The holiday season is upon us, and Denver transforms into a magical winter wonderland filled with festive lights, heartwarming traditions, and joyful celebrations. Whether you’re a long-time resident or visiting the Mile High City for the holidays, there’s no shortage of events to make your season merry and bright. From dazzling light displays to enchanting performances and one-of-a-kind markets, Denver offers something for everyone to enjoy. To help you plan your holiday adventures, we’ve rounded up the very best Christmas and holiday events happening across the city. Grab your calendar and get ready to make this holiday season unforgettable!
Light the Lights at the City & County Building
- When: November 27, 2024- 4:30-5:30pm
- Where: City & County Building, Civic Center Park
- Details: Join us for the Light the Lights Celebration at the City and County Building! Denver’s favorite mascots—Rocky, Bernie, Dinger, RapidMan, and Wooly—will flip the switch to kick off the first holiday lights and music show, hosted by Denver7’s Micah Smith. Enjoy festive music by the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus and interactive displays from the Denver Police, Fire, and Sheriff Departments. Can’t attend? Watch live on Denver7, live stream on denvergov.org, or the City’s Facebook page!
- When: December 7, 2024
- Where: Downtown Denver
- Details: The 9NEWS Parade of Lights, proudly produced by the Downtown Denver Partnership, will bring thousands of people Downtown to experience the 50th anniversary of Denver’s most magical tradition. The parade will feature 40+ floats, giant balloons, marching bands, equestrian units, cultural displays and special guest appearances from Major Waddles the penguin, and Santa.
Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens
- When: November 20, 2024 – January 12, 2025
- Where: Denver Botanic Gardens, York Street
- Details: Consistently lauded as one of the top holiday light shows in the nation, Blossoms of Light is a spectacular celebration that illuminates our York Street location. Wander a mile-long path through immersive, luminous displays that accentuate and highlight our plant collections. A cherished holiday tradition for nearly four decades, Blossoms of Light is constantly evolving to inspire wonder and delight in even the most seasoned visitors.
Grand Illumination at Denver Union Station
- When: November 29, 2024, starting at 4:00 PM
- Where: Denver Union Station
- Details: The annual Grand Illumination event will feature an expanded lineup of family-friendly entertainment of classic holiday hits by the Denver Dolls, a visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus, and the grand highlight of the evening—the lighting of the station’s outdoor 40-foot-tall Christmas tree that features more than 7,000-holiday lights. The tree lighting ceremony will begin promptly at 6:10 PM.
Christmas in Color at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
- When: November 29, 2024 – January 4, 2025
- Where: Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
- Details: This holiday season, Christmas In Color invites you to Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre for a breathtaking drive-thru light show! Immerse yourself in a stunning display of millions of lights, all perfectly choreographed to your beloved holiday tunes. It’s the perfect way to create cherished memories with your loved ones—join us for a night of wonder and festive cheer!
A Christmas Carol at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts
- When: November 22– December 29, 2024
- Where: Wolf Theater
- Details: Essential to the holiday season in Denver, A Christmas Carol is a joyous and opulent musical adaptation for the whole family that traces money-hoarding curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge’s triumphant overnight journey to redemption. Based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, the DCPA Theatre Company’s production is “a splendidly festive tradition” (BroadwayWorld) that illuminates the meaning of the holiday season in a way that has resonated for generations. Join us for the Denver Center Theatre Company’s 30th anniversary production of A Christmas Carol!
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Concert
- When: December 6–8, 2024
- Where: Buell Theatre
- Details: Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for more than 35 years! Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound. The program includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects – capturing the spirit of the season in an immersive yet intimate setting.
- When: November 23 – January 5, 2025
- Where: Denver Zoo
- Details: With 80 acres boasting over three million lights, we’re still the one making spirits bright. We’re still your fave for family fun. We’re still the place where tradition stands tall, where romance runs wild—and where our sparkling features spark your brilliant smiles!
Ice Skating at Downtown Denver Rink
- When: November 21, 2024 – February 2, 2025
- Where: Skyline Park
- Details: Enjoy free ice skating in the heart of downtown Denver. Skate rentals are available, and special events are scheduled throughout the season.
The Nutcracker by Colorado Ballet
- When: November 30 – December 29, 2024
- Where: Ellie Caulkins Opera House
- Details: Colorado Ballet’s The Nutcracker returns to delight audiences of all ages with this timeless tradition that captures the festive spirit of the season, replete with mischievous dancing mice, sweet Sugar Plums, and a symphony of swirling snowflakes.
Holiday Tea at the Brown Palace
- When: November 29, 2024 – January 4, 2025
- Where: The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa
- Details: Afternoon Tea, a decades-long tradition at The Brown Palace, is set amid the historic grandeur of the Atrium Lobby serenaded by a melodic piano. Guests enjoy a pot of properly brewed English tea accompanied by scones served with Devonshire cream and preserves, savory tea sandwiches, and a delightful array of classic tea pastries.
Denver truly shines during the holiday season, offering a little something for everyone—whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun, romantic outings, or opportunities to soak in the festive spirit. As you explore these wonderful events, take time to create lasting memories with loved ones and embrace the magic of the season. Don’t forget to share your favorite holiday moments and experiences! From all of us here, we wish you a joyous and bright holiday season in the Mile High City. Happy holidays!