It's the holiday season

Growing up, one of my favorite traditions around Christmas time was driving through different neighborhoods to see all of the lights. There is something magical about seeing houses and buildings all lit up with a glow around them from the snow.

To fulfill this Christmas tradition we headed over to Thanksgiving Point to see their Holiday Lights display. Even though it wasn't houses that were lit up, they have an impressive display set up in Electric Park. The best part...you get to stay in the warmth of your car while looking at more than one million lights! For those who are brave enough to face the cold temperatures, they also offer trolley and carriage rides that take you through the lights. Make sure to reserve a spot before you go though!

The ride takes place at Electric Park and is a little over a mile long. When you pull up make sure to dim your headlights and tune in to FM 100.3 so you can enjoy all your favorite holiday songs while gazing at the twinkling lights and illuminated trees.

The start of the light display

We were in awe with just how many lights there were and how well done all of the displays were. It truly was magical!

They even had displays for each of their attractions. We saw a giant lit up T-Rex! I don't know where else you would find one of those.

After driving through the lights, we parked the car and went to see what all was going on by the Deli and boutique. So glad we did; they had ice sculptors and reindeer! While you are walking around don't forget to pick up some hot chocolate at the local vendor!

Cold hands and warm fuzzies— are you ready to serve?

Well, it's Monday again. Whether you're waist-deep in dishes (me tonight) or trying to get gum out of Jimmy's hair, Mondays are just tough. Today we are happy to announce a new antidote: service. I know it sounds cliche, but bear with me.

It's the holidays, right? So, you have a chance to do some real good for people who have it tough every day of the week, not just Mondays. We at the CVB think so, so, we are putting our money where our mouth is:

For every "follow" we get on Instagram, our staff will donate $1 to Toys for Tots, up to $250 dollars. This is a win-win because we get to give, and you get to help us give.

What exactly is Toys for Tots?

Toys for Tots is a charity that provides toys to underprivileged children. These underprivileged children have parents who can't afford Christmas gifts. Toys for Tots gives these children the "merry" Christmas that they deserve. You can find out more about Toys for Tots at the link below:

http://www.toysfortots.org/

Help us help others and follow on Instagram @VisitUtahValley. Remember, it ends December 16th.

I like caramel with my hot chocolate

Well, the cold is officially here! Love it or hate it, this is the time to break out the hot chocolate and unpack the pink snuggies hidden under your daughter's bed. With snow on the ground, we are giving you our list of fun 'dos' for this next week.

 

Do 1: Watch A Christmas Carol

This family outing will be as timeless as the play. Nothing makes memories like the warm charm of the Hale Center Theater combined with a Dickens classic. I've been to Hale Theater many times and am always taken with the ambiance and the quality of the performances. Treat your kids to the giving side of the holidays with A Christmas Carol. It's a great date night and an even better evening with the family. You'll be surprised how enjoyable it is for your younger kids!

Do 2: "Lights on" in Provo

 

I know I know, ANOTHER tree lighting ceremony. However, downtown Provo isn't your run of the bunch outlet mall. Downtown Provo is the gem with a personality to match you lovers of the holidays. The fun starts Saturday, December 7th at 7 p.m. Santa himself will be illuminating the lights outside of the City Center, so bring some of the kids. There will be caroling and hot chocolate afterwards. It's always fun to walk around and see the downtown lights. You will be in walking distance of the new temple, the new Nuskin building, and dozens of great restaurants.

  Do 3: Tim Tam Slams

This is my personal favorite treat. It's yummy, and it is also really fun to say out loud. If you're unfortunate enough to not know what Tim Tams are, let me explain. Tim Tams are a heavenly wafer cookie with delicious chocolate filling, and of course, a chocolate exterior. Tim Tam "slams" are Tim Tams dipped in hot chocolate. Try biting off each end of the Tim Tam and drinking hot chocolate through it. The Tim Tam becomes a straw that melts and gets all gooey. The melted chocolate on peoples' faces also makes for good Christmas card pictures (hint hint).

-Wren