STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

Christmas carols…cookie decorating…Sun Valley Resort kicks off its Winter Wonderland Festival today.

Experience festive village décor, sparkling lights, an open-air European-style market and other cherished holiday traditions in Sun Valley Village capped by a free Christmas Eve ice show, torchlight parade and fireworks.

“With events that capture the joy of mountain town tradition and the warmth of our community spirit, this month is truly one of the most special times to experience Sun Valley,” said Holly Harris, a spokesperson for Sun Valley.

Sun Valley’s Winter Wonderland kicks off today with caroling by Colla Voce, cookie decorating and photo opportunities with Santa.

The lineup:

Saturday, December 6

12:00 - 4:00 PM: Winter Wonderland Kick Off at Sun Valley Village

Visit Santa for photos in the Boiler Room, as well as fun and festive cookie decorating! Colla Voce will be strolling, singing, and bringing the holiday cheer.

12:00 - 4:00 PM: Cookie Decorating and Photos with Santa in the Boiler Room at Sun Valley Lodge

Individual cookies can be purchased for $12.50/each and children will be given a space in the Boiler Room to decorate.

Colla Voce will be strolling, caroling, and bringing the holiday cheer!

Friday, December 12th

7:00 PM (Doors open at 6:30): Stand-up Comedy Show featuring Jeff Shaw at the Sun Valley Opera House

Saturday, December 13th - Sunday, December 14th

Saturday, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM and Sunday, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM: Holiday Market in Sun Valley Village

Now in its 9th year, the European-style market will have everything from locally made artisan goods, holiday gifts, holiday wreaths, treats and more.

Saturday, 5:30 PM: Tree Lighting in the Sun Valley Village

Festivities include an appearance by Santa, live holiday music, free cookies and cocoa, and an outdoor bar.

Thursday, December 19th - Friday, December 20th

7:00 PM: Let it Snow Holiday Concert at the Sun Valley Opera House

Featuring Jazz artist FAUNA

Saturday, December 20th

Santa Skate Night at the Sun Valley Outdoor Ice Rink

Tuesday, December 23rd - Wednesday December 24th

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM: Brunch with Santa at the Sun Valley Club

Come enjoy delicious food, great company, and the spirit of the holidays all in one place.

Reservations available here.

Wednesday, December 24th

5:30 PM: Christmas Eve Ice Show at Sun Valley Outdoor Rink

Join us for our beloved Christmas Eve Ice Show!

Annual Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks at the Sun Valley Lodge Terrace following the Christmas Eve Ice Show.

The Torchlight Parade will take place on Dollar Mountain accompanied by fireworks. As always, complimentary cookies and cocoa will be served for all to enjoy.

Saturday, December 27th

7:00 (Doors open at 6:30): Stand-up comedy show featuring Robert Mac at the Sun Valley Opera House

Wednesday, December 31st

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM: New Year's Eve Night Skiing at Dollar Mountain

Fireworks at 9:00 PM

Wednesday, January 31st

9:00 PM - 1:00 AM: New Year’s Eve Snow Ball at River Run Lodge

For more information or to purchase tickets for ticketed invents, visit https://www.sunvalley.com/