Christmas is a time to celebrate with your loved ones and create unforgettable memories. Utah is known for its stunning landscape, outdoor activities, and friendly community, making it the perfect place to spend the holiday season with your family. Here are some tips on how to make the most of Christmas in Utah:
Enjoy Outdoor Activities
Utah’s beautiful scenery offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities during the winter season. Take your family to go skiing or snowboarding at one of Utah’s many ski resorts, such as Park City or Deer Valley. If you prefer a more low-key activity, try ice skating at Gallivan Center in downtown Salt Lake City or Midway Ice Rink in Wasatch County. You can also take a drive through some of Utah’s famous national parks, such as Zion or Bryce Canyon, which are equally breathtaking in the winter.
Attend Festive Events
Utah is home to many festive events during the holiday season that are perfect for families. The most popular event is the Christmas lights display at Temple Square in Salt Lake City. This stunning showcase of over a million lights attracts visitors from all over the world. Other events include the Candlelight Christmas at This is the Place Heritage Park, featuring candlelit cabins, live music, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. You can also attend the Nutcracker ballet performance by Ballet West or the annual Christmas concert by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
Embrace Local Traditions
Utah has its unique traditions that make Christmas in the state truly special. One of the most beloved traditions is seeing Santa Claus arrive at City Creek Center in downtown Salt Lake City on a flying sleigh pulled by live reindeer. Another tradition is watching the nativity play at the Grand America Hotel, where actors portray scenes from the birth of Jesus Christ. You can also participate in a gingerbread house competition, which is a popular activity among families in Utah.
Give Back to the Community
Christmas is a time for giving, and there are plenty of opportunities to give back to the community in Utah. Many organizations and charities hold events during the holiday season that you can participate in with your family. You can volunteer at a local soup kitchen, donate toys or clothes to children in need, or participate in a charity run. Not only will you be spreading holiday cheer, but you will also be teaching your children the importance of giving back.
Gather Round the Fireplace
After a day of outdoor activities and festive events, there’s nothing better than cozying up by the fireplace with your family. If you don’t have a fireplace in your home, consider hiring professional fireplace installers in Salt Lake City to install one. A warm and crackling fire will not only keep you and your family warm but also create a cozy atmosphere for bonding and making memories.
Many hotels and resorts also offer holiday packages that include fireplace rooms or cabins, making it the perfect option for a family getaway during Christmas in Utah.
Create Family Traditions
Lastly, the best way to make the most of Christmas in Utah with your family is to create your traditions. It could be something as simple as baking cookies together or watching a classic Christmas movie every year. You can also incorporate some of the local traditions and events into your family’s holiday tradition. Whatever it may be, creating family traditions will bring you closer and make the holiday season even more special.
Whether you’re a Utah local or planning to visit during the holiday season, there are endless ways to make the most of Christmas with your family in this beautiful state. From outdoor adventures to festive events and creating cherished traditions, Utah has it all. So gather your loved ones, embrace the holiday spirit, and enjoy a magical Christmas in Utah together.