Best Christmas Events in Colorado 2023
It’s that time of year where we are starting to seek out some holiday cheer. I’ve looked into the many Christmas events around Colorado and picked out the top places and events from now until Christmas. Take a look and see which things you’d like to do with the family to get your fill of holiday spirit!
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Below, you’ll find some fun Christmas events in Colorado for the following cities (click to jump to):
Denver, Colorado Christmas Events for families
There are plenty of Christmas Events in Denver in 2023.
Dickens Christmas Experience- Arvada
6570 Carr St., Arvada
Come to the Dickens Christmas Experience at the United Methodist Church in Arvada. This family-friendly event kicks of the Advent with Victorian charm, food, and activities.
Enjoy crafts, musical performances, theatrical hosts, a market to find unique gifts, pictures with Santa, a Victorian Dinner, and more.
The event is Saturday December 2 from 11:30am to 6:00pm.
Admission is free and you can purchase food and gifts once you’ve entered.
Reserve your spot today!
December Delights
Four Mile Historic Park- 715 South Forest St, Denver
Head out one of 3 nights to the December Delights at Four Mile Historic Park. You’ll feel as if you’ve walked into the Victorian era as you enjoy a night of fun and celebration.
Grab the kids and head on a scavenger hunt through Four Miles Historic Park where you’ll be greeted with carolers, Santa, and a tractor ride around the park, decorated with scenes and lights of Christmas.
Ice skate a while, and then warm up by the fire. You can even make s’mores this year!
Grab your tickets now to attend December 8, 9, or 15.
Camp Christmas
Stanley Marketplace- 2501 Dallas St, Aurora
Camp Christmas is one of the very popular Christmas events in Colorado and you’ve probably heard all about it on the radio.
After being relocated for a few years to an outdoor location (because, Covid), Camp Christmas is now back in the warm indoors of Stanley Marketplace.
From November 16 through December 24, immerse yourself in an over-the-top Christmas experience. Walk through nostalgic scenes, themed Christmas trees, and lights.
The kids will love visiting Santa (Thursday-Sunday and the weekdays leading up to Christmas).
Denver Christkindl Market – Denver Christmas Event
101 West 14th Avenue, Denver
This is one of our kids’ favorite Christmas events in Colorado. They love looking around the fun little toys and decorations and eating some unique, but yummy food.
The Christkindl Market takes place in Civic Center Park. It begins on November 18th and opens at 11am daily. It’s open till 7pm Sunday thru Wedesnday, and 9pm Thursday thru Saturday. Thanksgiving day closes at 4pm.
Explore plenty of vendors from around the world, and just as many food options! We were completely happy with our dinners of pierogies, kielbasa, latkes, dumplings, plus we got some hot chocolate, macarones, and spiced nuts. There’s plenty to choose from. The kids loved looking around and getting snacks to try.
Downtown Denver Rink – Denver Christmas Activity
1601 Araphaoe St., Denver
The ice rink at Skyline Park opens November 20 at 5pm on weekends and 11am on weekdays. Entry is free and you can bring your own skates. Skate rental is $9-$11. Plus, you can use free lockers to lock up your belongings with a valid ID (first come, first serve).
Winter Wanderland at Cherry Creek North
2401 E 2nd Ave, Denver
From November 16 to December 24, you can walk through the Cherry Creek area and search for giant trees tuned to music. Scan the QR code to try your luck at a shopping spree.
Each Saturday, a million lights, covering 600 trees at Cherry Creek North, all choreographed to music. You’ll also find jugglers and other performers to keep the family entertained.
Throughout the season of Winter Wanderland, the kids will love the musical, interactive musical Hour Glass exhibit. Parents will love strolling through the holiday market at Fillmore Plaza.
December 10 will feature a Chanukah celebration.
See more events at Cherry Creek North.
Denver Parade of Lights – Denver Christmas Event
Watch as 40 exciting Christmas themes pass by during this FREE Christmas Event in Denver. This is a Denver classic, filled with characters, floats, giant theme balloons, and more. You can attend live on December 2nd at 6:00pm. The parade makes a route, with much of it going down 14th street and 17th street.
Mile High Tree – Denver Christmas attraction
Civic Center Park- 101 W 14th Ave
Note the change of location as updated above! It is no longer located on 16th.
This is a classic Christmas activity in Denver that everyone should try at least once.
This 110-foot tree is another Denver tradition. The Mile Hi Tree is open every night from 5pm to 9pm and is FREE to visit. The tree puts on a music and light show every 15 minutes. Go in, lay down (if it’s not crowded), and enjoy the show!
Light the Lights – Denver Christmas Event
City and County of Denver Buildings- near Civic Center Park at Colfax and Bannock
Take the kids for the ultimate Christmas light experience in Denver. On November 22, the mayor will switch on the lights around 5:15. The switch will be flipped on the 22nd, and then each day after at 5:45 and 6:45 will be a light and music show (except Mondays). Otherwise, lights will be static to enjoy.
Other Light Displays in Denver, Colorado
Have a different kind of experience at the Denver Zoo with Zoo Lights. Bring the kids to see over a million lights over 80 acres. Get tickets here, for $18-$28 (discounts for zoo members) and do it early! It opens December 2.
Hudson Gardens (Littleton, CO) also hosts a cool display of lights to walk through a winter wonderland. Beginning November 24th, you can take the family through tunnels, witness trees dancing in light, and more as you walk through thousands of lights.
The Trail of Light at Chatfield location of the Botanic Gardens
Denver Botanic Gardens, as well as their Chatfield campus, also puts on a great Christmas Light display. Walk through gardens of lights at their Blossoms of Light (Denver) and Trail of Lights (Chatfield location).
Christmas In Color- (Near Denver) Morrison or Federal Heights (Or Aurora!)
Stay safe and warm in your own car as you drive through over a million Christmas lights. The lights are synched to music you listen to through the radio.
The Christmas in Color event has two THREE locations in Colorado (both near Denver).
One is in Morrison at the Bandimere Speedway off C-470. The other is in Federal Heights at Water World. And the newest location is in Aurora at the Arapaho County Fairgrounds.
The fun begins November 18 (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas). Get your tickets here!
Where to Stay in Denver
For a cool experience, reserve a night at the Crawford Hotel. It’s located right at Union Station, giving you easy access to the light rail to any part of downtown.
Or try the Grand Hyatt, a nice hotel located downtown and even has a pool!
You May Like: Top Ten Free Things to do in Denver with Kids
Golden, Colorado Christmas Events for families
Holiday Parade
Washington Ave, Golden
Golden turns into a magical place as the holidays near. Take the family to the Holiday Parade on December 9th, beginning at 10:30am. The streets are filled with joy, people, floats, fire trucks, and more during this festive day.
You’ll also get to see Santa, the Grinch, carolers, and Buffalo Bill!
Polar Express
Colorado Railroad Museum- 17155 West 44th Avenue, Golden
What’s more magical than taking the kids on the Polar Express? Starting November 10th on select dates, you can take the kids aboard to go visit Santa in the North Pole. Enjoy this vintage, coal-fired steam locomotive as you sing carols and take a ride.
It sells out fast, get tickets here. Tickets start at $80-$100 for basic fares.
Olde Golden Candlelight Walk
809 15th Street, Golden
Bring the kids for a magical, candle-lit walk down Washington Avenue. Sing carols while you walk to bring in the Christmas cheer. Arrive by 5:00 to enjoy a pre-show on the stage at Parfet Park. Then the walk begins at 6:30.
Enjoy the walk on December 1st and bring a small cash donation for the candles ($2/each).
Find other Great Winter Activities in Colorado for the Family
Breckenridge, Colorado Christmas Events for families
Race of the Santas
Main Street, Breckenridge
This may be one of the most fun Christmas activities in Colorado. And most unique!
This classic is more of an enjoyable tradition than a race. Participants all wear a full Santa attire as they walk, run, and jingle down 7 blocks. Spectators get quite a view of the large group of Santas taking over Main Street. Join them December 2nd on Main Street.
Lighting of Breckenridge – family Christmas event
Shortly after the Santa Race, stay to watch the Lighting of Breckenridge, where a quarter-million lights get turned on and light the streets. This is a magical moment, especially in the snow.
Festival of Trees in Breckenridge
Make sure to take the family to the Blue River Recreational Path where you can explore many Christmas trees that have each been decorated by a different business. See which one the kids like best! They are available to see the whole month of December.
Where to Stay in Breckenridge
Need the perfect, family-friendly place to stay? Check out the best hotels in Breckenridge. For a perfect mountain experience, check out top family cabins you can rent in Breckenridge.
See Also: Top Ten Fun Breckenridge Summer Activities
Georgetown, Colorado Christmas Events for families
European Christmas Market
Strousse Park, 600 Rose Street, Georgetown
On the first two weekends of December, search for roasted Chestnuts or stroll along the street witnessing people dressed from the Victorian era.
This annual European Christmas market also features carolers and the opportunity to take a horse-drawn wagon ride. And of course, you can shop from both local and far-away vendors. Hours are 10am to 4pm, admission is Free.
Georgetown Loop Railroad– Christmas Activity for families in Georgetown, CO
All Aboard! Kids will love this fun Christmas event in Georgetown, CO. The Georgetown Loop Railroad transforms into a Holiday Train that will transport you through Santa’s lighted forest. From late November thru December, you can watch beautiful light and music displays and even meet the big man himself! Get your tickets in advance.
Boulder, Colorado Christmas Events for families
Switch on the Holidays
Pearl Street, Boulder
On November 19th, everything comes to light in Boulder for the holidays. Featuring the Boulder Ballet and free visits to Santa, this is a perfect way to feel the holidays commence in Boulder.
St. Nick on the Bricks
Pearl Street/1300th block
If you miss Santa at Switch on the Holidays, you can always come back later. He appears the Friday/Saturday after Thanksgiving, and every Saturday up till Christmas from 11am-2pm on Pearl Street and 1300. Plus, kids can ride the free snowflake express after they pay their visit!
Lights of December Parade– great family Christmas event
On December 2nd, head to the downtown area as plenty of floats parade around. Each float was made by different members of the community, be it businesses, clubs, churches, or nonprofits. Wait till the very end when Santa will make his way through on parade.
Start time: 6pm. Parade starts at 15th and Walnut
Freezie Fest– family Christmas event in Boulder, CO
Pearl Street Mall
The whole family will love being in Boulder on December 9th as you participate in plenty of snowman activities.
First, head on a scavenger hunt through stores downtown in search of Freezie the Snowman (available for finding Nov 19-Dec 9). Find as many Freezies as you can and scan the QR code for a chance to win gift cards!
You can also participate in free train rides, crafts, activities, and visits to Santa from 11am to 3pm.
Colorado Springs Christmas Events for the family
Royal Gorge Santa Express Train– Family Christmas Activity
Santa trains are a little heavier on the wallet, but if you can manage it even once, then this will be one of the most memorable Christmas activities your kids do.
A little drive outside of Colorado Springs is great train ride to Santa’s village. Climb aboard and you’ll get a cookie and milk.
If you choose the higher cabin fare, you’ll get to sit at a table and order dinner ($). This cabin class also has elves to entertain the kids, sing songs, and activities. Eventually you’ll pull into the North Pole where Santa will make his appearance. Wave as you drive by and take in the lit up village.
Get your tickets in advance!
Ice Skate at Acacia Park
Acacia Park- 115 E Platt Ave, Colorado Springs
At over 4,600 square feet, there’s plenty of space to skate at Acacia Park. Starting November 10th, this is a great family activity before Christmas, and at only $10/per person (including skates!), it’s an affordable one, too! Ages 4 and under are free with an adult.
The Heart of Christmas
Charis Bible College- 800 Gospel Truth Way, Woodland Park
Bring the family to this heartwarming Christmas musical a short drive outside of Colorado Springs. Watch as a girl escapes from WWII Europe and hears what Christmas is about for the first time. See how a simple gift changes lives forever. Reserve your ticket in advance here. (Lap children 4 and under are free).
Festival of Lights
Downtown CO Springs- St. Vrain to Tejon to Vermijo
This tradition in Colorado Springs is an annual parade that goes through downtown Colorado Springs. It will be held on December 9th at 5:50pm.
Ice Castles in Clear Creek
Towards Colorado Springs and then beyond a little bit is an attraction with big fame!
The Ice Castles are a BIG deal. They use to come to Dillon each year, but now Clear Creek will be hosting the ice castles.
Walk through caverns of ice, slide down icy slides, and crawl through tunnels. You can also enjoy ice characters and sculptures in this magnificent winter display.
Grab tickets soon as they are known to sell out!
See Also: What to do in Colorado Springs in Winter
Aurora, CO Christmas Events
The Pond Ice Rink at Southlands
All winter long you can head to Southlands Shopping area and get your winter fill at The Pond. All ages are welcome, and skates are included in admission ($14). The Pond opens at 4pm on weekdays and 11am on Saturday/Sunday. Check here for more details and to buy tickets in advance.
Holiday Hometown Parade
Also at Southlands, don’t miss the annual parade featuring Santa. It’s held at Town Square on November 18 at 6pm. It also includes a tree lighting.
Gaylord Christmas
Every year, the Gaylord hotel brings out new Christmas cheer. Past years have walked you thru many Christmas movies, another year was all about saving Christmas, and this year brings back ICE experience.
Walk through 2 million pounds of ice that you can enjoy sliding down or walking through as you witness scenes from A Christmas Story…made of ice!
Gaylord is also hosting Cirque: Spirit of Christmas this year.
Castle Rock, CO Christmas Events and Activities
Castle Rock Starlight Market
300 2nd Street- Festival Park
Located right along I-25, Castle rock is booming with Christmas cheer. Head to Festival Park on December 1st and 2nd where you can snap pictures in front of the giant, decorated Christmas tree. Then continue on to find vendors full of Christmas gifts for purchase. There’s music and food for purchase, and hot cocoa as well!
Star Lighting
This is one of the unique and fun Christmas events in Colorado that you don’t see anywhere else.
This traditional event runs every year where the whole town gathers for the countdown to the lighting of the Castle Rock Star. November 18, beginning at 2pm, head to downtown Castle Rock near Festival Park and Wilcox Square. There, you’ll enjoy many festivities as well as plenty of non-profit booths to get you in the true spirit of giving.
The ceremony for the star lighting begins at 5pm, the star lights around 5:30 and fireworks follow.
Carriage Rides
Beginning the day after Thanksgiving, you can book a 15 minute carriage ride through downtown Castle Rock. Check the Facebook page to purchase and reserve a time.
Reindeer Games
1375 W Plum Creek Parkway, Castle Rock
On December 2nd from 1:00-4:00, grab the kids and head to Phillip S. Miller Park (by the MAC) for fun, outdoor fun! You’ll get to see Santa, see some real reindeer, play some games, and even ride on a cute kids train! This event is FREE.
Nearby: Lone Tree (South of Denver, North of Castle Rock)
Schweiger Ranch- Christkindl and Light display
Just south of Castle Rock is the city of Lone Tree. Right off I-25 you’ll find Schweiger Ranch, a ranch settled hundred of years ago and often open to the public for events.
During the holidays, you can see the ranch lit up from I-25 as you drive by. The light display is easy for the public to see, and you can view from your car as you drive down Havana. The lights stay on until the Stock Show (in January).
On December 2nd, the ranch hosts a Austrian Christmas and Christkindl Market. There are many of these Christmas events throughout Colorado, but this one is unique. Here you’ll find vendors of both crafts, gifts, and food.
You’ll also get free arts and crafts for the kids, sleigh rides, love music of Austria, a visit with a legit Santa, a visit with some real reindeer, face painting, and the option to sign up ($) for a wreath-making class.
The market is free to enter, but you must reserve in advance.
Nearby: Highlands Ranch (South of Denver, North of Castle Rock)
Christmas Events at Cherry Hills Community Church
3900 Grace Blvd, Highlands Ranch
In past years, Cherry Hills Community Church has done a LIGHT event. They’re not doing it this year, BUT they do have a lineup of great artists performing concerts throughout December.
You can also join in the Jingle Jam on December 3rd, featuring indoor ice skating, crafts, Santa, an In ‘n Out food truck, and more.
This year, you can also get tickets to see Chris Tomlin!!! Chris and the Cherry Hills Choir will perform December 16 at 5pm.
Christmas Events in Colorado
There is no shortage of Christmas events in Colorado for families. Whether you are north of Denver, South, or over in the mountains, there are plenty of things to do for Christmas and celebrate. I hope this has been helpful in getting your family into the Christmas spirit this year!
So pick one of these fun Christmas activities in Colorado whether you are in Denver, Colorado Springs, or over toward the mountains and make it a year full of memories.
Check out my other Christmas posts!
Great Gifts for Adventurous Kids!
Gift Guide for the Traveler in your life!
How to make Giant Paper Snowflakes
So many great activities and events! I would love to check out the Christmas Market especially!
Christmas markets are the best!
Great resources for the local community! Next time in the US, I’ll make sure to check out the area and maybe enjoying Christimas while exploring there.
You’ll love it! Especially if you get to one of the snowy mountain towns 🙂
The holiday season in Colorado sounds like such a fun time! European markets and Christmas parades are totally my jam. I’m in Canada, but it sounds like I need to make a December trip to Colorado to experience the holiday season there.
I bet Canada has some great stuff too! But yes, it’s so fun in Colorado 🙂
What a great roundup of holiday events! Sounds fun. I’ll be in Thailand over the holidays this year but if I was in Colorado I would definitely love to check these out.
Wow Thailand! What a fun way to spend holiday break!
Yay for Christmas markets and twinkly lights! They make this time of year feel so cozy and cheerful. It sounds like you have some fabulous events to look forward to in Colorado.
I really want to hit as many Christmas Markets as I can. They’re one of my faves!
I love Christmas activities! I would love to visit the Christmas Market in Denver. I’ve heard it’s fantastic! Thanks for sharing this excellent list.
Glad you enjoyed this! I love how much there is around Colorado
So fun! I always love holiday + winter events. I love visiting Christmas markets, and a ride on the Polar Express sounds so fun!
The Christmas trains are SO fun!
I love Colorado in the winter and you have so many fun things for the whole family to enjoy during Christmas!! This is a great list!
Yes for sure! So many family-friendly things!
This is a great list of fun things to do in Colorado during Christmas!
I love Christmas time! I really want to do the polar express
You should do it sometime… it’s SO fun!
That Denver zoo lights sounds so much fun! I have no kids, but I think I would enjoy it a lot! Great Post
It’s beautiful, no kids required!
Love this curated list of the best Christmas events in Colorado.
I didn’t know that Colorado has so many fun Christmas events and activities! I’d love to see the race of the Santas in Breckenridge, and the Christmas trains sound like they’d be so magical for little ones.
I love the traditions Breckenridge has!
There are definitely plenty of things to do in Colorado at Christmas time! Thanks for sharing.
It’s hard to visit them all! Though I’d love to 🙂
Such a good list and one worth hanging on to and referencing in the future!
These sound amazing! Such great ways to explore the area at Christmas time! Thank you for sharing.
I’m putting a Colorado Christmas on my bucket list!
Looks like there are an awesome amount of Christmas events in Colorado! So many great options to choose from for families!
Lots of Christmas activities in Colorado! I’d love to visit the Christmas Market in Georgetown!
That one sounds so cute and magical!
This is getting me in the holiday spirit.
This sounds like a fun time to be in Colorado. I love seeing the light displays and the kids would love the train rides!
The train rides are SO fun 🙂
So many fun things to do! I’ll definitely have to add a trip to Colorado to my holiday bucket list!
Great compilation of ideas. Looks as though we have some activities to try this winter as we have not done so many of these.
There’s a lot of great things to choose from 🙂
Great round up, thank you!!
Colorado seems like a great destination for Christmas events. I love holiday events so they all look fun to me. The Race of the Santas in Breckenridge would be especially funny to see!
Haha yes, so funny!
Hudson Gardens looks so fun to walk through in the evening! There are some beautiful things to do in Colorado for sure.