Known for “The Greatest Snow on Earth” many people flock to Utah to enjoy the holidays. Skiing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, tubing, snowmobiling are some of the most popular activities to do in winter. However, these can be expensive, especially if you a have a big family. Fortunately, Salt Lake City has many entertaining, fun and, most importantly, FREE activities to do centered around the holidays. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Free Santa Claus Pictures If you are like me and hate shelling out $25 at the mall for pictures of your little darlins’ screaming their brains out, then go check out Visit Salt Lake’s event. Where and When: 15th Street Gallery, December 12, 2015 at 5-7pm
- Jingle Bus See the sights of Downtown Salt Lake while riding in style on the Jingle Bus. Beginning on Friday November 27-December 28, downtown visitors can hop on and off the holiday themed ride circulating between The Gateway, Temple Square, City Creek Center, Gallivan Plaza and Capitol Theatre. Where and When: Runs from 5-10pm, 7 days a week
- 14th Annual Holiday Open House Red Butte Gardens Come enjoy complimentary cider and hot cocoa while you explore the beautiful winter gardens. There will also be a craft fair to browse and pick up handmade Christmas gifts. Where and When: Red Butte Gardens December 5-6th 10am-5pm
- Tree Lighting Ceremony at Snowbird Ski Resort Come join a beautiful tree lighting ceremony and program to honor the service and sacrifice of veterans, active military, and their families. Tree Lighting will be set to the tune of the five military anthems. Where and When: Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort December 19, 2015
- Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Fireworks on Christmas Eve? Why not! This candlelight service will be lead by Pastor Greg Johnson with music by Kevin Flynn. Torchlight Parade and fireworks followed by short sermon and caroling. Where and When: Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort December 24, 2015
- Lights at Temple Square As one of Salt Lake’s most popular attractions, the lights at Temple Square light up on November 27 and run through January 3, 2016. Check out http://www.templesquare.com/christmas/ for a schedule many free concerts and activities during the holiday season. Where and When: Temple Square 0 E South Temple
- Holiday Tour of Utah’s Governors Mansion Come and see Utah’s most stunning mansion. Tours run December 1-17, every Tuesday and Thursday from 2-4pm. No reservation are requires unless your group is 20 or more Where and When: 603 S Temple S Salt Lake City, UT 84102
- Thanksgiving Point Reindeer Santa’s Reindeer will be gearing up for the big day at Thanksgiving Point. Bundle up; grab some hot cocoa and head on over! Where and When: Thanksgiving Point November 27-December 23rd Monday-Saturday noon-10pm each day
- Wasatch Symphony Holiday Concert Enjoy Christmas and Hanukkah favorites, as well as some unique holiday celebrations. Plus enjoy cookies and punch after the concert. Where and When: All Saints Episcopal Church December 6, 2015 7pm
-
Christmas Sing Along Head over to Vivint Smart Home Arena to sing your holiday favorites accompanied by a 30-piece orchestra. Special appearances by Santa and the Jazz Bear. Free parking is available and guests will receive a special group package and holiday treat. Where and When: Viviant Smart Home Arena, December 14, 2015 5:30pm
