoy fresh popped popcorn, hot chocolate, and coffee. Cost is $90 for a family of four and a 5 foot tree. Reservations are required by calling 208-263-9066. More festive events can be found on the ranch's website, WesternPleasureRanch.com.