Southern Utah comes alive January 16–17, 2026, as the Up & Away Hot Air Balloon Festival returns to Washington at Staheli Family Farm.

Each morning, around 30 brilliant hot air balloons rise over breathtaking desert landscapes, turning the sky into a vibrant canvas.

Early risers can enjoy tethered balloon rides from 8–10 AM for $30, with tickets available online and long lines expected.

Over 100 vendors and food trucks fill the grounds, complemented by local artisans offering unique crafts and shopping.

The Rising Star Talent Competition invites local talent to compete for cash prizes, while car lovers flock to the Saturday Classic Car Show for a dazzling display of vintage vehicles.

Evenings feature the magical Balloon Glow, bathing Staheli Farm in luminescent color.

Admission and parking are free, making this festival a must-see kickoff to the new year for families and locals alike.

Utah is investing over $735,000 to boost outdoor education for youth statewide, with a special spotlight on Southern Utah programs.

The funds aim to connect children ages 6 to 18 with hands-on outdoor experiences across Utah’s diverse landscapes, nurturing stewardship and environmental awareness.

Zion National Park Forever Project earned $15,000 for its Zion Youth Stewards initiative in Washington County, focusing on teaching young people to protect natural resources.

Moab’s BEACON Afterschool Program also received $15,000 to grow hiking clubs and nature-based learning throughout Grand County schools, while Science Moab’s School to Science program secured more than $14,000 for immersive field trips.

With $11,000 awarded, the Canyonlands Field Institute will make summer outdoor camps more accessible for local kids, emphasizing skill-building and appreciation for local landscapes.

These efforts are part of the UCORE program, supporting over 23,000 Utah youth statewide and solidifying Utah’s commitment to active, nature-based education for all.

Southern Utah continues to feel the impact of one woman’s lifelong dedication to community service.

For decades, her passion has driven her to uplift neighbors, organize events, and champion local initiatives.

Her leadership proved essential to the Kanab Women's Forum’s 25th anniversary celebration in 2025, strengthening a tradition that empowers women through connection and growth.

Beyond this, she is a vital force within the Southern Utah Ladies Society (SULS), consistently steering fundraisers and volunteer programs.

Her efforts included planning the 2025 Beer, Brats, & Bunco Oktoberfest, supporting The Sharing Place.

She also championed health causes at the Turn On Your HeartLight Life Run, raising funds for Annie’s Stone and Helping Babies Breathe.

Honored at the 2024 Women & Business Conference in Salt Lake City, her creativity and compassion inspire others to serve and strengthen their community.

St. George is gearing up for the exciting return of the Dragon’s Tail Stair Climb Challenge this January, inviting locals to conquer the famous Tech Ridge Staircase through a series of intense races.

Runners can tackle the 5K, 1K, Sprint, or Endurance events, each demanding resilience and spirit as participants race up the 333-step landmark.

The diverse courses wind through the mesa’s trails, with the toughest finishing stretch forcing athletes to ascend the iconic stairs towering 171 feet above the city.

Special honors await the fastest racers, while the “Dragon’s Tail Slayer Challenge” rewards those daring enough to complete all three categories.

Fitness fans have flocked to the Tech Ridge area since the staircase’s 2024 debut, drawn by both the challenging climb and sweeping views.

Ongoing development in Tech Ridge includes new businesses, a container park, and a 199-unit apartment complex, cementing its place as a local hub for ambition and community.

Ivins-based artist Kimberly Beck has earned national recognition, winning the Outstanding Achievement in Oil Painting award from American Women Artists for her striking painting, “Jenny and Tom.”

Inspired by a close encounter with turkeys at Maine’s Gisland Farm Audubon Center, Beck explored the birds’ geometry and vibrant patterns through her 30-by-30-inch canvas.

Choosing a large format, she showcased the animals’ commanding presence and intricate feather displays, dedicating about three months to complete the piece.

The award was announced during the “A Vision of Nature: American Women Artists” exhibition at the National Sporting Library & Museum in Virginia, where Beck’s painting was also chosen as the banner image for the show.

As a member since 2017, Beck has achieved “signature” status, celebrating her ongoing impact in advancing the visibility of women in fine art.

St. George’s new City Hall, opening January 17, is home to a stunning 12-foot-by-24-foot mosaic mural made from about 1,000 tiles, each painted by a local resident.

Artist Lewis Lavoie and his team at Mural Mosaic assembled these vibrant pieces into a dynamic scene of hikers and bikers enjoying Snow Canyon.

Operations Director Marc Mortensen notes that each tile contains a unique story from a member of the community, making the mural deeply personal and meaningful.

Residents, including Mortensen’s family, searched for their individual tiles, finding joy in seeing their contributions woven into the larger artwork.

The building itself also features figurines above department signs, celebrating diverse community members—from pioneers to outdoor lovers.

City Hall’s bright open-air atrium, large windows overlooking Town Square, and spacious City Council chambers reflect Mayor Michele Randall’s vision for a welcoming, vibrant center.

As Randall’s term ends, Jimmie Hughes will step in as mayor next week.

Snow Canyon High School boys’ basketball is turning heads with three straight wins, sparking fresh excitement across the community.

This streak marks them as serious challengers in the current season.

At the same time, the Warrior girls’ team remains the gold standard in Region 9.

Guided by Coach Sue Hoskins, the girls have built an impressive record, fueled by teamwork and standout moments.

Olivia Hamlin continues to turn in dynamic performances, her scoring making her a force on the court and a key to the Warriors’ dominance.

Fans pack the stands, showing unwavering loyalty that binds school and community together.

With such momentum, both teams are aiming high, inspiring local pride and elevating the spirit of basketball in Region 9.

Anticipation is high as fans await the next round of thrilling games.

St. George will come alive with jazz as the 10th Annual St. George Jazz Festival returns on January 30–31, 2026.

This major celebration features two days of live performances, student competitions, and interactive educational sessions.

The highlight is a showcase concert on Saturday, January 31, at 7:30 PM in the Desert Hills High School Auditorium, starring acclaimed alto saxophonist Miguel Zenón and the renowned Rebel Jazz Band.

Zenón, known for blending Latin American folk and modern jazz, will also lead a free clinic for the community earlier that day at 12:30 PM.

The festival’s opening night features the high school jazz combo competition at the Eccles Fine Arts Center, Utah Tech University.

Young musicians from across the region will take the stage, with select students joining the big Saturday concert.

The event promises accessibility for all at Desert Hills High School, with free parking and ADA compliance.

Experience world-class jazz and community talent — right in St. George.

Every Saturday, the Tuacahn Saturday Market fills Ivins, Utah’s spectacular red rock canyon with local art, live music, and community energy.

From May through September, the market runs 9 AM to 1 PM; during cooler months, it shifts to 10 AM to 2 PM.

Stroll beneath shady trees and beside peaceful waters as local artisans display handcrafted goods, artwork, and unique treasures.

Live performances create an upbeat vibe, making every visit feel festive.

The Tuacahn Café serves up a popular pancake breakfast until noon, then lunch options for a relaxing midday meal.

Enjoy plentiful seating or stretch out on a blanket on the lush grass, soaking in the canyon views.

With new vendors and fresh finds every week, each market visit promises surprises.

Admission is free, welcoming both locals and visitors to experience the lively spirit of Southern Utah.

Zion National Park welcomes families with enchanting trails like Riverside Walk and Lower Emerald Pool, offering cool, shaded walks ideal for visitors of all ages.

Catch spectacular scenery and discover interactive learning moments, all while supporting preservation efforts.

Tip: Skip the stress and use the shuttle to navigate the park with ease.

Snow Canyon State Park boasts sandy paths and striking red rocks that spark children’s imaginations, with quick loops like Jenny’s Canyon offering a genuine sense of adventure.

Sand Hollow State Park features warm water, sandy beaches, and family-friendly swimming, canoeing, and paddleboarding—everything you need for a sunny Utah escape.

The Tuacahn Amphitheatre brings live performances to life against breathtaking red cliffs—perfect for an unforgettable night out.

St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site lets kids explore fossils and hands-on exhibits while Pioneer Park offers outdoor climbing for a quick energy burn.

When the weather turns, Fiesta Fun Family Fun Center delivers bowling and group activities for all ages.

Pack snacks and water, plan around meals and naps, and mix indoor with outdoor play for a smooth family adventure in Southern Utah.

Southern Utah’s art scene comes alive this January with a series of exciting exhibitions and events highlighting the area’s creative pulse.

St. George’s Red Cliff Gallery welcomes visitors to the “America on the Road Art Exhibit” starting January 9, 2026.

Guests will encounter a wide range of works interpreting the American landscape, from hiking trails to abstract homages to Zion National Park’s grandeur. The show runs until February 5, featuring an opening reception and awards ceremony from 6 to 8 p.m. on opening night.

In Cedar City, SUMA unveils three new exhibitions on January 17, exploring Art Nouveau, affordable art’s early days, and Bianca Velasquez’s playful take on trophies and achievement.

Salt Lake City’s UMOCA debuts “Altered States in the Acid West” on January 16, gathering 23 artists to rethink myths and symbols of the American frontier in dreamlike, cinematic ways.

Southern Utah’s winter art programs promise inspiration and discovery for every art lover.

Utah homeowners are facing rising insurance rates and the threat of policy cancellations after new state wildfire risk maps identified nearly 60,000 structures as high risk.

The High-Risk Wildland Urban Interface map, released by the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire & State Lands, is part of a 2025 law requiring insurers to use these maps in their risk evaluations.

Residents like Steve Friend and Jarice Butterfield in Dammeron Valley worry the maps ignore property-specific fire mitigation, unfairly classifying their homes.

Even those just outside the high-risk areas, such as Tom Mertz in Desert Canyons, are reporting premium hikes.

Local leaders have formed committees to protect homeowner insurability and call for more detailed risk assessments.

The state stresses the new system creates consistency and offers an appeals process, while urging residents to stay proactive about wildfire prevention.

With the holiday season nearing, many families consider welcoming a new pet, but experts urge thoughtful decision-making before gifting animals.

Best Friends Animal Society encourages adoption, emphasizing the dual benefit: giving a shelter animal a second chance and aiding the no-kill movement locally.

This year, shelters face greater strain, caring for roughly 245,000 more dogs and cats than last holiday season.

Families should prepare for the responsibilities of pet care and commitment.

Instead of surprising loved ones, consider gifting a shelter adoption certificate so new owners can choose the right companion together.

Supporting local shelters saves lives—both the adopted pet and another animal who gains a spot.

For those unable to commit to adoption, fostering during the holidays provides short-term, life-saving help for overcrowded shelters.

Choosing adoption ensures a meaningful, compassionate holiday gift that truly changes lives.

St. George welcomes the new year with the annual Chilly Willy 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon set for Saturday, January 3, 2026.

Starting at 9:00 AM from the picturesque Crosby Family Confluence Park, runners of every level can choose from three race distances or participate virtually.

Every participant receives a stylish long-sleeve shirt and finisher medal, with chip-timed races and awards for top finishers in several age categories.

Registration is tiered, rewarding early sign-ups with guaranteed race swag in their preferred size.

The event offers an energizing way to launch 2026 while connecting with a growing local community.

Recent highlights include a 55% surge in job listings, a new REI opening in fall 2025, and a modern city hall coming next year.

St. George remains a lively center for winter fun and new opportunities.

Utah’s beef prices soared to $6.32 per pound in August 2025, skyrocketing from the $1.71 average seen in 2022.

This dramatic rise comes as cattle inventories shrink, input costs climb, and consumer demand remains steady. For ranchers, current market conditions mean higher short-term profits.

However, persistent drought and expensive herd rebuilding pose serious long-term risks, forcing many to reduce cattle numbers through widespread sell-offs. The closure of major processing plants, like Tyson Foods in Nebraska, has further disrupted the already-stressed supply chain and left a noticeable impact on local communities and beef availability.

Shoppers now face ground beef prices topping $6 per pound—a jump of 10.3% from last year—prompting some to switch to other proteins or buy less beef.

Experts warn stabilization could take years as climate challenges and economic pressures linger, keeping both buyers and ranchers navigating high prices and scarce supply.

Southern Utah’s night sky will be a spectacular stage this December, offering dazzling astronomical displays for residents and visitors.

The Geminid meteor shower peaks on December 13 and 14, sending up to 120 vivid streaks per hour across the dark sky. These bright, multicolored meteors—originating from asteroid 3200 Phaethon—are best viewed away from city lights, with eyes turned toward the constellation Gemini.

On December 4, a supermoon will rise in the east, appearing strikingly large and luminous—about 8% bigger and 15% brighter than usual. It’s a can’t-miss moment for moon lovers just after sunset.

The month closes with a planetary show as Saturn and the waxing crescent moon align in the southern sky on December 26, while Jupiter shines brilliantly throughout December.

Bundle up, find a dark spot, and enjoy nature’s celestial showcase under Southern Utah’s legendary clear skies.

With winter’s arrival in Hurricane Valley, the fire department is urging residents to be vigilant about chimney safety as creosote buildup raises the risk of dangerous fires.

Fire Chief John Smith stresses that creosote, created when wood burns incompletely, can quickly accumulate inside chimneys and catch fire if left unchecked.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), annual chimney inspections and cleanings are essential for preventing fires.

Homeowners should watch for warning signs like hard-to-start fires, poor draft, or strange odors, which often signal it’s time for maintenance.

This winter, local chimney sweep services are offering special discounts on inspections and cleanings to help keep households safe.

The fire department also recommends burning only seasoned hardwood and steering clear of damp wood, which accelerates creosote buildup.

Proactive steps and regular upkeep ensure warm, safe fireplaces all winter long.

Utah retirees will see a 2.8% boost in Social Security payments starting January 2026, adding roughly $56 per month on average.

This adjustment from the Social Security Administration aims to help local beneficiaries keep pace with rising costs as inflation impacts daily expenses.

Utah’s economy remains strong, with a low 3.1% unemployment rate in 2024 and the nation’s top real GDP growth at 4.6% through most of the year.

However, high housing prices continue to squeeze pocketbooks.

The state’s median home sale price reached $500,000 by December 2024, making it especially tough for first-time buyers to enter the market.

Although the COLA increase offers some relief, many seniors worry it won’t fully cover escalating costs, with 77% of older Americans saying the adjustment is not enough.

A heartwarming tale from a beloved St. George author is shining a festive light across the community this holiday season.

She fondly recalls a childhood Christmas Eve transformed by a neighbor’s unexpected act of kindness, a memory now resonating with locals as a symbol of generosity and warmth.

St. George’s holiday calendar is bustling, echoing the spirit of her story.

The popular St. George Christmas Village runs through December 20, inviting families to enjoy live entertainment, decorated gingerbread houses, and sweet moments with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The Dickens Christmas Festival at the Dixie Convention Center enchants visitors with Victorian-era vendors and carolers from December 3 to 6.

At Tuacahn’s Christmas in the Canyon, twinkling lights brighten the red cliffs, with a live nativity and festive train rides.

Together, these traditions and the author’s cherished story highlight the spirit of togetherness in St. George during the holidays.

In Southern Utah, a respected law firm has brought the community together through a special holiday gift drive aimed at brightening the season for local foster children.

Understanding the extra challenges foster youth face during the holidays, the firm coordinated efforts to collect toys and much-needed essentials for the area’s 1,700 children in foster care.

The response was overwhelming as residents and businesses joined forces, reaffirming the region's deep-rooted commitment to supporting vulnerable kids.

Beyond the gifts, participants hope to send a lasting message of love and belonging to those who may be feeling isolated or far from family this season.

Locals looking to make an impact can connect with initiatives like Utah Foster Care’s ‘Adopt a Foster Family’ program, helping ensure every child feels the warmth of community care.

Southern Utah’s generosity is creating lasting holiday memories and hope for foster children across the region.

Communities across the country are coming together this holiday season to uplift local seniors through heartwarming ‘Giving Tree’ initiatives.

In Fort Myers, Florida, the Gulf Coast Giving Tree and the Kiwanis Club are celebrating 39 years of service, aiming to deliver over 3,600 gifts to senior citizens.

Residents select wish tags from trees at area Ford dealerships, shop for requested gifts, and return them by December 12.

Up north in Norwich, New York, the Chenango County Area Agency on Aging will gather donations like slippers and winterwear for its third annual senior ‘Giving Tree’ until December 17.

Meanwhile, Texarkana, Arkansas hosts the ‘Santas for Seniors’ program, where residents adopt seniors beginning November 20.

These efforts offer much-needed connection and cheer for elderly neighbors, helping fight holiday loneliness.

Locals are invited to contact their area agency or community center to join in brightening this season for seniors.

The Region 9 girls basketball race heated up as the Panthers, Warriors, and Flyers each notched crucial road wins, exciting fans across the area.

In a dramatic showdown, the Panthers pulled off a narrow victory, relying on grit and late-game composure to secure the result in the final seconds.

The Warriors also impressed with a gritty performance, using sharp strategy and teamwork to edge out a tough opponent in a closely fought battle.

Meanwhile, the Flyers dominated from the opening tip, delivering a commanding win powered by a balanced offense and tenacious defense that left the home team struggling to keep up.

These thrilling games highlight the intense competition in Region 9 girls basketball, promising even more action as the season unfolds.

St. George city leaders are weighing the possibility of building a second animal shelter to combat ongoing overcrowding and better serve the area’s rising number of pets.

The City Council will discuss this proposal at an upcoming meeting, seeking to boost the community’s ability to care for strays and surrendered animals.

April Jewell from St. George Animal Shelter stresses that capacity limitations often force long waitlists and place extra demands on staff to ensure animal health and well-being.

The current shelter can house 36 dogs and 30 cats, but demand regularly outpaces available space, a trend linked to both area growth and changes in residents’ lifestyles.

Supporters, including locals George and Jonnie Mahron, believe an additional shelter will give more pets a chance at safe housing.

The public is encouraged to share input at the upcoming council meeting on December 18, as the city looks to improve care for its growing animal population.

St. George is entering a period of rapid change as the City Council approves key projects along St. George Boulevard.

A standout addition is a 199-unit apartment complex at Tech Ridge, slated to deliver hundreds of new homes and nearly 400 parking spaces between Donlee Drive and Tech Ridge Drive. Supported by a 4-1 council vote, this project hopes to draw tech professionals closer to work and advance the city’s vision for a lively tech hub.

Alongside new housing, the Utah Department of Transportation is spearheading vital upgrades on the boulevard, enhancing road surfaces, pedestrian ramps, and electrical systems. Work is expected to wrap by November 2025, promising a safer, more efficient corridor.

To boost economic options, an update to the Bloomington Courtyard PD-C use list will open the door for a broader variety of businesses, increasing amenities for locals.

Residents are encouraged to stay engaged as these projects move forward.

St. George, Utah stands out as a dynamic hub for job growth, seeing a remarkable 55% surge in job postings since the pandemic.

The city’s booming healthcare and leisure sectors are leading this charge, while a rise in professional services—like marketing and accounting—has broadened its economic base.

St. George’s strong entrepreneurial spirit has garnered national recognition, recently ranking as the second-best small city in the country to start a business.

Yet, rapid success brings challenges. Cost of living is now 8% above the U.S. average, and soaring housing costs are pricing out many locals.

Water scarcity is also a concern, prompting local officials to adopt strict rules on high-water-use projects.

Tourism faces uncertainty with possible national park fee hikes for foreign visitors, which could affect the broader economy.

Addressing these hurdles will be key to St. George’s long-term vitality.

Hurricane, Utah—A local nonprofit, Self-Help Homes, is making homeownership possible for dozens of families in Washington County and beyond.

Since 2000, the group has helped build over 636 homes across Utah, including 59 in Washington County within the last eight years alone.

In 2024, Self-Help Homes launched 30 new projects and completed 25, focusing on low- and very low-income families.

Through the Mutual Self-Help Housing Program, participants work side by side—gaining sweat equity and building lasting connections.

Families not only create homes but also learn valuable skills while fostering a sense of belonging.

Key infrastructure projects, such as new subdivisions in Heber City and Hurricane, add modern amenities and connectivity for future residents.

This local initiative is transforming lives and neighborhoods, empowering families to achieve stability and pride through collaborative effort.

Utah's tallest digital Christmas tree is transforming the St. George skyline this holiday season with an extraordinary display that captures the attention of residents and travelers alike.

The massive 80-foot installation at Dixie Power's Bloomington building features

St. George, Utah is alive with excitement as the 38th Huntsman World Senior Games bring together nearly 12,000 athletes from across 28 countries.

All participants are aged 50 and older, competing in sports from tennis and cycling to power walking and cowboy action shooting.

This global event is not only the largest Olympic-style competition for seniors but also a major economic boon, generating around $42 million for the local community in just two weeks.

Behind the scenes, 3,000 devoted volunteers—like Stan and Sherril Rasmussen and Bruce Pickett—play a vital role, often working long hours to welcome guests and support competitions.

Local businesses, including popular spots like Bee Sweet ice cream, see a surge in customers, reflecting the event’s far-reaching impact.

The Games highlight the strong spirit of community, service, and international friendship that defines St. George year after year.

Utah Tech University is inviting St. George residents to join the lively celebrations of Homecoming Week, capturing the energy and pride of Trailblazer Nation.

Festivities begin September 24 with the Miss Utah Tech competition, highlighting student talent and grace at the Eccles Fine Arts Center.

On September 27, the Encampment Mall transforms for the Homecoming Carnival & Car Show, followed by a concert under the stars with the Utah Tech Orchestra and vibrant fireworks in Town Square.

The parade on September 28 brings families together on University Avenue, before the Trailblazer Village tailgate and an exciting football showdown against Abilene Christian.

These cherished events underscore the city’s dynamic growth, marked by projects like the regional airport expansion and a new city hall, alongside new businesses such as REI coming soon.

All are welcome to celebrate community spirit and the ongoing evolution of St. George.

As St. George’s new City Hall prepares to open, excitement is growing for a remarkable new addition: a sculpture by Jerry Anderson, a celebrated artist known for his poignant tributes to local history.

At 90 years old, Anderson credits his wife, Fawn, for her unwavering encouragement through their 71-year marriage.

Fawn, once a high school cheerleader, has remained steadfast by Anderson’s side, even supporting his creative work after enduring a recent stroke.

The new sculpture was inspired by the enduring love of St. George pioneers David and Wilhelmina Cannon, capturing a tender moment when David presented Wilhelmina with a sego lily — now Utah’s state flower.

Historian Richard Whitehead personally funded the $115,000 work, honoring local resilience and lasting community spirit.

The artwork will be unveiled in January, celebrating love stories that continue to shape St. George.

St. George, Utah’s transportation scene is undergoing major shifts, touching the lives of both commuters and families across the region.

Federal funding for a critical I-15 highway expansion was rescinded in August 2025, stalling plans to address growing congestion with new underpasses and additional lanes.

Local leaders and residents now face worsening traffic issues as alternative solutions are explored.

In a welcome turn, city officials ensured the preservation of a significant dinosaur fossil site by relocating a planned power substation, keeping this scientific treasure available for research and education.

Meanwhile, Wasatch County’s debate over naming a new high school saw community members push back on the proposed train-themed “Iron Horse High,” prompting fresh surveys to better reflect local values.

Residents from Ogden to Provo have noticed louder, more frequent train horns since late 2024, following federal safety reviews.

Iron County’s new rail transloading facility, opened in June 2024, is set to strengthen regional business logistics.

Southern Utah’s rivers remain the backbone of recreation and local economies, but they face mounting pressure from historic low water flows in the Colorado River and its tributaries.

Flows measured near Westwater Canyon have dropped dramatically—down nearly 50% in recent drought years—due to a blend of climate change and reservoir operations, according to Dr. Jack Schmidt of Utah State University.

Outfitters like Holiday River Expeditions and Zion Tubing have been forced to adapt, with altered trip itineraries, unpredictable bookings, and increased reliance on makeshift river access points.

Operators report resilient business and safe conditions, but financially strained by rising equipment costs and infrastructure limitations.

Communities along the San Juan and Virgin Rivers face uncertainty, prompting renewed calls for regional collaboration and updating century-old water policies.

Despite daunting changes, the ingenuity and determination of local residents shine, helping to safeguard the future of Southern Utah’s rivers.