Colorado is a great place to spend the holidays. While there’s always a chance of snow both in cities like Denver and the mountains, there are plenty of holiday festivities to be had regardless of the weather. Here at Square State Insurance, we’ve celebrated holidays in Colorado the past few years by listing out some of the great activities you can enjoy throughout the state. From a day on the slopes to always popular activities like the Denver Zoo Lights, there’s something for everyone as the calendar gets closer to December 25th and New Years. Let’s see what Colorado holiday events are planned for the 2018 season.
Denver Zoo Lights
You can’t start a Colorado holiday events list without the Denver Zoo Lights. This tradition is now 28 years old, and it keeps getting better every year. Each night in December from 5:30 to 8:30pm over two million lights twinkle in the Denver Zoo grounds. There are special events, visits with animals and even moving light sculptures to keep the whole family entertained. Since this event is so popular, it is recommended you get tickets before going to the zoo as most nights sell out early.
Learn more at www.denverzoo.org/events/zoolights.
Blossoms Of Light
While the Denver Zoo Lights are one of the longest running light show traditions in Denver, the Denver Botanical Garden’s Blossoms Of Light is becoming just as popular. This event features an interactive light display including sound-reactive and animated LED lights. On many nights guests are also treated to holiday caroler groups from around Denver. Tickets are cheaper if you buy them ahead of time, but door tickets are also available until sold out each night.
Learn more at www.botanicgardens.org/events/special-events/blossoms-light.
Broadmoor Holiday Shows
For a unique, distinguished holiday event, Colorado Springs hosts a unforgettable dinner and holiday show at the historic Broadmoor Hotel. This upscale show offers everything including an exceptional meal, holiday themed entertainment and dancing in a beautiful ballroom. Guests can choose from a special menu that includes vegetarian and gluten-free options, and there’s even a kids menu so the whole family can join. The Broodmoor Holiday Show schedule begins on December 14 and runs through December 29th. While at the hotel, be sure to visit the Winter Lights at Seven Falls for another unique light show in Colorado.
Learn more at www.broadmoor.com/holiday-shows.
Denver Theater District
Denver’s theater district is always a popular spot with venues like the Buell Theater, Ellie Caulkins Opera House and the Boettcher Concert Hall. From modern humorous productions to classic traditional shows and everything in between, there is something for everyone in the Denver Theater District around Christmas. Tickets for holiday shows go quickly, so don’t wait if you want to catch a production before the holidays are over.
Visit www.artscomplex.com for tickets and more information.
Denver Christkindl Market
For a traditional shopping experience will all the charm of German traditions, look no further than the Denver Christkindl Market downtown. This festive event features artisan booths, live entertainment, authentic German food, and special sweets. Adults may also enjoy refreshments like beer, gluhwein and schnaps. This event runs up until December 23 and is open every night before. Make sure to stop by for this year’s Christkindl mugs.
For directions, hours and more visit www.christkindlmarketdenver.com.
North Pole, Colorado
For a nice day trip the whole family can enjoy, head up to North Pole, Colorado for a visit at Santa’s Workshop. In addition to meeting with the big guy himself, North Pole features 25 unique rides to keep the family busy for hours. The North Pole is located in Cascade just up Highway 24 past Manitou Springs.
For tickets and more information visit them at northpolecolorado.com.
Longmont Ice Pavilion
For an inexpensive holiday activity for the whole family, consider take a road trip to Longmont to skate at their outdoor ice pavilion. Open daily, this ice rink features skate rentals for only $3.50 and admission starts at just $5.50. As a bonus, you can check the schedule for classes on skating lessons. While in Longmont be sure to check out holiday movie screenings at their new Trojan Movie House as well.
For directions and more visit www.visitlongmont.org/longmonts-ice-pavilion.
Denver Downtown New Years Fireworks
Ring in the New Year with the best fireworks show in the state! Denver’s New Year’s Eve features two fireworks shows, one at 9pm for the kids and another at midnight. In addition many local landmarks are open and hosting special events throughout the day and into the evening. As night falls, the firework shows are synced to live DJs throughout the 16th Street Mall. A must-see for those that like to be out and about around New Years.
Learn more at www.denver.org/things-to-do/fall-winter/denver-new-years-eve.
Happy Holidays
From all of us at Square State Insurance, we wish you a happy and safe holiday season!
Thumb image and image two courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
