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Sipping hot chocolate by the fireside, decorating the Christmas tree, curling up with a soft blanket to binge-watch Hallmark movies — it wouldn’t be the holidays without a few familiar traditions for the family to enjoy each year.
If you’re looking for some fun outside of the house, here are seven things you and your family can do around Salt Lake City to get in the holiday spirit.
Downtown light displays
No holiday tradition list would be complete without mentioning the immaculate light displays that dot the state throughout the month of December. Taking the cake is Temple Square with 35 acres of lighted trees, handmade paper lanterns and a variety of ethnic nativity scenes.
While the lights at Temple Square are free, families can spend a little extra money to see the Luminaria lights at Thanksgiving Point or the ZooLights at Hogle Zoo.
The Jingle Bus
See the lights and decorations downtown in style by hopping aboard the Jingle Bus, which runs between City Creek and the Gateway. Listen to tidbits of history from the bus’s tour guides while you enjoy this festive and free ride around the city.
Seasonal plays and productions
With a healthy appreciation for the performing arts, Salt Lake has plenty of options for theatergoers who are looking for a classic holiday production. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Nutcracker and Ballet West’s production at the Capitol Theatre is something every family should experience. The Nutcracker runs Dec. 7-26.
For another classic, families can enjoy Hale Centre Theatre’s annual production of A Christmas Carol, running through Dec. 26. Unfortunately, tickets sell out quickly so you might already be too late!
Candlelight Christmas
Take a step back in time to celebrate Christmas as a pioneer would have. Candlelight Christmas at This is the Place Heritage Park features a visit from Father Christmas, a live nativity, village carolers and Christmas crafts for the little ones.
Candlelight Christmas runs Dec. 10-23. For ticket information, visit the This is the Place Heritage Park website.
Holiday displays
While you’re out shopping, there are plenty of free holiday displays to delight your senses. Visit the candy windows at Macy’s, the huge gingerbread house at the Grand America Hotel, or the storybook window displays at City Creek. Pro tip: beat the crowds by visiting in the daytime.
Heber Valley Railroad North Pole Express
Fans of the beloved Christmas book “The Polar Express” will enjoy bringing the magic to life with the Heber Valley Railroad North Pole Express. Passengers will enjoy a 90-minute round trip ride to the North Pole, complete with hot cocoa, cookies, caroling and Santa Claus himself.
Tickets sell quickly, so visit the Heber Valley Railroad website to reserve your spot today.
Cathedral of the Madeleine
The annual Christmas Carol Service at the historic Cathedral of the Madeleine is a must if you want a truly memorable holiday experience. Featuring a variety of performances through the month of December, the Cathedral of the Madeleine provides beautiful music for the Advent and Christmas seasons.
For more event information, visit the Cathedral’s website.
Make warm memories
No matter how you choose to celebrate the holidays, there’s one thing everyone needs to do this winter — stay warm!
Whether you’re taking a stroll out to see the lights or snuggling up by the fire, Minky Couture blankets keep you warm and cozy all season long. This year, get the Christmas gift everyone will love — visit Minky Couture to find the perfect blanket for everyone on your list.
