Denver Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Denver and surrounding areas
Denver’s the festive season is centered around Union Station and the 16th Street Mall where Holiday lights and a lively schedule of things to do warm chilly evenings. Events like Denver Zoo Lights, A Colorado Christmas, and the 9NEWS Parade of Lights bring festive events and family fun to neighborhoods across the city. Explore seasonal markets, winter gatherings, and holiday adventures that highlight Denver’s mix of outdoor lights, cultural attractions, and memorable activities this year.
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Christmas Markets
32 eventsFour distinct holiday markets featuring local makers and festive experiences.
Christmas Lights
27 eventsPrivate after-hours event rentals at Denver Zoo during Zoo Lights.
Christmas Shows
17 eventsHoliday concert with symphony chorus and children's choir.
Other Christmas Activities
22 eventsDenver's favorite holiday tradition with dazzling floats and Santa.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Denver Zoo Lights
Private after-hours event rentals at Denver Zoo during Zoo Lights.
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A Colorado Christmas
Holiday concert with symphony chorus and children's choir.
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9NEWS Parade of Lights
Denver's favorite holiday tradition with dazzling floats and Santa.
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Longmont Lights
(Longmont)
Millions of holiday lights illuminating Roosevelt Park
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Loveland Festival of Lights
(Loveland)
Stationary parade with 'Floats on 4th' and holiday market.
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Disney's Frozen
(Arvada)
Stage adaptation of Disney's beloved film 'Frozen'
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Parties Near Denver
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Denver.
New Year's Eve Denver NYE Bar Crawl
All-access pass to 15+ NYE parties
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Key events include the 9NEWS Parade of Lights in early December and the Light the Lights ceremony at the City and County Building in late November. Cherry Creek North’s Winter Wanderland also offers extensive holiday festivities throughout the season.
Denver’s holiday traditions include the Giving Machines in Cherry Creek North, which allow visitors to make charitable donations in a unique vending machine format. The city also embraces outdoor light shows and community parades that highlight local culture.
Cherry Creek North is renowned for its extensive light displays, while neighborhoods near downtown also offer festive decorations. Beloved neighborhood favorites can be found throughout the metro area, providing a variety of walking trails and drive-through options.
Cherry Creek Holiday Market is a prime location for local makers, featuring artisan vendors and designers. Additional markets and craft fairs pop up in various neighborhoods near Denver, especially during weekends in the holiday season.
Free activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending the 9NEWS Parade of Lights, and exploring Cherry Creek North’s Winter Wanderland. Many markets and outdoor events offer free admission and festive entertainment without cost.
Families enjoy the Christmas in Color drive-through lights, Cherry Creek North’s interactive displays, and holiday markets with kid-friendly activities. Seasonal parades and light shows also provide memorable experiences for children of all ages.