Beyond lights and markets, Denver offers unique winter experiences throughout the city. Skate for free at the Downtown skating rink, visit Zoo Lights to see animals alongside millions of twinkling lights, or walk through Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens. From ice skating to immersive light displays, Denver provides memorable holiday attractions against the Rocky Mountain backdrop.
Ugly Sweater 5K Run/Walk
Location: Denver
Dates: Sunday, December 21, 2025
Cost: $30
The Ugly Sweater 5K Run/Walk at Washington Park invites participants of all ages to don their most outrageous holiday sweaters and join in a fun, festive race. Participants will receive a race logo shirt and a finisher's medal, with food tables and fully stocked aid stations available along the course to enhance the experience.
Highlights:
- A fun and festive 5K run/walk event perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
- Receive a race logo shirt and a finisher's medal upon completion.
- Enjoy a lively atmosphere with finish line food tables and fully stocked aid stations.
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9NEWS Parade of Lights
Location: Denver
Dates: Saturday, December 6
Cost: FREE
The 9NEWS Parade of Lights in Downtown Denver showcases over 40 dazzling floats, each uniquely decorated for the holidays. This beloved holiday tradition features special guest appearances, including Santa Claus and Major Waddles the penguin, with performances from talented marching bands adding to the festive atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Witness Denver's favorite holiday tradition, the 9NEWS Parade of Lights.
- See special guest appearances from Major Waddles the penguin and Santa Claus.
- Experience the magic of the parade lighting up Downtown Denver.
Broomfield Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Location: Broomfield
Dates: Friday, December 5, 2025, 6 to 8 p.m.
Cost: FREE
The Broomfield Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at the George Di Ciero City and County Building brings the community together to welcome Santa Claus and witness the lighting of the holiday tree. Attendees can enjoy festive wagon rides, caroling with local children, and the opportunity to meet Santa and share their holiday wishes.
Venue: George Di Ciero City and County Building
Address: 1 Descombes Dr, Broomfield, CO 80020
Phone: 303-460-6912
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Welcome Santa Claus to Broomfield in this annual community tradition.
- Experience the magic of the holiday tree lighting ceremony.
- Enjoy a festive holiday wagon ride.
Lights of December Parade
Location: Boulder
Dates: Saturday, December 13, 2025
Cost: $$
The Lights of December Parade in Downtown Boulder features vibrant community-driven floats and concludes with the exciting arrival of Santa Claus. Participants can decorate their own floats or join in the festive celebration, enjoying the illuminated parade route winding through the downtown area.
Highlights:
- A vibrant holiday parade featuring community-driven floats.
- The exciting arrival of Santa Claus to conclude the event.
- A festive celebration of lights and community spirit.
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The Polar Express Train Ride
Location: Golden
Dates: November 7 - December 23
Cost: $$
The Polar Express Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum offers an authentic steam-powered journey to the North Pole, complete with live theatrical performances and holiday caroling. Guests will enjoy a magical experience that includes meeting Santa Claus and receiving a special gift during this enchanting adventure.
Venue: Colorado Railroad Museum
Address: 17155 W. 44th Avenue, Golden, CO 80403
Phone: 303-279-4591
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A magical journey aboard an authentic steam-powered train to the North Pole.
- An immersive theatrical experience with live performances and storytelling.
- A chance to meet Santa Claus and receive a special gift.
Parade of Lights
Location: Erie
Dates: Friday, December 5th, 2025, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM MST (Parade begins at 6:30 PM)
Cost: FREE
The Parade of Lights in Historic Downtown Erie features a dazzling display of illuminated floats, free carriage rides, and holiday carols performed by local school choirs. Attendees can enjoy a festive atmosphere while sharing their holiday wishes with Santa and Mrs. Claus during this annual community celebration.
Venue: Historic Downtown Erie/Coal Creek Park
Address: Erie, CO
Phone: (303) 828-3440
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience the magic of the annual Parade of Lights.
- Enjoy free carriage rides and a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
- Listen to local school choirs perform holiday carols.
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Mile High Tree Light & Music Show - City & County of Denver Building
Location: Downtown Denver
Dates: November 21, 2025 - January 26, 2026
Cost: Free
The annual Light the Lights Celebration marks the official start of Denver's holiday season with the illumination of the City and County Building. The event features a live ceremony with remarks from Mayor Mike Johnston and the first lighting of the season. The building will be lit nightly with a new light and music show featuring all-new arrangements of classic holiday songs with an epic, cinematic twist. The show runs nightly from November 21, 2025, through January 26, 2026.
Venue: City and County Building
Address: 1437 Bannock Street, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (720) 913-1311
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Annual Light the Lights Ceremony with Mayor Mike Johnston
- Nightly light and music show with new holiday arrangements
- Live stream available on Denver 8 TV and City's Facebook page
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McGregor Skate at McGregor Square
Location: Denver
Dates: November 28, 2025 - January 25, 2026
Cost: $
Denver's premier downtown ice skating rink opens at McGregor Square near Coors Field, offering ice skating for all ages with skate rentals available. The grand opening features a free ice skating performance, tree lighting ceremony, holiday movie screening, and photos with Santa, making it a complete holiday destination.
Venue: McGregor Square Plaza
Address: 1901 Wazee Street, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 303-722-1700
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Grand opening November 28 with free ice skating performance at 5:30 PM
- Tree lighting ceremony and photos with Santa
- Outdoor bar and holiday movie screenings
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Evergreen Lake Ice Skating
Location: Evergreen
Dates: Throughout winter season (weather dependent)
Cost: $
Experience North America's largest outdoor Zamboni-groomed ice skating rink at Evergreen Lake. This natural ice rink offers ice skating, hockey, and broomball in a stunning mountain setting. The New Year's Eve Icefest celebration makes this a special holiday destination.
Venue: Evergreen Lake
Address: 29612 Upper Bear Creek Road, Evergreen, CO 80439
Phone: 720-880-1100
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Largest outdoor Zamboni-groomed rink in North America
- New Year's Eve Icefest special celebration
- Natural ice skating in beautiful mountain setting
The RINK at Belmar
Location: Lakewood
Dates: November 21, 2025 - January 2026
Cost: $
The RINK at Belmar transforms the shopping district plaza into a festive outdoor ice skating destination. Opening November 21, this family-friendly rink offers a lively atmosphere with nearby shopping and dining options in Lakewood's premier retail district.
Venue: Belmar Shopping District
Address: Wadsworth Boulevard and Alaska Avenue, Lakewood, CO 80226
Phone: 303-742-1520
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Outdoor ice rink in popular shopping district
- Family-friendly atmosphere with nearby amenities
- Opens November 21 for the season
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Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park
Location: Denver
Dates: November 2025 - February 2026
Cost: $
The seasonal outdoor ice rink at Skyline Park in the heart of downtown Denver offers skating surrounded by city lights and skyscrapers. This popular downtown destination gets especially lively on weekends and holidays, creating a festive urban skating experience.
Highlights:
- Downtown location surrounded by skyscrapers
- Lively atmosphere especially on weekends
- Central downtown skating destination
Aurora Holiday Tree Lighting
Location: Aurora
Dates: December 2, 2025
Cost: FREE
Aurora's annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony brings the community together for a festive celebration featuring treats, live performances, and a special visit from Santa Claus. This family-friendly event marks the official start of the holiday season in Aurora.
Venue: Aurora Municipal Center
Address: 15151 E Alameda Parkway, Aurora, CO 80012
Phone: 303-739-7000
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Annual community tree lighting ceremony
- Live performances and entertainment
- Photos with Santa Claus and holiday treats
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McGregor Square Tree Lighting
Location: Denver
Dates: November 28, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Cost: FREE
McGregor Square hosts its annual tree lighting ceremony featuring the illumination of a spectacular Christmas tree, live performances, and ice skating activities. This downtown Denver celebration includes photos with Santa and festive entertainment for the whole family.
Venue: McGregor Square
Address: 1901 Wazee Street, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 303-722-1700
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Tree lighting ceremony at 6:00 PM
- Live performances and ice skating
- Photos with Santa and festive entertainment
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Denver New Year's Eve Fireworks
Location: Denver
Dates: December 31, 2025 at 9:00 PM and 12:00 AM
Cost: FREE
Downtown Denver celebrates New Year's Eve with two spectacular fireworks displays at 9 PM and midnight, best viewed from the 16th Street Mall. These free public shows light up the Denver skyline and are accompanied by celebrations at venues throughout downtown.
Highlights:
- Two fireworks shows: 9 PM and midnight
- Best views from 16th Street Mall
- Free public celebration to ring in 2026
The Official Christmas Bar Crawl
Location: Denver
Dates: December 20, 2025 at 5:00 PM
Cost: $$
The Official Christmas Bar Crawl takes participants through Denver's top bars and venues for a festive adult celebration. Featuring drink specials, party wristbands, and a guided crawl through the best holiday-decorated bars, this event offers a unique way to celebrate the season.
Highlights:
- Guided crawl through top Denver bars
- Festive atmosphere with drink specials
- Party wristbands and holiday-themed venues
Englewood Holiday Express Train Rides
Location: Englewood
Dates: December 5-6 and 12-13, 2025, 3:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Cost: $
Belleview Farm presents the Englewood Holiday Express featuring miniature train rides, hot cocoa, and Santa visits in a festive farm setting. This family-friendly event transforms the farm into a holiday wonderland perfect for young children and families.
Venue: Belleview Farm
Address: 5001 S Quebec Street, Englewood, CO 80111
Phone: 303-762-2575
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Miniature train rides through decorated farm
- Hot cocoa and Santa visits
- Family-friendly festive atmosphere
Very Merry Karaoke at Punch Bowl Social
Location: Denver
Dates: Every Friday in November and December, 9:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Cost: $
Punch Bowl Social hosts Very Merry Karaoke every Friday in November and December, combining holiday karaoke with arcade games, drink specials, and festive fun. New attendees receive a free arcade card, making this a unique holiday entertainment experience.
Venue: Punch Bowl Social
Address: 65 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
Phone: 303-765-2695
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Holiday karaoke every Friday night
- Arcade games and drink specials
- Free arcade card for new attendees
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Santa Express Train - Royal Gorge Route
Location: Cañon City
Dates: Multiple daily departures throughout December 2025
Cost: $$$
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad's Santa Express offers a magical train journey through the spectacular Royal Gorge to the 'North Pole.' Featuring a new holiday locomotive, festive meals, Christmas music, and Santa giving each child a special gift, this is Colorado's premier holiday train experience.
Venue: Royal Gorge Route Railroad
Address: 401 Water Street, Cañon City, CO 81212
Phone: 888-724-5748
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Scenic train ride through Royal Gorge to North Pole
- New holiday locomotive and festive decorations
- Santa gives each child a special gift
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Georgetown Loop Railroad Santa Trains
Location: Georgetown
Dates: Special holiday schedules throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Georgetown Loop Railroad presents Santa's Lighted Forest with nighttime rides through over 300,000 lights, featuring Santa on board. The Santa's Rocky Mountain Adventure daytime rides offer holiday fun with scenic mountain views, making this a classic Colorado holiday train experience.
Venue: Georgetown Loop Railroad
Address: 646 Loop Drive, Georgetown, CO 80444
Phone: 888-456-6777
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Night rides through 300,000+ lights with Santa
- Daytime Rocky Mountain Adventure with Santa
- Scenic mountain railroad experience
Fresh Holiday Wreath Workshop
Location: Parker
Dates: December 6, 2025, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Cost: $$
Pine Lane Nursery hosts a hands-on Fresh Holiday Wreath Workshop where participants create their own holiday wreaths using fresh greens, berries, supplies, and a festive bow. This creative holiday activity is perfect for crafters and those seeking unique holiday décor.
Highlights:
- Create your own fresh holiday wreath
- All supplies included: greens, berries, bow
- Expert instruction and festive atmosphere
Brunch with Father Christmas
Location: Denver
Dates: December 13, 2025
Cost: $$
Four Mile Historic Park presents Brunch with Father Christmas, featuring a seated brunch buffet, festive entertainment, and activities for families. This unique holiday event combines delicious food with traditional Father Christmas character visits in a historic setting.
Venue: Four Mile Historic Park
Address: 715 S Forest Street, Denver, CO 80246
Phone: 720-865-0800
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Seated brunch buffet with Father Christmas
- Festive entertainment and family activities
- Historic park setting with holiday atmosphere
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Winter Solstice Night Brunch
Location: Denver
Dates: December 20, 2025
Cost: $$
Four Mile Historic Park celebrates the winter solstice with a special Night Brunch featuring festive dining and entertainment. This unique event marks the longest night of the year with seasonal food, live performances, and a celebration of winter traditions.
Venue: Four Mile Historic Park
Address: 715 S Forest Street, Denver, CO 80246
Phone: 720-865-0800
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Special winter solstice celebration
- Festive night brunch with entertainment
- Celebration of winter traditions and longest night
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Chase the Glow 5K
Location: Estes Park
Dates: December 12, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Cost: $$
Estes Park's Chase the Glow 5K run/walk takes participants through dazzling holiday lights, finishing at Bond Park with hot cocoa and cookies. The first 300 registrants receive a custom beanie, and participants are encouraged to wear Christmas lights for added festive fun.
Highlights:
- 4-mile run/walk through holiday lights
- Custom beanie for first 300 registrants
- Hot cocoa and cookies at finish line
Sleigh the Games Weekend
Location: Estes Park
Dates: December 12-14, 2025
Cost: $
Estes Park's newest winter festival offers a weekend packed with games and activities for all ages, including the Sweets Stroll featuring treats from local shops, live ice sculpting, holiday markets, character visits with Santa and princesses, and glitter tattoos for kids.
Highlights:
- Weekend of games and winter activities
- Sweets Stroll with treats from local shops
- Santa visits, princesses, and ice sculpting
Estes Park Pixel Pine Light Show
Location: Estes Park
Dates: November 22, 2025 - January 1, 2026, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM nightly
Cost: FREE
Bond Park's Pixel Pine tree presents Colorado's only synchronized light show, transforming a pine tree into a spectacular musical display. This nightly show from November 22 through January 1 features holiday music and cutting-edge lighting technology in a mountain setting.
Highlights:
- Colorado's only Pixel Pine tree light show
- Synchronized to holiday music nightly
- Mountain setting in Estes Park
The Greenbriar Inn Christmas Eve Dinner
Location: Boulder
Dates: December 24, 2025, 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM seatings
Cost: $$$
The Greenbriar Inn presents a spectacular Christmas Eve dinner buffet featuring chef-carved prime rib, roast leg of lamb, holiday duck, salmon, festive sides, appetizers, and a dessert buffet. This elegant Boulder tradition offers multiple seatings in a charming mountain inn setting.
Venue: The Greenbriar Inn
Address: 8735 North Foothills Highway, Boulder, CO 80302
Phone: 303-440-7979
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Spectacular buffet with prime rib, lamb, duck, and salmon
- Elegant mountain inn setting
- Multiple seating times available
Elway's Downtown Holiday Dining
Location: Denver
Dates: December 24, 2025
Cost: $$$
Elway's Downtown at The Ritz-Carlton Denver offers festive à la carte Christmas Eve dinner with specialties like Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, Duck Breast, and a Peppermint White Chocolate Sphere dessert. Complimentary valet parking and elegant Ritz-Carlton ambiance make this a premier holiday dining experience.
Venue: Elway's Downtown at The Ritz-Carlton
Address: 1881 Curtis Street, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 303-312-3107
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Upscale Christmas Eve à la carte dining
- Signature dishes and holiday specialties
- Complimentary valet parking at Ritz-Carlton
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The Ritz-Carlton Denver Holiday Brunch
Location: Denver
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
The Ritz-Carlton Denver presents a family-friendly holiday brunch buffet featuring omelets, pastries, a cookie decorating station, and visits with Santa. This elegant brunch includes complimentary valet parking and creates memorable holiday experiences for families.
Venue: The Ritz-Carlton Denver
Address: 1881 Curtis Street, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 303-312-3800
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Family-friendly brunch buffet with cookie decorating
- Santa visits for photos and holiday cheer
- Complimentary valet parking included
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Cumbres & Toltec Holiday Express
Location: Antonito
Dates: December 6-7 and 12-14, 2025
Cost: $$
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad presents Holiday Express rides featuring hot cocoa and Santa visits on America's longest and highest narrow-gauge railroad. This unique mountain train experience combines spectacular scenery with holiday cheer.
Venue: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Address: 5234 B US-285, Antonito, CO 81120
Phone: 888-286-2737
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- America's longest narrow-gauge railroad
- Hot cocoa and Santa visits on board
- Spectacular mountain scenery
Foothills Mall Tree Lighting
Location: Fort Collins
Dates: November 22, 2025, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Cost: FREE
Foothills Mall hosts its annual Tree Lighting Celebration featuring the illumination of a grand Christmas tree, Santa visits, live entertainment, and festive activities for families. This Fort Collins tradition marks the beginning of the holiday season with community cheer.
Venue: Foothills Mall
Address: 215 E Foothills Parkway, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Phone: 970-226-2600
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony
- Santa visits and photos
- Live entertainment and family activities
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in Denver.