The St. George Parade of Homes

Every February, the St. George Area Parade of Homes turns house-touring into a two-week event, and it draws thousands, not just people shopping for a home, but plenty who just love seeing what the builders are up to. If you are moving here, thinking of building, or just nosy about houses, it is worth planning around.

What it is

Local builders open 30-plus brand-new homes to the public for self-guided touring. It is billed as the largest parade of its kind in the state, and it runs across a couple of weeks in February, smart timing, since the weather is mild while much of the country is frozen.

Why it is actually useful

Beyond the fun of walking through gorgeous new builds, the Parade is the fastest way to understand the St. George new-construction market in one trip. You get to see which builders do what, what current finishes and floor plans look like, and how the newer communities feel, all in an afternoon or two. If you are house-hunting, it is genuinely efficient research disguised as a good time.

How it works

You buy a ticket (usually a booklet or wristband good for the run of the show) and tour at your own pace with a map. Popular homes get busy on weekends, so weekday visits are calmer. Wear shoes you can slip off, since many homes ask you to.

Come for the eye candy, leave with a real feel for what building or buying new here looks like.