Celebrate the Holidays in Style From Sleigh Rides to Torchlight Parades in Park City & Midway
The holiday season in Park City Utah and nearby Midway transforms the Wasatch Back into a snow-globe paradise. From glowing torchlight parades and horse-drawn sleigh rides to Santa trains, Main Street light displays, and world-class ski-resort celebrations, the region offers one of the most magical mountain Christmas experiences in the country.
Whether you’re a family looking for festive traditions, a couple planning a romantic getaway, or visitors searching for unforgettable things to do in Park City during the holidays – the Frost Lindner ParkCity360 guide covers every major Christmas event plus insider tips, parking notes, and planning recommendations.
Major Holiday Events in Park City & Midway (2025–2026)
North Pole Express – Heber Valley Railroad
Location: Heber / Midway Area
Dates: November 20 – December 31, 2025
This iconic Christmas tradition brings the magic of the North Pole to life. Guests board a festively decorated train for songs, stories, cookies, hot cocoa, and an onboard visit from Santa himself – complete with a keepsake mug.
Best for: Families with kids, multigenerational groups
Cost: Varies by seat type (typically ~$45–$85)
Parking: Free on-site
Tips:
- Book early – many December dates sell out before Thanksgiving.
- Aim for an early evening ride for the best holiday ambiance.
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early for boarding.
Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade – Park City Mountain Resort
Date: December 24, 2025
Time: Festivities ~4:30 PM | Torchlight Parade ~6:00 PM
Location: Canyons Village Base Area
Watch ski and snowboard instructors snake down the mountain carrying glowing torches – a beloved Park City Mountain Resort holiday tradition. Expect festive music, Santa sightings, cocoa, cookies, and a lively base area crowd.
Cost: Free
Parking: Limited; take shuttle or rideshare
Tips:
- Arrive early to secure a viewing spot.
- Dress warmly! Temps drop quickly after sunset.
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp for navigating snowy walkways.
Deer Valley Torchlight Parade – Deer Valley Resort
Date: December 30, 2025
Time: 5:30–7:30 PM | Parade begins around 6:00 PM
Location: Snow Park Lodge, Big Stick Run
This spectacular event features skiers carving down the mountain with glowing flares, lighting the slope with a golden river of fire. Complimentary hot cocoa, cider, and cookies add to the charm.
Cost: Free
Parking: Snow Park Lodge parking fills early — use shuttle service
Tips:
- Dress in layers; mountain winds can be strong.
- For a warm view, book dinner nearby in advance.
Santa Comes Down Town Lift – Historic Main Street
Date: December 20, 2025
A Park City hallmark! Watch Santa ride down the Town Lift into a glowing Main Street plaza. Perfect for young families and photos.
Cost: Free
Parking: Very limited; use Park City’s free bus system
Tips:
- Stay for dinner at a Main Street restaurant.
- Combine with the Snow Globe Stroll for a magical evening.
Main Street Snow Globe Stroll & Holiday Lights – Historic Park City
Season: Late November – Early January
Walk historic Main Street among giant, themed snow globes, festive window displays, and fully illuminated buildings. It’s one of the best things to do in Park City Utah for all ages.
Cost: Free
Tips:
- Go after dark for the full effect.
- Wear winter boots — sidewalks may be icy.
Snowed Inn Sleigh Ride & Dinner – Park City Mountain Resort
A classic Western sleigh ride pulled by horses through snowy meadows, ending at a cozy lodge for a warm, family-style dinner.
Cost:
- Sleigh-only rides start ~$25
- Dinner sleigh packages ~$115 per person
Tips:
- Make reservations early – holiday weeks sell out.
- Bring blankets and dress in heavy winter layers.
More Holiday Events & Experiences in Park City & Midway
Holiday Performances at the Egyptian Theatre – Park City
Enjoy festive shows including musicals, concerts, and holiday sing-alongs inside Park City’s historic theatre.
Tips:
- Tickets often sell out weeks in advance.
- Parking may require a short walk; dress warm.
Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Lights – Historic Main Street
Main Street glows with thousands of lights beginning in late November. Expect art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and festive cheer throughout Old Town.
Perfect for: Date nights, family strolls, holiday photography
SnowFest – Park City Mountain Resort (Canyons Village)
Dates: Mid-December through New Year’s
An annual winter festival including:
- Live music
- Après-ski events
- Kid-friendly holiday entertainment
- Fire pits & winter treats
Tips:
- Stick around after skiing for the evening events.
- Check the resort schedule for daily activities.
Holiday Markets & Winter Bazaars
Throughout December, enjoy festive shopping experiences including:
- Park Silly Winter Bazaar
- Artisan pop-ups
- Local craft and gourmet gift fairs
Great for last-minute gifts and local artisan finds.
Ice Skating, Tubing & Outdoor Winter Fun
Winter activities are plentiful around Park City and Midway Utah, including:
- Ice skating at Park City Mountain
- Snow tubing at Woodward Park City
- Soldier Hollow tubing hill
- Midway Ice Rink
- Sleigh rides at Park City Sleigh Rides
Tips:
- Always check weather/snow conditions.
- Daytime is warmer and safer for families with kids.
Additional Holiday Light Shows & Regional Experiences
These require a short drive but are beloved traditions:
Luminaria – Thanksgiving Point (Lehi)
A glowing 1-mile walk through massive light sculptures and themed holiday worlds.
ZooLights – Hogle Zoo (Salt Lake City)
Hundreds of animal-shaped lanterns, music, lights, treats, hot cocoa.
Lantern Light Festival – Loveland Living Planet Aquarium
LED lantern tunnels, giant animals, glowing winter scenes.
Christmas on Temple Square – Salt Lake City
Spectacular light displays, live music performances, nativity scenes.
Sample Multi-Day Holiday Itinerary
December 20–23
- Morning: Ski or snow play
- Evening: Santa Down Town Lift + Main Street lights
December 24 – Christmas Eve
- Skiing or tubing during the day
- Park City Torchlight Parade at 6 PM
December 25–26
- Relax, holiday dinner, theatre show
December 30
- Deer Valley Torchlight Parade
New Year’s Eve
- Resort fireworks (if scheduled)
- Stroll Main Street, dinner, nightlife
Tips for a Smooth Holiday Experience
- Book everything early: December sells out quickly.
- Use Park City’s free bus system: Parking is scarce.
- Dress for winter: Waterproof boots, layers, hats, gloves.
- Check event calendars: Weather may shift schedules.
- Plan dining ahead: Holiday dinners fill up fast.
Why Park City & Midway Are the Ultimate Holiday Destinations
From the nostalgic sound of sleigh bells to the glow of torchlight parades and the charm of Main Street lights, the Park City Utah region delivers a holiday experience like no other. The perfect mix of mountain luxury, small-town cheer, and unforgettable winter adventures makes Park City and Midway the ideal destination for Christmas magic in 2025–2026.
Happy Holidays from the Frost Lindner Team! Please contact us if you would like to know more about the Park City and Midway lifestyle!
