Whether you are a Colorado native or planning a winter adventure to Denver in December, you will absolutely love all of the festive things to do in Denver for Christmas—celebrate the holidays in the Mile High City in style.
Chris and I have spent many Christmases in Colorado, and the Denver holiday scene never disappoints. From dazzling light displays to world-class performances and festive markets, the city pulls out all the stops from Thanksgiving through New Year’s.
21 Festive Things To Do In Denver for Christmas
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You may have already begun to wonder when it’s socially acceptable to start celebrating the Christmas season with winter activities, shopping for gifts, and planning December getaways. Martha Stewart has an answer: the old rule of waiting until after Thanksgiving no longer seems to apply. You have Martha’s permission to get started.
Every year our family attends “A Colorado Christmas” with the Colorado Symphony, and we try to squeeze in a few more festive events alongside it—the Light the World Giving Machines and the Christkindlmarkt have become firm family traditions. If Denver isn’t already on your Colorado road trip itinerary, it absolutely should be—especially in December.
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1. Cherry Creek North Winter Wanderland Light Walk
Wander through Cherry Creek North under twinkling lights choreographed to seasonal melodies—a free, festive stroll that sets the holiday mood perfectly. It’s an easy addition to any Denver December itinerary.
- WHERE: 2401 E 2nd Ave #150 Denver, CO 80206
- WHEN: Mid November thru December 24, 2026
- COST: Free
2. Christmas in Color
A drive-thru animated light show at three Colorado locations that pairs perfectly synchronized lights and music. Listen on your car radio. You are a part of the parade of lights!
Your kids might just be poking their heads through the sunroof to get the best view. Choose from one of three locations.
- Water World: 8800 N Pecos St., Federal Heights, CO 80260
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465
- Arapahoe County Fairgrounds: 25690 E Quincy Ave., Aurora, CO 80016
- WHEN: November 13 thru December 30, 2026
- COST: Priced per vehicle
3. Colorado Nutcracker Ballet
The Nutcracker is one of those holiday traditions that never gets old—and the Colorado Ballet’s production at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House is the real deal. Follow Clara and her Nutcracker prince through Tchaikovsky’s beloved score with stunning sets and costumes that make it feel fresh every year. It belongs on the list of Denver Christmas activities you return to again and again.
- WHERE: Ellie Caulkins Opera House 1385 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80204 (DPAC)
- WHEN: November 29 thru December, 2026
- COST: Pricing varies
4. Colorado Symphony Orchestra
The Colorado Symphony’s holiday lineup at the Denver Performing Arts Complex is one of the best things to do in Denver for Christmas—and a tradition worth building. From nostalgic holiday melodies to movies set to live music, there’s something for every taste. Fan favorites include A Colorado Christmas, Holiday Brass, Too Hot to Handel, How the Grinch Stole Christmas in Concert, Drums of the World, and A Night in Vienna.
Enjoy nostalgic holiday melodies, movies set to live music, and timeless favorites with the Colorado Symphony at the Denver Performing Arts Complex (DPAC) when planning your December events with the symphony in Denver for Christmas.
Choose from fan favorites: A Colorado Christmas, Holiday Brass, Too Hot to Handel, How the Grinch Stole Christmas in Concert, Drums of the World, A Holiday Evening with Leslie Odom, Jr., and A Night in Vienna
- WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall, 1000 14th Street, #15 | Denver, CO 80202
- WHEN: November and December
- COST: Pricing varies by concert and seating
5. Denver Botanical Gardens Lights
The Denver Botanical Gardens offers Christmas events for families at both of their locations. Celebrate the season with dazzling light displays. This family-friendly event is a holiday tradition as both York Street and Chatfield Farm are transformed into twinking wonderlands.
Blossoms of Light – York Street
- WHERE: 1007 York Street Denver, CO 80206
- WHEN: Mid-November thru Mid-January (closed Thanksgiving & Christmas Day), 4:30-9:00 pm
- COST: General, Military and Member Pricing
Trail of Lights – Chatfield Farm
- WHERE: 8500 W Deer Creek Canyon Road Littleton, CO 80128
- WHEN: Mid-November thru Mid-January (closed Thanksgiving & Christmas Day), 5:00 – 830 pm
- COST: General, Military and Member Pricing
Denver Christmas Markets
The markets in and around Colorado’s Mile High City are some of the most festive things to do in Denver for Christmas—perfect for gift shopping, warm drinks, and soaking in the holiday spirit.
6. 16th Street Mall Holiday Festival
The 16th Street Mall is usually bustling with residents and tourists year round.
If you are visiting Denver in winter, the street is decked with colorful twinkling lights with a 16th Street Mall Holiday Festival that features one-of-a-kind treasures, handcrafted goods, delectable foods, home decor, and unique holiday gifts and ideas.
- WHERE: 16th Street Mall at Welton and Glenarm in Downtown Denver
- WHEN: Temporary hiatus due to construction
- COST: Free Entrance
7. Après Ski Holiday Market
Have you ever been to the Dairy Block in the heart of Denver’s LoDo neighborhood? The block celebrates unique arts and crafts of all kinds in the heated alleyways of the local shops and restaurants. If you have ever visited the Christmas markets in Europe, the Après Ski Holiday Market in Denver in December brings them close to home.
- WHERE: Dairy Block 1800 Wazee St.Denver, CO 80202
- WHEN: Weekends from Mid November 25 thru Mid December
- COST: Free Entrance
8. Cherry Creek Holiday Market
Santa’s elves give thanks for the Cherry Creek Holiday Market so they can stock up on gifts ideas from the “50+ local makers, designers, and creators“. Discover the magic of Fillmore Plaza bedazzled in its Christmas finery if you are in Denver in December.
- WHERE: Fillmore Plaza in Cherry Creek North
- WHEN: Mid-November 20 thru December 24
- COST: Free Entrance
9. Christkindlmarkt
Discover an authentic German Christmas Market in the heart of Denver! Reminiscent of Christmas markets worldwide, the Christkindlmarkt brings you row on row of festively decorated wooden huts to browse for unique handcrafted arts, gifts, and treats. Come for a unique couple’s date, bring the whole family, or grab your friends for a girl’s night out.
- WHERE: Auraria Campus, Tivoli Quad 1000 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80204
- WHEN: Mid-November thru December 23, 2026
- COST: Free Entrance
- HOURS: Monday – Thursday from 1:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- HOURS: Friday – Sunday & Last Week (Dec. 15 – 23 ) from 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
10. Colorado Country Christmas Gift Show
The Colorado Country Christmas Gift Show arrives in November, so if you aren’t on your toes, you’ll miss it. Walk miles of holiday booths filled with handcrafted goods, Colorado-made gifts, and food plus a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
- WHERE: National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St, Denver, CO 80216
- WHEN: November 6 – 8, 2026
- COST: Tickets available online and at the door
11. Denver Downtown Skating Rink
Gather with family and friends for a night under the stars. Bundle up for a fun time; bring your own skates and skate for free in Downtown Denver in December.
- WHERE: Skyline at 1601 Arapahoe St., Denver, CO 80202
- WHEN: Closed for construction, check schedule for times
- COST: Free with your own skates. Skate rentals are available
12. Denver Parade of Lights
The Denver Parade of Lights kicks off December in the best possible way—helium-filled balloons, twinkling floats, marching bands, and a very famous guest of honor. Families and friends line downtown Denver streets to usher in the holiday season together. Best of all, it’s completely free.
Spectators can view the parade along the two-mile route on Tremont Street between 14th and 17th Streets, on 17th Street from Tremont to Arapahoe, on Arapahoe between 17th and 15th Streets, and on 15th Street from Arapahoe to Glenarm.
- WHERE: 16th Street Mall and Downtown Denver, CO
- WHEN: December 5, 2026 at 6:00 pm
- COST: Free
13. Elitch Holidays
Elitch Holidays transforms Elitch Gardens into a winter wonderland with over 3 million twinkling lights and a larger-than-life Christmas tree. Limited rides are available in December, and you might just spy Santa and a few of his hardworking elves along the way. A great option for families visiting Denver this winter.
- WHERE: Elitch Gardens 2000 Elitch Circle, Denver, CO 80204
- WHEN: Late November – January
- COST: Ticket prices vary
14. Gaylord Rockies
Christmas at Gaylord Rockies Resort in Aurora is a full holiday experience—carved and colorful ice sculptures, ICE bumper cars, and the ICE! exhibit. Make a weekend of it with an overnight stay at the resort—it’s the kind of holiday memory that sticks.
- WHERE: 6700 North Gaylord Rockies Boulevard, Aurora, CO 80019
- WHEN: Late November – Early January
- COST: Varying prices and events
15. Light the World Giving Machines
The Light the World Giving Machines are one of those Denver Christmas traditions that remind you what the season is actually about. These vending machine-style donation stations let you select a gift for someone in need—food, water, medical supplies, and more—right from the machine. Open 24/7 from Thanksgiving week through the New Year at a new location this year.
- WHERE: To be determined
- WHEN: Thanksgiving thru the New Year
- COST: Donations
16. Mile High Tree
At 110 feet tall, Denver’s Mile High Tree is 10 feet higher than the tallest Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in history—and it’s completely free. The conical structure holds 60,000 LED lights and can accommodate up to 140 guests underneath for an immersive light and music show every night. This year it’s in a new location at the Tivoli Quad on the Auraria Campus, right next to the Christkindlmarkt—making it an easy two-for-one stop.
- WHERE: Auraria Campus, Tivoli Quad 1000 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80204
- WHEN: Mid-November – December 31
- COST: Free
17. Polar Express Train Ride
Put on your pajamas and climb aboard. The Polar Express Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum brings the beloved story to life with a magical train ride, hot cocoa, cookies, a theatrical performance of “Hot, Hot, Hot—Chocolate,” and a visit from Santa himself. It’s the kind of experience kids talk about for years—and honestly, adults love it just as much.
Tickets sell out fast—grab them early.
- WHERE: Colorado Railroad Museum, 17155 W. 44th Avenue, Golden, CO 80403
- WHEN: Early November thru December
- COST: Varying prices
- HOURS: Main show begins at 5:00 p.m., 6:30 p.m., or 8:00 p.m
18. Union Station Festivities
Denver Union Station goes all out for the holidays. The Grand Illumination event in November kicks things off with performances by the Denver Dolls, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the lighting of the station’s iconic 40-foot outdoor Christmas tree with over 7,000 holiday lights.
From there, the Merry & Bright Lights show transforms the station’s exterior façade into a dazzling holiday display visible every night through the season. The Miracle at Union Station pop-up cocktail bar opens in late November for the adults in the group—and Santa and Mrs. Claus make regular appearances throughout December.
- WHERE: Union Station 1701 Wynkoop, Denver Colorado 80202
- WHEN: Late November for Tree Lighting, festivities continue through December
- COST: Varies
If you’ve never ridden the train from Denver’s Union Station, pack your bags for an adventure to Glenwood Springs on Amtrak.
19. Denver Zoo Lights
Denver Zoo Lights are a staple in holiday things to do in Denver for Christmas. Marvel at the wonder of Aurora Borealis, Savannah Sunset and Electric Jungle as you stroll through the illuminated zoo. Be sure to stop and watch the ice-carving demos, warm your hands at the fire barrels, and enjoy festive treats and drink. Oh, and don’t forget to visit the animals!
- WHERE: Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele Street Denver, CO 80205
- WHEN: Late November to Early January (Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Days)
- COST: Member and Non-Member Pricing
20. Mile High Drone Show
If you’ve ever watched a drone show at any of the Disney themed parks, you already know how spectacular these can be. Every night in downtown Denver, holiday-themed animations light up the sky with a dazzling visual experience that’s a little different each night. Free, festive, and impossible not to love.
- WHEN: Mid-November thru December 31
- WHERE: Downtown Denver
- COST: Free
21. Ring in the New Year with Fireworks
Cap off the holiday season in style with two spectacular fireworks shows lighting up the Downtown Denver sky on New Year’s Eve—one at 9:00 pm for the early crowd and one at midnight for the night owls. Head to the 16th Street Mall for the best views, enjoy live music from 8:00 pm to midnight, and bundle up—it’s December in Colorado.
- WHERE: 16th Street Mall, Denver, CO
- WHEN: December 31 at 9:00 pm & midnight
- COST: Free
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Whew! I have tried to be concise and to get the most accurate information and details as possible. Please check the links for dates, times and pricing for the most up-to-date information on all the amazing and festive things to do in Denver for Christmas!
Stay Warm as You Visit Denver in December!
If you aren’t used to the weather in Denver during the winter months, you’ll want to come prepared. Temperatures are often below freezing and cool off considerably after dark.
- Columbia Puffy Jacket for Women
- Columbia Puffy Jacket for Men
- Fleece Ear Warmers
- Winter Gloves
- Rechargeable Hand Warmer
- Hot Hands Disposable Hand warmers
Need a Place to Stay?
Check out some exciting locations in Denver for your December visit on Booking.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there snow in Denver at Christmas?
With average temperature in Denver in December ranging from a high of 42°F (6°C) to a low of 22°F (-6°C), Denver can get chilly. There will often be snow on the ground, but there is no guarantee!
What is the warmest and coldest recorded Christmas temperatures in Denver?
Records for December 25th temperatures in Denver range from a high of 69 degrees recorded in 2005 down to a low of -10 degrees in 1983.
Is Colorado popular for skiing?
Colorado is consistently ranked among the best states for skiing in the country. With world-class resorts in Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge, and Telluride, it’s easy to see why skiers keep coming back.
Why is Denver called the Mile High City?
Denver, Colorado claims the nickname of the “Mile High City” because it has an official elevation of 5,280 feet (1,609.3 meters) above sea level. 5,280 feet equals 1 mile.
Is Denver worth visiting at Christmas?
Absolutely. Denver goes all out for the holidays with free events, world-class performances, festive markets, and light displays throughout December.
What is the Denver Parade of Lights?
The Denver Parade of Lights is a free annual holiday parade through downtown Denver featuring floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus. It typically takes place in early December along the 16th Street Mall.
Is parking free in Denver at Christmas?
Denver offers free parking on select streets and in some garages during the holiday season. Check Denver’s official parking resources for current details before your visit.
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Make It a Denver Christmas to Remember
How do you like to celebrate the holiday season? Whether your traditions include a white elephant gift exchange, an ugly sweater party, caroling, or sleeping under the Christmas tree, Denver has something to add to the mix. Choose one or five or all 21 of these festive things to do in Denver for Christmas—and let this list inspire you to seek out the holiday magic wherever you are.
Add a Christmas traditions twist to your December and make this the year you go all in on the holiday season. Don’t miss a thing—save this post to Pinterest and follow Just Wander More for more Colorado travel inspiration.
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Such great events and traditions to get you in the holiday spirit in Denver!
Wow. Definitely adding Christmas in Denver to my list!
We don’t live terribly far from Denver, yet we’ve never been down there for Christmas. I didn’t know there was so much to do, but we will definitely have to consider this for future trips
I love Christmas markets!!! It’s interesting to know that you could do so many things in Denver. I imagine it would be full of life in Christmas.
Thanks for sharing!
There seems to be a lot of things to do in Denver for Christmas! I would love to visit the Botanical gardens, visit the Christmas markets and listen to the symphony orchestra. I have not been to Denver yet, but when I do, I will definitely look up your list even if it is not Christmas, 🙂
I love visiting Holiday markets! Thanks for the great list of things to do during the holiday season.
Wow! Maybe I need to get out to the rockies for Christmas. There’s so many things to do! I love Martha but I must say that I can’t decorate for Christmas until the day after Thanksgiving, as much as I want to, to me it’s a sin. Lol
We often don’t think of heading to cold weather spots for Christmas. But Denver looks like it offers a lot of things to put us in the holiday spirit. And an animated light show would be a lot of fun. If we got there before the holidays we might even get some shopping done!
Denver sounds great at Christmastime! I love that there’s an authentic German Christmas market!
Great to see a city that offers so much to get everyone in the holiday spirit! Must be great for families to have that tradition every year.
Everything looks so much fun. Thanks for sharing!
Some lovely events and they say Denver is boring! The Parade of Lights sounds fun!
I’ve never been to Denver but it looks like it would be so much fun at christmas!
This would definitely get people into the Christmas spirit, all looks so beautiful. I would especially love to see the Symphony Orchestra.
The Denver Christmas market really appeals to me because I love eating and shopping at them. Thanks for the great tips!
Looks like so many amazing things to do in Denver. I love Christmas markets, that would be fun. I would probably love the Elitch Gardens too. I pinned this for future travels.
I haven’t been to Denver in years but now I want to go back ?
I’ve only experienced a hot summer Christmas since I’ve grown up in Australia my life. I’d love to experience a winter Christmas some day! Sounds like Denver is a lovely place to experience in the winter festive months. Thanks for sharing this listicle of top things to do!
Denver looks like a magical place to spend Christmas! Cherry Creek North Winter Wanderland Light Walk looks so enchanting and the giving machines sound like such a lovely idea!
Love this post! Love the variety of activities..esp. ones that go past Christmas Day.. I am looking at where to go for Christmas 2026 and Denver is now a real contender!