Denver Holiday Happenings 2022
Is the snow this week bringing you joy and getting you in the holiday spirit? Ready to start planning your outings and fun for the 2022 season? Great, I’ve got you covered! Here are some favorite things to do around town and some surprises (Goat Yoga?!) to try out.
My favorite traditions include selecting a child from the Giving Tree at the Stanley Marketplace to sponsor their wish list, baking cookies while drinking a cup of delicious hot cocoa with my family and seeing The Nutcracker. As a theater enthusiast, attending the ballet always takes be back to my childhood of performing in The Nutcracker in my hometown with my family cheering me on from the audience. The nostalgia gives me all the warm fuzzies and is something I’ve looked forward to sharing with my daughter. (This is her first year going with me!)
Also, I see all you early holiday lights & decor neighbors… I’ll wait until December 1st, but I’m here for your decorations and smile every day when I pass. Cheers to a festive 2022 holiday season! First up, the Central Park Winter Welcome tonight!
Winter Welcome
When: Friday, November 18th, 5pm – 8pm
Celebrate the welcoming of winter here in Central Park with officially turning on the holiday lighting display! Enjoy live entertainment, local vendors, warm drinks, s’mores, Santa and more!
The Polar Express Train Ride
Where: Colorado Railroad Museum
When: November 11th – December 23rd
The story of The Polar Express is theatrically re-created and combined with a magical train ride. Children get to meet Santa and experience all the sights and sounds of this classic tale as if happening all around them. There is very limited seating available so don’t delay your booking!
Mariel and Whitney from our team recently brought their families to the Polar Express Train Ride Experience last year (and will be doing so again this season!) . Here are three tips for getting the most out of the experience.
The Giving Tree at the Stanley Marketplace
Where: Stanley Marketplace
When: November 25th – December 16th
Brighten someone’s holiday with sponsoring a gift wish from the giving tree benefiting the Denver and Aurora Housing Authorities, Aurora Animal Shelter, and The Center on Colfax sponsored by Visit Aurora.
The Shops at Northfield Holiday Events
Where: The Shops at Northfield
When: November 19th – December 21st
The shops have a busy line-up this year! Check out Yoga Six baby goat yoga (!!), Black Friday deals, Holiday Pop-up shop for small business Saturday, Carolers, Paws & Claus, Goatflix and Chill and Ice-ie selfie stations!
Blossoms of Light
Where: Denver Botanic Gardens
When: November 18th – January 7th
A signature event for over 3 decades, Blossoms of Light is a real treat for the whole family!
Christmas in Color
Where: Water World, Bandimere Speedway or Arapahoe County Fairgrounds
When: November 18th – January 1st
Drive through millions of lights perfectly synchronized to holiday music you’ll hear right through your radio. Now with 3 locations in the Denver metro area!
Denver Christkindl Market
When: November 18th – December 23rd
Always a fun time, the Christkindl Market is a lively outdoor market with European flair. There is live music, local and European craft vendors and authentic fare to eat. Free and open daily!
*The 2022 Mile High Tree by VISIT DENVER will be located in Civic Center Park too making it a great outing!
Holiday Tea at the Brown Palace Hotel
Where: The Brown Palace Hotel
When: Now – December
As if Afternoon Tea at the Brown Palace was not fun enough, being immersed in the festive holiday décor at the hotel that feels like a throwback to the Golden Era, is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season!
Christmas at the Gaylord Rockies
Where: Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center
When: November 18th – January 1st
ICE! Is returning to Gaylord Rockies this year and with over a dozen activities, there is bound to be something for everyone in the family! Some of our favorites include Cirque: Spirit of Christmas, snow tubing, ice skating, Gingerbread decorating corner, and the naughty or nice escape room!
Small Business Saturday at Stanley
Where: Stanley Marketplace
When: November 26th
Check off all your holiday shopping with a one stop shop! Not only can you find the best gifts, but enjoy live music and entertainment, a family-friendly silent disco, tour of trees, the Giving Tree, letters to Santa and St. Nick Himself! You can even select your fresh Christmas Tree before you head home… Truly a one stop shop!
Some additional events to look out for: Giving Tuesday (11/29), Community Hanukkah Celebration (12/18), Live Holiday Performances (12/3, 12/4, 12/10, 12/16, 12/17, 12/18)
Zoo Lights
Where: Denver Zoo
When: November 21st – January 15th
Over a million lights on display in the WILDEST winter wonderland! Live ice carving, holiday treats and new displays this year!
Harvesting Hope, Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot 5K
Where: Central Park
When: November 24th
RUN, WALK, DANCE, SKIP, HOP, JUMP or TROT to the finish line for the 8th Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Trot! All proceeds benefit the Foundation for Prader-Willi Research (FPWR).
Luminova Holidays
Where: Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
When: November 25 – January 1st
Larger than life holiday displays and immersive experiences will make this an outing to remember! Over 3 million lights, a 65-foot Christmas tree, a 25-foot snowman and more!
Colorado Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Where: Ellie Caulkins Opera House
When: November 26th – December 24th
This beloved holiday classic returns with new sets and costumes at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House.
*A Christmas Carol is also playing daily until December 24th at the Wolf Theater.
Caring Santa with Autism Speaks
Where: Cherry Creek
When: December 4th
Individuals with all spectrums of special needs and their families are invited to a private photo session where extra care is taken to support the sensory, physical and other developmental needs to make this a magical holiday experience. December 4th from 9:00am-10:30am at Cherry Creek. Make reservations today!
