Denver in December is truly my favorite. The city goes full sparkle mode, and there are so many easy ways to lean into the season without hopping on a plane or doing anything overly complicated.
Whether you’re chasing twinkle lights with the kids, sneaking in a date night, or just want an excuse to wander with a warm drink in hand, here are a few fun things to check out around town.
For the holiday magic: lights, markets and cozy wandering
Cherry Creek North basically turns into a Hallmark movie in real life with Winter Wanderland. Think nearly a million lights overhead, the Cherry Creek Holiday Market with 50+ local makers, and the very extra (in the best way) Mistletoe Lounge pop-up bar for festive drinks when you’re done shopping.
Downtown, the Mile High Tree and the Denver Christkindlmarket team up at the Auraria Campus — it’s a 110-foot digital “tree” with a music-and-lights show plus an authentic German market for pretzels, bratwurst and ornaments. It’s free, walkable and super kid-friendly.
If you want something that feels a little more small-town charming, Olde Town Arvada does Skating in the Square under the big tree lights. It’s such a sweet way to spend an afternoon or evening, especially if you grab hot cocoa and wander the shops after.
And of course, Denver’s 9News Parade of Lights still puts on a show downtown with illuminated floats, marching bands and a Santa sighting for good measure. It’s one of those traditions that feels very “this is why we live here.”
For the “keep everyone entertained” days
If your crew needs a bigger outing, Christmas at Gaylord Rockies in Aurora is basically holiday overload in the best possible way: ice sculptures, lights, themed activities and plenty to do for both kids and adults. It’s a fun way to make a whole day (or even a night) of it.
Closer to the city, the Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park is a classic. Skating under the city lights with all the downtown décor around you just feels nostalgic, and it’s also one of the more affordable winter activities if you’re trying to keep things budget-conscious.
And if you’re a markets person, there are pop-ups everywhere right now — from Cherry Creek to RiNo to Highland — with Holiday BAZAARs, maker markets and winter art fairs packed with local vendors. It’s such an easy way to knock out shopping while supporting small businesses.
Ringing in the New Year, Denver-style
As we get closer to New Year’s Eve, Denver really shows off. Families can head to the Mile High Tree at the Auraria Campus for an earlier countdown at 9 p.m., paired with the nightly Mile High Drone Shows — 600 drones doing a choreographed, holiday-themed light show in the sky.
If you’re more of a fireworks person, 16th Street Mall hosts the traditional NYE fireworks with two shows, one at 9 p.m. and one at midnight, with local DJs and a full downtown energy vibe.
From big parties at Union Station to family-friendly “Noon Year’s” celebrations around the metro, there’s something for pretty much every kind of Denverite to welcome 2026.
The short version: you don’t have to go far to feel festive. If you end up at any of these spots, send me a photo — I love seeing how you’re enjoying our city this time of year!
