Celebrate Mile High Holidays in Denver!
The Mile High City offers fun and festive events from light extravaganzas and performing arts to family-friendly activities and plenty of shopping.
The holiday season in The Mile High City is chock full of spectacular performances, from familiar favorites to contemporary classics. Revisit Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale of redemption, “A Christmas Carol,” thrill to the enchanting tale of “The Nutcracker,” performed by the Colorado Ballet, or swoon over John Legend’s Christmas crooning on December 15 at the Bellco Theatre.
This year, Denver is awash with the warm glow of thousands of holiday lights. It all starts with the Grand Illumination on November 23, which features beautiful lighting displays in the LoDo District and Denver Union Station. Or, bundle up for a stroll through Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens or Zoo Lights at Denver Zoo. And don’t forget New Year’s Eve fireworks!
Whether you’re shopping for gifts for family and friends or browsing for holiday decor, The Mile High City is the place to find what you’re looking for. Head to one of Denver’s shopping destinations, such as Denver Pavilions, Larimer Square, Cherry Creek Shopping Center or Cherry Creek North, home of Winter Fest on December 8, a family-friendly event features live ice carving, face painting, winter refreshments and giveaways. Or spend an afternoon at one of the city’s many holiday markets, like Christkindl Market, Jackalope Denver or the Holiday Flea.
From parades to performances, there are a few holiday favorites that you just can’t miss. Starting November 10, create memories at Santa’s Flight Academy at Cherry Creek Shopping Center, with a magical snow and light show inside Santa’s sleigh, the Flight Suite Visualizer, and of course, a visit with Santa.
Outdoor winter activities still abound throughout Denver. Tie on a pair of ice skates (you can rent a pair for just a few bucks) and go for a spin around the Downtown Denver Rink for free at Skyline Park. Cheer on the Denver Broncos, the Denver Nuggets or the Colorado Avalanche. And, of course, no Christmas season is complete without a visit to see jolly old St. Nick at Santa’s Village at Chatfield Farms.
