There’s more to Colorado winter’s than skiing and snow. Check out these events in the greater Denver area going down in December.
Olde Golden Christmas
Every Saturday throughout December in Old Town Golden
Experience small town, authentic holiday charm at Olde Golden Christmas in historic downtown Golden. The celebration features Victorian carolers, holiday art market, and a holiday light display along Clear Creek. Don’t miss special fireworks on December 4th and Olde Golden Christmas parades on the 5th, 12th, and 19th.
Denver Christkindl Market
Throughout the month in Denver
Enjoy the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the 15th annual Denver Christkindl Market, a miniature German village created in Skyline Park. Enjoy Bavarian musicians play classic carols and dance-worthy melodies, and vendors dish up specialties served at traditional German Christmas markets, including baked apples, charcoal-grilled sausages spicy mulled wine, and gingerbread biscuits.
Skyline ice skating rink
Open daily until Feb. 15, 2016 in Denver
If you find yourself in downtown Denver checking out the market you may also want to head over to Skyline Park at 16th and Arapahoe Streets to enjoy the annual ice skating rink. The rink is open daily until Feb. 15, 2016 and is free if you bring your own skates. Otherwise, skate rental is $2.
Denver Parade of Lights
Dec. 4–5, 2015 in Denver
No other holiday bash in Denver can hold a candle to the grandeur that is the Denver Parade of Lights. Arrive early to watch the impressive floats, festive marching bands, dancing groups, and more take over the streets of downtown.
Lighting of Breckenridge
Dec. 5, 2015 in Breckenridge
The Summit Choral Society sings timeless holiday carols, the Race of the Santas starts on Breckenridge’s Main Street, cookies and hot cocoa are served, trees are lit, the Bernese Mountain Dog Parade knocks everyone’s socks off with its cuteness and Santa visits the Barney Ford Museum.
Festival of Lights Parade
Dec. 5, 2015 in Downtown Colorado Springs
Floats, high-school marching bands, groups on horseback and Santa Claus himself bring the holiday spirit at this family favorite outside Denver.
Vail Snow Daze
Dec. 11–13, 2015 in Vale
This celebration welcomes the skiing season with free concerts, a rockin’ street fair and a tree-lighting ceremony. This year’s headliners include The Wallflowers, Lukas Nelson & P.O.T.R. and Rusted Root.
Denver Pavilions Carousel
Dec. 11-23 in Denver
Another beloved downtown holiday event is the opening of the Denver Pavillion’s holiday carousel. Rides cost $3 typically, but if you are patronizing the shops or donate a can for the Food Bank of the Rockies you can get a free ride.
12 Days of Aspen
Dec. 20–31, 2015 in Aspen
Downtown Aspen comes alive with a variety of free holiday activities, cookies, hot chocolate (and much more!) to celebrate the holidays and the winter season.