12 Christmas Things To Do in Vail, Colorado

Vail during Christmas feels like stepping into a luxurious European alpine village — snow-dusted roofs, heated cobblestone walkways, festive lights, and mountain views in every direction. As a Colorado local, I think Vail does Christmas especially well, it’s cozy and scenic but there’s also a ton to do.

Whether you’re visiting to ski or just enjoy the holiday atmosphere, here are the best Christmas things to do in Vail.

Christmas Things To Do in Vail, Colorado

Vail Tree Lightings

Vail’s official tree lightings usually take place in early December in two main areas: Vail Village and Lionshead Village.

Events typically include carolers, hot cocoa, and a small crowd of families bundled up before the lights switch on. Not only is the main tree illuminated, but all the surrounding twinkle lights across the plazas come on with it — it feels like the official start of Christmas in Vail.

If you’re visiting early in the season, these tree lightings are an easy, festive way to kick off your trip. And if you’re visiting later on, you can’t miss the trees and plazas fully lit for the holidays.

Kris Kringle Market

The Kris Kringle Market is held in Vail Village at the International Bridge, usually during the first weekend of December. It’s Vail’s version of a small European-style Christmas market, with local artisans selling handmade ornaments, gifts, Colorado artwork, knitwear, and snacks.

It’s not a massive event, but it’s very charming and perfect for an afternoon stroll between shops and restaurants. If you like supporting local makers or want a unique souvenir, this is one of the best Christmas markets in the mountains.

Explore Vail Village & Lionshead Village

Even without events, exploring Vail Village and Lionshead Village is one of the best things to do at Christmas. Both are pedestrian-only and beautifully decorated with garlands, twinkle lights, and alpine-style architecture.

Vail Village is the larger of the two, with more shops, restaurants, and those classic, winding pathways. Lionshead is a bit smaller and newer, but just as charming, with its own cluster of boutiques and dining options.

Both sit right at the base of Vail Mountain, feature stunning Bavarian-inspired buildings, and offer plenty of spots for Christmas shopping. And thanks to the heated walkways, wandering around is surprisingly comfortable even when it’s snowing.

Pop into coffee shops, browse gift boutiques, or just enjoy the scenery — both villages feel especially magical in December.

Go Ice Skating

Vail has a few great outdoor rinks, each with its own vibe. The Solaris Ice Rink in Vail Village sits in a lively plaza surrounded by restaurants and shops — it’s very lively at night, especially during the holidays.

Over in Lionshead, the Arrabelle Ice Rink offers that classic alpine-hotel backdrop and feels cozy and festive. It’s smaller but extremely charming.

If you’re exploring the valley, Beaver Creek Ice Rink is another popular option just 15 minutes away.

Or, if you’d prefer to skate inside, check out Vail’s Dobson Ice Arena. Dobson is currently closed for renovation during the 2025-2026 season.

All rinks offer skate rentals and are open throughout the holiday season, hours will vary.

For more details, check out Vail Ice Skating Rinks: Everything To Know.

Ice Skating Shows

Solaris Plaza typically hosts the Holiday Ice Spectacular, a professional skating show held on select evenings in December. The performances are free and usually scheduled around other popular holiday events.

Skaters range from local talent to former competitive pros, and the show only lasts about 20 – 30 minutes — perfect for catching something festive without committing to a long event.

Event information isn’t always available online, but local rinks will have flyers with this year’s dates.

Skiing

Vail’s main ski resort is Vail Mountain, operated by Vail Resorts, and it’s consistently ranked as one of the top ski destinations in the world.

The resort’s projected opening date typically falls around mid-November — 2025’s opening date is Friday, November 14th. By Christmas, a large portion of terrain is usually open, including sections of the iconic Back Bowls if conditions allow.

Skiing during the holidays is busy, so it’s best to go for an early-start: be on the lift at opening, ski until lunch, and take a midday break while crowds peak.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities (Besides Skiing)

There’s a lot to do in Vail in winter even if you’re not downhill skiing.

The Vail Nordic Center offers snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals, along with groomed trails and incredible views of the Gore Range. Snowshoeing is one of the easiest ways to explore quieter terrain — many local shops rent gear, and trails near East Vail and the golf course area are especially scenic.

You can also book snowmobiling tours, go tubing at Adventure Ridge (when conditions allow), or take a winter walk along the Gore Creek path, which is beautiful and peaceful, but can get icy. It’s a great way to balance the high energy of skiing days with something slower and more scenic.

Relax At A Spa

A spa day is one of the best ways to unwind during the holidays, especially if you’re splitting time between skiing and events.

Some of Vail’s top-rated spas include The Spa at The Arrabelle, the Four Seasons Vail Spa, and the RockResorts Spa at The Lodge at Vail.

Expect luxe alpine-inspired treatments, large hot tubs, steam rooms, and lounges designed for post-ski relaxation. The holiday week books out fast, so you’ll want to schedule appointments as early as possible.

Sleigh Ride

For a classic winter experience, book a sleigh ride at 4 Eagle Ranch, located about 30 minutes from Vail.

Their evening sleigh ride includes a loop through the snowy fields followed by a hearty dinner inside the ranch lodge — perfect for families or anyone wanting that nostalgic Christmas-in-the-mountains moment. Book at 4 Eagle Ranch Sleigh Rides.

If you’re not interested in a full dinner package, some local outfitters offer shorter sleigh rides during the day. Just be aware that sleigh rides depend on snow levels, early-season availability can vary. Check out a full list of Vail sleigh rides at Discover Vail Sleigh Rides.

Day Trip To The Hot Springs

Soaking in natural hot springs is one of the best winter activities in the mountains. Unfortunately, there aren’t any springs in Vail, but you’ve got a few great options in nearby Glenwood Springs, which is about an hour away depending on traffic and weather.

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool offers a huge historic soaking pool, Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves has beautiful underground vapor caves, and Iron Mountain features dozens of smaller mineral pools overlooking the Colorado River.

If you’re up for a longer drive, Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs (about 1 hour 30 minutes away) has a rustic setting tucked-away with three beautifully designed hot pools surrounded by mountain views.

No matter which you choose, a hot springs day trip is the perfect warm-up after a full day in the snow.

For more information, check out my guide to the Best Hot Springs Near Vail.

Festive Holiday Events

Vail hosts a variety of holiday events throughout December. In addition to the tree lightings, Kris Kringle Market, and the Holiday Ice Spectacular, you’ll also find these popular seasonal events:

• Vail Ugly Sweater 5K Fun Run — A lighthearted charity run through town with prizes for the best (and worst) sweaters.
• Vail Après Concert Series — Outdoor live music on the International Bridge or Solaris Plaza throughout the season.
• Yeti Hockey Games — Catch a lively local hockey game at Dobson Arena for a fun, energetic night out.
• Alpine Arts Center Workshops — Free winter art classes where you can create a Colorado-inspired holiday keepsake (located in nearby Edwards).

These small but festive events add even more charm to spending Christmas in Vail.

Vail Restaurants At Christmas

Dining in Vail feels especially festive during the holidays. Vail’s restaurant scene is a mix of iconic, upscale spots and casual local favorites — and during Christmas week, everything books up fast, so reservations are your friend.

Here are a few standout restaurants to try:

• Sweet Basil – One of Vail’s most longstanding restaurants. Creative, upscale, and consistently delicious — this is the place everyone recommends for a special holiday dinner.
• Mountain Standard – The more relaxed sister restaurant to Sweet Basil, centered around wood-fired cooking. Warm, lively, and perfect after a full day in the snow.
• Almresi – A Bavarian-inspired restaurant in Lionshead that feels tailor-made for Christmas: candlelit tables, chalet vibes, hearty alpine dishes, and plenty of holiday atmosphere.
• La Nonna Ristorante – A cozy Italian spot known for handmade pasta and warm, intimate ambiance — a great pick for a festive, comfort-food type of evening.
• Matsuhisa – Chef Nobu’s Vail outpost blends Japanese-Peruvian imagination with sushi and refined plates.
• Alpenrose – Another cozy, Bavarian-style favorite in Vail Village known for hearty alpine dishes, candlelit interiors, and a festive, chalet vibe that feels perfect at Christmas (you can even dine in a historic gondola car!).
• The 10th (on Vail Mountain) – If you’re skiing, this is the perfect mid-mountain treat: elevated bistro fare with panoramic views. You can also book it for dinner on select evenings via the gondola.

On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, many restaurants offer prix-fixe menus or special holiday dinners — booking ahead is definitely recommended.

Pst: For something more casual or easier to get into, favorites like First Chair, Westside Cafe & Market, Del Toro Mexican, Grill on the Gore, and Garfinkel’s offer great food and drinks without the fine-dining price tag.

Christmas in Vail is all about atmosphere — twinkle lights over heated walkways, festive events tucked into alpine plazas, and easy access to some of the best winter activities in Colorado. Whether you’re here to ski, shop, sip hot cocoa, or simply enjoy the mountain scenery, Vail makes the holiday season feel effortless and genuinely special.

I hope you’ve found this helpful in planning your trip and have the best time!

Any questions? Leave a comment below or reach out on social media!

Looking for more information? Check out my additional Vail and Colorado guides below or head over to Discover Vail.

More Information For A Winter Vacation In Vail, Colorado:

• Winter & Spring In Vail: Best Things To Do
• Winter Weekend Itinerary: Vail, Colorado
• One Day Itinerary Winter: Vail
• Vail Ice Skating Rinks: Everything To Know
• Best Hotels In Vail, Colorado
• Top Hot Springs Near Vail, Colorado
• What To Wear In Colorado In Winter (For Mountain Towns & Ski Trips)
• All Vail, Colorado Guides

More Information For Your Colorado Vacation:

• Best Christmas Towns In Colorado
• Top Winter Destinations In Colorado
• Best Colorado Mountain Towns For First-Time Visitors
• Colorado Travel Guide (how to plan your trip!)
• All Colorado Guides