Moab Introduces New Holiday Tradition with Solar-Powered Festive Tree in the Desert

Published on December 3, 2025

This December, Moab, Utah, is adding a fresh twist to its holiday traditions with the debut of a unique, solar-powered festive tree in the Sand Flats Recreation Area. Unlike the bright city lights and towering conifer trees typically associated with the holiday season, Moab’s festive tree offers a quieter, more reflective way to celebrate winter, deeply rooted in the high desert landscape.

The 200-year-old Utah Pinyon pine tree, a natural wonder, stands proudly in the desert, gently illuminated with solar-powered lights from early December through early January. The soft, warm glow of the tree offers a serene invitation to visitors to slow down, look up, and embrace the calm of the desert night under the stars. It serves as a powerful reminder that wonder doesn’t always require excessive lighting or decoration. Instead, sometimes, it is simply found in the stillness of nature and the beauty of the open sky.

A Sustainable Celebration in the Heart of the Desert

What makes Moab’s festive tree so special is its commitment to sustainability and its deep respect for the surrounding environment. The tree is lit using 100% solar power, with a Goal Zero power bank and solar panel generously provided to ensure the project has minimal impact on the land. The tree lighting respects the natural landscape of Moab and complies with the town’s commitment to maintaining its dark skies, preserving the region’s stellar views and starry nights.

This new holiday tradition celebrates both the natural beauty and the resilience of the Pinyon pine—a species that has been thriving in the desert for centuries. The tree’s position in the Sand Flats Recreation Area highlights the importance of stewardship and reminds visitors to appreciate the native plants that make the region so unique.

Unlike the artificial trees found in bustling city squares, Moab’s festive tree has never been altered, moved, or cut down. It has stood in this spot for centuries, symbolizing a timeless connection between the land and the people who call it home. This tree represents Moab’s enduring relationship with nature and offers a moment of quiet reflection in a fast-paced world.

Holiday Events Across Moab

In addition to the stunning festive tree, Moab will host several other holiday events throughout December to bring joy to both locals and visitors alike.

• Moab’s Annual Bridge Lighting: Kicking off the festive season, Moab will illuminate the Colorado River Corridor with a warm holiday glow on Thursday, December 4. The official bridge lighting will begin at 6:00 p.m., and families can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while awaiting the magic of the season. Santa will also make an appearance, ready for photos with eager families.
• Swanny City Park Tree Lighting: On Friday, December 5, Moab will host its annual tree lighting ceremony at Swanny City Park, starting at 5:00 p.m. This beloved event will also feature carolers and an additional visit from Santa, making it a festive occasion for all ages.

These events complement the solar-powered festive tree and reinforce Moab’s reputation as a unique winter travel destination that blends nature with seasonal celebrations.

Respecting the Desert and Preserving its Beauty

Moab’s new holiday tradition is not just about lights and celebrations. It’s also about protecting the environment and ensuring that the beauty of the desert is preserved for future generations. The festive tree invites visitors to engage with the land thoughtfully and respectfully, urging them to stay on designated trails and rock surfaces to protect the fragile desert soil. Visitors are asked to avoid adding decorations or leaving items behind to ensure the area remains pristine and undisturbed.

As part of Moab’s low-impact celebration philosophy, this holiday season encourages a deeper connection with nature and a more contemplative approach to the holidays. Whether under the tree’s soft glow in the desert or at one of the town’s festive gatherings, Moab provides an opportunity to reconnect with the quieter side of the season.

A Holiday Experience in Harmony with Nature

Moab’s introduction of a solar-powered festive tree marks the beginning of a new holiday tradition that celebrates the region’s unique beauty, its respect for nature, and the peaceful rhythm of the desert. With its soft glow against the backdrop of Moab’s dark skies, this tree invites visitors to slow down and experience the holidays in a more meaningful way.

Coupled with other festive events like the annual bridge lighting and tree lighting ceremony, Moab offers a truly distinctive holiday experience. This celebration encourages visitors to appreciate the simplicity of nature, sustainable travel, and the holiday season in a more contemplative and low-impact way.

For those looking to enjoy a holiday season that blends natural beauty with festive cheer, Moab is quickly becoming a must-visit destination this December.