Holidays and celebrations in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City offers a myriad of exciting festivals and celebrations throughout the year, making it an engaging hub for tourists and locals alike. With a vibrant mix of cultural, traditional, and modern festivities, this city in Utah provides a tapestry of events that appeal to every age group and interest. From Christmas parades and lights at the iconic Temple Square to the exuberant Diwali celebrations, each event is a unique experience, capturing the spirit and diversity of the city. Whether you’re exploring snowy retreats at the nearby ski resorts or participating in local markets with handcrafted items, Salt Lake City promises an unforgettable holiday season filled with joy and camaraderie.

Christmas in Salt Lake City: Events and Traditions

Christmas in Salt Lake City is a magical blend of holiday traditions set against the picturesque backdrop of snow-capped mountains. One of the most spectacular displays during this time is ZooLights at Hogle Zoo, drawing families with its dazzling light installations and themed activities. This event transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland, complete with a 135-foot lighted tunnel and special family activities such as ice carving displays and holiday crafts.

Another highlight is the Festival of Trees, an annual charity event that combines the spirit of giving with festive displays. Held from December 4-7, 2024, this event sees businesses, families, and individuals decorate and donate Christmas trees. These creations are then auctioned off to benefit the Primary Children’s Medical Center. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the themed trees while listening to live entertainment, making it an immersive festive experience.

One cannot miss the breathtaking spectacle of the Temple Square holiday lights. Groundskeepers begin decorating the area in August to ensure the brilliant display is ready by Thanksgiving. Each tree is meticulously wrapped with thousands of lights, and handmade luminaries align the walkways, offering an enchanting ambiance. Despite the ongoing Salt Lake Temple renovations, the festival’s brilliance continues to attract a diverse crowd from across the globe.

For those interested in performing arts, the Ballet West presents its renowned performance of “The Nutcracker” at the Capitol Theatre from December 6 to 28, 2024. This event showcases a blend of talented child and adult performers, bringing to life the enchanting tale of sword-fighting mice and dancing toys. It’s a family favorite that captures the charm of the holiday season.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgCqCNfZn5Y

Event	Date	Location
Festival of Trees	December 4-7, 2024	Mountain America Expo Center
ZooLights at Hogle Zoo	Throughout December	Hogle Zoo
The Nutcracker Ballet	December 6-28, 2024	Capitol Theatre

New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Salt Lake City

As the year comes to a close, Salt Lake City ushers in the New Year with a spectacular array of events and celebrations. The atmosphere is charged with excitement as locals and tourists gather to bid farewell to the old year and welcome a new beginning. One of the most popular events is New Year’s Eve at The Gallivan Center, a family-friendly celebration featuring live music, food stalls, and a majestic fireworks display. Located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, this event accommodates large crowds and offers entertainment options for all ages.

For a more intimate experience, consider visiting the Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort for their magical New Year’s Eve festivities. This event includes a traditional torchlight parade down the mountainside, followed by an awe-inspiring fireworks show that illuminates the snow-covered landscape. Adrenaline enthusiasts can hit the slopes during the day and enjoy a candlelight dinner at night, making it an ideal retreat for families and couples alike.

In addition, local restaurants and bars participate in unique New Year’s celebrations. Venues like City Creek Center transform their spaces with elaborate decorations and themed parties, complete with music and dance floors that keep the celebration alive until midnight.

• 🎆 Fireworks at The Gallivan Center
• 🎿 Ski and torchlight parade at Snowbird Resort
• 🎉 Themed parties across local bars and restaurants

Whether you’re watching fireworks explode over the city skyline or enjoying a cozy gathering with friends, Salt Lake City offers a delightful variety of New Year’s celebrations to suit every preference. It’s this diversity and vibrancy that make the city a top destination for holiday celebrations.

Cultural Festivities in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City’s rich cultural tapestry is reflected in the diverse range of festivities celebrated throughout the year. During the fall, the city hosts vibrant Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations, showcasing colorful ofrendas (altars) and engaging workshops for families. Held at the Clark Planetarium, this event invites the community to commemorate and honor passed loved ones in a spirit of joy and remembrance.

Springtime brings the colorful festival of Holi at the Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork, just a short drive from Salt Lake City. This festival of colors fills the air with laughter and brilliant hues as participants celebrate love and the triumph of good over evil. Traditional music, dance performances, and delicious Indian cuisine make this a truly immersive experience for all attendees.

Another must-attend event is the city’s vibrant celebration of Diwali, or the Festival of Lights. Hosted at The Leonardo Museum in collaboration with the Salt Lake City Arts Council, Diwali brings together families for an evening of cultural performances, workshops, and stunning light displays. This festival serves as a fantastic entrée into South Asian cultural traditions and is a vivid reminder of the city’s cultural diversity.

Festival	Date	Location
Día de los Muertos	November 2025	Clark Planetarium
Holi	March 2025	Spanish Fork
Diwali	November 2025	The Leonardo Museum

These festivals are more than just events; they are a testament to Salt Lake City’s commitment to embracing cultural diversity and fostering community spirit.

Outdoor and Active Holiday Events

For those who relish outdoor adventures, Salt Lake City offers an impressive array of activities during the holiday season. With its proximity to the Wasatch Mountains, the city becomes a playground for winter sports enthusiasts. The area is renowned for its abundant snowfall, providing perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts such as Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort and Park City Mountain Resort.

Families seeking more low-key outdoor activities will enjoy the many ice skating options in Salt Lake City. The Gallivan Center and Lehi City Ice Skating Rink are popular spots for skating surrounded by holiday lights and festive music. These venues offer rental services and lessons for beginners, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun.

For those who prefer hiking, Ensign Peak Park offers stunning views of the city blanketed in snow. The trail is accessible and safe for families, providing a serene escape from the bustling city life. This spot is particularly magical at sunset, as the sky paints a captivating backdrop of colors over the city.

• ⛷️ Skiing at Snowbird Resort
• ⛸️ Ice skating at Gallivan Center
• 🥾 Hiking trails at Ensign Peak Park

These active events not only provide entertainment but also offer opportunities to connect with nature and experience the winter beauty of Salt Lake City.

Shopping and Craft Fairs: A Shopper’s Paradise

Salt Lake City is home to bustling markets and craft fairs, especially during the holiday season, which transform shopping into a delightful festive experience. From local artisans to high-end retailers, there’s something for everyone.

One popular destination is City Creek Center, where stunning decorations and Christmas-themed events entice visitors looking for unique gifts. The center’s “Giving Machine” offers a chance to contribute to charities by purchasing useful items like meals or clothing for those in need, integrating the spirit of giving into the shopping experience.

For a more traditional experience, visit the annual Christkindlmarkt at This Is the Place Heritage Park. Modeled after European Christmas markets, this event features stalls offering handcrafted goods, delicious food, and unique holiday decorations. Visitors can indulge in hot cocoa, enjoy live music, and even meet Father Christmas.

Several smaller markets and fairs around the city also offer a variety of crafts and local products. These include the Simple Treasures Holiday Boutique and the Red Butte Garden Holiday Open House and Art Fair, each showcasing the talent and creativity of local artisans.

Market/Fair	Date	Location
Christkindlmarkt	December 4-7, 2024	This Is the Place Heritage Park
Simple Treasures Holiday Boutique	December 4-7, 2024	Ogden
Red Butte Garden Holiday Art Fair	December 7-8, 2024	Red Butte Garden

These festive markets not only offer a chance to find the perfect holiday gifts but also create an atmosphere of warmth and cheer, making shopping a joyous part of the holiday season in Salt Lake City.

FAQ

What are the must-see holiday events in Salt Lake City?

Be sure to visit ZooLights at Hogle Zoo and the Christmas lights at Temple Square for a taste of holiday magic. Both offer spectacular displays and family-friendly activities.

When do holiday festivals typically start in Salt Lake City?

Holiday events start as early as mid-November with tree lighting ceremonies and continue through the end of December, with New Year’s celebrations marking the festive conclusion.

Are there outdoor activities during the winter holidays?

Yes, Salt Lake City offers numerous outdoor activities such as skiing at local resorts, ice skating at the Gallivan Center, and hiking at Ensign Peak Park.

Where can I find local crafts and gifts?

Visit the City Creek Center for upscale shopping, and head to Christkindlmarkt and the Red Butte Garden Holiday Art Fair for unique handcrafted items and festive cheer.

What cultural celebrations are held in Salt Lake City during the holidays?

The city celebrates a diversity of cultural events, including Diwali, Holi, and Día de los Muertos, each offering unique experiences and cultural insights.