Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
You've been eagerly awaiting the holiday season, and it's finally here! If you're like most people, you've likely already established your winter routine, filled with a lineup of festive activities and beloved traditions.
But maybe this is the year to mix it up a little. Should you find yourself in or around Utah Valley this Christmas season, here's a list of fun ways to celebrate and make some new holiday memories you'll cherish for years.
Take a Christmas Cruise on the Provo River
While a winter cruise might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning your holiday celebrations, the CLAS Ropes Course Christmas Cruise is definitely one to add to your list. Running through Dec. 23, this offers a unique way to get into a festive mood. Highlights include holiday scenes along the shore, Christmas music, visits from Santa and a Christmas movie to enjoy while you wait to board.
Be sure to reserve your spot today — and don't forget to bundle up!
Attend "A Christmas Carol" at Hale Center Theater
Few things will get you into the Christmas spirit faster than experiencing a live performance of "A Christmas Carol," Charles Dickens' timeless tale of Christmas spirits! And there's no better place to enjoy this classic holiday story than at Hale Center Theater in Orem, where the magic of the stage brings the beloved characters to life. Don't miss your last chance to honor the legacy of this timeless story by experiencing A Christmas Carol at Hale Center Theater Orem before it closes its doors.
This final production celebrates decades of storytelling and community in Orem as HCTO prepares to move to its new home, "The Ruth," at doTERRA in Pleasant Grove. Celebrate the past and look ahead to the future—tickets are going fast, so get yours today!
Visit a Christmas market
For a truly immersive festive experience, don't miss the Christmas Village at the American Fork Amphitheater at Quail Cove. Step into a beautifully recreated Bethlehem set, right next to a charming Hallmark-style Christmas village — two worlds colliding in the most magical way.
You can visit Santa and his sleigh, then explore vendor booths offering unique, handmade gifts perfect for holiday shopping. The Christmas Village runs from Dec. 6–14, and tickets are just $4 per person, making it an affordable and unforgettable way to celebrate the season.
Eat breakfast with Santa
Give your child a truly memorable holiday experience by treating them to breakfast with the big guy himself — Santa! Every Saturday leading up to Christmas, Thanksgiving Point hosts a festive breakfast where you can meet Santa, and even catch a glimpse of his reindeer.
Your admission also gives you access to other activities and a family photo to capture the moment.
Enjoy the sights at Luminaria
Thanksgiving Point is also home to one of the most beloved and anticipated holiday traditions around: Luminaria. This is the time of year when Ashton Gardens transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland brimming with holiday lights and displays.
This year features a bigger and better-than-ever Fire and Ice show, along with The Tree of Life Garden to remind you of the true reason for the season. If your holiday schedule is already packed with events, don't worry — this one runs until Jan. 4.
Participate in winter sports
For winter sports enthusiasts, the holidays wouldn't be complete without skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling or ice skating. In Utah County, you have plenty of options to satisfy your winter adventure cravings, including Sundance Mountain Resort, American Fork Canyon, Peaks Ice Arena and numerous sledding spots listed by Explore Utah Valley.
Go shopping at the Riverwoods
If winter sports aren't your thing, some consider shopping to be a form of exercise. During the holiday season, The Shops at The Riverwoods is transformed with beautiful lights and decorations, adding extra yuletide cheer to your gift-buying experience.
Do some service
One of the best ways to experience true holiday cheer is by giving back to the community. Utah County offers countless opportunities to volunteer and make a difference. Whether it's collecting food for a local food bank, donating coats and gloves, tying fleece blankets for nursing home residents, or shoveling snow for a neighbor, acts of service can make the season more meaningful.
A great way to give back is by supporting Meals on Wheels, which serves over 1,300 meals daily to homebound seniors, ensuring they receive both nourishment and companionship. Unfortunately, nearly 300 qualified seniors in Utah County are on a waiting list due to budget constraints. By donating or partnering with Meals on Wheels, mowsuw.org you can help "End the Wait" and ensure no senior is left hungry or isolated.
Many families create holiday traditions of service, such as participating in Sub for Santa or organizing charitable events. For more ideas, visit JustServe.com, which lists local volunteer opportunities, or explore The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Light the World campaign for daily acts of kindness. Big or small, acts of service bring joy and warmth to both the giver and receiver, embodying the true spirit of the holidays.
Need more ideas?
Even if all you do is relax at home on the couch, enjoying the glow of the Christmas tree with loved ones, that's still a wonderful way to celebrate the season. But if you're looking to get out and explore — and maybe support some local businesses along the way — the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce is a great resource. Visit their website for more information and to discover businesses near you that may be offering other festive activities and holiday deals.
