December in Salt Lake City is a season of lights, music, and festive traditions. Whether you’re catching a live show, visiting a winter market, or ringing in the new year downtown, there’s no better place to enjoy the holidays than right here in the heart of the city.
Here are some of the must-see December 2025 events happening around Salt Lake City — all within easy reach of The Citizen Apartments.
A Christmas Carol – Hale Center Theatre (Nov. 28–Dec. 27)
Now in its 41st year, Hale Center Theatre’s A Christmas Carol is a Utah holiday favorite. This lavish production of Charles Dickens’ classic tale features stunning costumes, heartfelt performances, and timeless lessons about kindness, love, and redemption.
Frightmare Before Christmas – A Tale Untold (Nov. 28–Dec. 20)
This imaginative parody by Eric Jensen blends horror, comedy, and holiday cheer for a one-of-a-kind theater experience. Follow Skully the skeleton and friends as they battle Dracula in Christmasland to save Santa himself!
Herriman Night of Lights (Dec. 1)
Kick off the holiday season with Herriman’s Night of Lights celebration at City Hall and Crane Plaza. The evening includes Santa and Mrs. Claus, live music, crafts, games, ice skating, and plenty of festive cheer for the whole family.
Ice Skating at Gallivan Center (Nov. 12–Mar. 1)
Bundle up and head downtown for one of Salt Lake City’s favorite winter traditions — skating at Gallivan Center. The open-air rink, colorful lights, and warm concessions create a magical urban winter wonderland.
Aquarium Lantern Festival (Nov. 7–Jan. 10)
The Aquarium Lantern Festival transforms the Rio Tinto Kennecott Plaza into a glowing wonderland of giant animal and nature-shaped lanterns. Enjoy new and returning favorites, hot chocolate, and entry to the aquarium every night with your ticket.
Winter Wonders Art Exhibit (Nov. 18–Jan. 2)
Presented by the Cottonwood Heights Arts Council, the Winter Wonders exhibit features local artists capturing the magic of the season through painting, photography, and textiles. From peaceful snowscapes to vibrant holiday scenes, this show celebrates creativity and community.
Christmas in Color (Nov. 14–Dec. 28)
Drive through a dazzling display of millions of synchronized holiday lights set to festive music at South Jordan’s Bastian Agricultural Center. With glowing tunnels, candy canes, and snowmen, it’s a spectacular family-friendly experience from the warmth of your car.
World of Illumination: Enchanted Safari (Nov. 15–Jan. 4)
Embark on a glowing jungle adventure with World of Illumination’s Enchanted Safari. This immersive light show features exotic animals, whimsical scenes, and plenty of surprises — ending at Santa’s Bazaar for holiday fun.
En Pointe Ballet Presents The Nutcracker (Dec. 2–5)
Experience the timeless magic of The Nutcracker with En Pointe Ballet’s stunning choreography, elegant costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. It’s the perfect way to start a new holiday tradition with family or friends.
Christkindlmarkt at This Is The Place (Dec. 3–6)
Inspired by Germany’s world-famous Christmas markets, Christkindlmarkt SLC offers an authentic European-style holiday experience. Enjoy wooden vendor stalls, festive entertainment, traditional food, and the beloved St. Martin’s Lantern Parade.
Sandy City’s Light Up the Cairns (Dec. 4)
Celebrate the lighting of Sandy City’s holiday display with Santa, Mayor Zoltanski, and live performances by local choirs. Stroll among local vendors, grab a treat, and take in the sparkling lights marking the start of the season.
Schmidt’s Christmas Market (Dec. 4–6)
Schmidt’s Farm & Greenhouse transforms into a cozy winter market filled with local vendors and artisan goods. Browse handmade jewelry, crafts, and fresh-baked treats while supporting local creators.
Sing We Noel (Dec. 4)
Join Utah Voices at Libby Gardner Hall for Sing We Noel, a breathtaking concert celebrating the birth of Christ through traditional carols and modern works. The program features John Rutter’s Magnificat and guest soprano Lexie Davis.
Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil (Dec. 4–14)
Cirque du Soleil reimagines the beloved Christmas poem with stunning acrobatics, dazzling visuals, and a heartwarming message of friendship and giving. It’s a must-see holiday spectacle for audiences of all ages.
Ballet West’s The Nutcracker (Dec. 5–27)
Designated as a Living Historic Landmark, Ballet West’s The Nutcracker remains Utah’s most iconic holiday performance. With breathtaking sets and live orchestral music, this production captures the wonder of the season like no other.
Christmas Around the World (Dec. 5)
Celebrate global traditions with Christmas Around the World, a multicultural showcase of carols, dances, and customs from diverse cultures. It’s a joyful reminder that holiday spirit is truly universal.
Holo Holo Music Festival (Dec. 5–6)
The Holo Holo Music Festival brings two days of incredible island-inspired performances to the Maverik Center. Enjoy reggae, pop, and R&B artists while celebrating unity, rhythm, and good vibes.
South Jordan’s Light the Night (Dec. 5)
This annual celebration features glowing lights, warm cookies, and hot chocolate in South Jordan’s Towne Center. Bring family and friends to enjoy one of the city’s brightest winter traditions.
First Friday Concerts (Dec. 5)
Experience live music, art, and community at West Jordan’s monthly First Friday Concerts series. It’s the perfect way to start the weekend with great music and local flavor.
Sugar House Art Walk (Dec. 12)
Take a leisurely stroll through Sugar House’s vibrant art scene. Local galleries and shops open their doors for an evening of creativity, perfect for holiday gift inspiration.
Holiday Open House & Art Fair (Dec. 6–7)
The Holiday Art Fair at Red Butte Garden features handmade jewelry, ceramics, and glass art by local makers. Shop unique gifts while supporting Utah artists in a beautiful garden setting.
Utah Santa Run – Gardner Village (Dec. 6)
Join hundreds of Santas running through Gardner Village for a festive 5K, 10K, or half marathon. Milk-and-cookie aid stations and elf volunteers make this race pure holiday fun!
Candlelight Christmas at This Is The Place (Dec. 9–23)
Step back in time at Candlelight Christmas, where pioneer cabins glow with candlelight and carolers fill the air with song. Meet Father Christmas, visit the live Nativity, and make lasting family memories.
