19 Best Things to Do in Utah During Christmas

Utah is a winter wonderland during Christmas. The Beehive State becomes a magical place for holiday celebrations with snow-capped mountains, twinkling lights, and festive activities. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the slopes, a cozy holiday retreat, or a unique Christmas tradition, Utah has something for everyone. From charming small towns to bustling cities, a holiday activity awaits you. Let’s dive into the 19 best things to do in Utah during Christmas that will make your holiday season unforgettable!

19 Best Things to Do in Utah During Christmas

Utah transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas, offering a blend of thrilling outdoor adventures and festive holiday traditions. Whether you’re looking for snowy mountain escapes, cozy holiday markets, or dazzling light displays, the state has something magical for everyone. Utah’s Christmas charm is undeniable, from the majestic peaks of the Wasatch Mountains to the twinkling lights in Salt Lake City.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 19 best things to do in Utah during Christmas. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or your significant other, there’s no shortage of festive activities to enjoy. Picture yourself sipping hot cocoa while gazing at holiday lights, or perhaps you’re racing down a snowy hill on a sled. There’s so much to explore, from outdoor adventures like skiing and snowboarding to heartwarming indoor experiences like visiting local Christmas markets and enjoying seasonal performances.

So, pack your winter gear, because Christmas in Utah is an experience you’ll want to savor. Let’s dive into these incredible activities that will make your holiday season unforgettable!

1. Experience the Christmas Lights at Temple Square

The Heart of Salt Lake City During Christmas

Temple Square is a holiday hotspot in Salt Lake City. It features more than 100,000 lights that transform the area into a sparkling spectacle. As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll encounter magnificent displays that create an enchanting holiday atmosphere.
Visitors can take in the beauty of the Salt Lake Tabernacle, where the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir performs Christmas concerts nightly. These concerts add an extra layer of holiday magic.
While you’re there, be sure to visit the Christkindl Market, a European-style Christmas market featuring local artisans, food vendors, and holiday gifts. This market gives visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditional European Christmas culture.

2. Skiing at Park City Mountain Resort

The Ultimate Winter Sports Experience

Park City Mountain Resort is known for its expansive ski slopes, making it one of Utah’s best places to enjoy winter sports. It offers everything from beginner-friendly runs to expert-level terrain for skiers and snowboarders alike.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers tubing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, providing something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
After a day on the slopes, head to Park City’s historic Main Street for a charming and festive shopping experience. You can enjoy local holiday markets, dine at cozy restaurants, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.

3. Ice Skating at Gallivan Center

An Outdoor Winter Wonderland in Downtown Salt Lake City

The Gallivan Center in Salt Lake City transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland with its outdoor ice skating rink. It’s a perfect destination for families, couples, and friends looking to embrace the holiday season in a fun way.
The rink is surrounded by festive lights and music, creating a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, skating at the Gallivan Center is a must-do during Christmas.
You can also enjoy food trucks, hot cocoa stands, and other holiday activities around the rink, making it an ideal place to spend an afternoon or evening.

4. Visit the North Pole at Snowbird Resort

Santa’s Hideaway in the Mountains

Snowbird Resort offers families a unique opportunity to visit Santa in his winter hideaway. The resort is beautifully decorated for the holidays, with festive lights, decorations, and snow-covered views.
Children will enjoy the Santa’s Workshop, where they can participate in fun holiday activities and crafts. After meeting Santa, you can hop on a sleigh ride or take a winter walk around the resort.
This magical setting, combined with the charm of a mountain resort, makes it a fantastic way to spend time with loved ones during the Christmas season.

5. Take a Scenic Train Ride on the Heber Valley Railroad

All Aboard the Polar Express!

The Heber Valley Railroad is one of Utah’s most beloved holiday traditions. During Christmas, the train transforms into the Polar Express, offering a scenic, festive ride that’s perfect for families and kids of all ages.
Passengers are treated to hot cocoa, cookies, and a magical journey through the wintery landscapes of Heber Valley. Santa and his elves also board the train, handing out gifts and spreading Christmas cheer.
The train ride includes reading the Polar Express book and other interactive holiday activities, making it a perfect family outing.

6. Christmas at The Olympic Park in Park City

A Thrilling Winter Experience

The Utah Olympic Park, built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, turns into a winter wonderland during Christmas, offering a range of holiday-themed activities.
Guests can participate in exciting activities like snowshoeing, bobsledding, and even winter tubing, making this an ideal destination for thrill-seekers.
The park also hosts a holiday light show and special events that celebrate the season, such as ice skating and winter sports demonstrations. It’s a place where adrenaline meets the holiday spirit.

7. Wander Through the Christmas Markets in Salt Lake City

Shop for Unique Gifts and Savor Festive Treats

Salt Lake City has several Christmas markets that provide the perfect atmosphere for holiday shopping. The Salt Lake City Christmas Market at the Gateway is one of the most popular, featuring vendors selling everything from holiday décor to handcrafted gifts.
You’ll also find food stalls offering seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts, hot cocoa, and gingerbread cookies. Live entertainment and carolers add to the festive mood, making it a fantastic spot to explore with family and friends.
Local artisans showcase their talents, allowing you to pick up unique gifts and handcrafted goods that you won’t find anywhere else.

8. Holiday Light Display at Thanksgiving Point

A Dazzling Wonderland in Lehi

Thanksgiving Point in Lehi is home to one of Utah’s largest holiday light displays. Over a million lights create an enchanting atmosphere, meticulously arranged across the grounds of the Thanksgiving Point Gardens.
Visitors can enjoy a festive walk through the gardens, seeing twinkling lights, holiday-themed sculptures, and beautiful lighted paths. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the illuminated gardens.
The holiday village at Thanksgiving Point features a variety of family-friendly activities, including a visit with Santa, festive shopping, and food vendors offering seasonal treats.

9. Christmas in Midway: A Swiss Village Christmas

A European-Style Holiday Experience

Midway is a small Swiss-style village located in the Wasatch Mountains. During Christmas, the town is adorned with holiday lights and decorations that give it the charm of a European alpine village.
The Swiss Christmas Market in Midway features unique handcrafted goods, holiday decorations, and local artisan products. It’s an excellent place to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts while enjoying the holiday atmosphere.
Midway also offers horse-drawn sleigh rides and snowshoeing excursions, making it the perfect location for outdoor holiday activities in a picturesque setting.

10. Attend the Christmas Carol Concerts at the Tabernacle

A Musical Holiday Tradition

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir is renowned for its stunning performances, and during Christmas, it puts on a series of holiday concerts at the Salt Lake Tabernacle.
The choir performs classic Christmas carols, along with special guest performers and festive music, creating a musical experience that has become a beloved holiday tradition.
The Tabernacle’s acoustics are amazing, making it one of the best places in Utah to experience the magic of Christmas music. Whether you attend a concert or just visit to admire the decorations, the Tabernacle is a must-see during the holidays.

11. Visit the Christmas Lights at the Ogden Union Station

A Historic Venue Dazzled with Holiday Spirit

Ogden Union Station is beautifully illuminated with thousands of holiday lights each Christmas season. This historical venue, once a major railroad hub, is now a fascinating museum and an amazing place to experience Christmas cheer.
The annual Christmas Lights Display transforms the station’s surroundings into a festive paradise. You can explore the decorated train cars, visit Santa’s workshop, and enjoy live performances by local musicians.
A visit here offers a blend of history, festive lights, and the magic of Christmas, making it a perfect family-friendly activity in the area.

12. Christmas Festivities at The Homestead Resort in Midway

Relax and Celebrate in a Winter Wonderland

The Homestead Resort in Midway offers a quintessential Christmas experience. Located in a picturesque alpine setting, it is decorated to the nines for the holidays.
You can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides, dine on festive holiday meals, and relax in their luxurious hot springs. The beautiful setting and holiday-themed events make it an ideal place for families to unwind and celebrate.
The resort also hosts holiday craft fairs and events, where you can find unique gifts and local treats to take home.

13. Attend the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at The Cathedral of the Madeleine

A Serene and Spiritual Christmas Tradition

The Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City hosts a beautiful Christmas Eve candlelight service that offers a peaceful, spiritual experience. With its stunning architecture and reverent atmosphere, this service is perfect for those looking to embrace the deeper meaning of Christmas.
The choir’s rendition of Christmas carols and the warm glow of the candles create a serene ambiance that highlights the season’s true spirit. It’s a wonderful tradition for those seeking a calm and reflective holiday experience.

14. Holiday Shopping at the City & County Building

Holiday Markets and Gift Shopping in Downtown Salt Lake City

The City & County Building in Salt Lake City becomes a hub of holiday activity during Christmas. The building is beautifully decorated with lights and festive displays, offering a perfect holiday atmosphere for shoppers.
The Holiday Market here features a variety of local vendors selling everything from handmade goods to unique Christmas ornaments and crafts. It’s a fantastic place to shop for those special gifts while enjoying a wintery walk through downtown Salt Lake City.
In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy festive treats like hot cocoa, roasted chestnuts, and more.

15. Christmas Train Ride at the Utah State Railroad Museum

All Aboard for Holiday Fun!

The Utah State Railroad Museum in Ogden offers a delightful Christmas-themed train ride. Visitors can enjoy the magic of the season while learning about Utah’s rich railroad history.
The Polar Express Train Ride takes passengers on a journey through the winter landscape, with holiday music, hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa. This is a must-do activity for families with young children who love the Christmas spirit.
The museum’s historic trains are also beautifully decorated for the season, providing a perfect backdrop for family photos and holiday memories.

16. Explore the Ice Castles in Midway

A Magical Frozen Wonderland

Ice Castles in Midway is a jaw-dropping experience that combines art and nature. This incredible attraction is transformed into a magical winter kingdom of ice and snow during Christmas.
You can wander through enormous ice formations, tunnels, and sculptures, all beautifully illuminated by thousands of LED lights. The Ice Queen’s Castle stands out, featuring massive ice towers and intricate details.
Visitors can also participate in fun activities like ice slides and snow play, making it a fantastic family-friendly experience.

17. Go Sledding and Tubing at Soldier Hollow

A Thrilling Christmas Adventure

Soldier Hollow, located in Midway, offers some of the best sledding and tubing opportunities in Utah. The area is blanketed in snow during Christmas, creating the perfect setting for outdoor winter fun.
The resort has groomed hills for tubing and sledding, where visitors can race down the slopes and enjoy the exhilarating thrill of the snow. It’s ideal for families, groups, and those seeking an action-packed holiday experience.
Soldier Hollow also hosts the Wasatch Snowbird Festival, where ice skating, snowshoeing, and other winter activities can be enjoyed.

18. Take a Winter Hike in Zion National Park

Experience Christmas in the Majestic Outdoors

Zion National Park in southern Utah is a year-round destination, but during Christmas, it becomes a serene, wintery retreat. The crowds are thinner, and the scenery is breathtaking, with snow-capped cliffs and peaceful landscapes.
Winter hiking is a fantastic way to explore the park’s beauty, as many of the trails are accessible even in colder weather. Whether you prefer a short, easy walk or a longer hike, Zion offers numerous options for all levels.
If you’re a photography enthusiast, Zion’s winter beauty provides a perfect opportunity to capture some stunning shots of the red rock formations covered in snow.

19. Celebrate the Christmas Festival of Lights at Red Cliffs Desert Reserve

A Unique Christmas Experience in Southern Utah

The Christmas Festival of Lights at Red Cliffs Desert Reserve in southern Utah is one of the most unique holiday events in the state. The festival showcases spectacular light displays against the stunning backdrop of Utah’s desert landscapes.
Visitors can drive through the desert to experience the dazzling light displays, which are especially magical when set against the winter night sky. The event also includes live music, food vendors, and other festive activities.
This is a wonderful opportunity to experience Utah’s desert beauty while still embracing the holiday spirit.

Each of these activities makes Utah the perfect place to celebrate Christmas. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking snowy peaks or someone who enjoys festive lights and cozy traditions, Utah has something magical for everyone. From thrilling winter sports to peaceful nature hikes, the state offers incredible experiences to help you make the most of the holiday season. So, pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and prepare for an unforgettable Christmas in Utah!

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