Plan early to enjoy these quintessential holiday events
THE HOLIDAY SEASON BRINGS PLENTY of reasons to get out and celebrate. From dazzling light displays and festive markets to beloved traditions, concerts, and family fun, these metro-area favorites offer plenty of ways to make the season merry.
STARTING IN NOVEMBER
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 seasonal and classic favorites played on piano. More details to come about the 38th Annual Champagne Cascade. Reservations for this experience fill up quickly and can be made on OpenTable, by emailing [email protected] or calling 303.297.3111.
NOVEMBER 19–DECEMBER 24
CHERRY CREEK HOLIDAY MARKET
Holiday shopping should always be this fun! Time to head to Fillmore Plaza for the 7th 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 First and Second avenues, shoppers will find a wide array of premium and unique gifts. This free outdoor event also features a highly decorated holiday atmosphere and a full bar of festive drinks inside Mistletoe Lounge, where visitors can kick back with family and friends. It’s a holiday tradition that has something for everyone.
CHERRY CREEK, cherrycreeknorth.com
NOVEMBER 20–DECEMBER 23
DENVER CHRISTKINDLMARKET
The Auraria Campus Denver Christkindlmarket is an authentic, German-style holiday market that hosts local and European craft and food vendors, plus 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 an entertainment calendar are available online.
DENVER, christkindlmarketdenver.com
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 is available online, as well as information about Breakfast with Santa and The Broadmoor’s beloved Classic Holiday Show. COLORADO SPRINGS, broadmoor.com
NOVEMBER 20–JANUARY 10
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 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. DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, botanicgardens.org
NOVEMBER 21–JANUARY 3
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 lines the pathway past the Green Farm Barn and through the Crossroads Garden, Deer Creek Discovery Children’s Play Area, and the 1880s Hildebrand Ranch homestead. An alternative path is available for those who want 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
NOVEMBER 21
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 (conditions permitting). 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 4–6
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 community partners in bringing the holiday spirit to the City of Lone Tree. The Holiday Tree Lighting is Friday, Dec. 4, 6–8 p.m., at Lone Tree Arts Center, with hot cocoa + s’mores, The Denver Dolls, roaming holiday characters, a holiday market, Santa, and reindeer. LONE TREE, cityoflonetree.com
