This mountain town isn't only about breathtaking scenery and crisp mountain air; it's also rich with a deep sense of community, tradition, and a whole lot of fun! Let's delve into some of the beloved events and cultural gems that make Heber Valley a unique and vibrant hub. The following informative content is broken out by month to make it easier to search and plan.
January
Start your year off right by snagging your annual Utah State Park Pass. Trust me; it's your “golden ticket” to a year filled with outdoor adventures as it grants you access to all 46 State Parks. This pass opens doors to some of the most astounding trails and open lands in the area, including Jordanelle, Wasatch Mountain, and Deer Creek State Parks.
March
Okay, folks, listen up – if you're a snow lover, now's the time to lock in those ski passes for next season and get the best deals available. Whether you're into downhill thrills or cross-country tranquility, Heber Valley's got you covered. Don't miss out on Soldier Hollow Nordic Center, boasting world-class trails amidst Olympic-level scenery. And yes, the price is almost too good to be true! Or, purchase your season pass for either Deer Valley Resort or Sundance Mountain Resort – both world-class destinations for The Greatest Snow on Earth.
May
Fast forward to May, and it's all about the amazing talents of our canine friends at the Soldier Hollow Classic Sheepdog Championship & Festival. Picture this: rolling hills, skilled dogs, and a festival atmosphere buzzing with excitement. Don't forget to bring your own chair, shade cover, water, and sunblock – trust us on this one. For those new to this event, or just wanting to know more, check out this "Q&A" 10 questions post.
This is the best time of year to plant your garden and spruce up your flower beds. The growing season is a bit short compared to some of the more southern destinations, so it is wise to follow planting guidelines based on our zone.
*Tip: When planting your garden or flower beds, it is suggested that you watch for the "horse's head" to appear on the foothills of Mount Timpanogos. This is often suggested as it is likely no other hard freezes will occur and kill your new plants. Another good rule of thumb, is to wait until Memorial Day weekend or after before you plant.
June
As summer rolls in, it's time to rev those engines for the July Demolition Derby and the August Wasatch Mountain Stampede Rodeo. Buckle up, folks; it's gonna be a wild ride! Tickets go on sale June 10th and sell out quickly, so don’t delay snagging your seats for both events.
With the onset of summer, Heber Valley welcomes lots of outdoor adventurers to the lakes and trails that surround our valley. Help us continue to preserve these natural places by staying safe and taking care of our valley when venturing out into nature.
*Tip: if you're craving some quiet time amidst the lake's shimmering waters, head over to Strawberry Reservoir. It's the perfect recipe for relaxation, minus the crowds.
Thursdays in Heber Valley mean one thing during the summer months of June, July, and August: the Heber Market on Main! Get ready to feast your senses on local delights, live music, and a whole lot of community spirit.
*Tip: Bring a blanket and chair, kick back, and soak in the laid-back vibes for the evening.
July
A small-town Independence Day celebration in Heber Valley? Count me in! From cannon blasts and 10K race to pancake breakfasts, vendor booths, live music, and fireworks conclusion, this annual event promises fun for the whole family. Plan to enjoy the full day of July 4th festivities!
And we all know about “Christmas in July,” right? Well, tickets for the acclaimed North Pole Express Trains at Heber Valley Railroad sell out faster than you can say "Jingle Bells." So, mark your calendars and get ready for a magical ride filled with caroling, cocoa, and a visit from the big man himself. Get your tickets as soon as they go on sell to ensure you get the date you want.
The weekly Thursday night Heber Market on Main continues through the month of July with weekly live music, vendor booths, and food trucks at the Heber City Main Street Park.
August
This is when things really heat up in Heber Valley! The community celebrates the final days of summer with the annual Wasatch County Fair Days - a full week of carnival rides, talent contests, concerts, outdoor movie nights, BBQ dinners, and a country market.
The week-long county fair ends with the three-night, action-packed Mountain Valley Wasatch Stampede Rodeo. The Wild West is very much alive in Heber Valley and the cowboy heritage dates back to when Heber Valley was originally settled in the 1800s. (Learn more about that history here.)
The final weeks of the Thursday night Heber Market on Main happen in August. Catch this local weekly market for some great food, local music, and wonderful community connectivity.
In late August through early September, the local Huber Grove apple orchard at Wasatch Mountain State Park beckons visitors to come pick apples from the historic orchard. The trees were planted in the 1890s and stand firmly rooted, representing a long legacy of farming and the hardiness of the generations that settled the area. Visitors must register in advance to participate in this fun activity.
September
Labor Day weekend means one thing in Midway – Swiss Days Festival! Join thousands of visitors for a weekend of craft fair, festivities, food, and all things Swiss. For those of you new to this annual festival, check out this “how to” guide with great tips and learn more about the festival’s history.
*Tip: Wear comfy shoes and plan for a full day because you'll want to explore every nook and cranny of this charming town.
October
<Who says Halloween is just for kids? Join in the spooky fun at the Heber Halloween Fest community trick-or-treat night or any of the other spooktacular events happening this month. Be sure to bundle up and bring your sweet tooth – you're gonna need it!
November
From local turkey trots to finding that perfect Christmas tree to tree lighting events, Heber Valley knows how to celebrate the holidays in style. Don't miss the annual tree lighting celebrations in Midway and Heber City – they're straight out of a Hallmark movie!
*Tip: arrive early for closer parking. Dress warm and be prepared for all weather conditions at these outdoor events. We suggest you pack hand and foot warmers. This event receives a lot of area resident attendees, so expect a crowd and bring your cheerful spirit.
December
Get ready to jingle all the way with the fun festivities happening throughout Heber Valley! Experience the magic of the Heber City Old Fashioned Christmas with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and a stunning tree lighting. And don't miss the North Pole Express Trains at Heber Valley Railroad for a festive ride with caroling, hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa himself. Tickets sell faster than you can say "ho, ho, ho," so snag yours early! Tickets typically go on sale in July.
Quirky Community Things
Sinclair Dino: Get to know everyone's favorite green dino, Octane! Swing by Mountainland One Stop and say hello. He's a local legend. He even has his own Instagram account!
So, there you have it, folks – a year-round guide to experiencing the best and most unique of Heber Valley. Whether you're a local or just passing through, there's always something exciting happening in this mountain paradise. So, whatever you’re planning for, adventure awaits!
If you're a new resident in our community, please check out the NEW RESIDENT INFORMATION site.