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Are you in Utah for the holidays or planning to visit? Either way, you're in for a treat! Utah’s cities are filled with festive activities to get you in the holiday spirit.
From stunning light displays to cozy sleigh rides, here’s a look at some of the best holiday events happening around the state this season.
(Click the event title to visit the event page.)
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Utah County
Salem City: Pond Town Christmas
Enjoy a magical light display reflecting off Salem Pond. This free event is perfect for a peaceful holiday evening; visit on weekdays for a quieter experience.
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Location: Salem Pond, 50 W 300 S, Salem
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Opening Date: Nov. 29, 2024 – Jan. 1, 2025
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Entrance Fee: Free
Tip: Visit on weeknights to avoid crowds and get a great view.
SPANISH FORK: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
The Festival of Lights in Spanish Fork is a beloved tradition that’s even easier to enjoy this year with advance ticketing. The drive-through light display at Canyon View Park is a spectacular way to get into the holiday spirit with your loved ones.
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Location: Canyon View Park, Spanish Fork
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Opening Date: Nov. 28, 2024 – Jan. 1, 2025
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Entrance Fee:
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Single-family vehicle: $10
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Senior facility vehicle: $10
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Commercial van or vehicle towing a trailer: $25
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Bus: $50
Note: These are the ticket prices for online purchases. If you attempt to enter without reserving a ticket in advance, you'll pay an extra booth fee and may risk being unable to enter.
Tip: Reserve your ticket online to avoid paying extra fees at the gate. Create your holiday playlist and enjoy the music as you drive through the display.
Lehi
Luminaria at Ashton Gardens is a holiday favorite, featuring millions of lights, themed areas, and the iconic luminaire hill. A perfect destination for families to connect with the spirit of the season.
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Location: 3900 N. Garden Drive, Lehi
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Opening Date: Nov. 14, 2024 – Jan. 4, 2025 (Closed Sundays, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day)
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Nov. 14-27, Dec. 2-5, Jan. 1-4: $24 (adults), $17 (children)
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Nov. 29-30, Dec. 6-31: $27 (adults), $20 (children)
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Member discounts available.
Tip: Book tickets for weekday slots to save, and don't miss the Fire & Ice show or the new Tree of Life exhibit for quiet reflection.
Holiday Makers Market is a festive event brings together over 50 local makers and vendors offering a delightful mix of handmade treasures and unique gifts. Browse through a variety of products, including stylish apparel for adults and children, baby essentials, home decor, jewelry, art, body care, candles, snacks, toys, crochet creations, and so much more. Whether you're looking for thoughtful holiday presents or something special for yourself, the market has it all.
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Location: Outlets at Traverse Mountain, 3700 N Cabelas Blvd, Lehi
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Opening Date: Nov. 22– 24, 2024
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Entrance Fee: Free
Tip: Arrive early to snag the best finds and enjoy plenty of parking. If you're visiting with kids, check out the nearby shops for a fun family outing!
ALPINE: THE LIVING NATIVITY
Experience the true meaning of Christmas with this interactive nativity event in Alpine. Walk through scenes depicting the story of Christ's birth, complete with live animals and music.
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Location: 890 N Heritage Hills Dr, Alpine, UT 84004 (Church Parking Lot)
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Opening Date:
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December 2, 3, 5, 6 (5 PM – 8 PM),
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December 7 (12 PM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 8 PM)
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Entrance Fee: $5 per person
Tip: Dress warmly and arrive early to secure a spot for this popular event. Parking is available at the church parking lot at 890 N Heritage Hills Dr. Expect some walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes!
PROVO: LIGHTING OF RIVERWOODS
Kick off the season with 1.5 million lights, live performances, and fireworks at The Shops at Riverwoods. Arrive early for the lights at 6 PM and fireworks at 8 PM.
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Location: The Shops at Riverwoods, 4801 N University Ave, Provo
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Opening Date: Nov. 22, 2024
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Entrance Fee: Free
Tip: Arrive by 6 PM to catch the lights turning on and grab a prime spot for fireworks at 8 PM.
LindoN: Holiday Market
Shop unique gifts from local artists, makers, and small businesses this holiday season at the Lindon City Holiday Market. It's the perfect spot to find thoughtful presents while supporting the community! (Please note: Santa meet & greet is canceled.)
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Location: Lindon City Community Center, 25 N Main St, Lindon
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Opening Date: Dec. 7, 2024
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Entrance Fee: Free
Tip: Arrive early for the best selection and shop small this holiday season!
Salt Lake County
Salt Lake City
Christkindlmarkt at This is The Place Heritage Park brings the charm of European Christmas markets to Utah. Enjoy festive shopping, food, and entertainment in a magical setting.
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Location: 2601 E Sunnyside Avenue, Salt Lake City
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Opening Date: Dec. 4 – 7, 2024
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Entrance Fee: Free
Tip: Perfect for holiday shopping and enjoying festive food. Wear comfy shoes for strolling through the market
ZooLights at Hogle Zoo is back for its 18th year, transforming the zoo into a holiday wonderland with brilliant light displays Stroll through animal-themed lighting installations, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and make memories with family and friends.
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Location: 2600 Sunnyside Ave, Salt Lake City
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Opening Date: Nov. 29, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025 (except Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 24, 25, and Jan 1)
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Entrance Fee:
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For non-members: $18.95 for adults, $15.95 for kids
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For members: $15.95 for adults, $12.95 for kids
Tip: Buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Be sure to bring a jacket, as it can get chilly walking through the displays.
World of Illumination. Drive through the World of Illumination, the largest animated holiday light show in the world, located at the Utah State Fairpark. The synchronized music and dazzling light displays create an unforgettable experience for all ages.
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Location: Utah State Fairpark, Salt Lake City
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Opening Date: Nov. 19, 2024 – Dec. 29, 2025
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Entrance Fee: Starting at $39.99 per car (plus tax).
Tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines, and tune your car radio to the designated station for a synchronized music experience as you drive through the dazzling lights.
Sandy: Festival of Trees
The Festival of Trees at the Mountain America Exposition Center is a holiday tradition in Sandy. Volunteers decorate trees, wreaths, gingerbread houses, and more, all for a good cause—funds raised benefit Primary Children’s Hospital. In addition to the auction, you’ll find live performances, a gift shop, and a Sweet Shoppe to make your holiday season even sweeter.
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Location: Mountain America Expo Center, 9575 S State St, Sandy
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Opening Date: Dec. 4 – 7, 2024
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Entrance Fee:
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Adults - $10.00
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Children (2-11) - $7.00
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Under 2 - Free
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Senior Citizens (65 and Over) - $8.00
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Family Discount (2 adults, 4 children) - $40.00
Tip: Check out the online silent auction for unique holiday decorations. Also, don't forget to visit the Sweet Shoppe for some holiday treats!
WEST JORDAN: CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE
Experience the charm of the holiday season at Gardner Village with an array of festive activities, including an elf scavenger hunt, holiday shopping at quaint shops, train rides, live performances, and festive dining options. Explore delightful shops, enjoy delicious meals, and soak in the magical atmosphere.
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Location: Gardner Village, 1100 W 7800 S, West Jordan
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Opening Date: Nov. 23 – Dec. 31, 2024
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Entrance Fee: Free admission and parking (fees apply for select activities)
Tip: For a more relaxed experience, visit during the week to avoid the crowds. Don't forget to grab a cup of free hot cocoa at Chocolate Covered Wagon while you’re there!
DRAPER
The Aquarium Lantern Festival offers a unique mix of outdoor holiday enchantment and indoor exploration. You’ll marvel at the intricate lantern artistry while enjoying the serenity of the aquarium’s exhibits. It’s the perfect blend of festive fun and immersive nature-inspired experiences, making it an excellent outing for families, couples, or friends.
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Location: 12033 Lone Peak Pkwy, Draper
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Opening Date: Nov. 8, 2024 – Jan. 6, 2025
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Entrance Fee: $12.95 – $27.95 (Discounts available for students, military, and seniors. Children 2 & under are free.)
Tip: Arrive early to make the most of both the lantern festival and aquarium exhibits. Also, it’s an outdoor experience, so bundle up to stay comfortable while exploring.
Tree Lighting Ceremony. Witness Santa and special guests illuminate over three million holiday lights adorning the trees throughout the park. This free event is filled with festive activities, including pony rides, marshmallow roasting, and hot chocolate & cookies.
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Location: Draper Park, 12501 S 1300 E, Draper
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Opening Date: Dec. 2, 2024
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Entrance Fee: Free
Tip: Don’t miss the main stage ceremony at 6:00 PM to catch the magical moment when the lights come on.
Murray
Holiday Market. Support local businesses and embrace the holiday spirit at the Holiday Market at Wheeler Historic Farm. This annual event features a carefully curated selection of artists, makers, and bakers offering unique gifts and delicious treats.
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Location: (Activity Barn) Wheeler Historic Farm, Activity Barn, 6351 S 900 E, Murray
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Opening Date: Nov. 29 – Dec. 1, 2024
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Entrance Fee: Free
Tip: Arrive early for the best selection and make a day of it by exploring the farm’s charming surroundings.
Festive Fridays. Celebrate the season with Festive Fridays at Wheeler Historic Farm! Enjoy wagon rides through holiday light displays, and meet Santa on the Farmhouse porch from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.
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Location: Wheeler Historic Farm, 6351 S 900 E, Murray
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Opening Date: Nov. 26, Dec 6, 13, 20 ( 2024)
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Entrance Fee:
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Admission - Free
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Wagon Ride - $3 (ages 2 and up)
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Tip: Bring your phone or camera to capture memories with Santa. Be sure to dress warmly for the wagon ride!
Other Things Not to Miss
OGDEN: CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
Ogden’s downtown transforms into a winter wonderland with the Christmas Village. This popular event lights up the city with stunning displays, and on opening day, you can enjoy the Santa Run, a holiday parade, and a fireworks show. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to start the season!
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Location: Ogden Municipal Gardens
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Opening Date: Nov. 25, 2024 – Jan. 1, 2025
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Entrance Fee: Free
Tip: Get there early on opening day (Nov. 25) for the Santa Run and parade. Parking can be tricky, so consider using public transportation if possible.
PARK CITY: SLEIGH RIDES
For a truly scenic experience, head to Park City and enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Willow Draw at Canyons Resort. Cozy up with blankets and take in the snowy views during this 25-minute ride. Private sleigh rides are available for small groups, making it the perfect way to enjoy the winter magic with friends or family.
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Location: Park City Mountain Resort, 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City
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Opening Date: Dec. 20, 2024 – Mar. 31, 2025
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Entrance Fee: Prices vary, starting at around $ 150 for a 4-Passenger Private Sleigh
Tip: Book early—these sleigh rides fill up fast! Dress warmly and bring gloves for comfort during the ride.
HEBER CITY: NORTH POLE EXPRESS
The North Pole Express in Heber City is a magical 90-minute train ride to the North Pole, complete with hot cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa. Although tickets are nearly sold out, it’s a must-visit for families looking for a whimsical holiday experience.
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Location: 450 S 600 W, Heber City, UT 84032
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Opening Date: Nov. 20 – Dec 30, 2024
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Entrance Fee: Prices vary, typically starting at $30 per person
Tip: It’s best to book your tickets a year in advance, as these rides are incredibly popular and sell out quickly.
MIDWAY: ICE CASTLES
Explore a breathtaking frozen kingdom with features like ice slides, crawl tunnels, caverns, and stunning sculptures. For a unique memory, book a private Arctic Alcove or enjoy a scenic sleigh ride before your visit.
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Location: 2002 S 300 W, Midway, UT 84049
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Opening Date: Jan. 13 – Feb. 3, 2024 (weather permitting)
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Entrance Fee:
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Monday-Thursday: $19 (ages 12+), $12 (ages 4-11)
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Friday-Saturday: $25 (ages 12+), $17 (ages 4-11)
Note: Prices are subject to change depending on the season.
Tip: Book tickets online in advance, and consider adding a sleigh ride for a complete winter wonderland experience.
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No matter where you are in Utah, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer. From light displays and festive rides to heartwarming community events, each city offers something special to make this Christmas season unforgettable.
Ready to get into the holiday spirit?
Check out these events and start planning your festive adventures in Utah today!
If you're thinking about moving to Utah or want more information on living here, contact our team—Dan, Sally & Ty, Tana, and Kristin.
Posted by Dan Kennedy on
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