Utah Shines Bright In Holiday Spirit Rankings This Year

A few days ago, I posted an article where WalletHub had put out information about the “Best Places for Christmas” and was somewhat appalled that not one place in Utah was in the top 100 best places for Christmas. Yet San Bernardino made the list? That was a real head scratcher.

Well, turns out, WalletHub isn't the only one measuring Christmas cheer, and in one report, seems like Utah might be a good place for Christmas after all.

Utah Snags Second Best Spot For Most Festive State

Utah might not have snagged the top prize for America’s most festive state in the latest Innerbody Research holiday rankings, but finishing second is nothing to sneeze at—especially when the winner has held the title for four years straight. West Virginia once again claimed the number one spot, leaving Utah to deck the halls in proud silver-bell style.

According to the 2025 report, which analyzed Christmas-related search trends across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, Utah racked up an impressive 2,346 search interest score, just behind West Virginia and well ahead of most of the country. That means whether Utahns are curling up with a mug of cocoa to stream holiday movies, Googling “The Grinch” for the umpteenth time, or plotting the ultimate gingerbread house masterpiece, the Beehive State’s yuletide enthusiasm is alive and well.

Read More: Utah's Favorite Christmas Cookie? You Might Be Surprised

Utah’s runner-up finish also mirrors its placement from the previous year, suggesting this isn’t some fluky burst of tinsel-fueled excitement but a consistent seasonal tradition. Year after year, Utah residents show up strong when it comes to all things Christmas, from festive films to holiday music to general seasonal curiosity. Apparently, the state doesn’t just celebrate Christmas—it researches it thoroughly.

While West Virginia may dominate with snow-soaked scenery and classic winter imagery, Utah counters with its own brand of holiday energy. Think elaborate light displays that pop up in neighborhoods almost overnight and festive activities that seem to multiply faster than leftover Christmas cookies. Even in years when snow is in short supply like this year so far, the holiday spirit remains fully stocked.

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And let’s be honest: coming in second nationally is hardly a disappointment. Utah may not wear the crown this year, but it still shines brightly, proving once again that holiday cheer thrives here. From twinkling lights to marathon movie nights, Utah continues to show that festive spirit isn’t just about winning—it’s about showing up merry and enthusiastic every single year.