The holidays are around the corner. As you prepare to deck the halls, make your Christmas lists, and stock up on treats, we thought it would be a great idea to share some of our favorite winter and holiday traditions here in Park City.

The holidays are a busy time of year, with a lot to prepare and get done, we can sometimes forget the true spirit of the season; namely slowing down and enjoying quality time with family and loved ones.

From our family to yours, here are some local Park City winter traditions we can’t wait for.

Where to Get a Christmas Tree in Park City?

Is there anything more festive than a beautiful Christmas tree warming up a room? From the twinkling lights to the fresh scent, the holidays have truly arrived when the Christmas trees go up.

Each year, Jacquelyn and her family make a special note on the calendar on the day when Christmas Tree permits become available in Park City. They usually sell out well in advance, so it’s important to buy early. Then, after Thanksgiving, she heads out with the family to chop down their very own tree.

Tree-cutting is available for permit holders in the Uinta-Wasatch Cache National Forest. Specific areas and guidelines apply. Cutting your own tree is a beloved tradition for many locals, but if you miss the opportunity to get a permit, there are other options available!

Cameron and his family usually head out to Park City Gardens to choose a tree. With a wonderful selection of fir trees, blue spruce, and more, you will certainly find the perfect centerpiece for the holidays.

The nursery is also transformed into a winter wonderland creating an unforgettable family experience for everyone. Enjoy walking around the festively decorated nursery with little streams and bridges, while enjoying hot cocoa and candy canes. Need we say more?

Did you know that Park City Main Street has been nominated for having the most enchanting Main Street during Christmas time, in the whole country? Read all about it here.

Park City as a town is committed to the preservation of green space and nature. It’s one of many reasons why we love living here. Read more about enjoying the outdoors in Park City right here:

• What to Know About Park City’s Open Spaces
• Why Park City is the Best Home Base for Recreating in Utah
• What are the Best Hiking Trails in Park City?

Sleigh Rides for the Whole Family

We love getting bundled up for a horse-drawn sleigh ride during the holidays. Cameron and Jacquelyn love the Holiday Lights Wagon Ride at Jordanelle State Park. This evening ride takes you through the park on a wagon pulled by a team of horses past beautiful light displays. You might even see Santa and Mrs. Claus!

If you’re looking for another way to enjoy the winter scenery, the Park City Sleigh Rides are also a great option! Departing from the Stein Eriksen Lodge and Silver Lake Lodge, these 30-minute rides are perfect for smaller groups. And afterward, you can grab a fireside cocktail or enjoy raclette served from a stone fireplace at Empire Pass Lodge.

Learn more about the lodging in Deer Valley with our guide right here.

The Polar Express Train Ride

The Heber Valley Scenic Line Railroad is a fun experience any time of year, but during the holidays, the vintage coaches are transformed into the Polar Express! Our very own Marketing Coordinator, Cassandra Crittenden loves making this an annual holiday tradition. Fully decorated with lights, garland, and poinsettias, the Polar Express is a special experience for families. The train departs on time on evenings and select afternoons, and you might even see some elves or even Santa Claus make an appearance.

Gingerbread Displays

Suzanne highly recommends visiting both the Stein Eriksen Lodge and the St. Regis for their spectacular gingerbread house displays. Combining pastry and engineering, these displays usually follow an annual theme and the elaborate constructions are a mainstay in Deer Valley holiday celebrations. Hundreds of eggs, gallons of molasses, and an abundance of sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create a captivating (and delicious smelling!) display.

Ice Skating

If you need a break from skiing this winter, we can recommend lacing up your skates and heading out to one of the numerous ice skating rinks in Park City. Whether you have aspiring figure skaters perfecting their double toe-loop or you are just a casual skater, the rinks around Park City are magical in the winter. Cameron recommends the Resort Center Ice Skating Rink at Park City Mountain Resort, but you can find both indoor and outdoor ice rinks across the area.

Looking for more ways to enjoy the outdoors in Park City this winter? Here are a few more posts you might interesting!

• What to Know About Skiing with Kids in Park City?
• What are the Best Après Ski Spots in Park City?
• How to Spend the Perfect Day in Park City

Plays and Musicals

As we know, Park City is equal parts athletic and artistic, and we can’t forget to mention the incredible Christmas concerts and events at the Egyptian Theatre! Steve loves attending the season’s musicals and plays. There’s usually a diverse lineup of performances including concerts, singalongs, and more! And don’t forget about the annual Sundance Festival after the holidays in January!

Park City is known for its commitment to the arts. Read all about why artists love Park City right here.

Things to Do on Christmas Eve and Day

From the 24th to the 25th of December, the Holiday spirit really ramps up in Park City. Whether you’re new to spending the holidays here or its been your family tradition for years, chances are, these two days are jam packed with activities.

In addition to the requisite family dinner (pass the turkey!), we love skiing on Christmas Day, having a fun day out at Soldier Hollow, or even just spending time strolling down Main Street.

One classic Park City event on Christmas Eve is the Torchlight Parade. Enjoy cookies, hot cocoa, and live carolers as skiers descend Payday fully equipped with colorful lights. It’s a really magical sight to see!

A Winter to Remember in Park City

Park City shines in the wintertime. With so many fun activities, it is certainly the “busiest” time of year. But more than that, winter and holiday gatherings are a chance to get together with friends and family to spend some quality time together. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or getting bundled up for a sleigh ride, winter traditions in Park City are so important keep going!

We hope you’re gearing up for a fun (and relaxing) holiday season ahead.

If you have real estate on your mind this holiday season, we’d be happy to help! Give us a call at 435-647-8035 or email info@cmfhparkcity.com to get in touch with our team today!