Embrace the Chill: Your Guide to Colorado Winter Events

Colorado truly knows how to celebrate winter, and this season is no exception! From dazzling light displays and festive markets in the metro area to thrilling slopes and unique cultural events in the mountains, Denver and its surroundings are brimming with activities. Get ready to discover hundreds of ways to make the most of the colder months.

Denver Metro: Lights, Laughter, and Local Flavor

The Denver area transforms into a vibrant winter wonderland with a diverse array of events for all interests. Whether you’re seeking traditional holiday cheer or something a little more offbeat, you’ll find it here.

Festive Kick-Offs and Illuminations

November sees the start of many beloved holiday traditions. Attend the Belmar Tree Lighting Celebration (Nov 21) or the Downtown Longmont Plaza Lighting (Nov 22) for community performances and Santa visits. As December arrives, don’t miss the iconic 9NEWS Parade of Lights (Dec 6), featuring illuminated floats and giant balloons marching through downtown Denver.

Unique Gatherings and Cultural Highlights

Beyond the lights, explore a variety of distinctive events. Engage your mind at Robot Riot (Nov 22), where roboticists and AI-powered performers take the stage, or immerse yourself in the traditions of the Farolito Lighting and Pinecone Ceremony at The Fort (Nov 30). For adults, the Metal and Beer Fest (Dec 5-6) combines heavy music with craft brews, while the Denver Dance Hall (Dec 4) offers a no-app alternative for singles seeking live music and dancing.

Holiday Shopping Extravaganza: Markets Galore

Find the perfect gifts and soak in the festive atmosphere at Denver’s numerous holiday markets:

• Cherry Creek Holiday Market: Located at Fillmore Plaza, this market features dozens of local makers and a festive Mistletoe Lounge pop-up bar (Nov 20-Dec 24).
• Denver Christkindlmarket: Enjoy a German-inspired experience with European crafts, food vendors, live entertainment, and glass ornament workshops at the Tivoli Quad (Nov 21-Dec 23).
• Swirly, Twirly Market (RiNo): This festive venue offers over sixty local makers, a unique “mailroom-inspired” holiday bar, caroling, and photo ops amidst thousands of paper snowflakes (Nov 21-Dec 21).
• Denver Winter Market: Head to the Sports Castle for a multi-level experience with over a hundred vendors, bars, food trucks, and vintage charm (Dec 5-7, 12-14).
• Dairy Block Mistletoe Market: Explore a heated alleyway with over forty local vendors offering small-batch ceramics, handmade jewelry, and artisanal chocolates, plus Grinch photo opportunities (Dec 13-14, 20-21).

Mountain Adventures Await: Beyond the City Limits

Colorado’s mountains come alive with winter sports and festive events, offering a perfect escape from the city hustle. From skiing and snowboarding to unique cultural celebrations, there’s a reason to visit every popular resort town.

Cultural Delights: Art, Theater, Film, and Dance

Denver’s vibrant arts and culture scene offers numerous indoor options for chilly days, ranging from classic holiday performances to thought-provoking exhibitions.

Stage Spectacles and Dance

The holiday season brings beloved productions like the DCPA Theatre Company’s A Christmas Carol (Nov 21-Dec 28) and the timeless ballet The Nutcracker by the Colorado Ballet (Nov 29-Dec 28). For a modern twist, check out Ratcracker, an aerial show inspired by the classic tale (Dec 5-7, 12-13), or the adults-only musical comedy Stocking Stuffers (Nov 28-Dec 28).

Cinematic Experiences

Enjoy holiday films with a live orchestral score at the Boettcher Concert Hall, including Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (Nov 28-29) and Elf in Concert (Dec 22-23).

Museum Magic and Festive Attractions

Museums and attractions across the metro area offer special winter programming. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science hosts Magical Winter Nights (Nov 20-Jan 4), and the Denver Zoo’s Zoo Lights (Nov 23-Jan 5) remains a dazzling annual favorite. For unique walks, experience Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens York Street or the Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms (both Nov 21-Jan 11).

Frequently Asked Questions

• When do most winter events in Denver begin?
  Many festive events, including tree lightings and holiday markets, kick off in mid-to-late November and continue through December and early January.
• Are there many free holiday events in the Denver area?
  Yes, numerous events are free, such as the Belmar Tree Lighting, Downtown Longmont Plaza Lighting, 9NEWS Parade of Lights, and several holiday markets like Cherry Creek and Christkindlmarket. Look for “free” in the event descriptions.
• What are the top things to do in Colorado’s mountains during winter?
  Skiing and snowboarding are primary attractions. Beyond that, mountain towns host festivals like Aspen’s Wintersköl, Breckenridge’s Ullr Fest, and various New Year’s Eve fireworks and torchlight parades.
• Where can I find holiday markets around Denver?
  Popular holiday markets include the Cherry Creek Holiday Market, Denver Christkindlmarket, RiNo’s Swirly, Twirly Market, and the Dairy Block Mistletoe Market, among many smaller artisan markets throughout the season.

Don’t let the winter chill keep you indoors; Colorado offers a vibrant and diverse array of experiences to embrace the season. Grab your coat, gather your loved ones, and explore the magic, keeping an eye on Westword’s comprehensive guides for even more details and last-minute additions!

Colorado Winter Events Guide