How to Spend the Holidays in Park City, Utah
Updated October 2024
Imagine a holiday escape where snow-capped peaks meet small-town charm, and adventure awaits around every corner. Welcome to Park City, where the festive season comes alive with unforgettable events and high-altitude excitement. Unlike anywhere else, Park City offers a unique blend of natural beauty, gourmet delights, and cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for a truly unforgettable holiday experience. And, with luxurious accommodations, ranging from cozy couples’ retreats to spacious family-friendly vacation rentals, you'll find the ideal setting to relax, recharge, and make memories with loved ones.
Read on for all the details on how to enjoy Park City, Utah, during the holidays!
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The Best Ways to Celebrate the Holidays in Park City, Utah
The holidays in Park City, Utah, are a magical time of year, filled with festive cheer, snow-covered landscapes, and endless activities for all interests. From snowshoeing and skiing to holiday markets and Santa meet-and-greets, Park City offers a winter wonderland experience that's hard to beat.
With events changing year to year, it's important to research the latest happenings online. Book your stay with us and enjoy access to our complimentary concierge, who can help plan your holiday getaways, events, and more, ensuring you make the most of your trip. Whether you're exploring the charming shops and restaurants on Main Street, hitting the slopes at Deer Valley or Park City Mountain, or enjoying festive fun at Canyons Village, there's something for everyone in Park City during the holiday season.
Whatever your interest, Park City promises an unforgettable holiday getaway.
Highlights from past years include:
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Santa Comes Down Town Lift: This is a truly magical event where Santa arrives in style at the Town Lift Plaza. Families can enjoy photo opportunities with Santa, festive treats, and the warm holiday atmosphere, making it a perfect way to celebrate the season in Park City.
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Park City Snow Globe Stroll: Park City's Snow Globe Stroll features life-sized snow globes along historic Main Street, showcasing festive holiday scenes. It's a charming winter attraction, perfect for a cozy evening stroll amidst twinkling lights.
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Experience the Magic of Main Street: Park City's historic Main Street transforms into a winter wonderland as twinkling lights are strung across the charming, snow-covered street. The festive display illuminates the iconic buildings, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for evening strolls and holiday shopping.
Stunning Torchlight Parades
Annual Torchlight Parade at Park City Mountain Village
The Torchlight Parade at Park City Mountain Village has been a cherished tradition since 1964. The Ski and Ride School team lights up the night as they glide down Payday with glowing torches, spreading holiday cheer. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with local carolers, cookies, and cocoa, and keep an eye out—Santa might make a special appearance if the holiday spirit is strong! It's a perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends.
Deer Valley Resort’s Torchlight Parade
Deer Valley Resort’s Torchlight Parade is a stunning holiday tradition where expert skiers from the resort’s Ski School and Ski Patrol descend the mountain in a mesmerizing procession of glowing torches. This dazzling display lights up the slopes, creating a magical atmosphere against the winter night sky. Spectators can gather at the Snow Park Lodge to watch the spectacle, enjoying the festive spirit of the season with hot cocoa and holiday treats. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the holidays at Deer Valley Resort.
Dinner and a Show Downtown
The historic Egyptian Theater hosts a wealth of holiday events. One of our favorites is The Park City Holiday Spectacular and Sing Along—an annual variety show produced by locals featuring songs, dancing, skits, and a special appearance by Santa himself.Here, you'll get to be a part of the show by participating in choir-led sing-alongs.
For a delicious meal before or after the event, visit LOMA on Main Street, a modern Italian restaurant led by the owner and chef of Park City's renowned Twisted Fern. LOMA is a casual, upscale eatery inspired by Italian techniques, featuring housemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal specialties. The menu focuses on simplicity, freshness, and quality ingredients, drawing from both Italian and Mediterranean flavors.
If you're out celebrating with kids and need something more low-key, head to Red Banjo Pizza for a slice of Park City's oldest and best family-friendly restaurant.
Holiday Lights Wagon Ride
Rocky Mountain Outfitters' Holiday Lights Wagon Ride is a must-do Park City holiday experience, offering a magical journey through a winter wonderland. Snuggle up under blankets as the wagon takes you through scenic landscapes adorned with twinkling lights. The festive atmosphere, crisp mountain air, and stunning surroundings create an unforgettable holiday adventure for families and friends. It’s a unique way to enjoy the beauty of the season, making memories that capture the spirit of a Park City winter.
Heber Valley North Pole Express
Located just 30 minutes south of Park City, the Heber Valley North Pole Express offers a magical Christmas-time adventure. This 90-minute train ride winds through scenic mountain passes, featuring vintage train cars, including one dating back to 1913. As you soak in the sights, enjoy festive holiday music, and await a special visit from Santa. This popular event sells out fast, so be sure to secure your tickets in advance.
New Year Fireworks on the Mountain
Ringing in the New Year at Canyons Village at Park City Mountain is a local tradition we encourage all travelers to experience. It's famous for being Park City's ultimate fireworks display, boasting live music until sunset and unforgettable moments.
Tupelo is great for an elegant pre-party dinner and drinks. Or enjoy the family-friendly mountain atmosphere by visiting The Red Tail Grill before the celebration.
Where to Stay in Park City During the Holidays
If you are traveling to Park City to celebrate the holidays, we offer plenty of exceptional properties to suit your plans, from convenient condos to downtown homes. Plus, when you book directly with Park City Lodging, you’ll have access to complimentary concierge services.
Elevate Your Park City Ski Holiday With Ski-In/Ski-Out Accommodations
Want ski access right outside your door? Stay just steps away from the chairlifts and experience the ultimate convenience. Don't waste a minute of ski time by staying far from the slopes. Book a Park City vacation rental with ski-in/ski-out access.
Check Out a Few of Our Guests’ Favorite Rentals
Snow Flower 069: Experience the magic of Park City's holidays at a charming ski-in/ski-out condo with five bedrooms, a loft, and four bathrooms. You can also enjoy breathtaking mountain views, easy access to Park City Mountain's lifts, and a cozy gas fireplace for après-style relaxation from the comfort of this rental.
Town Pointe A202: Embrace the holiday spirit and stay steps from Main Street and the Town Lift at this ideally located Park City condo. Perfect for families or groups of up to 6, this deluxe property offers easy access to skiing, dining, and festive attractions.
What's more, you can also unwind in your private hot tub or cozy up by the fireplace after a ski holiday adventure.
Lift 406S: Celebrate the holidays in style at this new ski-in/ski-out property in Canyons Village. Ideal for families or groups of up to eight, this premier condo offers unparalleled access to Park City's winter wonderland.
With luxurious amenities, stunning mountain views, and easy access to festive village attractions, it's the ideal base for creating magical holiday memories in Park City.
Resort-Style Communities for the Ultimate Ski-In/Ski-Out Experience
Encounter holiday magic at the Lift residences in Canyons Village. These new ski-in/ski-out condos offer stunning views, spacious layouts, and prime access to winter sports. Enjoy festive village attractions, luxurious amenities, and cozy fireside evenings. Create unforgettable holiday memories in this Park City winter wonderland.
Centralized location offering easy access to Park City Mountain, Main Street shopping, underground parking, private and communal hot tubs, and fitness center. The Lowell is excellent for folks looking for ski-in/ski-out accommodations in Park City during the holidays. Plus, it's perfect for kids, couples, and groups.
Ready to Book Your Holiday Rental in Park City?
Finding the perfect holiday accommodations doesn’t have to be challenging. If you need advice or additional information about Park City Lodging rentals, we encourage you to contact us.
Once your rental is booked, you’ll have access to our concierge service for added support during your stay. We look forward to seeing you!
*Resort open dates are based on weather and subject to change.
Published on Tuesday, November 23, 2021