Because of its natural beauty, Colorado is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers all year round. During wintertime, however, the whole state becomes a true winter wonderland. Regardless if you choose to relax in historic small towns or join the festivities of bustling cities, Colorado is the perfect place to spend a memorable time with your family during the holidays.
This article is all about the state’s beauty and what it offers when you’re on holiday with your loved ones. Read on to see our list of Christmas activities and the best towns to visit in Colorado during Christmas.
Festive Christmas Activities to Do in Colorado
To get you in the holiday vibe and enjoy the sweater weather, here are some activities to do in Colorado that can make your Christmas weekend worthwhile.
1. The Nutcracker
This joint production of The Nutcracker by the Colorado Youth Ballet and Colorado Ballet Society lasts for 75 minutes. This holiday favorite is brought to life by more than 50 dancers of all ages, making a trip to the ballet a great night out for the whole family.
2. Denver Holiday Lights & Sights Tour
The holiday season is the most festive period in the Mile High City, and this two-hour tour has everything. Denver’s Holiday Lights & Sights Tour is a delightful way to experience the joy and wonder of the holiday season. Take stunning photographs of the city’s gorgeous lights and vistas, including some of Denver’s most recognizable landmarks.
3. Parade of Lights and Other Community Parades
Annually, the 9News Parade of Lights in Denver is one of Colorado’s most well-known Christmas celebrations. The famous parade features illuminated floats, enormous balloons, and marching bands. The downtown’s overall festive vibe will also make the whole event more memorable.
It’s not just Denver that boasts amazing parades, as many other smaller Colorado towns and communities also host several festive activities.
4. The Royal Gorge Bridge of Lights
America’s highest suspension bridge has been transformed into a winter wonderland for the first time. The Royal Gorge Bridge will be transformed into an interactive drive-thru holiday lighting experience beginning in late November.
The Bridge of Lights display is a beautiful spectacle to check out if you’re searching for a memorable way of celebrating Christmas with your loved ones. Get into the Christmas spirit by driving across the historic Royal Gorge Bridge while listening to seasonal music playing around the park.
5. North Pole, Colorado Springs
You can come to North Pole, Colorado, for Santa-themed activities throughout the year as it’s open and Christmas-themed 24/7. Believe it or not, the North Pole has been the home of Santa’s workshop for over 60 years, which is all the more reason to visit and be a part of its history.
In addition, it offers more than 25 rides for children and adults, with the largest Ferris wheel in North America being one of its highlights. Even though it is possible to visit the North Pole at any time of the year, there is something incredibly magical about celebrating Christmas there.
6. Denver Zoo Lights
The Zoo Lights event at the Denver Zoo is the largest illumination display in the Rockies, with 70 acres of lighted sculptures and various activities and attractions.
7. Ice Skating at Skyline Park
Skyline Park is a beauty in itself, more so during the holidays when it is adorned with Christmas lights. Furthermore, a world-class ice skating rink is open to the public for free throughout the Christmas season.
List of Amazing Christmas Towns to Visit in Colorado this Holiday Season
Breckenridge
This world-famous ski town transforms into a stunning Victorian-style Christmas village during the holiday season. The first weekend of December marks the start of the Lighting of Breckenridge, which features the Race of the Santas, an event where hundreds of St. Nicks take to the streets for a fun run just as ski season begins.
Georgetown
Located about an hour west of Denver, this historic mountain village is a favorite destination every Christmas. And it’s not surprising as the whole town turns into an old Christmas town straight out of traditional Christmas books, complete with snow-blanketed streets, the smell of roasting chestnuts, horse-drawn wagons, yuletide carolers in Victorian costumes, Christmas night markets, and a whole lot more.
Durango
Durango has been voted among the top Christmas towns in the state, making it one of the best locations in Colorado to enjoy a fascinating range of seasonal treats. At this time of year, the legendary Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad host the Polar Express train journey, one of the most unique ways to celebrate Christmas.
Aspen
Christmas at Aspen is simply magical. Besides the world-famous slopes, there are a variety of activities to participate in during the city’s 12 days of Aspen Christmas festival. Enjoy free cookies and hot chocolate as you sing along with carolers, Santa, and actual reindeer at The Little Nell’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Telluride
Telluride, a Victorian-era silver-mining village hidden deep in a box canyon in the San Juan Mountains, is frequently referred to as the most picturesque ski town in North America. The Victorian stores and frontier-era facades are adorned with seasonal decor throughout the winter, making it an even more picturesque location. Furthermore, you should take advantage of its remote, serene ski resort, famous for its uncrowded trails and great terrain.
Cripple Creek
Cripple Creek is a popular location for visitors who like to try their luck in casinos or get a taste of the history of the Old West. All of these are available with a Christmas twist throughout the holiday season. The historic Butte Theater presents a holiday-themed melodrama, and the town’s historic buildings are decorated with festive lighting. The Cripple Creek District Museum features the Gold Camp Christmas Holiday Headframe Lighting and Winter Wonderland every weekend.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is another world-renowned ski town, but it provides much more during the winter months. Santa rides down the slopes on horseback during the Steamboat Holiday Festival, and guests can meet him in his workshop with his reindeer companions.
Ouray
Thanksgiving marks the beginning of seven weeks of Winterfest celebrations in Ouray. This town in the heart of the San Juan Mountains is sometimes called the “Switzerland of America” since it is surrounded by majestic peaks and has the world’s first ice-climbing park. The large Victorian and old Western mining town-style buildings on Main Street are adorned with shimmering lights and colorful decorations during the holiday season, bringing the street to life.
Conclusion
Make this Christmas pleasant and bright by stepping back in time, engaging in a bit of culture, meeting Santa at his home or on a train, and partaking in numerous festive Christmas activities here in Colorado. Do some town-hopping and savor the holiday vibe in picturesque locations this time of the year. Consider the suggestions mentioned above and get into the holiday spirit while you’re at it.
Wander the Towns of Colorado In Style This Holiday Season With Black Mountain Limo.
There is something for everyone on this side of the country. From watching the Nutcracker to strolling around the Denver lights tour, Colorado offers a multitude of festive Christmas activities that you and your family can enjoy. And there’s no better way to explore these towns than by traveling in style with Black Mountain Limo. Our superior transportation service will get you to your destinations comfortably and safely. Call us now and celebrate a hassle-free Christmas!
