We’ve got all the best Denver weekend events right here! Whether you’re interested in Christmas shopping, Christmas lights or monster trucks — Denver has got it all. See what’s fresh this weekend and what’s returning and make sure you have a stacked weekend itinerary before Friday rolls around!
Activities, Events, Shows, and More in Denver This Weekend
Ready to make some memories this weekend? The lineup for events never disappoints in the Mile High City, so whether you want to dive into festive magic at Denver Christkindlmarket or you want to cheer on the Nuggets, there’s a touch of something for every weekend vibe!
Rocky Mountain FEZtival of Trees
Where? 6797 South Vine Street
When? November 20th-28th
The Rocky Mountain FEZtival of Trees is a community-centric event where guests can visit with their favorite Christmas characters, such as the Grinch, Frosty and Elf! There will be photo opportunities, as well as a beautifully decorated forest of trees. Shop Christmas gifts and write a letter to Santa Claus to let him know what’s on your list this year. There will also be delicious cookies available, as well as warming beverages such as cocoa, hot cider, and other tasty treats at the Mistletoe Café. FEZtival of Trees will be open to the public beginning this Thursday and continuing through the Friday after Thanksgiving.
PRO Tip: Don’t forget to snag some raffle tickets for a chance to win a fully decorated tree and some awesome Christmas gifts! Tickets will be available for $1 each or 125 for $100.
Cherry Creek Holiday Market
Where? 105 Fillmore Street
When? November 20th-December 24th
Are you ready to dive head first into the magic of Denver’s premier holiday market? The Cherry Creek Holiday Market is situated on Fillmore Plaza between 1st and 2nd Avenues in Cherry Creek North and will be open daily through Christmas Eve. 2025 marks the 6th annual Cherry Creek Holiday Market, so come see why everyone is raving about the hand-picked vendors. Shop local this holiday season and give the gift of unique, handmade goods and premier gift options. Check out the lineup of 2025 vendors here.
PRO Tip: Don’t skip the Mistletoe Lounge, where you can kick back and enjoy refreshments with friends and family. There will be food options across the market, including bites from Ukraine, Romania, Italy and much more!
Denver Christkindlemarket Opening
Where? 1000 Larimer Street
When? November 21st
Friday will be the opening of Denver Christkindlemarket for the 2025 season! This winter wonderland is an authentic, German-style holiday market that hosts local and European craft and food vendors. There will be plenty of magical entertainment for everyone, so come check out this must-see and must-taste holiday experience. The market is free and open to the public from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM Monday through Thursday and 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Friday through Sunday. Spanning a whopping 33 days, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the festivities but nothing beats opening day!
PRO Tip: This year, the Denver Christkindlemarket will be at a new location! Plan ahead and check out tips here on how to get to the Market at the Auraria Campus location.
Light the Lights Celebration
Where? 101 West 14th Avenue
When? November 21st
This Friday, head over to Denver’s City and County Building for Light the Lights 2025! From 5:00 PM to 5:15 PM, you can enjoy the annual celebration on the plaza as Mayor Mike Johnston officially kicks off the Denver holiday season by flipping the switch to illuminate the building for the first time in 2025! Visitors can also come down any evening throughout the holiday season to enjoy the nightly light and music show from 5:45 PM to 6:45 PM, with static lights until 10:45 PM. On Mondays, there will be static lights only due to City Council meetings.
PRO Tip: Can’t make it out on Friday but don’t want to miss the magic? You can also catch Light the Lights on Denver 8 TV or on the city’s Facebook page.
Mile High Tree Lighting
Where? 1000 Larimer Street
When? November 21st
Experience the Christmas magic at the Mile High Tree Lighting on the Tivoli Quad at the Auraria Campus this Friday. The 110-foot-tall conical structure is 10 feet higher than the tallest Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in history! Now that’s something to brag about to your New York friends. The tree contains an impressive 60,000 LED lights and can accommodate up to 140 guests underneath the tree for an immersive viewing experience that will delight visitors of all ages. The tree will operate daily from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, beginning this Friday and running through the end of December.
PRO Tip: Admission is free for all visitors and shows will start every 15 minutes, giving everyone the chance to enjoy the lights!
L’Esprit de Noël Holiday Home Tour
Where? Denver’s Hilltop Neighborhood
When? November 21st & 22nd
The 2025 L’Esprit de Noël Holiday Home Tour will be the 49th edition of this ever-popular fundraiser and for good reason! This signature holiday event will take place in Denver’s Hilltop neighborhood this Friday and Saturday, featuring five elegant and diverse homes in this distinguished community. The homes will be decorated for the holidays by some of the metro region’s most accomplished florists and table designers and proceeds will go towards benefitting the Central City Opera Guild. The tour is self-guided and will be open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day, with tickets valid for either day.
PRO Tip: If you’re a member of the Central City Opera Guild, your ticket discount will apply automatically at checkout. Learn more about joining the Guild or renewing your membership here.
Denver Christmas Show
Where? 4655 North Humboldt Street
When? November 21st-23rd
The Denver Christmas Show is back for another year at the National Western Complex. Support local businesses this holiday season at the Denver Christmas Show. You’ll find a touch of everything at the show, from holiday decor, to apparel, food, jewelry, toys and so much more. 2025 show features include the Merry Moments Portrait Shoppe, Santa’s North Pole nook, Coca With Mrs. Claus, the Christmas Shopper’s Lounge and so much more. Admission can be purchased online or at the door and children ages 13 and under get in free. Military discounts will also be available at the door.
PRO Tip: The show will run from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, followed by abbreviated hours from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sunday. $15 parking will be available at lots facilitated by the National Western Complex.
Mile High Drone Show Opening Weekend
Where? Various Locations to View
When? November 21st-23rd
In line with the Mile High Tree, the Mile High Drone Show will also be opening this Friday beginning at 7:00 PM. The show transforms the Mile High City’s winter skyline into what can only be described as a dazzling spectacle. Watch as 600 drones soar into the sky and follow choreographed illustrated holiday themes, from Santa and his reindeer to recognizable Denver landmarks and even the city’s sports teams — Go Broncos!
PRO Tip: Prime viewing spots include the Tivoli Quad, the Sculpture Park at the Denver Performing Arts Complex and various rooftop venues nearby. If you head to the Quad, make sure to enjoy the Mile High Tree as well!
Denver Nuggets vs. Sacramento Kings
Where? 1000 Chopper Circle
When? November 22nd
The Denver Nuggets are facing down the Sacramento Kings this Saturday at Ball Arena in Denver. The team competes as a member of the Northwest Division of the Western Conference. Having recently advanced to their first ever NBA finals in the 2022-2023 season followed by exhilarating runs in the ensuing years, the team is more exciting than ever to cheer for. Snag your tickets and grab some concessions because it’s sure to be a good game!
PRO Tip: Saturday will be Native American Heritage Night. Show your support for the team while also honoring indigenous culture and enjoying featured elements such as drums, dancing and performances at the arena.
Of Monsters and Men: The Mouse Parade Tour
Where? 4242 Wynkoop Street
When? November 23rd
Of Monsters and Men are coming to Denver’s Mission Ballroom this Sunday on The Mouse Parade Tour. The show is general admission with a reserved East or West balcony configuration. General admission means first come, first served access to the floor and bowl areas. Whether you’ve been a fan for a decade plus or you’re a newcomer to the music from this rock group, the show is sure to impress!
PRO Tip: This is a 16 and up event and doors open at 7:00 PM for the 8:00 PM show.
Family-Friendly Activities in Denver This Weekend
There’s so much to do during the holiday season with the family! Take your pick from Magical Winter Nights at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science or teach the kids about the value of volunteering one’s time during the season of giving at Family Volunteer Day.
Magical Winter Nights @ the DMNS
Where? 2001 Colorado Boulevard
When? November 20th-January 4th
Step into a whimsical magical winter wonderland at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Starting this Thursday and running through early 2026, Magical Winter Nights turns the familiar into the fantastical through light, sound and surprise. The West Atrium and Third Floor diorama halls will be transformed into winter worlds that are waiting for you to explore. There’s something for all ages, such as fireside cocoa and cocktails at The Lodge, indoor ice-less skating at The Frosted Path, and a dance party with unexpected hosts at Glacier Groove.
PRO Tip: Visiting the museum first? Explore the regular exhibits, then exit through the main entrance and follow the twinkling signs to reenter through the West Atrium! Magical Winter Nights will require a separate ticket.
Monster Trucks Live
Where? 4655 Humboldt Street
When? November 21st & 22nd
Monster Trucks Live is coming to the National Western Events Center this Friday and Saturday! Whether you have kids or you’re a kid at heart, nobody will be left bored as these giant trucks roar to life with jaw-dropping stunts. Witness the ultimate monster truck show, along with an incredible freestyle motocross show and tough truck racing this weekend. The competition lineup will feature fan favorites such as Bigfoot, Dragon Slayer, Rat Attack, Kamikazee and more.
PRO Tip: Snag your tickets to Monster Trucks Live here, with three show times to choose from. The Kicker Monster Truck Show Pit Party is the best way to kick off your show day, so swing by the track to see these massive trucks up close and meet the drivers! Pit Party Passes are priced at $10.
Family Volunteer Day 2025
Where? 1200 North Broadway
When? November 22nd
Who says volunteering can’t be fun? History Colorado Center invites you to join Kramerica Gives for Family Volunteer Day this Saturday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This is a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season while giving back to the community. Family Volunteer Day is a global day of service celebrating the power of families working together and supporting their communities and neighborhoods. All participants at Family Volunteer Day will receive free access to the museum exhibits, including exciting additions such as Expedition 1776, 38th Star and Moments That Made US!
PRO Tip: Registration is free and families can sign up here. The event will take place on the 4th floor in the MDC/Richmond American Homes Foundation Room.
Have Fun This Weekend in Denver
We hope you enjoy your weekend in Denver and take full advantage of all the holiday festivities on tap this time of year. However you celebrate, make sure to stay up to date with Denver’s best weekend events. We’ll have an all new list for you next week hot off the presses, so be sure to check it out!