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A Guide to the Most Festive 2024 Holiday Activities in Denver

The Denver area transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a sleigh-load of festive activities for all ages. Whether you’re a local looking to spice up your holiday traditions or a visitor eager to experience the Mile High City’s seasonal magic, there are holiday activities in Denver for everyone. It’s enough to make even the Grinch crack a grin. 

Holiday Activities in Denver

Christkindl Market

Immerse yourself in European holiday traditions at this charming open-air market. From handcrafted ornaments to authentic German cuisine, the Christkindl Market transports you to a holiday market straight out of a fairy tale.

  • LOCATION: Civic Center Park
  • DATES: November 22 - December 23, 2024
  • TIMES: Sunday - Wednesday: 11am - 7pm | Thursday - Saturday: 11am - 9pm
Denver Christkindl Market
Denver Christkindl Market

Cherry Creek Holiday Market

Stroll through Fillmore Plaza and shop till you drop with local merchants. Then, make your way through the shops at Cherry Creek North and admire the beautifully decorated windows. Enjoy festive displays and perhaps find the perfect holiday gift.

  • LOCATION: Cherry Creek North
  • DATES: November 21 - December 24, 2024
  • TIMES: Sunday - Wednesday: 12pm - 7pm | Thursday - Saturday: 11am - 9pm

The Mile High Tree

This modern Denver tradition is quite the treat. You’ll be in awe of the 7-story immersive art installation with 60,000 LED lights. Enjoy the show synchronized to holiday tunes and then head over the the Christkindl Market for some holiday shopping.

  • LOCATION: Civic Center Park
  • DATES: November 22 - December 31, 2024
  • TIMES: 5pm - 10pm
Mile High Tree @ Civic Center Park
Mile High Tree @ Civic Center Park

Five Points Holiday Stroll

This neighborhood celebration is a delightful blend of local charm and holiday cheer. Wander through decorated streets, enjoy live music, and explore unique shops for that perfect holiday find. Bring your friends and family for an evening of community, merriment, and holiday magic.

  • LOCATION: Five Points Neighborhood
  • DATE: December 10, 2024
  • TIMES: 2pm - 6pm

Ice Skating at Skyline Park

Lace-up your skates and glide under the city lights at the outdoor ice rink in Skyline Park. Surrounded by iconic Denver skyscrapers, it's a picturesque spot for a winter date night or a family outing.

  • LOCATION: Skyline Park
  • DATES: November 21 - February 2, 2025
  • TIMES: Vary, check the schedule for details.

Blossoms of Light

Illuminate your holiday season with the breathtaking Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens. Wander through a winter wonderland adorned with dazzling lights, synchronized to your favorite holiday tunes. Immerse yourself in the glow of this enchanting display and create lasting memories amidst the botanical magic.

  • LOCATION: Denver Botanic Gardens
  • DATES: November 20 - January 12, 2025
  • TIMES: 4:30pm - 9pm
Blossoms of Light @ Denver Botanic Gardens. Photo credit: botanicgardens.org
Blossoms of Light @ Denver Botanic Gardens. Photo credit: botanicgardens.org

Denver Zoo Lights

Experience the magic of the holidays at Denver Zoo Lights. Marvel at the twinkling lights, enjoy animal-themed displays, and sip on hot cocoa as you stroll through the beautifully illuminated zoo.

  • LOCATION: Denver Zoo
  • DATES: November 23 - January 5, 2025
  • ENTRY TIMES: Sunday - Thursday: 5pm - 8pm | Friday - Saturday: 5pm - 9pm

Christmas in Color

Dive into the dazzling world of Christmas lights at Christmas in Color. Drive through a mile of animated displays, synchronized to your favorite holiday music. This immersive experience at Bandimere Speedway is the perfect way to brighten up your festive celebrations. Tune in, turn up the holiday spirit, and let the lights dance!

  • LOCATIONS: Arapahoe Fairgrounds, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Water World
  • DATES: November 15 - December 29, 2024 (check website for venue-specific dates)
  • ENTRY TIMES: 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Christmas in Color
Christmas in Color

Luminova Holidays

Denver gets a bit more dazzling with Luminova Holidays at Elitch Gardens. This illuminated experience features millions of twinkling lights, immersive installations, and holiday-themed attractions for a night of enchantment.

  • LOCATION Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
  • DATES: November 29 - December 31, 2024
  • TIMES: Sunday - Friday: 5pm - 9pm | Saturday: 4pm - 9pm

Holiday Tea at The Brown Palace

Elevate your holiday traditions with afternoon tea at The Brown Palace. Nestled in the heart of Cherry Creek, this historic hotel offers a refined and festive tea experience amidst holiday decorations.

  • LOCATION: The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa
  • DATES: November 11 - January 24, 2025
  • TIMES: Vary, check the reservation page for details.

Christmas at Gaylord Rockies

Embark on an enchanting journey at Gaylord Rockies for an extraordinary day or weekend filled with magic. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a captivating rendition of the Christmas classic, "A Christmas Story," brought to life through stunning ice sculptures. Indulge in the spectacle of a Cirque-style show, or simply bask in the festive ambiance that surrounds you. Gaylord Rockies has certainly curated a holiday haven!

  • LOCATION: Gaylord Rockies
  • DATES: November 22 - January 1, 2025
  • TIMES: Vary depending on the event, check the schedule for details.
ICE! Featuring A Christmas Story @ Gaylord Rockies. Photo credit: christmasatgaylordrockies.marriott.com
ICE! Featuring A Christmas Story™ @ Gaylord Rockies. Photo credit: christmasatgaylordrockies.marriott.com

 

Denver's holiday season isn't just about the glitter and lights; it's about turning local events into traditions, laughing in the face of holiday stress, and enjoying the merriment that makes this season truly special. So, whether you're skating under the city lights, or window shopping in Cherry Creek North, remember: the holidays are what you make of them. Happy holidays, Denverites!

Ready to explore homeownership while you explore the seasonal cheer? Connect with one of our neighborhood experts today.

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