3 Can’t-Miss Winter Events in Breckenridge: Mark Your Calendars!
Breckenridge knows how to celebrate winter, bringing together locals and visitors alike for some unforgettable events. Whether you’re here for the festive vibe, the chance to embrace your inner Viking, or to marvel at world-class snow art, these three Breckenridge events are must-sees this season.
Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas
December 7, 2024
Celebrate the start of the holiday season in Breckenridge! The Lighting of Breckenridge is a magical tradition that turns Main Street into a glittering winter wonderland as thousands of lights illuminate the town. It’s the perfect gathering for families, friends, and visitors to soak in the holiday spirit and share in the festive cheer. Imagine hundreds of participants dressed as Santa running down Main Street in their best or silliest Santa attire. This joyful run is open to everyone, whether you’re dashing down the street or cheering from the sidelines.
Schedule of Events:
- 12:00 PM – 6:30 PM – Handmade Holiday Market @ Old Masonic Hall
Support local artisans and find unique gifts at the Handmade Holiday Market, featuring handcrafted goods perfect for holiday shopping. - 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Holiday Giving Event (Adopt an Angel)
Spread holiday cheer by adopting an angel. This charity event supports families in need, making sure everyone experiences the magic of the season. - 3:30 PM – Holiday Dog Parade
Watch as adorable, festively dressed dogs strut down Main Street, bringing extra holiday joy. It’s a paw-some event for dog lovers! - 4:00 PM – Moose March
A parade for the kids to join in the fun, complete with moose antler headbands. Little ones will love being part of the festivities! - 4:30 PM – Race of the Santas
Join or cheer on hundreds of Santas as they dash down Main Street. It’s a spirited sight you won’t want to miss! - 5:00 PM – Lighting of Breckenridge
The grand finale! Gather around as the lights come alive, transforming the town into a sparkling holiday scene.
Ullr Fest
December 11-14, 2024
Unleash your inner Viking at Breckenridge’s legendary Ullr Fest! Dedicated to Ullr, the Norse god of snow, this lively celebration is for everyone who loves winter. Locals and visitors alike don Viking helmets, fur, and their boldest Ullr spirit to honor the snow season in style.
Schedule of Events:
- Thursday, December 12
- 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM – Ullr Helmet Decorating Party @ Ready Paint Fire
Get creative and decorate your very own Ullr helmet! Join the festivities with a custom Viking look. - 3:00 PM – Crowning of the Ullr King and Queen
Celebrate the new Ullr royalty as the King and Queen are crowned, kicking off the event with regal excitement. - 3:30 PM – World’s Longest Shotski®
Participate in or witness this record-breaking shotski® event, where thousands come together to toast Ullr. - 4:00 PM – Ullr Parade
A highlight of the festival! Watch as Vikings, skiers, and unique floats parade down Main Street in a fun and festive spectacle. - 5:00 PM – Ullr Bonfire @ East Sawmill Parking Lot
Warm up at the giant bonfire, a community gathering spot to honor Ullr and enjoy the camaraderie of winter enthusiasts.
- 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM – Ullr Helmet Decorating Party @ Ready Paint Fire
- Friday, December 13
- 8:00 PM – Ullr Comedy Night @ Riverwalk
Laugh the night away with some of the best comedians in town, bringing humor to the Ullr festivities.
- 8:00 PM – Ullr Comedy Night @ Riverwalk
- Saturday, December 14
- 12:30 – 2:00 PM – Ullr Ice Skating Party
Join the family-friendly ice-skating party for some fun on the ice in true Ullr spirit. - 6:00 PM – High Country Holidays Concert
A festive holiday concert to get you in the seasonal mood. - 6:30 PM – Winter Ice Skating Show
Cap off the festival with an enchanting ice-skating show, a beautiful display of talent and winter magic.
- 12:30 – 2:00 PM – Ullr Ice Skating Party
Ullr Fest is a one-of-a-kind celebration where the community comes together to welcome winter. Don’t miss this chance to experience Breckenridge’s legendary winter spirit!
International Snow Sculpture Championships
January 27 – February 1, 2025
The International Snow Sculpture Championships turn Breckenridge into an open-air gallery. Talented teams from around the world come to carve massive, intricate snow sculptures from 20-ton blocks of snow. The results are incredible displays of creativity and craftsmanship, all using just hand tools. The event offers more than just the chance to view these sculptures, there are daily workshops, tours, and interactive exhibits that dive into the techniques and artistry involved. Be sure to see the sculptures both day and night, as lighting adds a whole new level of magic in the evening.
- Sculpting Week: January 20-24, 2025
Watch as teams from around the world carve 25-ton blocks of snow into intricate, towering sculptures using only hand tools. Sculpting takes place over five days, culminating in a temporary outdoor art gallery. - Viewing Week: January 24-29, 2025
After the artists finish, the public can view the completed sculptures.
Schedule of Events:
- January 20-24 – Sculpting in Progress
Teams work from dawn to dusk, bringing their artistic visions to life. - January 24-29 – Sculpture Viewing
Completed sculptures are on display for the public.- Saturday, January 25 – Timed Entry Reservations Required
To manage crowds, reservations are required for entry at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, or 2:00 PM. No cost, but space is limited.
- Saturday, January 25 – Timed Entry Reservations Required
*Local Tip: Come on Sunday night or anytime on Monday to avoid large crowds
Breckenridge is known for its unique events that celebrate the season in unforgettable ways. Mark your calendar, gather your winter gear, and join in these community celebrations that showcase the spirit, creativity, and snowy charm of our beloved mountain town!
