Experience Christmas Village

8 Things You Can’t Miss at Ogden’s Christmas Village

There's something special about the way Ogden lights up for the holidays. The air feels a little crisper, Historic 25th Street is aglow with festive lights, and the spirit of the holidays flows throughout the community. Here are some of the best ways to make the most of Ogden's Christmas Village this season.

1. Attend the Electric Light Parade & Lighting Ceremony

The season officially begins the Saturday after Thanksgiving with the annual Electric Light Parade on Washington Boulevard. A festive collection of floats make their way through downtown Ogden, with the grand finale taking place at the Municipal Gardens when Santa and the Make-A-Wish child flip the switch to illuminate the Village — followed by fireworks. The event draws 15,000–40,000 visitors, so arrive early for good viewing spots.

Check out the full schedule, parade route, and viewing details here.

2. Join (or watch) the Santa Run

The Ogden Santa Run 5K is the first and largest of the Utah Santa Runs, which kicks off the celebration around 4 p.m. each year, followed by the light parade. Hundreds of participants dressed as Santas, Grinches, elves, and yetis make their way through the streets of downtown. Instead of water stations, runners refuel at the milk and cookie aid stations supported by elves that dress as volunteers. Music is played through the entire course of the race to keep spirits bright.

To register, click here.

3. Ride the Mini Polar Express

Climb aboard one of Ogden's most beloved traditions for more than 80 years. This miniature train gives free rides around the Christmas Village, giving riders a unique view of the twinkling lights and festive cottages. The train is especially magical for kids, adding extra magic to the experience, but the ride is open to visitors of all ages to enjoy. It's the perfect way to slow down and soak up the spirit of the season in Ogden.

4. Explore All 70 Themed Cottages

Each year, volunteers and local organizations bring Christmas Village to life with four blocks of uniquely decorated holiday cottages - 70 in total! Grab a hot chocolate and meander through the village, peeking inside yearly favorites like Nutcracker House (with close to 300 nutcrackers!) to newer editions that bring fresh spirit to the yearly tradition. And every cottage includes some form of movement or animation, further bringing to life the magic of each design!

5. Play the “I Spy” Ornament Game

To add a touch of adventure while visiting Christmas Village, join in on the "I Spy" Ornament Game. Each year, those decorating the cottages are given a special ornament to place inside of their design, complete with a new theme each season. For 2025, the ornaments will feature a “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Village” theme in the form of a gold or platinum record. Kids of all ages can join the fun and compete to spot the ornament in each cottage along the way!

6. Enjoy Food, Drinks & Local Dining

Grab hot chocolate or snacks from vendors, or head to nearby local favorites on 25th Street like Table Twenty Five, Roosters Brewing, or Slackwater. Adults can warm up with festive drinks at local bars, Angry Goat and City Club. Many of our local businesses decorate for the season and add to the magical ambiance of downtown. Whether you're grabbing a quick snack or making it a full evening out, the local dining options are an essential part of the Christmas Village experience.

7. Visit Santa in His Castle

No Christmas Village visit is complete without a stop at Santa's Castle! Santa is in his magical cottage every night through Christmas Eve, and visits are completely free. Kids can share their wish lists with Santa while parents snap the perfect holiday picture to remember the moment. No admission or reservations required, simply join the queue and enjoy the visit!

8. Join Holiday Fundraisers & Events

Support Christmas Village year-round through events like the Muppet Christmas Carol Pajama Party Sing-Along (Dec. 23, 2025, Ogden Egyptian Theater, $8 tickets) and Breakfast with Santa (Dec. 13, 2025, $20/person). Participating in these events is a joyful and meaningful way to give back to the community while enjoying fun holiday experiences. Each ticket purchased or event attended directly supports and goes back into maintaining the Christmas Village, continuing the magic for years to come.