What started in 1962 as one father’s attempt to build something better than Ogden’s disappointing holiday parade has become a 60-year tradition that now stretches across four city blocks. The Ogden Christmas Village is entirely free, community-built, and filled with 70 individually decorated cottages whose windows sit low enough for even the smallest kids to press their faces against the glass.
Ogden Christmas Village 2026
Dates and Location
Status: Confirmed
Ogden dates: 28th November 2026 to 1st January 2027
Last checked: July 2026
Source: Visit Ogden
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Location: Municipal Gardens.
Opening times: 10am to 9pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free.
Santa Run: Opening day at 4:30pm at Washington Boulevard.
Holiday Electric Light Parade: Opening day at 5:30pm. Starts at 22nd Street and ends at 27th Street on Washington Boulevard.
Lights switch-on: Opening day at 6:30pm. Lights and fireworks.
Santa: Monday to Friday.
Mrs Claus: Guided tours for preschool age children.
Ice skating: No.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: Free Santa visits, train rides, firework shows.
Specialities: Utah scones, fry sauce, apple beer, regional comfort foods.
Where to stay: Home2 Suites is located nearby.
Convenient Hotels
The area around downtown Ogden is an ideal place to stay for visitors, as it’s close to the festivities and teems with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Consider staying at Home2 Suites, which gets excellent reviews and is well-located.
Looking for more? Browse US Christmas markets and where to find them.
Village Location
What to Expect
Seventy individual cottages feature unique themes that transform the downtown area into a picturesque scene. Large windows on each cottage extend low enough so children can peer inside. Children can enjoy a free visit with Santa, train rides, and a fireworks show, courtesy of donations that sustain this community event.
Additionally, Mrs Claus offers guided tours aimed at preschool-age children, and seasonal events like the Santa Run and Holiday Electric Light Parade round out the experience.
Local Specialties
- Ogden’s Hot Chocolate: Rich, creamy hot chocolate, often topped with a marshmallow.
- Pretzels: Classic salted version or try ones dusted with cinnamon sugar.
- Artisanal Cheeses: Perfect holiday nibbles or gifts to take back home.
- S’mores: Melted marshmallow and chocolate sandwiched between two graham crackers.
- Roasted Chestnuts: A classic snack.
- Doughnuts: For a plant-based sweet treat, try the vegan doughnuts.
- Mulled Wine: Always worth trying.
Gifts and Stocking Fillers
- Ornaments: These locally made decorations range from rustic wooden pieces to intricate glass baubles.
- Honey: Range from jars of honey to beeswax candles and skincare products.
- Apparel: From t-shirts featuring local landmarks to winter hats and scarves.
- Ceramics: Mugs, ornate vases, and bowls are some examples.
Sustainability Tips
- Reduce Food Waste: Order only what you can comfortably consume.
- Consider Ethical Consumption: Consider how likely you are to use the item?
- Support Sustainable Food: Opt for plant-based or vegetarian options. These food choices generally have a lower environmental impact than meat-based ones.
- Use Sustainable Transport: Ogden has an efficient public transport system that can take you to all the city’s highlights. Consider using buses or trams instead of hiring a car or taking taxis.
Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.
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