25+ Of The Most Festive Things To Do In Denver During Christmas

The Christmas season is here, brightening the town with glittering lights, holiday markets, and snowy outdoor adventures.

Not sure what to do in Denver this December?

The Mile High City has no shortage of exciting things to do throughout the season. I’ve lived in the Denver area most of my life, these are some of my favorite things to do during the holidays.

Read on for the most festive things to do in Denver during Christmas!

The Best Things To Do In Denver During Christmas

Denver Blossoms Of Lights

When: Daily from November 21 – January 11, 2026, Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas Day
Cost: $$

The Denver Botanic Gardens hosts the highly popular Blossoms of Lights each year for the Christmas season.

Highlights include a 200-foot-long, 17-foot-tall tunnel of animated lights and, of course, an abundance of plants. Grab a hot chocolate or treat from Hive Garden Bistro and explore the garden’s magical light show.

Be sure to book your ticket in advance, especially if visiting on a weekend. 

Live in the south Denver suburbs? Check out Denver Botanic Garden’s Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms.

Cut Down Your Own Christmas Tree Near Denver

When: Anytime within permit restrictions
Cost: $ 

Cutting down your own Christmas tree is an exciting tradition.

It provides adventure and a fun family (or friend) bonding experience, not to mention a bit of physical exercise.

Many of Colorado’s national forests, such as Arapahoe, Pike, and White River, allow visitors to cut down their own tree.

The permit fees are low, however permit availability is limited. Be sure to research dates, rules and locations in advance. Most permits become available in mid-November.

Note: Persons cutting or removing trees from the national forest without a valid permit are subject to a fine of up to $5,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment.

Denver Christkindlmarket (Denver Christmas Market) 

When: Daily from November 21 –  December 23, 2025
Cost: Free 

This outdoor event brings the most beloved elements of an authentic German Christmas Market to The Mile High City.

Stroll through a European village decorated for the holiday season as you shop. Vendors offer both local and European craft gifts, as well as decadent treats and warm drinks.

Once you’ve finished shopping, spend your evening dancing, eating, and drinking among live music.

Drinks and shopping will cost you, but the market itself has free admission.

Christkindlmarket is temporarily on the Auraria Campus while Civic Center park undergoes renovations.

For more information, check out: Denver Christkindlmarket: Tips & Everything To Know.

Afternoon Tea At The Brown Palace

When: Anytime 
Cost: $$ – $$$

Sip tea among 100,000 LED lights, 4,800 holiday ornaments, and a grand array of poinsettias at this historic Denver hotel.

Afternoon tea service includes handmade pastries, scones, and tea sandwiches, while a live pianist plays holiday tunes in the 8-story atrium.

This is a popular Christmas tradition for many, and is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Spend Christmas Day Skiing The Rockies 

When: Anytime
Cost: $$$

Winter is one of the best times of year to find yourself in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

With some of the world’s best skiing just a few hours from downtown, a day trip from Denver is a no brainer.

The most popular ski resorts within driving distance of Denver are: Keystone, Breckenridge, Vail, Arapahoe Basin, Winter Park, and Copper Mountain. 

Even if you don’t like skiing, a trip to the mountains is still a must-consideration, there are plenty of activities for everyone, from dog sled rides, snowshoeing, shopping, or relaxing at a spa. Check out Idaho Springs, Estes Park, Winter Park, Breckenridge, Vail, Rocky Mountain National Park, or Silverthorne for destinations with fun winter activities that aren’t just skiing.

Be sure to also check out: The Most Popular Day Trips From Denver

Mile High Tree In Denver 

When: November 21 – December 31, 2025
Cost: Free

The Mile High Tree is a a seven-story tall, 39-foot diameter LED lit Christmas Tree — the tallest Digital Tree in the United States.

Not only is it an impressive sight from afar, but there’s room for up to 140 people to gather inside the tree. From inside the tree, visitors can experience a spirited light and music show that runs about every 15 minutes. 

It’s set in Civic Center Park and is free to the public. While you’re here, get some Christmas shopping done and enjoy the festivities at the Christkindl Market. For 2025 and 2026 the Mile High Tree and Christkindlmarket are temporarily on the Auraria Campus while the park undergoes renovations.

Visiting this immersive light experience is one of the easiest things to do in Denver during Christmas.

Join A Holiday Cooking Class For Christmas

When: Anytime
Cost: $$$

Food is a vital component to the holidays.

Enjoy a fun night with friends or family while learning to cook from professional chefs. Sharpen your skills at Create Kitchen & Bar, Cozymeal Cooking Classes, Stir, Cook Street Classes, or The Seasoned Chef.

Many of these businesses offer special holiday courses in December.

Ice Skate In Denver’s Skyline Park

When: Not operational for the 2025-2026 or the 2026-2027 season for renovation
Cost: Small fee for skate rentals, free otherwise 

Sitting under the lofty buildings of downtown, and among the bustle of the 16th Street Mall, is the Downtown Denver Rink. This pop-up skate rink has been a highlight of Denver winters since 2009. 

Bring your own blades and skate for free, or rent a pair on site for a fee.

The ice skating rink is centrally located, so plan to grab post-skating food or drinks in the area or do a bit of holiday shopping.

Tip: You may also like the ice skating rink in McGregor Square, and for a full list of outdoor rinks in Denver, check out Top Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks In Denver.

See The Nutcracker At Ellie Caulkins Opera House

When: Select Dates In November & December
Cost: $$ – $$$

See the magical tale of Clara the Nutcracker and the Mouse King live on stage at Ellie Caulkins Opera House. The spectacular show is performed with live music featuring the Colorado Ballet Orchestra.

The Nutcracker runs on select dates through the holidays and should be booked well in advance.

See The Grand Lights Of The Denver City & County Building

When: Thanksgiving weekend – mid January
Cost: Free

The Denver City & County Building is one of downtown’s most jaw-dropping light exhibits during the holiday season. The wide, curved building with grand pillars and an elaborate spire, lends itself perfectly to an incredible light display. 

This is one of many buildings lit during the Grand Illumination ceremony, a tree lighting ceremony held annually on the Friday following Thanksgiving.

The lights are on every night through the holiday season. Additionally, Wednesday – Sunday at 5:45 pm and 6:45 pm, there’s an 8 minute interactive light show.

Holiday Lights In Denver

For more festive lights in the downtown Denver area check out:

• D&F Clock Tower
• Denver Union Station
• Larimer Square
• 16th Street Mall
• Skyline Park

For a full list, check out The Best Christmas Lights In Denver.

Spend A Day Snowshoeing Near Denver 

When: Anytime
Cost: Free or small fee if you need snowshoe rentals

Snowshoeing is a perfect activity for those who wish to spend their holiday season in the great outdoors. Fortunately, Colorado has an abundance of snowshoeing routes great for all skill levels.

The sport allows you to enjoy solitude in areas that are typically very crowded come summer.

For good snowshoeing routes within 1.5 hours of Denver check out:

• Golden Gate Canyon State Park
• Silver Dollar Lake
• Brainard Lake
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Roxborough State Park

If you’d prefer to go with a tour guide, check out this highly rated snowshoeing tour with Yeti Set Go.

Shop The Cherry Creek Holiday Market

When: Daily November 20th – December 24th, 2025
Cost: Free

Ready for some Christmas shopping? Head to the Cherry Creek Holiday Market.

Fifty local makers, designers, and creators present a one-stop-shop for all of your gifting needs this holiday season. In addition to shopping, there’s live entertainment, holiday music, holiday cocktails, hot cocoa, and savory sweets.

The popular outdoor market is located just off the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, in the Fillmore Plaza.

Watch One Of Alamo Draft House’s December Specialty Screenings 

When: Daily In December
Cost: $$

Enjoy a classic Christmas movie at the Alamo Draft House this holiday season.

Within a quaint screening room you’ll have a full cinematic experience complete with chef-prepared meals, local beers, and craft cocktails.

Their December Specialty Screenings vary each year, making this a holiday tradition that’s not quick to get old.

Denver Zoo Lights 

When: Daily from November 24 – January 4, 2026
Cost: $$

Denver Zoo Lights dazzles with two million LED lights sparkling over 80 acres.

The outdoor display allows zoo visitors to admire Christmas lights and cold-weather species simultaneously. Additionally, many of the zoo’s indoor exhibits are open to visitors, and holiday treats, spirits, and hot beverages are available for purchase.

Weekend time slots sell out quickly, so plan to visit during the week or purchase tickets well in advance. This is one of the top visited holiday events in Denver.

Denver Holiday Lights Shows

Looking for more Christmas light displays? Check out:

• Merry & Bright Lights Show (Denver Union Station)
• Cherry Creek North Winter Wanderland (Cherry Creek)
• Blossoms of Light (Denver Botanic Gardens)
• Elitch Holidays, formerly Luminova Holidays (Elitch Gardens)
• Living Lights (Butterfly Pavilion)
• Christmas in Color (Water World & Red Rocks Amphitheatre)
• A Hudson Christmas (The Hudson’s Garden & Events Center)

Again, for a full list check out The Best Christmas Lights In Denver.

Have A Festive Cocktail At A Pop-up Christmas Bar

When: Roughly Thanksgiving – New Year
Cost: $$

Christmas pop-up bars have become all the rage in recent years.

Imagine a tiny bar with an explosion of Christmas decor and fake snow. Couple that with themed cocktails and upbeat holiday tunes, and you’ve got yourself a Christmas Bar.

The Grinch might call them cheesy and overpriced, and he’s not completely wrong, but something about them will make your heart grow three times its size. 

For some of the best Christmas pop-up bars in Denver, check out:

• Avantiki at Avanti Food & Beverage
• Death & Co.’s Holiday Suite
• Happy Camper
• Miracle at Union Station
• The Electric Cure’s Krampus Room
• Snowdrift at Adrift Tiki Bar — which features awkward Santa photos every Wednesday.  

For a complete list, check out: The Best Christmas Pop-Up Bars In Denver.

Siding with the Grinch on this one? Sip an unforgettable craft cocktail at the Welton Room instead.

Watch The Mile High Holidays Drone Show

When: Nightly, November 21 – December 31, 2025
Cost: Free

400 drones will light up the sky with holiday-themed graphics and beloved Denver landmarks throughout the holiday season.

If you’ve never been to a drone show, it’s essentially a light show in the sky, with drones programmed to fly in synchronized patterns, creating shapes and animations. It’s surprisingly cool, and I’m always entertained by the Denver landmark shapes (like Blucifer!).

The shows will run nightly at 7 pm, with a few special shows for the local sports teams, and are visible from various points downtown. Find more information at Denver Mile high Holidays Drone Show.

Watch A Christmas Carol At Denver Center For The Performing Arts 

When: Select Dates November 21 – December 28, 2025
Cost: $$ – $$$

Essential to the holiday season in Denver, A Christmas Carol is a joyous musical adaptation based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel.

Follow the heartwarming Christmas story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey to redemption and the transformative power of love and charity.

Live performances run on select dates through the holidays. This should be booked well in advance as many popular dates sell out.

Elitch Holidays (formerly Luminova Holidays) At Elitch Gardens 

When: Select Dates November 28 – January 4, 2026
Cost: $$

Marvel at over 3 million lights, a 65 foot tall Christmas tree, and a 300 foot x 70 foot wall of lights at Elitch Holidays (formerly Luminova Holidays).

The attraction takes place inside Elitch Gardens, Denver’s downtown amusement park.

It’s unlikely you’ll find these lights drab, they’re larger than life and set amongst amusement park attractions — the most popular of which you can ride.

This is definitely one of the most thrilling things to do in Denver during Christmas.

Hammond’s Candies Factory Tour 

When: Anytime
Cost: Free

Nearly 100 years ago, Carl T. Hammond, Sr. opened Hammond’s Candies Factory in Denver, today the small family business has grown into an iconic American brand.

Bring along the whole family and see how lollipops, candy canes, and chocolate peppermints are made during this free factory tour.

Tours run every half hour on the quarter hour during factory business hours. Tours run year-round, but are especially popular during the holidays. 

Reservations should be made in advance on weekends: Hammond’s Candies Factory Tour.

Spend An Afternoon Sledding For Christmas

When: Anytime
Cost: Free

Nothing screams Colorado Christmas like an afternoon spent sledding.

After the fresh snow falls, make your way to Ruby Hill, Wallace Park, or Robinson Park in Denver.

If it’s not a white Christmas, you may have to head to the Rockies for fresh powder. Check out Winter Park, Vail, Copper, and Keystone, all of which have tubing hills for a fee. 

Denver Parade Of Lights 

When: December 6th, 2025 6 pm
Cost: Free

Since 1975 the 9 News Parade of Lights has been drawing massive crowds of excited spectators to downtown Denver.

The free procession features more than 40 units, including lavishly illuminated floats, giant character balloons — even Santa Claus! — and festive marching bands.

The 2-mile route starts at the Denver City & County Building, then travels up Tremont Street to 17th Street. From here it goes northwest for several blocks before turning onto Arapahoe Street. The parade then loops back on 15th Street to Glenarm. 

Standing room is free along the parade’s route. The parade route gets extremely crowded, for a good spot along the route you need to arrive early.  

DIY A Unique Christmas Gift At Upstairs Circus In Denver 

When: Anytime
Cost: $$ 

Upstairs Circus is a craft workshop and bar, perfect for a night out with friends. It offers a menu of creative DIY projects to complete while enjoying adult beverages.

Not only is it a fun way to spend an evening with friends, but the unique projects provide an excellent handmade gift for a lucky loved one.

There are two locations in Denver, downtown and the tech center, and reservations should be booked in advance.

Christmas At Gaylord Rockies

When: November 24 – January 2, 2026
Cost: $$ 

The entire family will love the Christmas wonder and variety of activities at the Gaylord Rockies.

Admire the resort’s incredible Christmas decorations, go ice skating, make ginger bread houses, or enjoy a Christmas show.

Be sure to see the ICE! exhibit. Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the entire Peanuts crew come to life at the incredible exhibit made out of more than 2 million pounds of ice. 

This is a perfect Christmas activity to enjoy with the kids.

Enjoy The Colorado Symphony During The Christmas Season

When: Select Dates In December
Cost: $$

A Colorado Christmas, in accordance with the Colorado Symphony, features live Christmas classics at the Boettcher Concert Hall.

Sing along with traditional Christmas carols, your favorite new winter tunes, and even some newly arranged surprises. The symphony also produces other popular Christmas concerts such as Home Alone in Concert and The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert. 

Shows runs on select dates through the holidays and should be booked in advance.

Join Bibamba’s Chocolate Classes For Christmas

When: Select dates in November & December
Cost: $$

Treat yourself to a sweet holiday activity at Bibamba Artisan Chocolate in Edgewater, where you can take a hands-on chocolate-making class.

The workshop walks you through the basics of chocolate production, includes a demo, and then lets you roll and decorate your own truffles.

It’s fun, beginner-friendly, and you get to take home a box of your handmade chocolates afterward. Classes are very limited and book up quickly, so reserve ahead at Bibamba Artisan Chocolate.

St. Nicks Christmas & Collectibles

When: Year-round
Cost: $

If you’re looking for a Christmas store near Denver, look no further than St. Nicks Christmas Store.

For nearly 50 years, St. Nick’s in South Denver has been a staple for Christmas shoppers looking for decorations, ornaments, and many other Santa-themed inspirations.

Even if you’re just looking to explore, this massive store is worth a stop during the holiday season. 

Camp Christmas

When: November 21 – December 28, 2025
Cost: $$

Experience the holiday season with Camp Christmas’ whimsical celebration.

The 15,000 square foot, former airport hangar at the Stanley Marketplace has been converted to a Christmas wonderland.

The 360 degree dazzling encounter is a Christmas sensory overload, perfect for a fun night out with family or friends.

Polar Express Train Ride At The Colorado Railroad Museum

When: November 7 – December 23, 2025
Cost: $$$

Experience the enchantment of the Polar Express Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum.

The Polar Express unfolds as a three-part theatrical spectacle. The evening begins with delightful holiday caroling and a lively performance of the ‘Hot Chocolate’ song and dance. Then embarks on a magical journey to the North Pole aboard vintage coaches, pulled by an authentic coal-fired steam locomotive, before you finally get to meet Santa!

This is extremely popular among families with kids, popular event dates sell out far in advance, check availability at Polar Express Train Ride Colorado Railroad Museum.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of great things to do in Denver during Christmas!

Any questions? Please leave a comment below!

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Denver and Colorado guides or head on over to Visit Denver!