The One Thing to Do in Utah Before the End of the Year

The holiday season is for slowing down, spending time with loved ones, and cherishing the simple things, like the magical glow of Christmas lights illuminating the snowy Utah landscape. Ogden's Christmas Village is one of the state's largest holiday events, transforming downtown Ogden into a winter wonderland from the weekend after Thanksgiving through the end of the year. With 70 themed cottages, a miniature Polar Express train, thousands of twinkling lights and ornaments, and festive eats and treats, this beloved tradition has delighted local families since 1961.

Experience one of the best holiday events in Utah that will make you feel like you've traveled to the North Pole. Ogden's Christmas Village brings the season's magic to life, and it's the perfect way to end the year.

In Ogden, the Saturday after Thanksgiving can only mean one thing: it's time once again for the annual Christmas Village to bring holiday cheer to the city. Festivities begin with a parade on Washington Avenue, the official lighting of the village, and an epic fireworks show. If you can't make it on opening night, no worries. The Christmas magic lasts all season long, with 70 decorated cottages featuring a variety of themes. There's a gingerbread house, a nutcracker house (with nearly 300 real nutcrackers inside!), and so many other charming displays, all sponsored by local businesses.

As you stroll through the village, peer in the windows of the cottages to watch the Christmas magic come alive (literally) with animatronics. It's like a life-sized version of those vintage Christmas village sets that no holiday display is complete without. No detail has been spared, and you'll feel like you've actually traveled to Santa's Workshop in the North Pole. Grab a hot chocolate to warm you up as you take in the festive scenes with a twinkle in your eye. The icing on the cake is when it snows, blanketing the rooftops, trees, and sidewalks. You'll truly feel like you're walking in a winter wonderland.

Surrounding the cottages are trees adorned with holiday lights and oversized ornaments, adding even more whimsy and enchantment. There's even a mini Polar Express train that gives free rides through the village. And it isn't just for kids; visitors of all ages are welcome.

What would a Christmas village be without Santa Claus? Saint Nick has his very own cottage, and kids can come inside and tell him what they want for Christmas while getting their pictures taken. Visits with Santa are free, and he's at the village every night through Christmas Eve.

Head to the Ogden's Christmas Village Facebook page for more information about the event, including this year's dates and opening hours. The village is free for all visitors.

Have you ever experienced Utah's top Christmas attraction? What holiday events in Utah are annual traditions in your family? If you're feeling inspired, try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.