Between the family feast and the holiday shopping frenzy, families can use their extra-long Thanksgiving weekend to explore the winter wonderland unfolding in Utah Valley. Here are four family outings for the Thanksgiving Break.
Spiritual and Religious Art of Utah
On display until Jan. 16 at the Springville Museum of Art is the 33rd annual Spiritual and Religious Art of Utah Exhibit. This collection features artwork created within the last three years by local artists. This is just one of the nine exhibits on display at the Springville Museum of Art now. Other current and uplifting exhibits include “Journeys: Monomyth and Transformation,” “Beginnings: The Mormon Art & Belief Movement” and “Roots and Branches.” Admission is free and the museum is kid- and stroller-friendly.
When: Tuesday thru Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving)
Where: 126 E. 400 S., Springville
Santa’s Grand Arrival
Each year, University Place (and its predecessor of University Mall) welcomes the holiday season with Santa’s Grand Arrival. This year, Starbucks will provide the holiday treats and UVU’s Voiceline will provide the holiday entertainment. University Place will also be hosting face painting for children and giveaways.
When: Nov. 23, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Where: 575 E. University Pkwy, Orem
Winter Lights Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony
Hosted by the Spanish Fork Salem Area Chamber of Commerce, this annual parade will feature locally-made parade floats decked out with Christmas lights. The parade route runs from 900 North in Spanish Fork to 100 South then loops around Library Park down to 100 East. The floats are glittering with Christmas lights and come from businesses, schools and individuals. Santa Claus will be the grand caboose of the parade.
When: Nov. 23, 7-8:30 p.m.
Where: 40 S. Main St., Spanish Fork
Dessert at The Chocolate
People may disagree on when the Thanksgiving weekend officially begins. But in the name of free ice cream and milk, it starts as soon as the school bell rings. On Tuesday nights, with the purchase of a slice of cake, The Chocolate is offering a free scoop of ice cream or cup of milk to those who follow their Instagram and Facebook accounts. (P.S. This delightful dessert bonus happens every Tuesday.)
When: Nov. 20, 11 a.m. –10 p.m.
Where: 212 S. State St., Orem