Light Festivals Near 

Utah’s winter lights festivals bring magic to the mountains with dazzling displays and family-friendly charm. From Thanksgiving Point’s Luminaria in Lehi to the Midway Ice Castles and the Electric Parade in Ogden, these seasonal events light up the snowy landscape with millions of twinkling bulbs, animated displays, and festive music. Temple Square in Salt Lake City is also famous for its breathtaking Christmas light display, drawing visitors from around the world. Whether strolling through glowing gardens or sipping hot cocoa by a bonfire, Utah’s winter lights festivals are unforgettable.

Tubing & Sledding

Snow tubing is one of Utah’s most beloved winter activities, offering high-speed fun without the need for skis or snowboards. Popular tubing hills like Soldier Hollow, Woodward Park City, and Gorgoza Park (now part of Woodward) provide groomed lanes, lift service, and thrilling downhill runs for all ages. With no special skills required, tubing is the perfect activity for families, groups, or anyone looking to enjoy the snow in a more relaxed and playful way. Many of these parks also offer nighttime tubing under the lights, making it a magical experience in the crisp mountain air.

Ice Skating & Hockey

Ice skating and hockey thrive in Utah’s winter sports culture, offering activities for both recreation and competition. From seasonal outdoor rinks in charming mountain towns to Olympic-grade facilities like the Utah Olympic Oval in Kearns, skaters of all ages enjoy gliding across the ice. The Oval, built for the 2002 Winter Games, remains a world-class venue for speed skating and figure skating training. Meanwhile, hockey is alive and well at both youth and amateur levels across the state, with local teams and leagues fostering a strong community spirit. Whether you’re a casual skater or a die-hard hockey fan, Utah offers has your rink.

Competitive Sports

Utah is a global hub for winter sports competition, building on its Olympic legacy and exceptional mountain terrain. From the iconic slopes of Park City and Deer Valley to the world-renowned Utah Olympic Park, the state hosts elite events in skiing, snowboarding, bobsled, and freestyle disciplines. With dependable snowfall and high-altitude training conditions, athletes from around the world flock to Utah each winter to compete and prepare for international success. Whether it’s a World Cup event or a rising-star showcase, Utah continues to lead the way in competitive winter sports.