Holiday Happenings at Utah State Parks

Nov. 20, 2023

Feel a familiar wintery chill in the air? Get ready for some festive fun at your favorite Utah State Parks! Whether you’re up for a cozy winter hike or a magical drive through a twinkling wonderland, we’ve got the perfect holiday experiences for you and your family. Check back regularly, as we’ll keep you updated if any new events are added!

And hey, these holiday-themed events are just the tip of the iceberg! For a full scoop on all the cool stuff happening this season, check out our Events Calendar. There’s always something new and exciting to discover!

NOVEMBER

Jordanelle State Park
Holiday Lights Wagon Rides
November 25, 2023
6:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Experience the magic of gliding through a festive holiday light show, pulled by a team of majestic Percheron draft horses! Indulge in the holiday spirit with treats like s’mores, hot chocolate, and cider, all available for purchase. The enchanting ride lasts approximately 20 minutes, with some horse teams moving at varying paces. Starting at 6:00 PM and running until 9:30 PM, rides depart every 30 minutes, making it a delightful experience for all ages. Children aged 2 and under join the fun for free! For tickets Click Here.

This is the Place Heritage Park
Christkindlmarkt 
November 29 – December 2
11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

The holiday season is here, and with it comes another year of the popular Christkindlmarkt SLC event at This is the Place Heritage Park. 

Each year, thousands of families and friends gather together to celebrate the season while spreading holiday cheer along the way. The 2023 Christkindlmarkt SLC will run from November 29 through December 2 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day. 

Inspired by the world-famous German Christmas markets, Christkindlmarkt SLC offers a unique holiday shopping and cultural experience. Guests enjoy tantalizing food and festive holiday entertainment as they stroll through wooden vendor booths nestled amid the magical backdrop of This Is The Place Heritage Park. 

Learn more about the event HERE!

DECEMBER

Willard Bay State Park
Fantasy at the Bay Light Show
December 1, 2023 – December 24, 2023 

Join in the holiday festivities at Willard Bay State Park! Immerse yourself in the enchanting glow of Fantasy at the Bay’s drive-through holiday lights, lighting up the nights from December 1 to December 24 (Closed on Christmas Day). Stay tuned for further details, including hours of operation and ticket information!

Camp Floyd State Park
Camp Floyd Christmas
December 2
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Embark on a festive journey at Camp Floyd State Park, and witness the yuletide cheer of soldiers celebrating Christmas throughout the park. Explore the historical Commissary and Inn adorned with charming Christmas decorations. Don’t miss the chance to meet Santa Claus between 2:00 and 4:00 PM, where you can receive a complimentary gift while supplies last – but beware of the mischievous Grinch who might attempt to swipe your treasures.

At 3:00 PM, head to the school and be serenaded by the delightful sounds of bells performed by the Timpanogas Ringers bell choir. Treat yourself to delicious offerings available for purchase at Beefsteak’s Bistro. Stick around for the light parade and fireworks with Fairfield Town at 5:00 PM. As night falls, revel in the mesmerizing Christmas lights illuminating the park and town.

Admission is $5 per person or $15 per family (immediate family only). For more information, please call (801) 768-8932 or email campfloyd@utah.gov.

Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
Holidays at the Homestead
December 6 – 9
5:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Experience the magic of the season with Holidays at the Homestead at Frontier Homestead State Park Museum! Enjoy family-friendly activities and entertainment from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Admission is just $2 per person or $8.00 per family, making it an affordable and festive outing for everyone. Join us for evenings filled with holiday joy and create cherished memories with your loved ones!

Frontier Homestead State Park
Lights at the Homestead
December 20 – 23
5:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Savor the enchantment of the season with a leisurely stroll through the captivating holiday lights and decorations at Lights at the Homestead, hosted by Frontier Homestead State Park Museum. This magical experience awaits you December 20 – 23 from 5:30 to 8:00 PM. Best of all, admission is free, with donations gratefully accepted. 

JANUARY

Antelope Island State Park
First Day Hike
January 1, 2024
1:00 PM

Embark on a healthy start to the new year with a rejuvenating hike at Antelope Island’s Mountain View Trailhead! Join the park naturalist at 1:00 PM for a family and leashed-dog-friendly event that promises both fitness and fun. While the event is free, please note that regular park entry fees apply.

For any inquiries, feel free to reach out to tackley@utah.gov. Lace up your hiking boots and join us for a memorable kickoff to a healthier you!

Great Salt Lake State Park
First Day Hike
January 1, 2024
8:30 AM

Embrace the tradition of starting the new year on a refreshing note by joining us for a unique “First Day Hike” experience at Silver Sands Beach. This year, we’re adding a delightful twist with a birdwatching walk guided by a knowledgeable park ranger. As we stroll along the beach, immerse yourself in a conversation about the diverse birdlife around the Great Salt Lake, with the hopes of spotting a few feathered friends along the way. The walk covers approximately 1.5 miles on beach conditions, offering both an educational and scenic experience.

To participate, the event tour is $3 per person, and a $5 day-use pass per vehicle is required for park entry. Please note that dogs are not recommended for this event, as our focus will be on birdwatching.

Meet us on the back patio of the Visitor’s Center, where the journey begins. The walk primarily spans flat terrain with typical beach hazards, ensuring an accessible yet engaging adventure.

The event will be limited to 50 participants. To secure your spot, pre-register here: https://parkspass.utah.gov/parks/UTGREA/hike

Purchase your day-use fee in advance here: https://parkspass.utah.gov/parks/UTGREA/dayuse

Please be aware that the event is weather-dependent and may be canceled in unfavorable conditions. Optimal birdwatching conditions require clear skies.

Important Note: This event takes place at the Great Salt Lake Marina in Magna (Exit 104, off I-80), NOT on Antelope Island.

For additional details, reach out to the Great Salt Lake State Park visitor center at 801-828-0787. Join us for a memorable morning of birdwatching, learning, and celebrating the beauty of nature as we kick off the new year!

Snow Canyon State Park
First Day Hike
January 1, 2024
1:00 PM

Join Snow Canyon State Park staff on the return of our popular First Day Hike! Location and additional information are TBD. Check back later for more exciting updates.