Blog Posts

Holiday Music, Theater & Cultural Outings

December in Pocatello isn’t just about winter landscapes — it’s alive with music, theater, and festive programs. At Northgate, residents can take advantage of local cultural events to complement cozy home life. Local holiday event ideas: “A Christmas Story: The Musical” or similar holiday musicals at the Palace Theater or other performance venues. ISU’s holiday concerts or civic orchestra performances at Stephens Performing Arts Center . Nutcracker performances or dance recitals at local dance schools. Church choir events or community holiday concerts. Holiday film screenings : classic Christmas movies shown at community theaters or pop-up ones. Take lots of photos and videos with your group and post it on a blog. Recipe idea: Bake holiday sugar cookies shaped like music notes or stars; hand them out before the show or bring as a treat.

Winter Hiking, Snowshoeing & Outdoor Exploration Near Pocatello

Not all December days belong inside. The outdoors can be magical in winter if you dress right and pick the right spots. For residents at Northgate, here are local excursions and tips to make the most of snowy days. Local winter trails & spots: East Mink Creek Nordic Center : Enjoy groomed cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails, perfect for a peaceful woodland stroll in fresh snow. Pebble Creek area trails : While more known for skiing, some adjacent trails may be good for winter hikes when accessible. City greenways & hill trails near Pocatello offer shorter loop walks—bundle up and explore your neighborhood’s winter character. Snowshoeing in foothills or park adjacent to Pocatello: layer appropriately and walk quietly, listening for winter sounds. Tips for safe enjoyment: Wear layers : base, insulating, windproof outer. Use waterproof boots, wool socks, gloves, hat , and sunglasses (snow glare). Bring hand warmers, thermos of warm drink , and a small trail snack. Check trail conditions or snow depth before heading out. Take a friend — winter is safer in pairs. Recipe to bring along: Thermos of spiced hot chocolate or mulled cider plus chocolate-dipped pretzels. Warm fuel for the trek.

Holiday Styling Tips for Your Northgate Home

At Northgate Apartments, we love seeing how our residents transform their spaces into warm, festive homes during the holiday season. With our spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans, plus our modern townhomes, you have plenty of room to bring the holidays to life—without ever feeling cramped. This December, we wanted to share a few favorite decorating tips that work beautifully in our apartments: Living Rooms : Many of our layouts feature open-concept living and dining areas, making them the perfect spot for a slim or medium-sized Christmas tree. Place it near a window so neighbors can enjoy your twinkling lights too. Add garland to TV stands or bookshelves for a simple but festive touch. Bedrooms : Keep things cozy with a string of soft white lights draped across the headboard, or add holiday-themed throw pillows and blankets for a seasonal refresh. Kitchens : Our modern kitchens provide the perfect canvas for festive touches. A small wreath above the sink, a holiday-scented candle on the counter, or even a festive dish towel can make all the difference. Entryways : Add a cheerful doormat or a small basket with faux greenery or pinecones to greet you and your guests every time you walk in. If you’re short on storage, consider décor that doubles as functional—like holiday-themed mugs, cozy blankets, or table centerpieces that also serve as snack trays. Pocatello also offers inspiration all around town. A quick stroll through Downtown Pocatello’s holiday displays might give you fresh ideas to bring home. And when you return, your Northgate apartment is the perfect place to enjoy them. We can’t wait to see how our residents style their homes this December—Northgate truly shines with a little holiday sparkle!

Winter Wellness & Indoor Activities to Beat the Chill

When December’s cold winds howl outside, it’s the perfect time to turn inward — to wellness, creativity, and indoor connection. At Northgate, your apartment and communal areas are a cozy base for that. Wellness tips: Use the fitness center or group rooms for yoga, bodyweight workouts, or stretching. Set up a reading nook by a window — soft lighting, a throw blanket, a mug of tea or cocoa. Practice mindful breathing or meditation with soft instrumental music. Create a DIY spa night : warm foot soak, face masks, scented candles (battery-powered), and relaxing music. Indoor activities & hobbies: Host a craft night in the club room — making wreaths, holiday cards, or ornaments. Game nights: board games, trivia, or charades in lounges. Baking groups: share recipes, bake together in a partner’s kitchen (safely), and split treats. Local alternatives: Catch a movie at the local AMC, Bengal Theater, or Reel Theater — perfect for cozy evenings. Attend a cooking class at Idaho State University (when offered) or local cooking schools. Recipe idea (indoor): Bake spiced apple oatmeal muffins — hearty, warm, and fragrant with cinnamon and nutmeg. Bring extras to share with neighbors. Visit local coffee shops or cafes with fireplaces, seasonal drinks, and cozy seating.

Exploring Pocatello’s Winter Events & Lights

December in Pocatello glows with holiday energy: light displays, markets, parades, and seasonal events. As a Northgate resident, you’ve got convenient access to some of the best local offerings. What’s happening this month: Pocatello Christmas Lights Tour (Hay Ride) — typically held December 20–24, from 6–8 p.m. Hop on a horse-drawn or tractor hayride and tour neighborhoods decked in holiday lights. Winter Wonderland / Santa’s Winter Wonderland events offering crafts, Santa visits, and seasonal treats. First Friday Holiday Art Walk in downtown Pocatello, featuring local artists, holiday shopping, and festive ambiance. Nutcracker & Holiday Concerts at venues like Stephens Performing Arts Center or local churches, bringing music, dance, and seasonal cheer. Ski with Santa at East Mink Creek, combining wintry fun with holiday magic. Cozy up with caramel popcorn, add festive sprinkles and candy. Easy for a sharable snack in the comfort of your home.

Holiday Baking Fun at Northgate Apartments

One of the best parts of December is the smell of fresh holiday treats filling your home. At Northgate Apartments, our modern kitchens make it easy to whip up your favorite seasonal recipes, whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or simply to enjoy with a hot cup of cocoa on a cold winter day. Start with a classic: sugar cookies . Roll them out, use festive cutters (snowflakes, stars, or trees), and decorate with frosting and sprinkles. Not only do they taste delicious, but they also make your apartment feel instantly cheerful. For something a little richer, try peppermint bark brownies —a fudgy base topped with melted chocolate and crushed candy canes. They’re easy, festive, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you prefer something cozy, homemade cinnamon rolls are perfect for a December morning. The scent of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla frosting will warm up your space and make it feel like the holidays, even if snow hasn’t yet covered the ground. Pair them with hot chocolate or a latte, and you’ve got the perfect start to a winter weekend. For inspiration beyond your own kitchen, Pocatello also offers plenty of local holiday charm. Stop by Geraldine’s Bake Shoppe & Deli for a seasonal pastry or check out the Pocatello Farmers Market’s winter vendors , where you can find homemade jams, breads, and festive treats. Then, bring those flavors home and try to recreate them in your own Northgate kitchen. Whether you stick to family traditions or experiment with new recipes, December is the perfect time to indulge in baking. Cozy kitchens, warm ovens, and sweet flavors—Northgate Apartments are the ideal backdrop for holiday cheer.