Reality TV show to film in downtown Whitefish

A reality TV show about Santa Claus enthusiasts is scheduled to film in downtown Whitefish this month.

Producers for a TruTV reality show called “Santas in the Barn” are filming nine episodes in the Flathead Valley.

Half Yard Productions is filming east of Kalispell in the Avalanche Ranch area. The film crew has also secured a special event permit with the city of Whitefish to film on the 200 block of Central Avenue on Saturday, March 7 with the street remaining open.

On March 18, 19, and 20 the half block of Central Avenue between Railway Street and Depot Street will be closed for filming.

“Santas in the Barn” is described as a show about 10 Santa enthusiasts, who are forced to wear Santa outfits and beards, while being locked in a barn competing in daily Santa contests. Only one will emerge wearing the “Kringle Crown,” according to Red Arrow International’s website. The show is being produced by Half Yard Productions in association with Red Arrow.

Crews will decorate the street along Depot Park and the O’Shaughnessy Center and likely decorate some businesses on Central Avenue between Railway and First streets. The filming of the episode will occur in the afternoon on Thursday, March 19.

“They will also have various promotions to encourage local citizens to come out and line the streets during the filming,” Whitefish City Manager Chuck Stearns said.

Filming on March 19 will be at 3:45 p.m. The first 300 boys and girls confirmed will receive presents from Hasbro and K'nex. To RSVP and for more information email itsahollyjollychristmas@gmail.com.

Half Yard Productions began hiring crew members in Kalispell in February, according to the Montana Film Office. Filming began on Feb. 9 and was set for six weeks.