As the air turns chilly and the holiday spirit permeates every corner, there's a special kind of magic unfolding in Heber Valley, Utah. The quaint town is adorned with the crispness of winter, inviting residents and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the enchanting ambiance of the season. It's that time of the year when every street seems to whisper tales of wonder, and the air is filled with the promise of extraordinary surprises. 'Tis the season! And, in Heber Valley, we're gearing up for a festive celebration that promises to be nothing short of magical. Get ready to embrace the holiday cheer as we unveil the delights and merriment awaiting you in our charming corner of Utah.
Thanksgiving Feasts – Nov. 28th
Lodgepole Grill at Daniels Summit Lodge: Escape into the beauty of the mountains! Nestled between Heber and Strawberry Reservoir, this lodge offers a Thanksgiving feast in a cozy cabin setting, perfect for a scenic retreat. Call 435-548-2300 to book your table.
Overlook Restaurant at Black Rock Mountain Resort: Ready for a luxe Thanksgiving? Overlook Restaurant offers a buffet with all the trimmings—an excellent reason to visit this incredible opulent resort. Reserve online or call 435-575-1650.
Simon's Restaurant at Homestead Resort: Treat yourself to a Thanksgiving experience at the historic Homestead Resort! This inviting spot has the holiday charm you are looking for. Book your dinner by calling 435-654-1102 or online.
Z’s Chop Haus at Zermatt Resort: Z’s Chop Haus pulls out all the stops with live carving stations, hearty dishes, and tempting desserts. Bring your appetite! Make a reservation online or call 435-709-9572.
Turkey Day 5k – Nov. 28th
Start your Thanksgiving with some fresh air and friendly competition! The Lynden Legacy Turkey Trot in Midway is a fun run that welcomes all—whether you’re a speedster or stroller-pushing walker. It’s for a great cause and an extra slice of pumpkin pie. Sign up online to get moving with your community.
Christmas Light Shows – Nov. thru Dec.
Take a scenic ride through Jordanelle State Park, where dazzling lights await! Rocky Mountain Outfitters offers festive wagon rides with hot cocoa and s’mores as you’re pulled by draft horses. Santa even makes an appearance on Fridays and Saturdays! Tickets are available online—don’t miss this cozy experience. The ride is approximately 20 minutes long, and this activity is suitable for all ages. Dress for appropriate outdoor weather and conditions. Location: 515 UT-319, Heber City, UT 84032
Special Moments With Santa – Nov. & Dec.
North Pole Express at Heber Valley Railroad - Nov. 22nd thru Dec. 30th
This festive train ride experience features singing, dancing, hot cocoa, and locally made cookies, plus a visit from the elves, Santa's helpers, and the holly, jolly man himself! With a variety of train car pricing and experience options, every child feels the magic on this 90-minute roundtrip ride. All guests ride out to the Disney-inspired Christmas village as they are entertained to and from. These trains sell out every year, so get your tickets early. Location: 450 South 600 West, Heber City, UT 84032
Meet Santa @ Granny's Drive In - Friday, Nov. 29th
Bring your little one to this local's favorite Granny's Drive In restaurant from 2:00 to 5:00 pm for an opportunity to see Santa. Sip a complimentary hot chocolate and get a free mini shake with a new, unwrapped toy donation for Toys for Tots. Give a little and get a lot with this merry moment! Location: 511 South Main Street, Heber City, UT 84032
FREE Photos with Santa @ Kringle's – Saturdays, Dec. 7th thru Dec. 21st
That’s right, free pics with the jolly guy! Kringle’s in Midway welcomes Santa to its location. Bring your kids, family, or hop on the sleigh yourself for this perfect photo opp. And be sure to spread the Christmas cheer. No reservation needed. Show up on these select Saturdays from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm for a chance to meet Santa and get your picture with him. Location: Kringle’s, 6 South 200 West, Midway, UT 84049
Breakfast with Santa at Z’s Chop Haus – Saturdays & Sundays, Dec. 7th thru Dec. 22nd
Located inside Zermatt Resort, this popular dining experience is perfect for the little ones in your family. Adults will be delighted with the culinary flavors served at this upscale restaurant. And kiddos will make lifelong memories of visiting with Santa during this special dining event. Happening Saturday and Sunday mornings from December 7th through December 22nd. Be sure to book in advance or call 435-709-9573 as this always fills up early!
Breakfast with Santa at Simon’s Restaurant – Saturdays, Dec. 7th and 14th
Located inside Homestead Resort, this luxury property serves an excellent breakfast and provides a cozy setting for families to enjoy time together. The décor alone is sure to get you in the festive mood. Breakfast with Santa is happening on select Saturday mornings in December. Reserve in advance online or call 435-654-1102, as these events tend to book up quickly.
Tree Lighting Celebrations
Midway Tree Lighting – Saturday, Nov. 30th
You are sure to feel merry and bright at the annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Midway Town Square on Saturday, November 30th. Festivities kick off at 6 pm and include holiday entertainment, hot cocoa, locally made cookies, live reindeer, Santa and Mrs. Claus with photo opps, old-fashioned candy and peanut bags, and fireworks to finish it off. Plus, come early and take some skating laps at the Midway Ice Rink. Location: Midway Town Square, Main St, Midway, UT 84049
Tree Lighting at Homestead Resort – Saturday, Nov. 30th
The annual tree lighting event at Homestead Resort will be from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Saturday, November 30. The lighting event includes a special appearance by Santa! Bring your whole family and enjoy the lights, bonfires, and complimentary hot cocoa at The Milk House located next to the plaza and tree. Location: Homestead Resort, 700 N Homestead Dr, Midway, UT 84049
Heber City Old Fashioned Christmas – Friday, Dec. 6th
Celebrate the season at this annual Heber City Old Fashioned Christmas event on Friday, December 1st. Free family-friendly activities include holiday music, hot cocoa, cookie decorating, caroling, food trucks, Santa Claus and his reindeer, and the lighting of the tree. The fun starts at 6:00 pm. Caroling around the tree and the lighting of the tree will take place at 8:15 pm. Location: Heber City Tabernacle Square, 75 N Main St, Heber City, UT 84032
Festive Celebrations
Cottages for the Children – Dec. 6th & 7th
This amazing gingerbread house display, decorated Christmas trees, and silent auction event is all done for a good cause. The proceeds benefit the Wasatch County Children’s Justice Center and Timpanogos Valley Theatre. Location: Timpanogos Valley Theatre, 90 North 100 West, Heber City, UT 84032
Midway Festival of Crèches – Dec. 6 - 9 and 13 - 15
Walk through Midway Town Hall and admire the elaborate nativity displays. The 1,000+ crèches are on loan courtesy of neighbors and friends from the local community. These displays are truly astounding. Admission is free for all. Location: Midway Town Hall, 75 North 100 West, Midway, UT 84049
The Annual Messiah Sing-In – Dec. 7th & 8th
Warm up those vocals and plan to sing-in with the talented Heber Valley Orchestra and Festival Chorus. These free performances begin at 7:00 PM and include selections of G.F. Handels’ "The Messiah" featuring local soloists, singers, and musicians. Location: LDS Church, 325 East 500 North, Heber City, UT 84032
Live Nativity Event - Dec. 11th
Join the community in one of two evening presentations at 6:00pm or 7:30pm of the annual live nativity event. The evening performances include three elaborate displays with scripts and music. The surrounding live animals bring the story to life as characters depict the birth of Jesus. Please consider bringing a non-perishable food item to donate for the local food drive at the entrance. Generously presented by MIRO Industries, this annual display focuses on the meaning of the season and brings warmth to the hearts of all who witness it. Location: Wasatch County Events Center, 415 Southfield Rd, Heber City, UT 84032
A Celtic Christmas - Dec. 12th
Enjoy watching the Wasatch Back Irish Dance performers as they delight and entertain in this annual holiday spectacular. Location: Wasatch High School, West Campus Theater, 200 E 800 S, Heber City, UT 84032
Theatrical & Art Events
It's a Wonderful Life - a live radio play – Dec. 11th thru 21st
Join us for this timeless tale of George Bailey, a man who thought he wanted nothing more to escape the bonds of Bedford Falls until Clarence the Angel showed him what Bedford Falls would be without him.
With performances on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays in December, you’ll laugh, think, feel, and even be surprised (perhaps at our ingenious live, practical sound effects). Get tickets online or call 435-654-2125.
A Christmas Story – Dec. 14th thru 23rd
Step into the 1940s and join 9-year-old Ralphie on his hilarious quest for the ultimate Christmas gift: an Official Red Ryder BB gun. This musical adaptation of A Christmas Story brings all the memorable moments from the beloved film to life, including Flick's flagpole fiasco, the leg lamp, and the pink bunny suit. With a lively score featuring songs like 'Ralphie to the Rescue!' and 'You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out!', this holiday favorite is perfect for the whole family. Get tickets online.
Fun Paint Night @ Inspiration Haven - Dec. 7th and 21st
Enjoy painting at one of the instructor-led holiday classes inside a great local art studio in the heart of Heber City. In addition to the two Christmas painting options, there will be family-friendly activities, games, movies, music, and more! The art studio will open one hour before each paint time and stay open one hour later so everyone can participate in all of the activities. Sign up online now so you have a seat!
Happy Holidays!
Whether you’re here for a day or staying for the season, Heber Valley has a holiday celebration for you! Join us as we make this festive season one to remember. Be sure to check often for more updates to the community event calendar!