Activities and merrymaking happenings all around town
By Amanda Lacey
It’s that time of year–there’s a chill in the air, the kids are filled with cheer, and you’re looking to gather the family and out-of-town guests. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled metro-area and local venues offering several activities for all-season holiday cheer. Head to The Springs for The Broadmoor’s family-friendly traditions that span Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. Denver’s Botanic Gardens sprouts some of the most fantastic light displays in the city at each of its locations. Downtown, The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa hosts classic events that have been popular for decades. And, popular in the metro area, Cherry Creek North’s Winter Wanderland is one of Denver’s must-see holiday destinations featuring a million dazzling lights wrapping more than 600 trees, with blocks of holiday shopping and festivities for all ages. And don’t forget our On The Agenda events section on page 62 for even more holiday events around town.
THE BROWN PALACE HOTEL AND SPA
Ongoing Through January
HOLIDAY TEA
Experience this sought-after holiday tradition while enjoying Denver’s Grand Dame–The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa–in all her holiday-decorated grandeur, with the Denver Debutante Chandelier being the star of the show. Guests enjoy a pot of properly brewed English tea accompanied by scones served with Devonshire cream and preserves, savory tea sandwiches and a delightful array of classic tea pastries, all while being serenaded by a melodic piano playing seasonal and classic favorites. Dates are available November through January. Reservations for this experience fill up quickly and can be made on OpenTable, by emailing [email protected] or calling 303.297.3111.
November 9
37th ANNUAL CHAMPAGNE CASCADE
The 37th Annual Champagne Cascade–one of The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa’s most iconic and time-honored traditions–takes place on Sunday, November 9. Beneath the stained-glass ceiling of the Atrium Lobby, a dazzling pyramid of 5,201 glasses becomes the stage for one of the season’s most spectacular holiday celebrations. With each tier filled, champagne flows from top to bottom in a breathtaking display of elegance and festivity. Guests may choose from VIP or General Admission experiences, each offering exclusive keepsakes and access to witness the cascade from different vantage points within the hotel. A portion of event proceeds will benefit Mount St. Vincent, supporting vital programs for children and families in need. Don’t miss this iconic event filled with holiday cheer, sparkling champagne and heartwarming entertainment. Tickets are required.
DENVER, brownpalace.com
CHERRY CREEK NORTH
November 20–December 24
CHERRY CREEK HOLIDAY MARKET
Holiday shopping should always be this fun! Time to head to Fillmore Plaza for the 6th annual Holiday Market and spend the day shopping under dazzling lights, listening to live music and getting into the seasonal spirit as you discover one-of-a-kind pieces from dozens of local makers, designers and creators. Taking place daily on Fillmore St. between 1st and 2nd avenues, shoppers will find a wide array of premium options and unique gifts. This free outdoor event also features a highly decorated holiday atmosphere and a full bar of festive drinks inside Mistletoe Lounge to kick back and enjoy with family and friends. It’s a holiday tradition that has something for everyone.
November 20–December 24
MISTLETOE LOUNGE
Mistletoe Lounge was named one of Denver’s top holiday pop-up bars by Denver Post, Thrillist and more, and is the perfect venue for your holiday party or just to drop by with friends for a celebration of the season. Adorned with twinkling lights and photo-worthy vignettes, Mistletoe Lounge is a warm and cozy space that will make you want to linger. Skilled mixologists have curated a menu of creative and indulgent holiday-themed alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages that will warm your spirits and tantalize your taste buds. Here’s to making every sip a celebration of the season.
November 13–January 4
GIVING MACHINES
Picture this: Vending machines that don’t dispense snacks or drinks, but instead, opportunities to donate to local charities. This holiday season, as lights twinkle and carols fill the air, the Giving Machines invite you to #LightTheWorld in a truly meaningful way. In 2017, the Giving Machine was born in response to a heartfelt question, “What if giving to someone in need was as easy as buying a snack from a vending machine?” The purpose of Light the World Giving Machines is to give anyone, no matter their age or means, the chance to actively participate in a giving experience. Find these vending machines near the entrance to the Cherry Creek Holiday Market, where you’ll quickly realize donating to charity is as easy as buying a candy bar.
December 6, 13 & 20
SATURDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the season. Gather the whole family for a night of music, dancing and entertainment, all under the glow of one million dazzling lights. Visitors can prepare to dance on a light-up dance floor to a live DJ’s set, stroll through a tunnel of lights and pose for a free photo booth keepsake–creating new memories for the whole family. The festivities will be scattered throughout the district, creating fun and excitement on every corner as you wander. And be sure to keep an eye out for Santa and Mrs. Clause as they stroll about Fillmore Street.
CHERRY CREEK, cherrycreeknorth.com
AURARIA CAMPUS
November 21–December 23
DENVER CHRISTKINDLMARKET
The Denver Christkindlmarket is an authentic, German-style holiday market, which is host to local and European craft and food vendors, and tons of magical entertainment for everyone to enjoy. In addition to Christkind, you’ll have a chance to see St. Nikolaus and Krampus. This must-see (and must-taste) holiday experience is free and open to the public. Market and vendor maps, and entertainment calendar available online.
DENVER, christkindlmarketdenver.com
THE BROADMOOR
December 21–January 1
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
Get ready to celebrate a unique holiday activity each day at The Broadmoor. From baking demonstrations to whiskey tastings, fireside story time to candle-making workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Sample programming available online.
November 29, December 14 & 20
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
There’s no place like The Broadmoor during the holidays. This holiday season, let The Broadmoor be your home for warmth, luxury and celebration. Starting in November, rediscover the magic of the season as the resort transforms into a holiday wonderland, adorned with millions of twinkling lights and captivating festive decor. And what’s better than enjoying breakfast with Santa? Kids and adults alike will find joy in this holiday experience. Available to overnight hotel guests and golf club members only, so be sure to reserve your room in advance.
December 19, 20 & 24
CLASSIC HOLIDAY SHOW
The Broadmoor’s Annual Holiday Show is a treasured tradition that brings the spirit of the season to life with music, laughter and a touch of holiday magic. This enchanting evening begins with a festive three-course dinner, followed by a lively variety show featuring beloved seasonal classics, dazzling performances and a few surprises. Enjoy the talents of Ken Miller and The Broadmoor Pops as they deliver a heartwarming celebration you won’t want to miss. Savor an elegant meal, enjoy top-tier entertainment and create memories that will last all season long. Package includes accommodations for one night, dinner show tickets for each person on the package to the Classic Broadmoor Holiday Show and suites available at discounted rates. Doors will open at 6 p.m., dinner is served at 7 p.m. and entertainment begins at 8 p.m.
COLORADO SPRINGS, broadmoor.com
DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS
November 21–January 11
BLOSSOMS OF LIGHT
Celebrate 40 years of Blossoms of Light, Denver’s most beloved holiday tradition at Denver Botanic Gardens on York Street. This dazzling event transforms the winter gardens into an illuminated wonderland filled with vibrant displays, immersive installations and the warm glow of cherished memories—old and new. Wander along the mile-long path that showcases plant collections during the winter months. Continuously evolving over the decades, Blossoms of Light inspires awe and delight in our visitors of all ages. Tickets will not be available at the door and must be purchased online for a specific time and date to visit.
November 21–January 11
TRAIL OF LIGHTS
Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms takes you along a winding path glistening with lights that illuminate the Colorado countryside. Tucked into the foothills under the dark sky, the glow of lights can be seen for miles. Just under a mile of walking trail, the illumination of cottonwoods, boxelders and pine trees line the pathway past the Green Farm Barn and through the Crossroads Garden, Deer Creek Discovery Children’s Play Area and 1880s Hildebrand Ranch homestead. There is the option of an alternative path for those who want to take a shorter stroll. Tickets will not be available at the door and must be purchased online for a specific time and date to visit.
DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, botanicgardens.org
SOUTH METRO
NOVEMBER 22
CASTLE ROCK STARLIGHTING
Step into a Norman Rockwell scene at Starlighting, an annual traditional community ceremony that includes lighting the star on top of Castle Rock followed by a fireworks display. Festivities include caroling, dancing, visiting with Santa Claus, kids’ activities, nonprofit booths, food vendors, hot chocolate and the iconic chili supper at the Firehouse.
CASTLE ROCK, castlerock.org
DECEMBER 2
HOLIDAY CHAMBER MUSIC
Celebrate the season with the Chamber Music Society of Greater Denver as they present an enchanting holiday concert filled with warmth, elegance and festive charm. Featuring the delicate interplay of piano, flute, harp and voice, this chamber ensemble offers a fresh take on timeless holiday classics and wintry favorites. Join for an unforgettable evening of music.
HIGHLANDS RANCH, hrcaonline.org
DECEMBER 5–7
MERRY DAYS
The holidays are in the air here. Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at the Lone Tree Arts Center where you’ll see the lighting of the City Holiday Tree for the season and join many of community partners in bringing the holiday spirit to the City of Lone Tree.
LONE TREE, cityoflonetree.com
