If there’s one thing Salt Lake does well during the holidays—besides snowfall, festive lights, and gallons of hot cocoa—it’s bringing the heat with local sports. From slam dunks to slapshots, Salt Lake County is buzzing with game-day energy as 2024 turns into 2025. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for some family-friendly action, here’s your guide to the holiday sports scene.
Game Plan for 2024-2025: Who's Playing?
Utah Jazz (NBA)
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Home Venue: Delta Center
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Upcoming Games:
- December 1, 2024: Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Lakers at 6:00 PM MST
- December 28, 2024: Utah Jazz vs. Philadelphia 76ers at 7:30 PM MST
- December 30, 2024: Utah Jazz vs. Denver Nuggets at 7:00 PM MST
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Pro Tips:
- Arrive early to navigate security and grab your favorite snacks before tip-off.
- Check out the expanded Team Store for the latest Jazz merchandise.
Utah Hockey Club (NHL)
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Home Venue: Delta Center
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Inaugural Season Highlights:
- The Utah Hockey Club, formerly the Arizona Coyotes, is making its debut this season.
- December 2, 2024: Utah Hockey Club vs. Dallas Stars at 7:00 PM MST
- December 7, 2024: Utah Hockey Club at Buffalo Sabres at 11:00 AM MST
- December 14, 2024: Utah Hockey Club at San Jose Sharks at 8:00 PM MST
- December 30, 2024: Utah Hockey Club at Seattle Kraken at 6:00 PM MST
- December 31, 2024: Utah Hockey Club at Edmonton Oilers at 7:00 PM MST
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Pro Tips:
- Dress warmly; arenas can be chilly, especially during hockey games.
- Take advantage of the new concession offerings, with items priced at $2 and $3 during all games.
Real Salt Lake (MLS)
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Stadium: America First Field
- Keep an eye out for special events or fan meet-ups during the off-season.
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Pro Tips:
- While the MLS season is on break, stadium tours are available for fans interested in behind-the-scenes experiences.
Holiday Event Vibes: Tailgates, Giveaways, and More!
- Jazz Half-Court Challenge: During halftime at select Jazz games, fans have the chance to win prizes by sinking a half-court shot.
- Utah Hockey Club Inaugural Game Celebration: Prior to their first-ever regular-season NHL game on October 8, 2024, the Utah Hockey Club hosted a free, open-to-the-public celebration outside the Delta Center.
Pre and Post Game Good Eats!
Looking for a quick snack or a hardy meal just walking distance from the Delta Center? Here's a list of some great spots to enjoy before or after the game!
- Fleming's Prime Steakhouse: Head to the west side of the stadium for fine dining and sizzling steaks. Fleming's Steakhouse is the perfect place to begin or end your night out in Salt Lake.
- Crown Burger: Looking for a Utah classic? Just a short walk north of the stadium, you’ll find the best spot in town for a pastrami burger. Don’t forget to ask for fry sauce!
- Hall Pass: Just a brisk walk from the stadium, at the heart of The Gateway, is a food lover's paradise. Hall Pass offers a variety of options for any sports fan, from lobster rolls to Nashville hot fried chicken.
- Chile-Tepin: A quick walk south of the Delta Center brings you to Chile-Tepin, a family-owned Mexican restaurant with a menu featuring recipes passed down through generations.
- Parking: Most venues have paid parking, but using public transportation (like TRAX) can save you the hassle of post-game traffic jams.
- Bag Policy: Bags are not allowed at the Delta Center. Exceptions include diaper bags and medical bags no larger than 14” x 14” x 6”. Clutches or wallets no larger than 4” x 6” x 2” will also be allowed.
- Bundle Up: Remember, it’s winter in Salt Lake—even inside the arenas, it can be a bit chilly. Layers are your friend.
- Be Early, Be Merry: Security lines can be long, especially for the bigger games. Give yourself extra time to get through the gates, grab snacks, and find your seat.
- Cashless Venues: Almost all venues have gone cashless, so make sure you have a card or mobile payment option ready for concessions and merch.
- Family Fun: These games are family-friendly, and you can even find special sections for kids, complete with mascot visits and giveaways.
Final Words
As the snow falls and the crowds roar, the holiday spirit comes alive in Salt Lake's sporting arenas. So grab your tickets, wear your team colors, and let the games begin—it's going to be a holiday season worth cheering for!
