Colorado transforms into a magical destination during the holiday season, combining stunning landscapes with timeless traditions and modern celebrations. From festive events and memorable winter activities to indulgent craft food, beverages and one-of-a-kind gifts, there’s something magical for everyone—whether you’re celebrating with friends, a spouse or the entire family. 

To help you make the most of your travel plans, here’s a guide to holiday festivities organized by region, plus a sidebar of memorable New Year’s experiences to start 2025 in style.

DENVER

Denver Christkindlmarket (through December 23, 2024) 

Experience an authentic German holiday market featuring local and European vendors, delicious treats and festive entertainment. 

Latkes and Lights (December 15, 2024)

Prepare for the eight crazy nights of Hanukkah with themed games, live music and a variety of latkes (potato pancakes) from Denver restaurants.

Holiday festivities at Union Station (through the end of December 2024)

Celebrate the season with free Santa visits, stunning holiday decorations and festive cocktails at Miracle, a pop-up cocktail bar (21+ only), at Denver Union Station. On December 6-7, enjoy performances by Dickens Carolers at Denver Union Station and Wynkoop Plaza.

Snowdrift at Adrift Tiki Bar (through December 31, 2024)

Adrift is bringing Snowdrift, one of Denver’s best holiday pop-up bars, back to the Beach on Broadway. Enjoy towering holiday totems, powdery white snow, an igloo beach bar and holiday-inspired cocktails and eats.

MOUNTAIN REGION

Georgetown Christmas Market (December 7-8 & 14-15, 2024)

Travel to the charming mountain town of Georgetown to experience a traditional Christmas that hasn’t changed in 100 years. Enjoy roasted chestnuts, horse-drawn wagon rides and festive holiday shopping.

Georgetown Loop Railroad (through January 5, 2025)

While in Georgetown, take a magical ride through snowy mountain vistas illuminated by over 300,000 lights. Georgetown Loop Railroad is one of Colorado’s most authentic living history experiences.

Vail Kris Kringle Market (December 12-15, 2024)

Enjoy a magical holiday experience in the heart of Vail Village, featuring gifts from Colorado artisans, handmade food products as well as music, kids’ activities, gluhwein (German mulled wine) and more.

Vail Après (through January 5, 2025)

Vail may be renowned for its world-class skiing, but the fun doesn’t stop when the slopes close. Guests can enjoy family-friendly winter festivities, including Kringle Crossing—a cozy, twinkling miniature village with whimsical decorations—along with ice skating shows, photos with Santa and a dazzling New Year’s Eve fireworks display.

Leadville Railroad Holiday Express (through January 4, 2025): Travel through the snowy Colorado mountains on a memorable trip in one of three heated lounge cars with comfortable booth seating and large windows to take in stunning views.

NORTHERN COLORADO

NoCo Light Trail (through early January)

Extending from Fort Collins to Loveland and even up to Estes Park, the NoCo Light Trail allows visitors to experience festive light displays, free family friendly activities and even a drive-thru option in the three aforementioned cities. 

SOUTHERN COLORADO

Colorado Springs Kwanzaa Celebration (December 26, 2024–January 1, 2025)

Celebrate African culture and heritage with nightly events in Colorado Springs.

Christmas Mountain, Salida (through mid-January)

If you’re visiting or just passing through Salida, plan your trip after dark to witness the transformation of Tenderfoot Mountain into a spectacular display of holiday lights. Forget Rockefeller Center—Salida takes it to the next level with a 750-foot-tall “Christmas tree,” made up of 4,500 vibrant LED bulbs strung from the mountain’s summit to its base. 

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: The Polar Express™ (through January 4, 2025)

The story of a child’s Christmas Eve journey comes alive each year with THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. All ages can enjoy the experience, warmth and fun of the Christmas season, with readings from the book while dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies, a dazzling light display at the North Pole and a special gift from Santa and his elves.

Royal Gorge Route Railroad’s Santa Express Train (through December 31, 2024)

Board a beautifully handcrafted locomotive for a journey through the Royal Gorge to the North Pole and back, featuring Santa visits and festive surprises.

WESTERN COLORADO

Powderhorn Mountain Resort’s 12 Days of Christmas, Grand Junction (December 21-January 1, 2025)

Celebrate the holiday season at Powderhorn Mountain Resort with 12 festive days of activities and events for the whole family. The celebration culminates with a New Year’s Eve party and more activities on New Year’s Day. 

Garden of Lights, Montrose (December 14-15, 21-22 & 26, 2024)

Stroll illuminated garden paths and enjoy dazzling holiday displays at the Montrose Botanic Gardens. Highlights include horse-drawn wagon rides, hot cocoa, a festive photo opportunity at the horse shed and a visit from Santa. 

Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade, Telluride (December 24, 2024)

Celebrate Christmas Eve with Telluride’s beloved tradition as ski instructors descend the mountain at 6:30 p.m., torches in hand, creating a glowing spectacle that lights up the mountainside.

Experiences to Ring in the New Year!

New Year’s Eve Winter Circus, Beaver Creek (December 31, 2024): Enjoy a Winter Circus with aerialists, contortionists, jugglers, breakdancers, fire dancers and more, followed by a spectacular fireworks display over Beaver Creek Mountain.

Light Up Snowcat Parade, Steamboat Springs (December 31, 2024): Watch dazzling snowcats and synchronized skiers light up the mountain, followed by a fireworks display.

Oakwell Beer Spa, Denver: Ring in 2025 in private spa suites with craft beverages and cozy vibes in an award-winning day spa where you can relax while enjoying beer-inspired spa treatments.

Beyul Retreat New Year’s Eve Getaway, Meredith (December 28, 2024–January 1, 2025): Escape to nature with guided adventures, live music and fireworks in a cozy cabin in the woods

New Year’s Day Sunrise Hike, Cortez (January 1, 2025): Start the year with a guided sunrise hike through Hawkins Preserve featuring breathtaking views and a champagne toast.