Name: Candlelight Christmas at This Is The Place 2026
Start: 2026-12-18
End: 2026-12-18

Utah's Hogle Zoo creates champions for wildlife. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy hundreds of resident animals in the [African Savanna](https://www.hoglezoo.org/african-savanna/), [Great Apes](https://www.hoglezoo.org/great-apes/), [Primate Forest](https://www.hoglezoo.org/primate-forest/), [Small Animal Building](https://www.hoglezoo.org/small-animal-building/), [Rocky Shores](https://www.hoglezoo.org/rocky-shores/), [Asian Highlands,](https://www.hoglezoo.org/asian-highlands/) and the new [Aline W. Skaggs Wild Utah exhibit](https://www.hoglezoo.org/wildutah/). Your visit helps support conservation efforts worldwide.

Since 1974, Hogle Zoo has been a proud member of the [Association of Zoos and Aquariums](https://www.aza.org/), meeting and exceeding the highest animal care, [wellbeing](https://www.hoglezoo.org/wellbeing/), and facilities standards.

- [Plan your visit to Utah's Hogle Zoo](https://www.hoglezoo.org/plan-your-visit/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/plan-your-visit/)
- [See upcoming events](https://www.hoglezoo.org/events/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/events/)
- [Become a member](https://www.hoglezoo.org/become-a-member/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/become-a-member/)
- [See education classes and programs](https://www.hoglezoo.org/education-programs/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/education-programs/)
- [Work at Utah's Hogle Zoo](https://www.hoglezoo.org/jobs/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/become-a-member/)
- [Read Hogle Zoo stories and announcements](https://www.hoglezoo.org/zoo-stories/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/become-a-member/)[](https://www.hoglezoo.org/zoo-stories/)

**MORE TO DO. MORE TO ZOO.  
Swing by Hogle Zoo to see the newest residents**

- Meet Weila: Weila, a female Bornean orangutan born on June 21, 2025, is thriving under the care of her foster mom, Acara. Guests may now spot them in the Great Apes lobby or outdoor habitat; look closely, as Weila’s hair blends in with Acara. Their favorite resting spots include high shelves and hammocks. [Learn more about Weila's journey →](https://www.hoglezoo.org/orangutan-weila/)
- Meet Basil: Basil, born on March 30, 2025, is growing up quickly and changing right before our eyes. Basil is now one of the most active members of the troop, often seen leaping across branches and swinging from ropes. [See Basil →](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOD3XZllMZD/)
- Meet Addo: Born May 30, 2024, Addo is a western lowland gorilla who’s quickly becoming a guest favorite. His growing confidence is a joy to watch, and his development offers a unique opportunity to witness the early stages of gorilla life. [Watch Addo play →](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPAFZFYCvbh/)

Check out the zoo's [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/hoglezoo/) (@HogleZoo) for [daily programs](https://www.hoglezoo.org/things-to-do/), including keeper chats and animal demonstrations.

**ZOOBREW - EVERY POUR PROTECTS**  
Your favorite night out just got wilder! ZooBrew brings adults-only (21+) evenings to life with local craft beverages, bites, and wildlife at Hogle Zoo. Sip, stroll, and snack as you explore the zoo after hours, where every experience supports wildlife and wild places. It’s a night out for the big kids, with purpose behind every pour.

[2026 ZooBrews](https://www.hoglezoo.org/zoobrew/) run from 6:30–9:30 p.m. on select evenings:

- [Thursday, May 21](https://hoglezoo.org/upcoming-events/may-zoobrew/)
- [Wednesday, June 17](https://hoglezoo.org/upcoming-events/june-zoobrew/)
- [Wednesday, July 15](https://hoglezoo.org/upcoming-events/july-zoobrew/)
- [Wednesday, August 12](https://hoglezoo.org/upcoming-events/august-zoobrew/)
- [Wednesday, October 14](https://hoglezoo.org/upcoming-events/october-zoobrew/)

ZooBrew is where great taste meets a greater purpose. Every visit to Hogle Zoo supports wildlife conservation efforts in Utah and around the world. From constructing ranger stations in Nigeria to outfitting orangutan research teams in Borneo and monitoring western toad populations in Utah, Hogle Zoo and its partners are inspiring action by connecting people and animals. By attending ZooBrew, you’re taking meaningful action for wildlife worldwide.  
  
**EXCLUSIVE TOURS AT HOGLE ZOO**  
Book an exclusive zoo tour with your family and friends and get the most out of your zoo visit. You can even book multiple tours daily, and our Education team will create a whole itinerary for you! [Learn more about exclusive tours at Hogle Zoo →](https://www.hoglezoo.org/tours/)

- Pull out your stethoscope and discover what it's like to be a veterinarian during our [L.S. Skaggs Animal Health Center Tour](https://www.hoglezoo.org/tours/). You'll tour an off-exhibit space not regularly open to visitors. Look at x-rays and blood samples, and meet an ambassador animal as you learn how veterinarians help to maintain the health of the zoo's animals.
- Book a [VIP Cart Tour](https://www.hoglezoo.org/tours/) and see Hogle Zoo before opening! This 2-hour VIP cart tour of the zoo is catered to your group's interests and is led by one of our expert tour guides in a 7-passenger, open-air golf cart.

**HOGLE ZOO ACHIEVED ASSOCIATION OF ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS ACCREDITATION WITH A PERFECT INSPECTION**  
Hogle Zoo is celebrating a milestone achievement—a perfect score during our accreditation inspection from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). In September 2025, AZA granted accreditation to Hogle Zoo with a rare perfect score, indicating there were no lesser or major concerns throughout the zoo. In AZA’s 51 years of granting accreditations, Hogle Zoo is only the 10th organization to achieve a perfect score and a clean evaluation. [Learn more about Hogle Zoo's accreditation →](https://www.hoglezoo.org/aza-accreditation/)[](https://www.hoglezoo.org/aza-accreditation/)  
  
*“At Hogle Zoo, we're more than just a fun place to experience. Our team and the community can take pride in knowing their support helps us create champions for wildlife. Through our team's dedication to professional excellence, we're making a lasting impact on the animals under our care, the guests we inspire, and wildlife conservation efforts around the world. A perfect score reflects the dedication of our entire zoo team, including animal care, veterinary services, administrative leadership, facilities, finance, operations, education, conservation, guest services, volunteers, advancement, and human resources. Everyone played a role in reaching this milestone."* -Liz Larsen, Chief Mission Officer of Hogle Zoo.  
  
**SALT LAKE COUNTY'S ZOO, ARTS & PARKS (ZAP) PROGRAM**  
Hogle Zoo is supported by the Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts & Parks (ZAP) Program. Hogle Zoo thanks the residents and visitors of Salt Lake County for their continued support of arts, culture, and recreation within our community. [Learn more](https://www.saltlakecounty.gov/zap/)[→](https://www.hoglezoo.org/tours/)[](https://www.hoglezoo.org/aza-accreditation/)

Included in these Attractions Passes:

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Utah's Hogle Zoo

All photos by Outdoor Project Contributor, Kyle Jenkins

| **Pros:** Beautiful autumn color. Steady climb. Smooth Road. **Cons:** Steady stream of auto traffic. **Congestion:** High **Preferable Season(s):** Summer, Fall **Day-Use/Parking Pass Required:** Not Required **Dogs allowed?:** Yes | **Total Distance:** 16.00 mi (25.75 km) **Terrain Difficulty:** GREEN **Trailhead Elev.:** 4,900 ft (1,494 m) **Net Elev. Gain:** 1,350 ft (411 m) **Trail Uses:** Hiking, Biking **Trail type:** There-and-back |
| --- | --- |

Emigration Canyon Road is an 8 mile stretch of smooth asphalt from the canyon mouth to Little Mountain summit. Normally this is a road meant to access the many homes that dot the canyon or as a shortcut to from Salt Lake City to Parley's Canyon and Park City beyond. Road bike enthusiasts, however, think of Emigration Canyon as an ideal place to go for a ride. Located near downtown and the University of Utah, it is close enough to begin your ride right from home, work, or school. The road has just a slight but steady incline for the first 6 miles, which is essentially a warm up for the final 2 miles that have a much steeper grade. Most people turn around at the summit of Little Mountain, but you can continue on toward Parley's Canyon, passing by Little Dell and East Dell Reservoirs. People get some serious speed coming down from Little Mountain, so make sure you stay within your skill level and keep and eye out for the steady auto traffic and rocks in the road.

Emigration Canyon Road Cycling

Experience living history at [This Is The Place Heritage Park.](https://www.thisistheplace.org)

Located at the historic location of the Mormon pioneers’ entry to what was then the Republic of Mexico, this Utah state park celebrates the heritage of the many cultures and people that have called the valley of the Great Salt Lake home.

The Park offers experiences crafted to awaken the pioneer within every historian, ponderer, adventurer, artist, or naturalist. Connect to the story and spirit of the American west with [monuments](https://www.thisistheplace.org/general-info/pioneers-of-1847-monument/), [exhibits](https://www.thisistheplace.org/todays-fun/pioneer-childrens-memorial/), and [interactive events](https://www.thisistheplace.org/heritage-village/) that blend past with present to commemorate unique traditions and legacies. Discover immersive theater, engaging historical interactions, an [exceptional general store](https://www.thisistheplace.org/shopping/gift-shop/), and [food](https://www.thisistheplace.org/food/heritage-grill/) created by our award-winning chef. For a more intimate visit, try a curated tour with our park historian, a trail ride guided by experienced wranglers, or a quiet nature walk.

With 415 acres of beauty nestled into the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains and a full complement of seasonal events to explore, This Is The Place Heritage Park offers a literal and figurative view of history that inspires. Connect to your inner pioneer with an unforgettable visit today.

This Is The Place Heritage Park

"The elegance of life in the city, set against the rugged, mountainous backdrop of the Wasatch Mountain Range. It tends to cultivate an active lifestyle; whether your activity is social or sporty.[Farmer's markets](https://www.slcfarmersmarket.org/), bike lanes, nightlife, great food, and at least two lifetimes worth of recreation in the vertical feet that overlook the town. Witness the growth of this unique city's environmentally-minded attitude. And be a part of it by riding a [bike](https://saltlakebicycletours.com/bike-tours)! We offer not only Guided Bicycle Rides, but also guided [Walking Tours](https://saltlakebicycletours.com/reserve-bike-tours/walking-tour) of Downtown SLC, and [Hiking Tours](https://saltlakebicycletours.com/reserve-bike-tours/hiking-tours) of the surrounding hills up on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. In early 2023, we will launch our new Food Tour of SLC as well!"

Salt Lake Bicycle Tours

One of the most popular 18-hole courses in Utah. Bonneville is renowned for its hilly terrain and challenging greens. Just 5 minutes away from the heart of downtown, the course offers awe-inspiring sunsets and views of both the surrounding mountains and the entire Salt Lake Valley.

**Course Amenities:**

Driving Range - irons only, limited flight balls

Retail Proshop

Rental Pull Carts

Cafe

On - Course Snack Facility

Practice Greens, Chipping area

Motorized Rental Cars

Handicap Cart - provide 24 hour notice

**Course Stats:**

| Tee | Par | Rating | Slope | Yardage |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Black - Men | 72 | 71.7 | 125 | 6872 |
| Blue - Men | 72 | 69.7 | 123 | 6469 |
| Blue - Women | 74 | 75.0 | 131 | 6469 |
| White - Men | 72 | 71.7 | 125 | 5906 |
| White - Women | 74 | 75.0 | 131 | 5906 |
| Gold - Women | 74 | 64.5 | 105 | 4696 |

[Course Scorecard](http://www.slc-golf.com/sites/www.slc-golf.com/files/BonnevilleScorecard.pdf)

Bonneville Golf Course

As Utah's state museum of natural history, this top attraction provides an introduction to the science found in Utah's remarkable landscape. With engaging exhibits, the Museum features Utah's remarkable paleontology discoveries, fascinating gems and minerals, preserved artifacts from Utah's prehistoric peoples, an exploration of the region's ecosystems, and stories told by Utah's Indigenous nations of today.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Salt Lake Valley from our Sky Terrace and experience natural history as only Utah can offer it.

The Museum also hosts regularly rotating traveling exhibitions from world-class producers. The latest details can be found on the NHMU website.

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Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center

An incredible, moderately steep hike to the top of a beautiful peak overlooking the Salt Lake valley.

The first half of the upwards trail follows the same route as the Living Room Hike, and then branches off to higher elevations. It is a well-trafficked cardio workout with a good mix of shaded areas and exposed mountainside trail with amazing views. A moderately difficult trail, it has a relatively short distance to a great payoff at the top. Also known as the Big Beacon Mount Wire Trail, the top has an old airway beacon that affords another 25 feet of elevation.

**Local's recommendation:** An excellent spring, summer, or fall hike. Can be hiked in the winter with proper weather gear.

**Details**

**Difficulty:** Moderate - steep sections, no technically difficult parts

**Highest point:** 7126 ft

**Lowest point:** 4977 ft

**Best time of year:** Year round

**Safety information:** As with any trail in the foothills, watch for rattlesnakes, especially in summer months. Wear closed-toed shoes when hiking, be aware of your surroundings, and always look carefully before placing hands or feet. Be sure to stay hydrated.

**Roadbook**

Start at the Living Room Trailhead, which can be accessed from multiple places along Colorow Road. Park at the southmost end of the street where you'll see a sign that reads "trail entrance" covered in a bunch of stickers. There are several trails you can take that will lead you to the same spot. Eventually you'll see a big "174" yellow sign, turn left there. From there, keep heading straight, uphill, and stay to the right. Toward the end of the trail, you will come to a small, unsigned trail split - stay right to reach Mount Wire (left will take you to the Living Room).

- Start point - The Living Room Trailhead, 383 Colorow Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 - 0 mi
- Highest point, 7123 ft - 2.6 mi
- Lowest point, 4977 ft - 5.1 mi
- Mount Wire - Destination - 5.1 mi

**How to Get There**

**Public transport:** You can take Trax + UTA bus routes to Natural History Museum which will get you close to the trailhead. See UTA schedules and maps at https://www.rideuta.com

**Parking:** On the street parking is available for free all along Colorow Road.

Mount Wire Trail

Hash Kitchen is a brunch experience like no other. Founded in Phoenix, Arizona – and set to expand across the country – we take pride in unforgettable flavors dished up in an unforgettable atmosphere. It’s giving … experiential energy at its finest.

Hash Kitchen

We are your east-bench go to for eclectic American comfort food. Simple craft cuisine, 12 local craft beers and a huge assortment of local spirits. Come for the amazing food and stay for the creative desserts!

Thistle & Thyme

Wakara Bar is a great spot to watch the game and catch up with friends. There are flat screen TV's, an outdoor patio, local craft beers on tap, and a gourmet bar menu.

Wakara Bar

Visit Salt Lake

Salt Lake is the place where the Wasatch mountain peaks frame city streets. Sure, Salt Lake's famed for our winter powder ([four legendary ski resorts](https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/skiing-snowboarding/) just 30 minutes from downtown), but that's just one season's story. Summer brings families [hiking through wildflower meadows](https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/) before cooling off at a Jazz game or the Gateway fountains. Autumn paints our mountain canyons in gold, perfect for morning strolls that end at local coffee shops. Spring? That's when you might spot baby bison on Antelope Island before heading to the Eccles Theater for a Broadway show. Our soaring Wasatch Mountains rise dramatically from downtown Salt Lake, creating a place where every day offers both natural wonders and urban energy. And while we sit perfectly between the [national parks](https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/state-national-parks/) with Yellowstone's geysers and Utah's red rock country, the real magic happens right here, where everyone can [discover the history](https://www.visitsaltlake.com/plan-your-visit/about-salt-lake/) of the city as they find their own rhythm between mountain adventure and city life.

Sports Salt Lake

At Candlelight Christmas, you'll feel like you've taken a step back in time when you join us for this enchanting event.  
  
Visit with Father Christmas, enjoy the live Nativity in the quiet of the Village, and feel the glow of a warm fire while being serenaded by the Heritage Village Carolers.  
  
Take home a little bit of Christmas with candle making and letters to Santa for the little ones and homemade gifts from our historic pioneer homes and cabins. And, you can get all of your holiday shopping done when you visit The Heritage Park Gift Shop and the ZCMI Mercantile.  
  
Slow down, take a stroll through the streets ringing with music and make Candlelight Christmas part of your cherished family traditions. Bundle up and make a memory that will last a lifetime!  
  
This calendar listing is brought to you by NowPlayingUtah.com, Utah's one-stop, online website for arts and entertainment events, powered by the Utah Cultural Alliance.

Candlelight Christmas at This Is The Place 2026

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