Christmas Things To Do in Denver: Denver at Christmas - 2024
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Explore the magic of the holiday season in Denver with a curated list of festive activities, family-friendly attractions, cozy dining spots, and enchanting evening experiences.
Best Christmas Things To Do in Denver: (Jump To)
Union Station Christmas
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free to enter
Dates: Begins Nov. 29, 2024.
Union Station transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with holiday cheer as they explore the various shops and restaurants within the historic train station. Miracle at Union Station is a pop-up bar for adults featuring holiday-inspired cocktails.
On November 29th is the annual lighting of the Christmas tree in the Great Hall. The event includes live music and fun for the family. Throughout the season the tree stays illuminated, serving as a perfect backdrop for photos.
Sundays in December leading up to Christmas will be marked by visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The free event is scheduled from 11 am - 4 pm on Dec. 1, 8, 15, & 22.
Denver Botanic Gardens - Blossoms of Light
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free! Adults: $22-$31; Students: $24-$26
Dates: Nov. 20 – Jan. 12, 4:30-9 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)
The Denver Botanic Gardens offers a magical experience with its annual"Blossoms of Light display, where the gardens come alive with an array of colorful lights. This enchanting event features over a million lights artfully arranged in stunning displays that illuminate the gardens, creating a captivating evening experience. Visitors can wander through the pathways, marveling at the artistic light installations, while enjoying the crisp winter air. Hot cocoa and seasonal snacks are available for purchase, adding to the festive mood. It's a delightful outing for couples and families alike, providing a picturesque setting to celebrate the holiday season. Online tickets must be purchased in advance, walk-up tickets are not available.
Nutcracker at Ellie Caulkins Opera House
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Tickets range from $50-$195 per person
Dates: Nov. 30 - Dec. 29, 2024
Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky's classic ballet, The Nutcracker, performed by the Colorado Ballet at the beautiful Ellie Caulkins Opera House. This beloved holiday tradition features stunning choreography, beautiful sets, and the enchanting score that brings to life the story of Clara and her journey to the Land of Sweets. Families can create cherished memories while watching this captivating performance, which includes dazzling costumes and talented dancers. With multiple showings throughout the holiday season, it's a perfect outing for couples, families, or anyone looking to immerse themselves in the festive spirit of the season.
Denver Christmas Market (Denver Christkindlmarket)
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free admission, pay for food and goods
Dates: November 22 to December 23
Embrace the spirit of European holiday markets at the Denver Christmas Market, held in Civic Center Park. This festive market features charming wooden stalls selling unique handmade crafts, holiday decorations, and delicious food and beverages. Guests can savor traditional treats like bratwurst, pretzels, and mulled wine while browsing the artisanal offerings. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by live music and entertainment throughout the event. Families will find activities for children, such as visits with Santa and crafting stations. The market's inviting ambiance makes it a perfect spot for holiday shopping and creating cherished memories.
Downtown Aquarium
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults: $26.99; Seniors (65+): $25.99; Kids (3-11): $20.99; Kids (2 and under): Free (additional fees for special events)
Dates: Nov. 25 - Dec. 31, 2024
This year, the Downtown Aquarium transforms into a festive destination with special holiday-themed displays. Visitors can explore over 500 species of aquatic life, all while enjoying the aquarium's unique holiday decorations. The aquarium features interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and an underwater tunnel that provides an immersive experience. Families will appreciate the special holiday events, including Breakfast with Santa (Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21-24) and Winter Break Camp sessions. The aquarium's restaurant offers a unique dining experience surrounded by marine life, making it a wonderful place for a holiday meal. Indulge with something from their special Holiday Sweetness dessert menu.
Winter Park Resort
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Varies by activity
Dates: Nov. 2024-Jan. 2025
For those looking to embrace the winter season, Winter Park Resort offers a range of outdoor activities just a short drive from Denver. From skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and tubing, the resort caters to all skill levels and ages. Families can take advantage of dedicated areas for beginners and younger guests, ensuring everyone has a great time. After a day on the slopes, visitors can warm up in the lodge or enjoy a cozy meal at one of the resort's dining options, completing a perfect winter day.
Thanksgiving weekend marks the lighting of the Christmas tree in their Winter Park Village. The free event includes live music and photos with Santa. Visit on December 24th for the free Torchlight Parade which includes fireworks, trail lighting, visits from Santa, and much more. The resort also has ice skates for rent to use on the outdoor Village Pond (Weather permitting).
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Denver Zoo - Zoo Lights
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults: $20-$28; Kids: $13-$21; Kids (under 3): Free (Pricing varies during peak and non-peak times)
Dates: Nov. 22, 2024 - Jan. 5, 2025
Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo transforms the grounds into a dazzling display of light during the holiday season. Featuring millions of colorful lights, this festive event invites families to explore the zoo after dark while enjoying artistic light installations and holiday-themed displays. Special animal encounters and keeper talks provide educational opportunities, making it a fun outing for all ages. The event also features food vendors offering seasonal treats and beverages. It's a magical way to experience the zoo in a completely different light, bringing joy and excitement to the holiday season.
Cherry Creek Holiday Market
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free to enter, pay for shopping
Dates: Nov. 21 - Dec. 24, 2024
For those seeking holiday shopping and a festive atmosphere, Cherry Creek Holiday Market, located near the Cherry Creek Shopping Center is the place to be. The special outdoor market features local artisan vendors for unique gifts. Holiday themed food and drinks will be available to enjoy as you shop in the festive market. The Mistletoe Lounge is a great place to relax with a drink and enjoy some live holiday music.
When finished with the Holiday Market visitors can also visit the Shopping Center. This upscale shopping destination is beautifully decorated for the season, with twinkling lights and holiday displays throughout the mall. Visitors can explore a wide array of shops, from luxury brands to popular retailers, making it an ideal spot to find gifts for everyone on your list. The center also features a variety of dining options, perfect for a break from shopping. Throughout the holiday season, special events and activities, such as visits from Santa, add to the cheerful atmosphere.
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Parade of Lights
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free!
Date: Dec. 7, 2024 (6 pm)
The Denver Parade of Lights is a cherished annual tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season. This spectacular event features beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, and performances by local groups, all parading through downtown Denver. Spectators line the streets of downtown Denver to enjoy the festive display of lights and holiday cheer. Families and couples alike can experience the excitement as the floats pass by, making it a perfect opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit in a lively atmosphere. The parade is celebrating its 50th year in 2024.
The Polar Express Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults: $100; Kids (2-15) $80; Lap Riders under age 2 Free; or First Class: $475: table of four plus two Lap Riders
Date: Nov. 8 - Dec. 23, 2024
The Polar Express experience begins in the festive Polar Express Pavilion, where visitors enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and a lively cabaret-style show. The story of The Polar Express unfolds with carols, dancing, and the iconic Hot Chocolate song. Outside, the train makes a dramatic entrance, with smoke and steam billowing as the Conductor invites everyone aboard for a journey to the North Pole. Onboard, passengers watch the elves perform, and Santa makes a special appearance to give out the First Gift of Christmas. Upon return, guests can meet Santa and receive a keepsake Silver Bell as a memento of this magical journey. Each year, the event is refreshed with new elements, making it a unique and unforgettable experience.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Denver or Colorado!
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Mile High Drone Show
Map: See viewing locations below
Website: Link
Cost: Free to watch
Dates: Nightly at 7 pm Nov. 22 - Dec. 31, 2024
The Mile High Drone Show brings a spectacular visual display to the Denver skyline during the holiday season. Utilizing cutting-edge drone technology, this innovative show features choreographed light patterns and festive designs that dance across the night sky. It's an exciting alternative to traditional fireworks, offering a unique experience for all ages. The 15-minute nightly display is free to watch. Recommended viewing locations include Sculpture Park at the Denver Performing Arts Complex (Google Maps), Ball Arena’s parking lot (Google Maps), 54thirty Rooftop at the Le Méridien Denver Downtown (Google Maps), Peaks Lounge at Hyatt Regency Denver (Google Maps), The terrace at Denver Art Museum's Lanny & Sharon Martin Building (Google Maps). The drone show provides a modern and captivating way to celebrate the holidays while showcasing the beauty of Denver's skyline.
Christmas In Color at Red Rocks
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $30-$50 per car (prices vary depending on attendance date)
Dates: Nov. 15 - Dec. 30, 2024
This amazing drive-through vehicle extravaganza, Christmas in Color, allows riders to enjoy a beautiful holiday light display from the comfort of their car. You’ll slowly drive through the winter wonderland of lights perfectly synchronized to music streamed to your car’s radio.
The Mile High Tree
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free!
Dates: Nov. 22 - Dec. 31, 2024
The Mile High Tree is an impressive, towering Christmas tree installation located in Civic Center Park in downtown Denver, standing as a focal point of the city's holiday celebrations. This massive tree is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a stunning visual display that captivates visitors. Each evening, the tree comes to life with a synchronized light show set to holiday music, attracting families and couples alike to gather and enjoy the spectacle. The official tree lighting ceremony will be held promptly at 5:15 p.m. on Nov. 22, 2024. You can also visit on New Year’s Eve for the countdown to 2025. The surrounding area is often filled with festive activities, food vendors, and warm drinks, making it a delightful destination for anyone looking to embrace the holiday spirit.
Downtown Denver Rink
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free; Skate Rental: Adults: $12; Kids (9 & under): $9
Dates: Nov. 21, 2024 - Feb. 2, 2025
The Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park is a winter wonderland perfect for ice skating enthusiasts of all ages. This outdoor rink features a scenic backdrop of the city skyline and festive decorations, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Families can enjoy skating together, with rentals available on-site, while sipping hot cocoa from nearby vendors. The rink often hosts special events, such as themed skating nights and holiday festivities, adding to the excitement of the season. It's a fun way to embrace winter and create lasting memories with friends and family. Bring your own skates and hop on the ice for free. Rentals are also available for a small fee.
LITMAS: A Rooftop Holiday Popup
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Varies by menu item
Dates: Wednesdays-Sundays Dec. 6-29th, 2024
LITMAS is a festive rooftop holiday popup that offers a unique dining and social experience in Denver. The event, held at Linger in Downtown Denver, features holiday-themed drinks, seasonal bites, and stunning views of the city, creating a vibrant atmosphere for friends and couples. Guests can enjoy creatively themed cocktails and tasty treats while surrounded by festive decor and cozy seating. The popup hosts a (s)elfie station, live music, and holiday theming, making it a perfect spot to celebrate the season with friends. It's an exciting place to enjoy the winter weather and the naughty amongst us.
"A Christmas Carol" at the Denver Center
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Varies by seat: $40-$120
Dates: Nov. 22 – Dec. 29, 2024
A Christmas Carol is a timeless holiday classic brought to life on stage at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. This adaptation of Charles Dickens' beloved tale captures the spirit of the season through stunning performances, elaborate sets, and memorable music. Audiences of all ages will enjoy the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas. With multiple performances throughout November and December, it's an excellent opportunity for families and couples to experience this cherished holiday tradition in a beautiful theater setting.
Breakfast with Santa at Brown Palace Hotel & Spa by Marriott
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Buffet: Adults: $69; Kids: $45
Dates: Nov. 30 - Dec. 21, 2024
Join Santa Claus for a festive breakfast at the iconic Brown Palace Hotel, a tradition that brings joy to families during the holiday season. This special event features a delicious buffet with a variety of breakfast options, all while children can share their holiday wishes with Santa himself. The beautifully decorated hotel provides a charming backdrop for this delightful experience. Families can enjoy crafts and activities while waiting for their turn to meet Santa. It's a magical way to start the day and create lasting memories in a historic and elegant setting. Prices include a take-home cookie decorating kit.
Best Christmas Things To Do in Denver:
Union Station Christmas
Denver Botanic Gardens - Blossoms of Light
Nutcracker at Ellie Caulkins Opera House
Denver Christmas Market (Denver Christkindlmarket)
Downtown Aquarium
Winter Park Resort
Denver Zoo - Zoo Lights
Cherry Creek Holiday Market
Parade of Lights
The Polar Express Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum
Mile High Drone Show
Christmas in Color at Red Rocks
The Mile High Tree presented by Xcel Energy & Xfinity
Downtown Denver Rink
LITMAS: A Rooftop Holiday Popup
"A Christmas Carol" at the Denver Center
Breakfast with Santa at Brown Palace Hotel & Spa by Marriott
