The magic of Christmas is even sweeter when it’s simple, cozy, and budget-friendly. Here are 40+ ways to celebrate the season across Utah Valley—all under $10 (many are free!).


Christmas Lights & Tree Lightings

Utah's Tallest Tree

Bundle up and wander through some of the brightest holiday displays in the valley.

  1. See the Displays in Downtown Provo – Walk past festive windows and the glowing Utah County Courthouse.

  2. The Orchard Christmas Lights, University Place, Orem – Free, starting Nov 18.

  3. Spanish Fork Festival of Lights – Drive through this beloved light show for just a few dollars per car.

  4. Riverwoods Lights, Provo – Sparkling shops and photo-worthy streets.

  5. Salem Pond Lights – Peaceful reflections of holiday colors on the water.

  6. Orem City Center Park Lights – City tree lighting Dec 1.

  7. Mapleton’s Lights On Festival, Dec 1 – Free community lighting and holiday fun.

  8. Saratoga Springs City Christmas Tree, Neptune Park – Lighting celebration Dec 1.

  9. Lindon City Center Park Lights, 200 N State St, Lindon.

  10. Highland’s Holiday Lights & Santa Night, Nov 24 – Capture a free photo with Santa.

  11. Tallest Christmas Tree in Utah, Lehi – See it sparkle during the Orchard Lighting Event Nov 17.

  12. Sundance Tree Lighting, Sundance Resort – Cozy mountain lighting tradition with live music and hot chocolate by the fire.


☕ Cozy Cocoa Spots

Gourmet hot chocolate on a marble table

Warm up with a cup of holiday cheer at these local favorites.

  1. Taste 117, Provo – Luxurious sipping chocolate and truffles.

  2. Java Junkie, Provo – Peppermint mochas made for chilly nights.

  3. Peace on Earth, Provo – Cozy corner café with the perfect hot cocoa.

  4. Guayoyo, Provo – Venezuelan-inspired drinks with a festive twist.

  5. Sundance Resort Hot Cocoa, Sundance – Sip gourmet hot chocolate beside the fire pit after your mountain stroll.

  6. Taste Café & Bistro, Provo – Try a flight of artisan cocoa for a sweet winter treat.


🎁 Christmas Markets & Festive Shopping

A festive outdoor Christmas market at dusk, featuring small wooden booths with red and white striped roofs, adorned with string lights. Visitors stroll through the lively market, bundled in warm coats and hats, enjoying the holiday ambiance under a sky turning from blue to twilight. In the background, more lights and a tall monument or statue can be seen, adding to the magical winter atmosphere.

Wander through twinkling markets filled with handmade gifts, music, and the smell of cinnamon.

 


🐮 Christmas Farms & Family Fun

Luminaria Reindeer Woods

Experience the countryside magic of Christmas for under $10.

  1. Gordon’s Family Farm: Red Nose Ranch, Spanish Fork – $9.95 for all activities, opening Nov 22.

  2. Hee Haw Farms, Pleasant Grove – Lights, animals, and cozy winter fun.

  3. Nordik Village, Lehi – A picture-perfect Scandinavian-style Christmas village.


🚤 Unique Holiday Experiences

Santa and neighbors on santa's sleigh

Something extra special (and still affordable!) for your Christmas bucket list.

  1. Christmas Cruise at CLAS Ropes Course, Provo River – Float past light displays from your boat.

  2. Giving Machines, Downtown Provo – Donate gifts and essentials to families in need.

  3. Visit a Hallmark Movie Spot – Stroll through charming places like the Riverwoods, Downtown Provo, or Sundance for that small-town Christmas feel.


❄️ Best Sledding Spots in Utah Valley

Winter Bonfire Sledding

Bring your sleds and embrace the snow!

  1. Rock Canyon Park, Provo

  2. Peteetneet Academy, Payson

  3. Cherry Hill Elementary, Orem

  4. Tibble Fork Reservoir, American Fork Canyon

  5. Oak Canyon Junior High, Lindon

  6. Spanish Oaks Elementary, Spanish Fork

  7. Silver Lake Amphitheater, Eagle Mountain

  8. Bicentennial Park, Provo


🌟 Plan Your Simple, Sparkling Season

From cocoa to carols and sledding to lights, Utah Valley shines with holiday joy that doesn’t break the bank. Whether you’re exploring a Christmas market, cruising under twinkling lights, or sipping cocoa after a sled ride, there’s something for every family to love.

Make this season bright—start your holiday adventures in Utah Valley today.