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As many long-term Utah residents know, the holidays in Salt Lake City are magical. From the Christmas markets, sweet treats and light displays, there is no shortage of tradition and history in the city. Here are a few popular holiday traditions you can find in Salt Lake City.
Window displays at the Grand America Hotel
Not only is the Grand America a stunning building with glittering Christmas decor, but it also is home to darling window displays. Stroll through the lobby and shops of the hotel to see some intricate holiday displays. Be sure to check their website for the hours of the displays on a specific day.
While you're there, make sure you take a look at the magnificent, huge Christmas trees both inside and outside of the hotel.
Ice skating at Gallivan Center
For 26 years, the Gallivan Center ice rink has been a staple of winter fun in downtown Salt Lake City. The temporary rink is open to the elements, making skating a great way to warm up in the frigid weather. Skaters can enjoy a playlist of musical hits, skate rentals and plenty of warm drinks.
The ice rink is open until 9 p.m. on weekdays and midnight on weekends. Sundays it closes at 7 p.m.
See the lights at Temple Square
According to the Temple Square blog, the lights at Temple Square have been around since 1965. While it's unknown exactly how many lights illuminate the dozens of acres of land, it's a spectacle you cannot miss.
Grab the whole family and walk around the square, pose for pictures and watch live performances of the nativity. The lights turn on at 5 p.m. and turn off at 10:30 p.m. daily. Remember to bundle up!
ZooLights! at the Hogle Zoo
Celebrating 13 years of holiday fun, the Hogle Zoo shuts off the main lights and lets the Christmas lights illuminate the grounds for ZooLights! Not only are there thousands of lights to appreciate, but you can visit with one of Santa's elves, make a s'more and sip on hot chocolate! New this year are the 10 life-size animal-shaped lanterns that are scattered throughout the zoo.
The light display runs through Jan. 5.
Christmas Carole Sing-Along
The 35th annual Christmas Carole Sing-Along is Dec. 16. Presented by Vivint Arena, the whole event is free and open for family members of all ages. This year's guest is Ryan Innes, with Jason Hewlett as emcee. The event starts at 7 p.m. at the Vivint Arena in downtown Salt Lake City.
Cathedral of the Madeleine choir performances
It's no secret that Salt Lake City is home to world-renowned choirs — one of them consisting of students from the Choristers of The Madeleine Choir School. Their free annual Christmas performances usually sell out of tickets quickly, but they have a standby line for those who want to get into the show without a ticket.
Go to their website to find out when you can hear the season's most cherished carols in a historic downtown cathedral.
Live in the tradition
These are just a few of the annual holiday traditions embedded in Salt Lake City history. Make every season more magical by living close to all of the action. Browse City Creek Living units for sale in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, where you'll never miss a thing.
