Ogden’s Christmas Village ranked among nation’s best lights displays
Dec 22, 2025, 9:23 PM
OGDEN — Ogden’s Christmas Village has been named one of the best holiday light displays in the country, according to USA Today. The festive attraction ranked No. 2 on the newspaper’s annual list, just behind Duluth, Minnesota’s Bentleyville, Tour of Lights.
The recognition marks a milestone for the decades-old tradition, which began in 1962 and now spans four city blocks in downtown Ogden. The village features 63 themed cottages, each decorated and sponsored by local businesses and families, along with about one million lights, between the village and surrounding streets.
“This is confirmation that this community has done a good job creating somewhere that is a wonderful experience and celebrating it,” said Craig Bielik, chair of Ogden’s Christmas Village committee. “We will be number one next year. We’re going to fight. We’re going to make it happen.”
The display has grown steadily over the years, moving from USA Today’s top 15 last year to second place this season. Organizers said the warm December weather and national recognition have helped draw record crowds, with an estimated 30,000 visitors on opening night alone.
For many families, the village is a cherished tradition.
“I grew up coming as a little girl, and now I get to bring my kids,” said Tia Wilson, who visits every year with her family.
This year’s theme is “Rockin’ Around the Village.” Admission is free, and lights are on nightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. through New Year’s Day, with extended hours until midnight on weekends. Special hours include all-day lighting on Christmas Eve, starting at 7 a.m., and Christmas Day, beginning at 1 p.m.
USA Today’s editors select the top displays, and readers vote to determine the final rankings. Bielik said organizers will find a way to make it even better next year, adding more cottages and lights.
Other stories about light displays in Utah: Dreamwalk Park unveils otherworldly Christmas experience
This story was adapted from a TV broadcast script using artificial intelligence. Every story, including those adapted with AI, is reviewed by a human editor before publication to ensure that KSL’s editorial standards are upheld.
