25 Christmas Activities in Utah for Your Winter Bucket List
Dust off your snow boots and warm up that hot cocoa, because Utah is about to serve you a holiday platter of twinkling lights, festive melodies, and yuletide cheer like you’ve never experienced before. From incredible Christmas light displays to skiing down the slopes with good ol’ Saint Nick himself, our list of Christmas activities in Utah is almost as long as Santa’s “nice” list.
We’re parents of five kids who live here in Utah and we absolutely LOVE the Christmas season. We have our favorite traditions but there so many festive things to do around Christmastime in Utah that we always discover something new. We hope this list helps you find a few things to add to your own winter bucket list!
Christmas Activities in Utah
Christmas Activities in Utah: Nativities
Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or just someone looking to bask in the glow of holiday spirit, Utah’s nativities provide a way to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas – the birth of Jesus Christ. From live performances where real animals make cameo appearances (and sometimes, adorably steal the show!) to intricate displays, Utah knows how to set the stage for that holy night.
If you’re looking for Christmas activities in Utah that are more on the spiritual side, start with these.
1. Temple Square
The Christmas Lights at Temple Square are a favorite holiday tradition for hundreds of thousands of people. Every year, from Thanksgiving to December 31st, this sacred spot transforms into a luminous wonderland. Thousands upon thousands of Christmas lights turn the square into a mesmerizing tapestry of twinkling stars on earth.
But it’s not just about the lights here. Wandering the grounds, visitors are treated to diverse nativity scenes, each one representing a different corner of our vast globe. These international depictions remind us that the joy of Christmas is universal, crossing borders and cultures. And for a touch of modern magic amidst the historical grandeur, there’s now an animated nativity scene projected onto the ceiling of the Tabernacle. This blend of old-world charm and new-world technology tells the age-old Christmas story in a way that’s both timeless and contemporary.
2. Alpine Living Nativity
The Alpine Living Nativity is a live reenactment that is performed several times during the first week of December every year. Proceeds from ticket sales are donated to charities like Builders Without Borders and the Hirsche Smiles Foundation.
Nestled in the heart of Alpine, this isn’t your regular nativity display that you admire from afar – it’s a full-fledged, immersive experience. You can even volunteer to participate in the reenactment. From real barn animals to the shepherds keeping watch, every detail transports visitors back to Bethlehem. And when Mary and Joseph appear with baby Jesus, a hush falls over the crowd, reminding everyone of the humble beginnings of our Savior. Alpine’s Living Nativity isn’t just a retelling; it’s a heartfelt re-living, a journey back in time to the very first Christmas.
If you’re near Alpine looking for things to do outside in the winter, try these snowshoeing trails in American Fork Canyon! Never been snowshoeing? Check out beginner’s guide to snowshoeing.
3. Nativity in the Glen
The annual Nativity in the Glen is a live nativity that takes place in the Yalecrest neighborhoods of Salt Lake City. It happens just once, usually towards the end of November after Thanksgiving to kick off the Christmas season. This inter-faith celebration is a favorite tradition and one of the top Christmas activities in Utah. It features live animals, scenes from the town of Bethlehem, musical performers and a live nativity scene.
This isn’t just any nativity scene; it’s like stepping into a tranquil Christmas painting. Visitors often find themselves enveloped in introspection, feeling a deep connection to the very essence of Christmas. Nativity in the Glen doesn’t just showcase the story; it lets you feel it, breathe it, and hold it close to your heart. A truly spiritual respite in the bustling holiday season.
4. Candlelight Christmas at This is the Place
Candlelight Christmas at ‘This is the Place’ Heritage Park is Utah’s time machine to yesteryears’ festive charm. As the name suggests, this isn’t just any Christmas celebration—it’s an enchanting journey back to the warmth and wonder of simpler times. As twilight envelops the Village, the quiet streets come alive with melodies from the Heritage Village Carolers. Father Christmas, with his jolly chuckles, greets visitors, young and old. And the barn area is converted into a live Nativity, where the story of Bethlehem is retold complete with actors and live animals.
Christmas Activities in Utah: Christmas Light Displays
When it comes to Christmas light displays, Utah doesn’t just throw on a few twinkling bulbs and call it a night. Oh no, we turn our state into a brilliant wonderland of luminescence! From traditional light displays to drive-through spectacles with dancing lights, the Christmas lights in Utah will make even the grinchiest hearts grow three sizes.
5. Luminaria
Luminaria at Thanksgiving Point is one of our personal favorite Christmas activities in Utah. It is the epitome of festive brilliance, lighting up Utah’s winter nights with a shimmering spectacle. As you stroll through the winding paths of Ashton Gardens, you walk by millions of lights and different themed areas.
Our favorite part is the light show on the hill, with thousands of luminaries synced to music in a mesmerizing display. The new Fire and Ice show is incredible as well, with flames shooting into the air and dancing to music like a fiery version of The Bellagio’s famous fountains.
Another highlight is the “Light the World” sculpture garden. Here, larger-than-life bronze sculptures depict scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. It makes for some peaceful moments of quiet reflection. We love Luminaria for the combination of festive light shows and Christ-focused celebration for those who want that.
6. Draper Tree of Life
The Christmas season in Draper, Utah is marked by the glowing radiance of the Tree of Life (also referred to as the Tree of Lights), an iconic Christmas attraction for locals that has become a beacon of festivity and wonder. Located at Draper City Park, this massive tree has Every. Single. Branch. brightly lit by over 1 MILLION light bulbs. It’s an incredible sight to see. It’s so bright you can often see it miles away, depending on your vantage point.
Draper City hosts a tree lighting ceremony every year the Monday after Thanksgiving, complete with a visit from Santa, pony rides, hot cocoa and marshmallow roasting by the fire. It’s a great way to kick off the Christmas season but you can also visit any time during the month of December.
7. Zoo Lights
The zoo isn’t normally somewhere you’d think to visit in the cold winter months, but Utah’s Hogle Zoo does it’s best to draw in visitors by creating a festive atmosphere that makes walking around in the cold a bit more bearable. While most animals will not be available for viewing, you can stroll through grounds with animal-themed Christmas lights. Zoo Lights is a fun tradition for animal lovers of al ages!
Christmas Activities in Utah: Drive-Through Christmas Lights
If you’re like Brittany and you love Christmas but hate the cold, then these will definitely become some of your favorite Christmas activities in Utah. Imagine this: millions of lights, dancing and shimmering, perfectly in tune with the festive beats pouring from your radio – all from the cozy comfort of your car! Here are some of our favorites.
8. Christmas in Color
Christmas in Color in South Jordan is the holiday spectacle that literally has you driving through a winter wonderland.
As you cruise along, larger-than-life candy canes stand sentinel, jolly snowmen tip their hats in greeting, and radiant arched pathways beckon you into a world of festive fantasy. And if you find yourself, much like the kiddos, with your jaw dropped in sheer awe, just know you’re in good company. After all, at Christmas in Color, embracing your inner child isn’t just welcomed—it’s encouraged!
9. Free Neighborhood Light Shows
If you want proof that people in Utah love Christmas, look no further than these elaborate home displays of Christmas lights. There are many neighborhoods throughout Utah that go ALL OUT with their Christmas decorations and light shows synced to music.
There’s Christmas Street in Sugarhouse – a tradition that’s over 70 years old! Or just search “KSL Christmas Lights Map” to find a map of the best light displays this year.
Our favorite one is in Highland, Utah located at 11671 N. Granite Flats Road. This amazing mansion puts on an incredible free show that lasts about an hour, with the Christmas lights synced to different styles of Christmas lights. It doesn’t cost anything to watch but donations are appreciated and go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
While we’ve seen all the Christmas light displays on this list, this one in particular is one that we make a tradition of every year. It is truly impressive! And it has something for everyone. Song selection ranges from a Star Wars version of Carol of the Bells to modern Christmas tunes from popular artists to the classics from Sinatra and everything in between.
It’s just as cool as Christmas in Color but instead of a drive-through display you simply sit in your car and watch the show. There’s a church parking lot directly across from the house where cars come and go throughout the night.
10. Spanish Fork Festival of Lights
Nestled in the heart of Utah County, Spanish Fork’s Festival of Lights is a breathtaking display of radiant lights and imaginative installations. As you drive through Canyon View Park, you are greeted by millions of twinkling lights set to music you can listen to on your car radio.
There’s an eclectic blend of figures from Santa and his reindeer to dinosaurs to a classic nativity scene. But somehow it creates a seamless blend of traditional holiday symbols with imaginative displays. This combination makes the Spanish Fork Festival of Lights a must-visit, firmly establishing it as one of the best Christmas activities in Utah County.
Christmas Activities in Utah: Festive Shops
Christmas and shopping go hand and hand, so is it any wonder that the most popular shops in Utah really get into the holiday spirit? It’s not enough anymore just get a Mall Santa to draw in the crowds and their money. Nowadays, places set up massive trees, ornate displays, and really go all out to be as festive as possible. So, whether you want to visit the shops to find gifts for your loved ones or just enjoy some window shopping with a festive atmosphere, make sure to stop by the places on this list!
11. See the Tallest Christmas Tree in Utah at The Outlets at Traverse Mountain
One of the most well-known Christmas icons in the world is the Christmas tree at Rockafeller Center in New York City. The height of the Christmas tree can vary from year to year, but it typically ranges between 70 to 100 feet tall.
Well, the tallest Christmas tree in Utah is right up there with Rockafeller Center. For the past several years, The Outlets at Traverse Mountain have proudly displayed a fresh Christmas tree standing over 80 feet tall. It’s quite the sight to behold!
And if you really want to get in the holiday spirit, join the festivities for the tree lighting concert on November 18. There’s a gingerbread house village, Santa’s Workshop, live music and a festive countdown to light the tree. Come for the Christmas tree, stay for the shopping!
12. Riverwoods Holiday Light Display
The Riverwoods near the bottom of Provo Canyon is a delightful fusion of shopping, dining, and festive revelry. This vibrant outdoor shopping center boasts a collection of boutique shops and restaurants, ranging from gourmet meals to quick bites.
But come December, Riverwoods transforms into a winter wonderland. Millions of twinkling Christmas lights adorn the trees and walkways, while cozy firepits cast a magical glow and warm shoppers. Don’t miss the Lighting of Riverwoods in mid-November – it’s a party complete with live music, ice sculptures, and even fireworks.
13. Park City Main Street Snow Globes
Our family often visit Park City during the holidays. Main Street just oozes festive charm and is a fun place to head for shopping and dining. But here’s the showstopper for the kiddos: The Snow Globe Stroll.
Each globe, brilliantly themed around beloved holiday songs, felt like stepping into a mini winter wonderland. From “Frosty the Snowman” to “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” the kids loved seeing these classic songs brought to life. And it’s like a mini-scavenger hunt trying to find them all. If nothing else, it reduces the complaining as you’re out strolling the shops in the cold!
14. Elves at Gardner Village
Gardner Village, located in West Jordan, Utah, is a historic and charming shopping, dining, and event destination. Its picturesque setting, with historic architecture, duck ponds, and wooden bridges, creates a fairy-tale ambiance that’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle of modern shopping malls.
The village is known for its unique shopping experience, offering a range of boutique stores that sell everything from handmade crafts, antiques, and home decor to women’s fashion and unique gifts. Complementing the shopping scene are delightful themed-events throughout the year and Christmas is no exception.
This enchanting spot gets decked to the halls with mischievous little elves causing all sorts of holiday hullabaloo. To make shopping a bit more exciting for the kiddos, Gardner Village creates a scavenger hunt to find all the elves while you shop and eat. And trust us, these festive fellas know how to spread holiday cheer! And you might even get a visit from an old-timey Santa in his horse-drawn sleigh. So put on your coats and and jingle all the way to Gardner Village for some Christmas fun.
15. Grand America Window Stroll
Every December, the luxurious Grand America hotel in Salt Lake City marks the Christmas season with its famous Holiday Window Stroll. Two reasons why we love this Christmas activity – it’s free and it’s indoors. So if you want to stay warm and cozy and still be able to walk around and enjoy the Christmas festivities, this one has your name on it.
After entering the hotel’s main level, wander around and discover beautifully themed windows. Every year has a new theme – past themes, like “Christmas Around the World,” showcased diverse global celebrations. As you meander, you’ll also come across a massive, stunning gingerbread house, crafted entirely from real, edible ingredients. Then be sure to take a moment to go outside to the courtyard to soak in the more of the Grand America’s festive ambiance, complete with a dazzling Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and a cool fountain.
The Grand America also hosts events like Santa’s Magic Morning as well as Christmas & Christmas Eve buffets.
16. Macy’s Window Displays at City Creek
If you find yourself in Downtown SLC this season, don a cozy scarf, grab a steaming cup of cocoa, and let the Macy’s windows rekindle your holiday spirit. It’s a downtown tradition that dazzles and delights shoppers, year after year. It’s not something I would make a special trip downtown to see, but if you happen to go shopping at City Creek, then be sure to make a point of stopping by to gaze at the delightful displays. Each window display features intricate designs made out of hundreds of pounds of candy, taking onlookers on a whimsical journey where holiday tales come alive with vibrant colors and a sprinkle of Macy’s magic.
17. Light the World Giving Machines
Light the World is an annual campaign from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints that encourages people to find new ways to give and be kind every day during the Christmas season. To make it super easy to do that, the church launched their Giving Machines a few years ago. Videos went viral and these vending machines with a twist grow in popularity each year.
They offer a variety of ways to donate money directly to a certain cause. Our kids got a kick out of buying chickens for farmers in rural Africa, for example. There are Giving Machines all over the world but two in Utah – City Creek Mall in Salt Lake and University Place Mall in Provo.
Christmas Activities in Utah: Music & Performing Arts
What better way to get in the Christmas spirit than with music? Utah has some world-class performers whose concerts and shows have become a favorite holiday tradition for many people around the state. Whether you’re into ballet, traditional Christmas carols, or hard rock, these performances are some of the best Christmas activities in Utah.
18. Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square
If your ears are craving some holiday harmonies, look no further than the Tabernacle Choir’s Christmas Concert in Salt Lake City. The annual concert is free but it’s incredibly popular, so you essentially have to win the lottery to score tickets. You need to enter the ticket raffle months in advance if you want to get lucky.
Every year, they roll out a fresh repertoire, mixing classic carols with unique arrangements that’ll give your goosebumps goosebumps! Throw in guest stars, an orchestra, and the spirit of the season, and you’ve got a musical soirée that’s the stuff of Christmas legends. Previous celebrity guest singers and narrators include Kristin Chenoweth, David Archuleta, Jane Seymour, John Rhys-Davies, Tom Brokaw, and more.
We were lucky enough to score four tickets a few years back and it was such a holiday treat. We got to witness the iconic Salt Lake Tabernacle, shimmering in festive decor, filled with the angelic voices of hundreds singing in perfect unison. It’s a great way to celebrate the Christmas season.
If you aren’t lucky enough to win tickets, Temple Square also hosts a variety of other musical concerts nearly every day! Enjoy performances by choirs sponsored by schools and community organizations, as well as various string, flute, guitar, and bell groups during the month of December.
19. The Nutcracker at Capitol Theater
Few things scream Christmas like the memorable music of The Nutcracker ballet. Hailed as the first and longest-running in America, Ballet West’s production of The Nutcracker is a national treasure that should be celebrated by locals and tourists alike. It’s such a long-running tradition that my mom attended as a kid, took me as a kid, and has now taken my kids to go see it. It’s more than a show; it’s a Utah Christmas tradition wrapped in a bow!
The moment those curtains rise, you’ll be transported to a winter wonderland of ballet magic. Dazzling costumes, jaw-dropping pirouettes, and the enchanting Tchaikovsky score set the stage (literally!) for a festive escape. Whether you’re a ballet newbie or a seasoned aficionado, the sheer brilliance of the performance will have you on the edge of your seat. So, grab your fanciest scarf, maybe some glittery shoes, and make your way to Capitol Theater in downtown Salt Lake City. It is truly one of the best Christmas activities in Utah.
20. Trans-Siberian Orchestra in concert
For rock music enthusiasts, the classic Christmas songs can be a little… boring. So thank goodness Trans-Siberian Orchestra had the good sense to meld the two together. With their unique blend of rock, classical, and orchestral music, TSO has been redefining the holiday soundscape for decades. Hits like “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24” and “O Come All Ye Faithful/O Holy Night” are staples on our minivan’s radio during the Christmas season.
And every so often, TSO graces Salt Lake City with their presence for a Christmas rock concert to remember. We attended their concert at the Delta Center a few years ago and it was a visual and auditory feast of lasers, pyrotechnics, and pure musical magic. If you’re looking to amp up your Christmas activities in Utah and dial it up to 11, TSO is your ticket to rockin’ around the Christmas tree!
For 2023, they’ll playing at the Delta Center on November 21st. Get tickets here.
21. GENTRI Christmas Concert
GENTRI, which is short for “The Gentlemen Trio” is a local singing trio comprised of three dynamic tenors: Brad Robins, Casey Elliott, and Bradley Quinn. The fourth member of the group is another Utah local – the award-winning composer, arranger, and producer Stephen Nelson. They perform a mix of popular music, gospel music, and Broadway tunes. Their annual Christmas concert has become a beloved tradition for many fans. You can catch them performing at different venues throughout Utah and the Mountain West during the months of November and December.
22. A Kurt Bestor Christmas
Kurt Bestor is a jazz musician and composer who is most famous for his song “Prayer of the Children”. He’s also scored many TV shows and produced many albums, and has even been won an Emmy and been nominated for a Grammy. He’s been performing his show, A Kurt Bestor Christmas since 1988. It’s become a favorite Christmas tradition for many local Utahns, especially among people who love contemporary jazz music. You can catch him on tour at the Eccles Theater in Salt Lake, The Egyptian Theater in Park City, or at various other venues throughout the West.
Christmas Activities in Utah: Outdoor Festivities
Dreaming of a White Christmas? Then you have to get outside! Utah is known for the “greatest snow on Earth” so if you really want some Christmas activities unique to Utah, then you’ll know why we think we’ve saved the best for last. These outdoor activities will leave you wondering if you’ve been secretly transported to the North Pole.
23. Ride the North Pole Express
The Heber Valley Railroad offers a 90-minute scenic train ride in northern Utah that is a great family outing any time of year. They always do a good job with their themed holiday train rides, but none is more magical than the North Pole Express. The scenic snowy views of Heber Valley will have you believing you’re genuinely en route to the North Pole or that you jumped into the pages of the classic children’s book The Polar Express (let’s not talk about the creepy animated movie, OK?)
But picture this: you’re cozied up in vintage train cars, sipping on rich hot cocoa, nibbling on Mrs. Claus’s famous cookies, and humming along to classic carols. And guess what? The big man in red, Santa himself, joins the ride to gift every child a special present. So, gather your elf squad, throw on your ugly sweaters or Christmas jammies, and let the North Pole Express make your North Pole dreams come true!
But be warned – this is one of the most popular Christmas activities in Utah. You’ll need to plan well in advance as tickets sell out by the end of October. So if you missed it this year, add it to your Utah bucket list and mark your calendars for next year.
24. Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade
There’s nothing quite like a mountainside lit up with holiday spirit! At Snowbird and Park City ski resorts, the Christmas Eve torchlight parades are a sight to behold. And you don’t even have to be a skier yourself to enjoy watching it,
Picture this: skiers gracefully descending snow-clad slopes, torches in hand, painting a trail of glowing light against the dark winter sky. The atmosphere is electric and merry, with spectators wrapped in warm blankets, sipping on hot cocoa. It’s a festive fusion of sport and merriment, turning Utah’s mountains into high-altitude holiday spectacle.
For a little bonus, Snowbird even adds a fireworks show to the mix. Not your traditional Christmas Eve, but it is a memorable and unique way to mark the occasion!
25. Ski with Santa
Deck the halls? More like hit the slopes! A list of Christmas activities in Utah wouldn’t be complete without some skiing but this is skiing with a twist – skiing with hundreds of Santa Clauses.
Every Christmas, Brighton Ski Resort hosts their annual Santa Run. The first 200 people that show up on Christmas Day in a full costume dressed like Santa, Mrs. Clause, the Grinch, an elf, or reindeer gets to ski for FREE. But even if you don’t win the ski pass lottery it’s still a fun and festive atmosphere that makes for an unforgettable day on the slopes.
Remember, it’s go big or go ho-ho-home!
For more tips on skiing affordably with families, check out our guide to Utah ski resorts.
Another way to get outside without breaking the bank is snowshoeing. Have you tried it? Check out our list of Top 10 Snowshoeing Trails in Utah.
Reflecting on Christmas Activities in Utah
From the enchanting lights of Temple Square to the lively elves at Gardner Village and the luminous allure of Luminaria, Utah truly sparkles during the festive season. Embark on delightful journeys like the North Pole Express, or marvel at artistic showcases like The Nutcracker Ballet at Capitol Theater. The state’s ski resorts, whether it’s the torchlight parades at Snowbird and Park City or Brighton’s Santa Run, bring a snowy thrill to your festivities. And let’s not forget the harmonious notes of the Tabernacle Choir or the captivating window displays downtown. It’s clear: Utah offers a winter wonderland of experiences, making it the ultimate Christmas destination for families and revelers alike. So, bundle up, sip some hot cocoa, and immerse yourself in Utah’s Christmas activities.
From our family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas!
-JJ 🎄❄️🌟
PS once Christmas is over, there’s more adventure to be had! Check out our guide to the top things to do in Utah in the winter! We’ve got stuff for both the outdoorsy and indoorsy types.
Our family is on a mission to experience the best our home state of Utah has to offer and help other families find affordable, kid-friendly adventures in the process. You can follow us on Instagram @theminivanbucketlist or download our free printable The Ultimate Family-Friendly Utah Bucket List with the top 100 things to do in Utah, both kid-friendly and more adventurous!
