Some Highlights of Christmas Events in Utah

Outdoor activities in Utah, as well as holiday fun and entertainment, and some good ol' Christmas celebrations, make for a memorable festive season. Some examples of holiday event types are:

1. Christmas Lights

Nothing is more festive and popular than a good holiday light show. There are beautiful gardens with bright, festive decorations as well as some fun light displays and art all around the city.

One very popular option for families is "Christmas in Color." They have drive-through light displays at various locations throughout Utah. Check their website to see which cities they’ll be in this year.

Why visit?

Have some fun, get in the festive mood, and get some holiday spirit, all while taking pictures with family and friends.

Some activities and attractions take a little more time to plan, but with Christmas lights you have flexibility with when you can go and it won’t take long to do!

2. Christmas Markets

Many communities have Christmas Events in Utah Markets where goods from all over can be purchased. You’ll find stalls featuring holiday related gifts, food, crafts, and goods for the home. They are great alternatives to typical mall shopping, and support your local businesses too.

Christmas Markets can be found in communities such as Salt Lake City, and in Utah County, among other places. Always double check listings for information on market times and dates, opening fees, what stalls are selling and any other information such as parking or additional entertainment.

3. Performances & Shows

In Utah, there is lots of entertainment throughout the holiday season with many Christmas related concerts and theatre and even productions of the Nutcracker.

For people who prefer an indoor activity during the holidays, checking local listings of holiday related performances and productions in your area and theater can be an option.

4. Skiing & Mountain Trips

Winter in Utah has some great opportunities for outdoor winter adventure including ski and snow sports such as snowboarding and snowshoeing, or just enjoying some nice views of the mountains.

Winter activities and destinations to visit are endless, with Park City being a very popular choice for many, especially given its location. Just be sure to check the resort schedules, and the local weather before planning a trip, as well as the road conditions.

Fun Activities for the Holidays in Utah

Utah offers a wide variety of activities for the holidays that will fit any family. Here are some fun suggestions:

• Attend a local celebration of the holidays.

• Check out holiday-related arts and crafts for kids or attend an activity.

• Go to a shopping district where everything is festively decorated.

• Go to the mountains for a day.

• Find out what festivals are happening, especially the local ones.

Check Salt & Seek to see what unique local happenings and events you can fit into your calendar to ensure you make the most of your festive celebrations.

Planning Your Utah Christmas Events

Preparation is everything, and the tips below should make your outings easier and more enjoyable.

1. Review the Event Schedules: Different Christmas activities begin in different months. Some attractions run in both November and December, while others only open in December.
2. Tickets Book Out Early: Some attractions may have tickets sold out early. Shows and light shows may also be popular. 
3. Be Prepared for the Winter: Clothing that is comfortable, layers that are suitable, and winter appropriate shoes should be worn.
4. Review Transport and Planning: Travel and transport in winter is tricky, so always factor in extra time. Snow can delay everything.
5. Review Event Specifics: All information on the official event page including prices, times of operations, age limitations, and event cancellation information should be reviewed. 

Schedules will always vary year on year, and so should always be reviewed before the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best Christmas activities in Utah?

A good variety of Christmas light activities, holiday markets, and concerts exist alongside performances, and winter events like those in Park City are all great options.

What are family Christmas activities in Utah?

Several family activities in Utah are in the areas surrounding Salt Lake City, Ogden, Utah County, and Park City. These are updated as needed in the local calendars.

What do Utah Christmas activities usually begin?

In Utah, attractions and holiday activities often start in November and extend through December. There are even some that last through the early days of January, depending on what the attraction is.

To find holiday activities and celebrations in your area:

First, visit your state or local tourism office’s website, or search your city's event calendars.

Next, browse the event pages of your area's museums and concert venues, or subscribe to your local community newsletter.

Salt & Seek offers recommendations and listings for events in the Salt Lake City area.

There are many fun holiday activities and events to check out, especially with the wide range of wintertime options available. Whether you are looking for holiday performances or festive holiday lights, markets or markets selling holiday wares, there are tons of activities to check out across Utah this holiday season, especially in the areas around Salt Lake City, Ogden, Utah County, and Park City.

Be sure to look at all your event options and check the details on their websites, particularly for the dates and prices and the most recent updates on the events, such as if there is bad weather in the area. The better your plan, the less stressed and the more enjoyable your holiday season will be.