Ring in the holiday season this year in Denver by checking out festive light displays, Christmas markets, holiday parades, and a themed White Christmas Ball! With so much to do and see, it can be difficult to decide which events should take priority. The good news is that many of the displays carry on throughout the season, giving you plenty of time to visit.
Cherry Creek North Winter Wanderland
Where? Various Locations
When? November 16th-December 24th
Cherry Creek is featuring a collection of free outdoor events this holiday season. Chances are, you’ll find something right up your alley! Experience the joy of the Christmas season at this Denver holiday destination featuring a million dazzling lights wrapped around over 600 trees. The entire neighborhood is illuminated, making this the perfect spot to snap some holiday photos. The festivities kick off with The Million Light Plug-In on November 21st. You can also tune in to CBS Colorado at 6:00 PM to catch the unforgettable moment. On the same date, the Cherry Creek Holiday Market kicks off with live music and 50+ local makers and designers. Small Business Weekend is scheduled from November 29th through December 1st, so come on out to support these local businesses that are dedicated to the community. On Saturdays throughout December, enjoy the sights and sounds of the season and complimentary treats while kiddos have the chance to meet and greet with both Santa and Mrs. Clause.
PRO Tip: Mark your calendars for the Chanukah Celebration on December 29th. Families and guests of all ages will enjoy the festival of lights, face painting, fire juggling, festive treats, crafts, and more.
Blossoms of Light
Where? 1007 York Street
When? November 20th-January 12th
Holiday magic has to be seen to be believed, so head over to the Blossoms of Light display at the York Street location of the Denver Botanic Gardens. The dynamic and dazzling display of light and color is consistently lauded as one of the top holiday light shows in the nation. Attendees will wander along the mile-long pathway through a series of immersive, luminous displays that are designed to accentuate and highlight the vast plant collection at the gardens. This cherished holiday tradition has been ongoing for nearly four decades and is evolving year after year to inspire even more wonder and delight for guests of all ages — even the most seasoned visitors! All lights used for Blossoms of Light are LED, which is in line with the Denver Botanic Gardens’ core value of sustainability.
PRO Tip: Holiday treats and warm drinks will be available for purchase at Offshoots Café and the Hive Garden Bistro.
Denver Christkindlmarket
Where? 101 West 14th Avenue
When? November 22nd-December 23rd
The Denver Christkindlemarket is an authentic, German-style holiday market that hosts a wide array of local and European craft and food vendors. The market first came onto the scene in Denver back in 1998 at the Denver Pavilions, beginning as a small, yet joyful celebration that has blossomed into a much larger gathering and a beloved destination for many. There are endless amounts of magical entertainment for everybody to enjoy at the market and the best news? The event is free and open to the public so stop by anytime throughout the season! Whether you swing by on opening night on November 22nd or close out the market on December 23rd, there’s no wrong way to enjoy the Denver Christkindlemarket!
PRO Tip: Check out the entertainment calendar here, where you can stay updated on who’s playing when so you don’t miss out on your favorites!
Mile High Holiday Drone Show
Where? Various Locations
When? November 22nd-December 31st
Get ready for the Denver skyline to come alive this holiday season with the inaugural Mile High Drone Show. Across 40 magical nights from November 22nd through the end of December, watch as 400 drones soar into the sky and create holiday-themed animations. The public can watch these dazzling displays at 7:00 PM every night for free! Visit Denver has collaborated with Brightflights Drone Shows, a Denver-based company, to pull off the technological wizardry behind these amazing state-of-the-art performances. The festive animations span nearly 400 feet high and 500 feet wide and include Santa and his reindeer and iconic Denver landmarks like the Mile High Tree and Denver Union Station. You may even be able to spot the Blue Bear and Blucifer! Across the 40 shows, there will be 3 special performances featuring animations dedicated to Denver’s sports teams — including the Broncos, the Nuggets, and the Colorado Avalanche.
PRO Tip: A few of the best places to watch the drones as they launch just west of downtown include Ball Arena, Peaks Lounge, and the terrace at the Denver Art Museum’s Lanny & Sharon Martin Building.
Zoo Lights
Where? 2300 Steele Street
When? November 23rd-January 5th
The Denver Zoo will soon be adorned with over three million lights across 80 acres. That’s one way to make spirits bright! This is a local favorite for family fun during the holiday season, so be sure to grab your tickets so you don’t miss out on this awe-inspiring display. General admission pricing is set at $25 for adults and seniors, $18 for youth, and free for kids ages 2 and under. Select nights will have peak pricing, such as November 30th and popular dates in December. A sensory-friendly night is scheduled for December 31st and will be tailored to guests with sensory processing disorders who may be at risk of feeling overwhelmed by the typical light experiences. Adult Night is scheduled for November 22nd, where parents and visitors can enjoy Zoo Lights without any little ones underfoot.
PRO Tip: Zoo Lights is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Light the Lights
Where? Bannock Street
When? November 27th
Civic Center Park will once again host several of Denver’s most beloved events throughout the holiday season, including Light the Lights! From 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM on November 27th, enjoy the annual holiday kickoff event that brings the community together to enjoy music, lights, and all things Christmas. The host of Light the Lights will be Denver7 anchor, Micah Smith, and will feature performances by the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus and special appearances by beloved mascots. Watch as the City and County Building is lit up by dazzling lights. Attendees will have the chance to interact with Denver Police, Sheriffs, and the Fire Department before the event.
PRO Tip: After the conclusion of this kickoff event, there will be ongoing light and music shows throughout the season. If you can’t make it out to the opening night, no problem!
Trail of Lights
Where? 8500 West Deer Creek Canyon Road
When? November 29th-January 5th
The Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms is a great way to enjoy the cool winter air while you take in the illuminating lights under a dark, contrasting sky. The glow of the lights can be seen for miles, making this a unique opportunity to gaze at the cottonwoods, boxelders, and pine trees in a new light. Follow the pathway past the Green Farm Barn and through the Crossroads Garden, Deer Creek Discovery Children’s Play Area, and the 1880s Hildebrand Ranch homestead. There will be an alternative path available for those who want to take a shorter stroll. Make sure to grab a hot beverage, nuts, or kettle corn at the start of the trail. Fudge and caramels will be available halfway through the trail in the warming hut. Cash, debit, and credit are all accepted.
PRO Tip: Fun features of the Trail of Lights event include lights synchronized to music, dancing Christmas trees, light tunnels, and illuminated antique and model tractors on display. There will additionally be a Holiday Market where visitors can purchase gifts on select dates.
Luminova Holidays
Where? 2000 Elitch Circle
When? November 29th-TBD
Admission to Elitch Gardens’ Luminova Holidays event includes over four million dazzling lights, rides on featured attractions, and visits with the big guy in red — Santa Claus! There will also be an impressive 65-foot Christmas tree and a 25-foot snowman that never seems to melt. Explore the 300-foot candy cane tunnel and gaze up in wonder at the ornaments and presents that are well over 16 feet tall! Interactive activities at Luminova Holidays include light-up hopscotch and photo ops galore at the immersive light displays. No reservations are needed, so buy tickets for any day!
PRO Tip: Elitch Gardens pass holders get free admission to Luminova Holidays!
Colorado Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker”
Where? 1385 Curtis Street
When? November 30th-December 29th
The Colorado Ballet will be presenting their performance of “The Nutcracker” this holiday season at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House. The performance delights audiences of all ages and has evolved into a timeless tradition that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the season. Whether you’re in it for the mischievous dancing mice, the sweet sugar plums, or the symphony of swirling snowflakes — you’re sure to enjoy this iconic ballet that’s beloved by so many near and far. Tickets are on sale now starting at $40 for balcony seating and up to $175 for orchestra seating.
PRO Tip: December 1st will be a sensory-friendly performance!
9NEWS Parade of Lights
Where? Downtown Denver
When? December 7th
The 9NEWS Parade of Lights is celebrating 50 years of holiday magic! This exciting milestone will likely boast bigger crowds who want to catch a glimpse of this spectacular holiday tradition. The Parade of Lights is produced by the Downtown Denver Partnership and is expected to bring thousands of visitors to Downtown Denver on December 7th. The parade is estimated to feature 40+ floats, giant balloons, marching bands, equestrian units, cultural displays, and special guest appearances from Major Waddles the Penguin and Santa himself. You can purchase your Grandstand or VIP Grandstand tickets today for $33.04. 2024 sponsors of the 9NEWS Parade of Lights include American Furniture Warehouse, Colorado State University, 5280 Magazine, United Airlines, and more.
PRO Tip: Interested in volunteering? Apply today to help out at this annual parade celebration. Not only can you partake in this awesome tradition, you can help ensure it goes off without a hitch!
1940s White Christmas Ball
Where? 7711 East Academy Boulevard
When? December 7th
The 1940s White Christmas Ball is often hailed as a “must-do activity” during the holiday season. Take a step back in time for the unforgettable magic of the 40s and 50s at this themed holiday party that celebrates nostalgia. 2024’s theme is The Golden Age of Holiday. The ball will be back at the Wings Museum this year, allowing guests to wander around the museum and visit the fascinating displays, planes, and all of the attractions that make this space so unique. At dinner, diners will be seated in the main ballroom with awesome views of the main stage.
PRO Tip: Due to the limited capacity of the museum compared to the Hyatt, tickets are expected to sell out quicker than usual! Grab yours early so you ensure your spot is saved.
Latkes and Lights
Where? 350 South Dahlia Street
When? December 15th
The Jewish Community Center in Denver is excited to host the third annual Latkes and Lights event to celebrate Hanukkah. Prepare for eight crazy nights by playing an array of themed games, purchasing Hanukkah gifts, jamming out to live music, and enjoying tasty latkes from popular Denver restaurants as well as from your very own community members! You’ll have the chance to vote on your favorite staff-made menorah and so much more! The event is open to the public, so bring your friends, family members, children, neighbors, and more out to enjoy the celebration of all things Hanukkah. Latkes and Lights will also host a Makers Mart where vendors can sell gifts!
PRO Tip: Admission is offered on a sliding price model, with tickets ranging from $24 to $32. One Latkes and Lights tote bag is included in the price of a single admission ticket.
Happy Holidays, Denver!
We hope you have a marvelous time this holiday season in the Mile High City. Whether you want to enjoy an adult night at Zoo Lights or you want to take the family to The Nutcracker, there are a multitude of traditions to continue or to create this year.