Monday, December 6, 2010

A Note About Christmas Lights at Temple Square

Salt Lake Temple at Christmas


Many of my Christmas light images, (and spring flower images), are taken at Temple Square.   Several of you have asked "What is Temple Square?",  so I thought I'd better give a brief explanation.  Temple Square is located in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah.  It is about a city block (I think) and is the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  It includes the beautiful Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle, several visitors centers, the large Conference Center where the Mormon Tabernacle Choir sings, church office buildings, plus beautiful fountains, a reflecting pool, and beautifully cultivated gardens.  In the springtime it is glorious with a flower display that will take your breath away, and at Christmas time, the lights are dazzling.  Also, during the Christmas season there are concerts, shows, beautiful scenes depicting the birth of Christ, and an amazing free extravaganza with the Choir and orchestra and always several famous guest artists.  I believe this year I heard on the radio that of the million and a half people who have requested tickets, 85,000 will be able to see the performance this year.  My husband and I saw it several years ago and it was the highlight of our Christmas season that year.  For Christians, Temple Square is a wonderful place to feel the spirit and true meaning of Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. 

(It's hard to tell in this low resolution image, but I have used some creative effects to make it look a bit more like a painting, and I just made a big print to frame and put on an easel by my fireplace as part of my Christmas decorations.)

16 comments:

Unknown said...

A great night photograph Karen.
Have a great day.
Costas

From the Kitchen said...

Beautiful and very special. I don't know what I was thinking since I knew where you lived!! I've never seen it in person, but have much enjoyed the magnificent choir and surroundings for many holiday seasons.

Best,
Bonnie

Unknown said...

Karen, a wonderful shot. Such a gorgeous place!

SouthernSass said...

This is very beautiful!

MadSnapper said...

thanks Karen, i did wonder about it. so beautiful no matter what time of the year.

Charlene N. K. said...

Great shot with spectacular lighting! I like all the lights.

Lisa said...

You're so lucky to be able to see the temple lights at the SLC Temple. That's definitely my goal someday. For now, I'll have to be content with the lights at the LA Temple. By the way, I'm holding a giveaway on my blog for Orglamix Organic makeup and you're welcome to come by and enter. http://sweet-as-sugar-cookies.blogspot.com/2010/12/orglamix-organic-mineral-makeup-review.html

Thoughtfully Blended Hearts said...

This image is breathtaking...such a beautiful and "living" testament to the Mormon faith...

Tanna said...

I can see why you would make that a part of your Christmas decorations! It looks soooo big and beautiful!

Anonymous said...

your photo is stunning! wow, so glad you made an image of it!

Ginny Hartzler said...

Of course I knew about the Mormon Temple there, but I had no idea about the Square and all the things they decorate with! The treees look on fire!! Is that mostly lights? And I also love the inky black sky.

Justine said...

how absolutely stunning, what a beautiful shot.

diane b said...

Great night shot and a beautiful subject.

Bluekat said...

Thanks for the explanation. I've seen a few photos of the Salt Lake Temple, but hadn't seen or heard much about the surrounding grounds. It must be quite special to visit in person. Especially in the various seasons and holidays.

Anonymous said...

This is a beautiful nighttime photograph. I've been to Salt Lake City once, many years ago. I went there on business. It is a lovely city.

Unknown said...

Way too cool! Very inspiring!Thank you for generously sharing this insights. I also wanna share this christmas lights that we have. This would surely be of great help to you.