Christmas is coming to Denver, Colorado, and these Denver Christmas activities will help you plan the best things to do in Denver for Christmas this holiday season!
While it would be nearly impossible to mention all the holiday happenings, I’ve rounded up a list of picks that will be fun and festive for everyone! From Christmas lights to Christmas plays, and cheerful holiday markets — ’tis the season!
Without further ado, let’s get into the best Denver Christmas activities!
This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. There are only products included that I truly love. I APPRECIATE your support!
Table of Contents
The Best Denver Christmas Activities
While it might not be Rockefeller Center, I would say that Denver’s Christmas charm is unmatched! Check out some of the Mile High City’s most coveted attractions during the most wonderful time of the year!
1. Union Station’s Grand Illumination
Union Station is a Denver landmark that becomes even more stunning during the holiday season with its Grand Illumination event!
The city of Denver turns the train station into a mirrorball shimmering with thousands of lights, and the giant Christmas tree in the plaza is so stunning! Inside the train station, there are also some festive things to do like, visits with Santa, live music, and themed food and drinks (spiked hot cocoa anyone?!).
2. Denver Christkindlmarket
One of the must-visit Christmas activities in Denver is the Christkindlmarket. This traditional German holiday market, located at Civic Center Park, will make you feel like you just transported on a European holiday!
My boyfriend and I had so much fun last year listening to the live music and strolling through the market checking out all of the handcrafted gifts.
Tip: I would recommend coming hungry because you will not want to miss some of the infamous German treats like bratwurst, pretzels, and hot spiced wine — yummy!
3. Ice Skating at Skyline Park
Nothing says Christmas quite like ice skating! Skyline Park is located in the heart of downtown Denver and is the perfect outdoor rink for kids, families, and a great spot for a date night under the stars!
Rentals are available, and the rink is open daily, making it easy to fit into your holiday schedule!
4. Cherry Creek Holiday Market
Located at Fillmore Plaza, this market has a ton of local vendors selling unique gifts, crafts, and holiday goodies. I ended up purchasing a lot of my Christmas gifts like handmade jewelry and ornaments here because of how unique everything was!
This is a great place to enjoy live music, chow down on some yummy food truck fare, and enjoy a festive holiday drink.
5. Parade of Lights
The Parade of Lights is a great way to kick off the holiday season in Denver! And the best part? It’s free!
This event has a ton of holiday floats, marching bands, and giant balloon characters. You can find the parade winding its way through the streets of downtown Denver, ending at Civic Center Park.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and soak in the festive atmosphere.
6. Denver Zoo Lights
The Denver Zoo truly takes Christmas to another level. Each year, over two million lights illuminate the animal exhibits, and during this event you can wander through illuminated pathways, enjoy animated light sculptures, and even see Santa Claus!
Good to Know: The Denver Zoo recently announced a New Year’s Eve-inclusive experience for members of our community living with sensory processing disorders (SPD). Check the Zoo’s website for more details leading up to the event.
7. Santa’s Village at Chatfield Farms
If you’re looking for a family-friendly attraction this holiday season, look no further than Chatfield Farms for a magical holiday experience at Santa’s Village!
This is the perfect place to take little ones because there is so much to see and do! From a hayride to life-size elf cottages, craft stations, and even a movie theater! Stay up to date with all of the happenings by visiting their website.
8. Christmas in Color
If you’re looking for something that doesn’t involve you getting out of your warm vehicle, look no further than Christmas in Color!
This drive-through light show has millions of synchronized lights set to holiday music, plus each ticket that is purchased helps contribute to the “Come See the Lights” initiative to give back to communities in Denver.
9. A Christmas Carol at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts
If you’re looking for a bit of theater in your life during the Christmas season, you can’t miss a performance of “A Christmas Carol” at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as this popular show tends to sell out quickly!
10. Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens
While I was already blown away by the Denver Botanic Gardens when I visited the first time, I had no idea what was in store for the Blossoms of Light event…and to say I was taken aback would be an understatement!
The annual Blossoms of Light event is simply stunning. I loved grabbing a hot cocoa and wandering through the interactive light displays (that were synchronized with my favorite holiday music, no less!). It really doesn’t get better than that.
Good to Know: This is a popular event among Denver locals. Be sure to book your tickets early, as this event sells out quickly!
11. Camp Christmas at the Stanley Marketplace
Christmas starts a bit early at Stanley Marketplace’s Camp Christmas event. Starting November 16 through December 24, this event is Christmas overload!
Located in Aurora, this marketplace is 15,000 square feet of Yuletide cheer. You can visit Santa, sample craft cocktails from the Base Camp and Fairy Bars, wander through playfully punny decorated trees and check out the fun art installations sprinkled throughout. Perfect for groups of all ages!
12. Ice Skating at Evergreen Lake
Though this activity is technically not within the Denver city limits, I’ve featured it here as an honorable mention, because who doesn’t want to ice skate with the beautiful snowcapped Rocky Mountains as your backdrop?
Evergreen Lake is about a 45-minute drive from downtown Denver, which makes it a great day trip! It’s best to check the website to ensure to stay up to date with weather alerts and public skating times. Afterward, you can warm up at one of Evergreen’s charming cafes such as Dandelions Cafe.
13. Royal Gorge Holiday Train Ride
Another Christmas attraction that is a bit beyond the Denver city limits (about 2 hours away), but well worth a visit! You can live out your TRUE Polar Express dreams by hitching a ride on the Royal Gorge Holiday Express Train or the Santa Express Train all while marveling at the natural beauty of the Arkansas River and Royal Gorge.
Each ticket for the Santa Express Train includes a chance to meet Santa, cocoa, and cookies, and a gift from Santa himself! This ticketed event is more geared toward the younger ones. Meanwhile, the Holiday Train Experience is great for groups of all ages!
Denver Christmas Activities Recap
As you can see, there is no shortage of holiday cheer within the Mile High City! The best part is there are activities laid out for everyone in your family or friend group to enjoy! From the beauty of nature at the Blossoms of Light event to cherished classics like the Christmas Carol play at the Denver Performing Arts Center.
I hope this roundup puts you in the holiday spirit and inspires you to channel your inner Buddy the Elf: “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!”
Recent Posts
So you are starting a new blogging biz?! I'm SO excited for you. It can truly change your life and open up so many doors (doors that I didn't even know existed). HOWEVER, blogging does take time...
One Weekend In Buffalo, NY: A Summer 3-day Buffalo Itinerary
Buffalo lives up to its name as the “City of Good Neighbors” where you’ll find people willing to help each other out (no matter how deep the snow!). Buffalo is home to one of the most...