IVINS – Tuacahn’s annual Christmas in the Canyon shines bright during the most wonderful time of the year.
This festive event takes place every Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening through December 22.
Hundreds have made Christmas in the Canyon a holiday tradition, particularly because of the Live Nativity re-enactment that takes place center stage in the amphitheater.
Audience members are told the story of the birth of Christ through music, narration, and acting during each 20 minute performance. The nativity’s cast changes nightly, and is composed of dozens of local volunteer groups, as well as live camels and other animals.
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Videocast by Leanna Bergeron, St. George News
In addition to the Live Nativity, Christmas in the Canyon hosts several other unique activities for the entire family to enjoy.
Visitors have the opportunity to hop aboard the Old Salty Train brought in from Ruby’s Inn in Bryce Canyon, affording passengers an up-close view of prior show sets while simultaneously touring Tuacahn’s spectacular festive light displays.
Camel rides are offered on select evenings, up until approximately 20 minutes prior to the start of the first Live Nativity.
Santa Claus himself pays a nightly visit to Tuacahn, providing an excellent photo opportunity for all ages – naughty and nice.
For those craving their favorite December delights – roasted nuts, hot chocolate, churros, and other festive goodies are all available for purchase at concessions.
Visitors are also encouraged to bring their own marshmallows and hot dogs to roast over the open campfire located on the concourse.
Christmas in the Canyon is presented with no admission charge, as it is Tuacahn’s way of thanking the community for its support. The Live Nativity, Old Salty Train, and camel rides are individually offered at various low costs, see details below.
Event details:
All events of Christmas in the Canyon run nightly at Tuacahn Amphitheatre every Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m., through December 22, 2014.
- Live Nativity, 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. $2 per person or $15 per family (up to 10 guests). Special group rates available upon request.
- Holiday train rides on the Old Salty Train provided by Ruby’s Inn, $2
- Camel rides on select evenings, $5
- Santa Claus from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Free photo opportunity)
- Hot chocolate, churros, roasted nuts, and other treats at concessions
- Christmas items and Holiday gifts at the Tuacahn Gift Gallery
- Christmas Lights & Holiday music on the plaza
- Open campfire
Videocast by Leanna Bergeron, St. George News
Resources
Tuacahn Amphitheatre | Website
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @STGnews
Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2014, all rights reserved.
I was very disappointed in the live nativity. It was embarrassingly amateur and very short. The narration sounded like it was shortened of sped up. I took my friend so they could see the Tuacahn amphitheater, but was very disappointed. I’ve been going for years. The wise men actually danced a jig for “joy”. Sorry, but it was really bad. I won’t be recommending anyone to go to it this year, even though the weather was really nice and relatively warm.
@Nuttel, something to remember, it is an amateur event, filled with local youth and families. While perhaps professionally costumed, the cast has about an hour to prep and run through the production, then they go for it. Different cast every day. The setting is great, the music and narration as well. Short is always good (after all, you didn’t pay for tickets to a Broadway event). I’d say everyone should see it!! Start the season right.
You should have volunteered to do it since you are expert at this
The true meaning of Christmas. It’s always a great show..I always bring company and neighbors to see this.. Just a chance to slow down, forget the shopping, and focus on the nativity..thank you Tuacahn
I agree with MickeyD, Ist not a Broadway show and it was worth every dollar. I own a professional car stereo shop in town, and let me tell you that the quality of sound in that theater was amazingly clean and loud with zero distortion. A pleasure to hear. You can tell they didn’t go cheap on the sound. Its a short story but worth the $2 admission price.