Embrace the Holiday Magic of Southwest Wyoming

Events, Activities & More

With snow falling, crackling fires and loved ones close by, the holidays in Rock Springs and Green River are a magical time of year. Here, you’ll find outdoor winter adventures in the expansive high desert, merry events, kid-approved indoor excitement and wonderful, new holiday traditions.

Festive Holiday Events

Kick the holidays off early in mid-November with the Home & Holiday Show in Rock Springs. Browse dozens of vendor booths for stunning decorations to deck your halls or discover great items for everybody on your gift list. For unique, handmade presents, don’t miss the Gail Hill Memorial Craft Fair. Also held in November, this event offers free access and fabulous gift ideas for everyone, from adorable knit plushies and fine jewelry to spicy sauces for your kitchen.

Take in the spectacular lights at the YWCA Festival of Trees! After seeing these colorful displays, you'll want to extend your stay to attend the annual Lighted Holiday Parade in early December. The trail of lighted floats will travel through downtown Rock Springs, and you won't want to miss it!

Can't make it for Christmas? Come for fun New Year’s Eve celebrations. Dance to a DJ, enjoy a dinner, reserve your own private table and party into the night with your closest friends to ring in the New Year!

Outdoor Winter Activities

Whether you enjoy taking some time for solitude, or you prefer your family’s close company throughout the holiday season, southwest Wyoming has the outdoor adventure for you.

Get away from it all for a day of ice fishing at Flaming Gorge Reservoir, and enjoy the gorgeous views while relaxing on the ice. Drop a line to try to catch trout or burbot, and add a fresh-caught treat to your holiday dinner table.

Bring the whole family to explore miles of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails throughout the area. Glide or hike over groomed powder on some easier paths or take some more challenging uphill routes to gain access to some of the most beautiful Wyoming views.

Whichever outdoor activity you choose, you are sure to create some lasting memories with the whole family.

Indoor Winter Activities

One of the most important aspects of the season is spending some quality time with your family and friends. For those who prefer staying out of the cold, Rock Springs and Green River offer plenty of ways for your group to enjoy each other’s company and create some lasting traditions this holiday season.

Find the perfect hotel or lodge where you can spend time by the fire or around a table and get closer to your loved ones this season. Book early to take advantage of our holiday specials as well. With our diverse lodging options and great deals, you will be sure to return year after year.

And for those who love sports, don't miss out on the excitement of catching a hockey game with the Rock Springs Grizzlies. Gather your family and head to the rink for an exhilarating experience as you cheer on our local team. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun outing, attending a game is a fantastic way to bond with loved ones while enjoying the thrill of live sports action.

Enjoy play areas for the little ones, pools for all ages and fun activity classes at three Rock Springs and Green River indoor recreation centers.

Rock Springs Family Recreation Center offers playtime for adults and children with a leisure pool, party room and batting cages.
Green River Recreation Center has an Olympic-sized swimming pool featuring a “tot deck” for the little ones, an outdoor ice-skating rink and two full courts for playing basketball, volleyball, soccer or tennis, among other sports.
Rock Springs Civic Center features a 56-foot-long climbing wall to accommodate climbers of all levels, a swimming pool with a slide, a hot tub, three racquetball courts and other classic gymnasium equipment.
Whatever type of holiday memories your family is looking to create, southwest Wyoming is the perfect place to be. Find incredible indoor and outdoor activities and festive events this season that will keep you coming back for more!

Looking for more winter fun? Check out the area’s museums for a fascinating peek into southwest Wyoming’s dinosaur- and outlaw-filled past, explore local hot spots that deliver year-round fun or get more ideas from our winter itinerary.