Christmas in Provo hits different than in most cities. The combination of heavy snowfall against mountain backdrops, a community that genuinely celebrates the season, and a calendar packed with performances, lights, and events creates an atmosphere that feels like the holiday version of a small town — if that small town had 115,000 people and excellent restaurants.
Whether you're a local looking for new traditions or visiting family during the break, this guide covers everything worth doing during the holiday season in Provo and Utah Valley.
Performances & Shows
The Covey Center Holiday Season
Downtown Provo · Tickets Required
The Covey Center is the hub of Provo's holiday performing arts. Their December season typically includes multiple productions — original holiday musicals, classic Christmas shows, and family-friendly performances that run throughout the month. The Covey consistently delivers quality that rivals Salt Lake City venues at significantly lower ticket prices. Shows sell out, so buy tickets as soon as the season schedule is announced (usually October).
BYU Holiday Performances
BYU Campus · Varies
BYU's performing arts departments put on holiday concerts and performances throughout December before the campus closes for break. The BYU Singers and other choral groups are exceptional, and holiday concerts in campus venues are some of the most beautiful musical events in the valley. Many performances are free or low-cost for students and community members.
The Nutcracker
Multiple dance companies in Utah Valley present The Nutcracker during December. Check local listings for Ballet West's touring performances and community productions.
Lights & Displays
Luminaria at Thanksgiving Point
Lehi (20 min from Provo) · Tickets Required
A massive outdoor light display spanning the Ashton Gardens at Thanksgiving Point. Thousands of lights transform the gardens into a walk-through winter wonderland. It's the most impressive light display in Utah Valley — not cheap (check Thanksgiving Point's website for current pricing), but genuinely worth it, especially with kids. The gardens feel magical at night, and the scale is significant enough to justify the drive.
Provo City Christmas Lights
Various neighborhoods in Provo go all-in on residential Christmas light displays. The neighborhoods around Temple Drive, the Tree Streets area, and parts of North Provo are particularly festive. No admission, no tickets — just drive through and enjoy. The best displays appear the first weekend of December and stay up through New Year's.
Festival of Lights at South Temple
The nearby communities offer additional light festivals and displays throughout December that are worth the short drive.
Markets & Shopping
Holiday Markets
Several holiday craft markets and artisan fairs operate in Provo and Orem during November and December. These markets feature local makers selling handmade gifts, ornaments, baked goods, and specialty items. Check local event listings for specific dates and locations — the Provo Town Center and various community venues host rotating markets throughout the season.
Downtown Provo Shopping
Center Street and downtown Provo's small businesses do the holidays well. Local boutiques, bookshops, and gift stores stock holiday-specific items, and the walkability of downtown makes it a pleasant shopping experience. Many shops offer extended holiday hours in December.
Family Activities
Christmas at the Creamery
The BYU Creamery on Ninth stocks seasonal flavors and holiday treats during December. Hot chocolate and a peppermint ice cream cone on a cold night is a Provo tradition that costs almost nothing and delivers pure holiday energy.
Ice Skating
Several venues in Utah Valley offer seasonal ice skating, including outdoor rinks that operate through the winter. Check current listings for locations and hours — they change year to year.
Holiday Baking
Provo Bakery, Hruska's Kolaches, and several local bakeries produce holiday-specific items — stollen, gingerbread, decorated cookies, and seasonal pastries. These make excellent gifts and are worth seeking out.
Santa Visits
Various venues around Provo and Orem offer Santa photo ops and visits throughout December. The Provo Town Center Mall and local community events are reliable options.
Religious & Community Events
Provo's holiday season has a significant religious dimension. Several events reflect the community's LDS heritage:
Provo City Center Temple — The temple grounds are beautifully lit during the holiday season, and the surrounding downtown area takes on a festive atmosphere. Walking the temple grounds at night is a peaceful, free activity.
Christmas Devotionals — BYU and local LDS congregations host Christmas devotionals with music, speakers, and community gatherings throughout December.
Singing Christmas Tree — Community choral performances at various venues bring the holiday spirit to life with traditional carols and seasonal music.
Practical Tips for Holiday Season in Provo
Weather: December in Provo means cold. Temperatures typically range from 20–40°F, with regular snowfall. Dress warmly for outdoor events — layers, warm boots, hats, and gloves are essential. The upside is that snow makes everything prettier.
Shopping: If you need last-minute gifts, downtown Provo's small businesses and the University Place shopping area in Orem are your best bets. For unique, local gifts, the holiday craft markets and shops along Center Street have options you won't find at chain stores.
Dining: Restaurants get busy during the holiday season — make reservations for December dinners, especially at Communal, Black Sheep, and other popular spots. Many Provo restaurants close or reduce hours around Christmas Day. Our Best Restaurants in Provo guide covers the options.
Campus closure: BYU closes for winter break in mid-December. Campus-area restaurants and services may reduce hours or close entirely during the break period. Plan accordingly.
Related Guides
- Winter Activities in Provo
- Indoor Activities in Provo
- Best Restaurants in Provo
- Best Desserts & Bakeries
- Thanksgiving Point Guide
Last updated: April 2026. Event dates, venues, and pricing change annually. Check individual venue websites for the most current holiday schedules.