Join The Holiday Magic At Cedar City’s Lighting Ceremony

Cedar City is preparing to kick off the holiday season with its largest annual celebration, the downtown lighting ceremony known as Where the Magic Begins. Speaking on the Big Picture Morning Show on KSUB radio, Cedar City Events Director Brandon Burk described the all-day event as “arguably our biggest event of the year,” adding that he is “really excited” for what is planned.

Christmas Market Expands To 70 Vendors

Festivities begin at noon with the Christmas market, which Burk said has grown dramatically since it was introduced three years ago. “First year it had a handful of vendors. Last year… we had 20 some vendors. This year we have over 70 vendors.” The market will stretch across Center Street between Main and 100 West, featuring dozens of local artisans and holiday specialties.At 3 p.m., the rest of the activities begin in full. “Main Street will be packed with activities for the kids,” Burk said during the broadcast. The afternoon includes crafts sponsored by Visit Cedar City Brian Head, live reindeer appearances, face painting, bounce houses, and more. Inside the Heritage Theater, the annual Holiday Tree Jubilee opens at 3 p.m. as well, supporting Shop with a Cop and other charitable programs.

The entertainment continues at 4:30 p.m. with a live preshow on the large stage installed in front of City Hall. “We call it Where the Magic Begins. It's going to be really incredible,” Burk said, noting that the choreography is by Mick Thompson, described as a “world-renowned choreographer.” The evening culminates around 6 p.m. when Santa Claus arrives on Main Street by helicopter. “He comes up to the stage, leads the crowd in a countdown. We light up all the lights, and then there's a spectacular firework show after that.” Visitors can then enjoy the live nativity in front of the Old Rock Church and take part in this year’s relocated carriage rides near 100 West and Center Street.

Burk emphasized that events like this support both community connection and economic vitality. “One is to engage the community and find ways to bring people together,” he said. “And another is also tourism.” He noted that the event is funded entirely through tourism taxes rather than local taxpayer funds. According to city data, last year’s lighting ceremony drew nearly 10,000 attendees, with about 30 percent coming from out of town.

As for why Cedar City continues to embrace the event so warmly each year, Burk said it reflects the spirit of the community. “There’s something really special about this community place,” he shared. “People are eager to get involved… It’s just such a community-oriented town.”

This year’s celebration promises to carry that tradition forward, offering a full day of festivities to welcome the holiday season in Cedar City.

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You can hear the entire interview with Brandon Burk in the podcast below.