Local Events
.
🌞 Discover What’s Happening in St. George!
Welcome to sunny St. George, Utah—where red rock landscapes meet unforgettable local culture! Whether you're here for adventure, art, or family fun, something exciting is happening!
🍁Fall in St. George
Fall is peak season in Southern Utah: cooler temperatures, red rock scenery, and a packed events calendar.
St. George Marathon (Oct. 3, 2026)
One of the area's biggest annual events, featuring the full marathon plus a 5K, half marathon, and a Fun Walk N' Roll with divisions for kids and adaptive athletes. Head to the Dixie Center afterward for games, bounce houses, and live music.
Dixie Days Dash 4K and 2K (Sept. 19, 2026)
A community fun run through St. George, great for families and casual runners.
Fall Tour of St. George (Oct. 24, 2026)
A cycling event through the red-rock landscapes near Sand Hollow and Snow Canyon State Parks, with distances from 35 to 100 miles and an e-bike category for a more relaxed ride.
Snow Canyon Half Marathon, 10K, 5K & Fun Run (Nov. 14, 2026)
A scenic race through one of Southern Utah's most striking landscapes, with distances for every fitness level.
Red Bull Rampage (typically mid-October)
World-class freeride mountain bikers compete on the rugged terrain near Virgin, Utah, just a short drive from St. George. A must-see for mountain biking fans.
Thunder Junction Spooktrackular (October, dates vary)
A Halloween-themed train ride experience for kids at Thunder Junction All Abilities Park, complete with costume contest and spooky decor.
❄️ Winter in St. George
Southern Utah's mild winters make it a popular escape, and the holiday season here has its own desert-meets-festive charm.
Kickoff to Christmas (Nov. 30, 2026, 6–8 PM)
St. George's official start to the holiday season, held every year the Monday after Thanksgiving. Expect a Santa visit, live entertainment from local choirs, and free hot chocolate and cookies.
St. George Christmas Tree Lighting (Nov. 30, 2026 – Jan. 1, 2027)
The city's Town Square lights up for the season with a ceremonial tree lighting and a full month of holiday displays.
Holiday Lights at Red Hills Desert Garden (late November through Dec. 31)
Thousands of lights transform this botanical garden into a free, walkable winter wonderland, one of the most photographed spots in town each December.
Light the Night at the St. George Art Museum (Dec. 5, 2026)
A cozy community evening with hot chocolate, live music, and a chance to make your own luminary while the museum's winter exhibitions open.
Christmas in the Canyon at Tuacahn (late November through late December)
Over 250,000 lights, a live nativity, train rides, and visits with Santa at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre just outside St. George. One of the region's signature holiday experiences.
St. George Temple Christmas Lighting (late November through New Year's Day)
The historic St. George Temple is lit for the season and open to the public to view, a quiet, beautiful evening stop for visitors.
Dickens Christmas Festival (early December, Dixie Convention Center)
A Victorian-style holiday market with period costumes, live music, and a gingerbread house competition, great for holiday shopping with a bit of theater.
🌄 Outdoor Events & Experiences (May–June 2026)
🛍️ Downtown Farmers Market
Dates: Saturdays – May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Vernon Worthen Park
One of the most popular outdoor events in St. George, featuring fresh produce, local vendors, food trucks, and live music in a shaded downtown park.
Our guests love this for:
A relaxed, easy morning activity
Fresh, local food and handmade goods
Live music in a casual outdoor setting
🎬 Movies in the Park (Summer Series)
Dates: Fridays – June 5, 12, 19, 26, 2026 (typical weekly schedule)
Time: Around dusk (approx. 8:30–9:00 PM)
Location: Town Square Park
A popular summer series hosted by the city with family-friendly movies shown outdoors.
Our guests especially enjoy this for:
Cooler evening temperatures
A simple, family-friendly activity
No reservations needed
🎶 Live Music at Town Square
Dates: Select Fridays & Saturdays – May & June 2026
Time: Evening (varies by event)
Location: Town Square Park
Live music performances are held regularly in the downtown area, especially on weekends.
Our guests tend to love this for:
A relaxed evening after hiking or pool time
Walkable downtown setting
A casual, local atmosphere
🚴♀️ Ironman 70.3 St. George (Major Event)
Date: May 2, 2026
Location:
Swim: Sand Hollow State Park
Bike/Run: St. George & surrounding areas
A major regional event that brings athletes and spectators from all over. Expect a lively atmosphere and increased activity around town.
A favorite among our guests for:
High-energy race day experience
Spectating or participating
Being part of a well-known St. George event
🌄 Zion National Park & Surrounding Area
🏞️ Zion Canyon Shuttle Season
Dates: Daily – March - November
Location: Zion National Park
Private vehicles are restricted in Zion Canyon during this time, and visitors use the shuttle system to access trailheads.
Our guests love this for:
Easy access to iconic hikes
Less traffic in the canyon
A more relaxed park experience
🥾 Ranger-Led Programs (Zion)
Dates: Daily programs (schedule varies by day)
Location: Zion Canyon Visitor Center & park amphitheater
Zion offers guided walks, educational talks, and evening programs throughout the season.
Our guests especially enjoy this for:
Learning more about the park’s history and geology
Adding structure to their visit
Experiencing Zion beyond hiking
🌌 Stargazing & Night Experiences (Zion Area)
Dates: Available nightly (weather permitting)
Locations: East Zion & surrounding dark-sky areas
Southern Utah is known for its dark skies, making stargazing one of the most memorable outdoor experiences.
A favorite among our guests for:
A unique and peaceful evening activity
Incredible night skies and photography
A quieter alternative to daytime hiking
Why Visit St. George in Winter
St. George's winter weather is typically dry and mild, with daytime temperatures well-suited for outdoor activities. Trails at Snow Canyon State Park and Red Cliffs Desert Reserve are generally open, golf courses are in excellent condition, and scenic drives showcase Southern Utah’s signature red-rock landscapes.
Winter also offers a calmer experience overall — easier dining reservations, less crowded trails, and a relaxed atmosphere that many guests return for year after year.
Outdoor Tips for Winter Visitors
Winter mornings can be cool, while afternoons often warm quickly, so dress in layers. Sun exposure remains strong year-round, so sunscreen and hats matter even in winter. Carrying water is essential for outdoor activities, as the dry desert climate can dehydrate you quickly. After rain or storms, shaded trail sections may remain slick, so wear sturdy footwear.
What to Do Beyond Events
Even without a scheduled event, winter days in St. George are ideal for exploring nearby parks, walking the Virgin River Trail, enjoying local dining, or taking a scenic drive through Snow Canyon. Many guests find that winter offers the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.
Plan Your Winter Stay
Whether you’re visiting for seasonal events or simply to enjoy mild winter weather and red-rock scenery, January and February are excellent times to experience St. George at its most relaxed.
January & February Traditions
January and February are some of the best months to visit St. George, Utah for travelers looking to escape winter weather. While much of the country is cold and snowy, Southern Utah offers mild temperatures, open trails, and peaceful red-rock scenery.
Winter visitors enjoy sunny days ideal for hiking, biking, golfing, and exploring nearby parks, along with fewer crowds and a slower pace throughout town. Seasonal events add interest without the congestion of spring, making winter a favorite time for repeat guests.
hilly Willy 5K, 10K & Half Marathon (Jan. 2, 2027) A scenic winter race along paved river trails, a popular way to kick off the new year for visiting runners enjoying mild January temperatures.
Winter 4×4 Jamboree (mid-January, annual) A multi-day off-road event drawing Jeep and 4×4 enthusiasts from around the country to explore Southern Utah's iconic trails.
Up & Away Hot Air Balloon & Music Festival (mid-January, annual — usually the MLK weekend) Colorful hot air balloons rise over the desert landscape in Washington, UT, paired with live music, vendors, and family-friendly activities.
Southern Utah Home Show (late January, annual) An easy indoor event featuring home décor, renovation ideas, and regional lifestyle vendors.
St. George Area Parade of Homes (mid-to-late February, annual) A highly anticipated regional event showcasing new homes and design trends throughout Southern Utah, drawing visitors from across the West.