Looking for a jam-packed weekend itinerary? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve curated the best of the best of what’s happening around the Mile High City this weekend. Whatever your vibe is, there’s something for you!
Activities, Events, Shows, and More in Denver This Weekend
Ice skating, stout tasting, holiday shopping — oh my! There’s so much to do and see in Denver throughout the year but especially during the festive holiday season. From holiday bar pop-ups, to dazzling light shows and NHL games, you’ll never complain of boredom again!
A Series of Fortunate Stouts
Where? 7101 East Colfax Avenue
When? November 28th
Fiction Beer Company is hosting a Series of Fortunate Stouts this Friday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, so make plans to be there or be square! The event will showcase a limited release of stouts at open and mystery tappings throughout the day. In a world of unfortunate events, it’s about time there’s been a fortunately decadent one! Escape the chaos of Black Friday crowds and instead, join Fiction Beer Company for what’s sure to be a unique lineup, with each stout featuring its own curious twist and mischievous flavor.
PRO Tip: The two mystery tappings will be announced on the day of, so stick around and hang at the taproom to try them all! After all, how unfortunate would it be to miss one?
McGregor Skate Grand Opening & Tree Lighting
Where? 1901 Wazee Street
When? November 28th
McGregor Skate is returning this Friday at 5:00 PM! Santa will be visiting from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Milepost Zero, so bring the kids by and lace up your skates to take the ice. Skate rentals are available onsite for $15 for adults and $9 for children — which includes admission! Guests who bring their own skates will receive a discounted rate. Children ages 2 and under are free. Weekday hours will vary from the weekend schedule, so check ahead before visiting! On Friday and Saturday, the rink will be open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, followed by 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Sundays.
PRO Tip: RSVP to the grand opening of the rink here! Audiences can catch a skate performance at 5:30 PM, as well as a tree lighting at 6:00 PM. There will also be a screening of The Grinch after the lighting and an appearance made by Dinger.
Grand Illumination of Union Station
Where? 1701 Wynkoop Street
When? November 28th
The annual Grand Illumination event at Denver Union Station is scheduled for this Friday at 4:00 PM. 2025’s event will feature an expanded lineup of entertainment, such as classic holiday hits by the Denver Dolls, a performance by Cleo Parker Robinson Dance and even a visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus! There will also be live music in the Great Hall from Youth on Record from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Of course, the grand highlight of the event will be the lighting of the station’s 40-foot-tall Christmas Tree at 6:00 PM. The tree features more than 7,000 holiday lights, making it a spectacular sight to behold.
PRO Tip: Check out drink specials from the Terminal Bar, as well as comforting beverages such as Ultreia Hot Chocolate and Charlie Joe Chai from Pigtrain.
Denver Nuggets vs. San Antonio Spurs
Where? 1000 Chopper Circle
When? November 28th
Once the turkey has been eaten and the Black Friday deals bought, there’s only one thing left to do and that’s cheer on the Denver Nuggets! The team competes in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference. They share their home arena with the Avalanche and the Mammoth (National Lacrosse League)! The Nuggets are facing off against the Spurs at what’s sure to be a fast paced game at Ball Arena. The team will continue their busy schedule on Saturday in Phoenix, where they’ll play against the Suns.
PRO Tip: Information on parking and directions can be found here. The arena also has a bag policy in place, so make sure to brush up on the rules before heading to the game!
Black Friday Artisan Market
Where? 8340 Northfield Boulevard
When? November 28th
The Shops at Northfield will be a destination for many eager shoppers this weekend, so be sure to arrive early on Friday for the Holiday Artisan Market: Black Friday event. From 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, shoppers can peruse the handmade only market. If you love one-of-a-kind creations from 50+ of Colorado’s finest artisans, then you’ll enjoy the selection of unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for the holiday season. While you shop, make sure to treat yourself to cozy bites and festive drinks. There will also be live holiday music throughout the plaza along 47th Avenue to keep the vibes high!
PRO Tip: Shopping local is always a plus, though you can also pop into the major retailers at The Shops at Northfield for unbeatable Black Friday deals!
Nerd Nite Denver
Where? 3654 Navajo Street
When? November 28th
Are you ready to fully embrace the title of “nerd?” If you answered yes, then Nerd Nite is waiting on you this Friday at The Bug Theatre. On the last Friday of the month, get to drinking and thinking with nerds across the Mile High City. The monthly live event features experts who will be giving a fun and informative 20-minute presentation on a variety of topics while the audience learns something new. In fact, just think of it like a TED Talk but with beer!
PRO Tip: Topics can vary in subject, so whether you want to brush up on your science and tech knowledge or you want to gain some insight into history and culture just in time for holiday dinner discussions — you’ll find fascinating tidbits at Nerd Nite Denver!
Colorado Avalanche vs. Montreal Canadiens
Where? 1000 Chopper Circle
When? November 29th
The Avalanche are taking the ice against the Montreal Canadiens this Saturday at Ball Arena. The game is scheduled for 1:00 PM MST, so get there an hour beforehand to stock up on concessions and settle into your seat. There’s no promotional theme for the game but mark your calendar for December 2nd and December 11th, which will be Grateful Dead Night and the 30th Anniversary Celebration, respectively.
PRO Tip: Whether you follow hockey religiously or you’re a casual fan — keep an eye on Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Nečas for players to watch. These guys have been on fire!
2025 U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game
Where? 1000 Chopper Circle
When? November 29th
This Saturday, catch the University of Denver hockey team as they face off against Minnesota at Ball Arena. The 2025 U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame game is scheduled for 7:00 PM, with doors at 6:00 PM. It’s sure to be a fierce competition between the Pioneers and the Golden Gophers, so you won’t want to miss this exciting opportunity to see the teams face off post-Thanksgiving in a back-to-back Ball Arena showdown following the Avalanche versus the Canadiens.
PRO Tip: Ball Arena parking lots open three hours prior to the start of an event. Reserve your parking in advance or opt for one of the many lots and garages in the surrounding area.
Cherry Creek North Small Business Weekend
Where? 2401 East 2nd Avenue, Suite 150
When? November 29th-December 1st
This weekend, support small businesses at Cherry Creek North during Small Business Weekend. Shoppers will find a variety of deals and discounts to close out 2025 and usher in a new year and fresh starts. Participating stores in the walkable neighborhood include Artisan Center, Blue Island Oyster Bar, Element Home, Greyson Clothiers, The Brass Bed and so many more! You never know what you’ll find or what sale you just won’t be able to pass up! Grab a shopping buddy and start crossing names off your Christmas list left and right this weekend. After all, Santa could use a little help.
PRO Tip: In addition to deals and sales, there will also be pop-up holiday markets during Small Business Weekend. Check out the Cherry Creek Holiday Market and the Clayton Holiday Bazaar! Both marketplaces feature local makers, artisans and tasty treats you won’t want to miss.
Winter Lodge at Peaks Lounge Pop-Up
Where? 650 15th Street
When? Through January 4th
The Winter Lodge at Peaks Lounge will be making a return to the 27th floor through the beginning of January! This seasonal pop-up is a favorite spot amongst many to enjoy festive celebrations and cozy get-togethers. Also, there’s no better place to sip and savor during the Mile High Holiday Drone Show! Guests can enjoy a new seasonal cocktail list that’s been thoughtfully paired with a fresh menu featuring pierogis, cheese fondue, chocolate fondue and more.
PRO Tip: No reservations are necessary, so whether you’re planning a last minute hang or you just want to sit and relax at the end of the workday — Peaks Lounge has you covered!
Family-Friendly Activities in Denver This Weekend
There is no shortage of family-friendly holiday events across the Mile High City, so whether your little one loves to look at Christmas lights or is eager to meet Santa Claus in the flesh — these are the best family-friendly activities in Denver this weekend.
Camp Christmas
Where? 2501 Dallas Street
When? Through December 28th
Get the kiddos excited for the Camp Christmas takeover at Stanley Marketplace! Through December 28th, this exciting event will transform the Marketplace into a magical winter wonderland complete with local artists, creative magic and festive fun. The beloved holiday extravaganza was created by local artist Lonnie Hanzon in partnership with DCPA Off-Center and is returning bigger and brighter than ever in 2025! Check out the Merry Badge Scavenger Hunt, which is an all-ages adventure that challenges visitors to hunt down all 20 badges hidden throughout the Marketplace for a jolly reward! There will also be free visits with Santa, no appointment needed, on Saturdays and Sundays from November 29th through December 21st from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
PRO Tip: Follow Stanley Marketplace on Instagram for extra details about special events and programming throughout the holidays!
Elitch Holidays
Where? 2000 Elitch Circle
When? November 28th-January 4th
Elitch Holidays is back for the 2025 winter season, inviting families to enjoy six weeks of holiday fun! Returning with a fresh take on a beloved tradition, this year is guaranteed to shine brighter with more rides, more lights and plenty of festive fun to go around! Park visitors will enjoy 4+ million sparkling lights, theme park rides and attractions, and visits from Santa Claus! There will also be an all-new holiday show in the Trocadero Theatre, as well as larger-than-life holiday displays and more!
PRO Tip: Elitch Holidays admission is included with an active 2025 Season Pass, a 2026 Season Pass or an Elitch Holidays admission ticket. With so many ways to visit, what are you waiting for?
Blossoms of Light
Where? 1007 York Street
When? Through January 12th
Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens is celebrating 40 years, which is a testament to how beloved this Denver holiday tradition is! Watch as the dazzling transformation of the winter gardens creates an illuminated wonderland. Families of all ages will enjoy the vibrant displays, immersive installations and the warm glow of cherished memories. The mile-long path takes visitors through the plant collections during the winter months. Blossoms of Light has continued to evolve over the decades, ensuring there’s always something new for visitors both new and old!
PRO Tip: Secure your tickets to Blossoms of Light here! The event will run through January 11th from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM, with a closure on December 25th.
Have Fun This Weekend in Denver
With endless festive fun, exciting professional sporting matches and of course, limited beer releases just in time for the holidays, there’s nothing but fun on tap in Denver! However you spend your weekend, we hope it’s a good time! Visit us again next week for an updated selection of what to do this December.