Looking for the best Christmas lights in Salt Lake City this year? We rounded up the light displays we actually go to every December, from the big ticketed walks to the free drive-bys. Each one includes 2026 dates, hours, prices and a tip or two so you don't wait in the wrong line. Where a venue hasn't announced 2026 details yet, we've noted last year's schedule and will update this guide as soon as they do.

When: Nov 12, 2026 – Jan 9, 2027. Most nights 4–9 or 4–9:30pm; Jan 4–9 runs 5–8:30pm. Closed Sundays, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Where: Ashton Gardens, 3900 N Garden Dr, Lehi.
Cost: Prices vary by date; timed tickets are released in 15-minute slots and must be bought in advance (all sales final).

This is the big one: a mile-long walk through the gardens lit by thousands of lanterns and lights. Tip: plan on about 90 minutes, plus another 30–45 if you want to linger at the Tree of Life. Firepit and igloo reservations are available but don't include admission.

When: Opens Nov 20, 2026. Entry 5:30–8:30pm; the aviary closes at 9pm.
Where: 589 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City.
Cost: $17.95 adults, $13.95 kids, under 2 free ($5 off for members). Tickets aren't timed.

Our pick for a weeknight date or an easy family outing in the city. Tip: enter at the north entrance by the Visitor's Center.

When: Dec 11–23, 2026, Monday–Saturday, 5–9pm.
Where: 2601 E Sunnyside Ave, Salt Lake City.
Cost: Tickets at tickets.thisistheplace.org.

An 1800s pioneer-village Christmas with carolers, a live nativity, Father Christmas and Brigham's Donuts. Tip: arrive early for parking, and note that some of the historic cabins have steps.

When: 2026 dates haven't been announced yet. Last season it ran select nights Nov 28 – Jan 4, 5:30–9pm.
Where: 2600 Sunnyside Ave, Salt Lake City.
Cost: Last season was $19.95 adults and $16.95 kids 3–12 (members $3 off). It's a separate ticket from daytime zoo admission.

More than 200 light displays winding through the zoo. Tip: it runs rain or snow with no refunds, so dress warm. Last year there was also a sensory-friendly "Silent Night."

When: Nov 28, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027. Lights on 5–10pm Sunday–Thursday and 5pm–midnight Friday–Saturday.
Where: Ogden Municipal Gardens, 2549 Washington Blvd, Ogden.
Cost: Free, no tickets.

A walk-through village of lit cottages that's worth the 40-minute drive. Opening night (Nov 28) has a Santa Run at 4:30pm, the Electric Light Parade at 5:30pm, and the lighting with fireworks around 6:30pm. Santa visits through Dec 23. Tip: leashed dogs are welcome, and there's a free lot on 26th Street between Washington and Grant.

When: Nov 21 – Dec 31, 2026. Monday–Saturday 10am–6pm; closed Sundays.
Where: 1100 W 7800 S, West Jordan.
Cost: Free admission and parking.

Twinkle lights, an elf scavenger hunt and plenty of little shops. Come right before close for the lights. Tip: Breakfast with Santa sells out, so reserve early.

When: The 2026 schedule hasn't been announced. Last year the lights ran Nov 28 – Jan 1, 6–8am and 4:30–10pm.
Where: Downtown Salt Lake City.
Cost: Free.

The classic downtown stroll. Pair it with hot chocolate and a walk through City Creek Center.

Where: Glen Arbor Street, around 1500 E and 1745 S.
Cost: Free.

A neighborhood cul-de-sac that's been decorating together for decades. Drive through slowly with your headlights low, or park nearby and walk, and be kind to the neighbors.

When: Last year Dec 1 – Jan 1, 5–10pm (and early mornings).
Where: 12500 S 1300 E, Draper.

A weeping willow wrapped in more than 1,000 strands of lights. It's a popular proposal spot, so don't be surprised if you see a ring come out.

When: 2026 dates TBA. Last year it ran Fridays Nov 28 – Dec 19, 5–7pm.
Where: 6351 S 900 E, Murray.
Cost: Last year wagon rides through the lights were $3.

Wagon rides, lights and Santa on the porch. It's a sweet, low-key pick for little kids.