It’s the most wonderful time of the year!
We’re of course talking about our ultimate bucket list of 15 things to do in Denver in December. Whether you’re looking to find some holiday lights magic, shop one of the amazing Holiday Markets, or enjoy a little staycation before/after/during the Holidays; our list has you covered. With so much to see and do in December you’ll have enough to keep you busy all month long.
ALL OF THE LIGHTS
‘Tis the season to sparkle!
For those looking to catch some holiday lights this December, have we got a list for you. Move over Paris, Denver is the new city of lights.
1. MERRY & BRIGHT LIGHTS – UNION STATION
First on our list is Merry & Bright Lights at Union Station. This outdoor holiday light show is one you won’t want to miss, as Denver’s Union Station will be transformed into a festive canvas all December long. Running daily from 5pm to 10pm you’ll have plenty of chances to check this one off your December bucket list.
2. BLOSSOMS OF LIGHT – BOTANIC GARDENS
While our next pick needs no introduction, Denver Botanic Gardens’ Blossoms of Light is a must see this time of year. Their annual holiday lights spectacular transforms their York Street location into a true winter wonderland. Fun for everyone, be sure to check out their site for addition info on dates, times and tickets.
Psst… due to popular demand many tickets have sold out but tickets will be available through January 16.
3. WINTER WANDERLAND LIGHT WALK
With nearly half a million holiday lights, it’ll be hard to miss our next pick.
Cherry Creek North’s Winter Wanderland Light Walk features 16 blocks of twinkling lights, trees and more to help you shop, dine and more this holiday season.
4. PRISMATICA COLOR
Day or night, our next pick us sure to be a delight. Prismatica Color is a unique light art installation located in Cherry Creek’s Gart Plaza features 25 pivoting prisms bursting with light and vibrant color.
Psst… your Instagram can thank us later.
5. CHRISTMAS IN COLOR
If half a million lights weren’t quite enough, how does a million lights sound?
Look no further than Christmas in Color’s drive-thru animated light show, which features over a million lights that are perfectly synchronized to holiday music, played on your car’s radio. With locations at either the Bandimere Speedway or Water World, you’ll have plenty of chances to experience some socially distanced and safe holiday fun this December.
6. MILE HIGH TREE
What’s better than a 110-foot-tall tree… a 110-foot-tall Holiday Tree. We’re of course talking about The Mile High Tree, located at the 16th street mall. This immersive art installation is open most Thursdays-Saturdays and some Sundays. Not only will you enjoy the tree’s exciting light display, but you’ll also enjoy some exciting and festive holiday music while you enjoy the show.
7. NIGHT LIGHTS
The D&F (Daniels & Fisher) Tower is the star of our next pick, Night Lights Denver. While we know many may already be familiar with this historic Denver landmark, the D&F Tower transforms into a holiday light installation from 5pm-10pm all December long.
8. GRAND MENORAH LIGHTING
Last but certainly not least is Chabad of Cherry Creek’s Grand Menorah Lighting at the Gart Plaza in Cherry Creek on Sunday December 13th. The Menorah lighting is open to everyone, and will feature hot latkes, sing-a-longs, donuts, dreidels and fun for the whole family.
HELLO, HOLIDAY MARKETS & MORE
No December bucket list would be complete without a visit to a few Holiday Markets this year. For those looking to have some fun while you get your holiday shopping done, these next picks are for you!
9. APRÈS HOLIDAY MARKET
Inspired by a European Ski Village, Dairy Block’s Aprés Holiday Market is one you won’t want to miss. With 12 amazing vendors offering a wide variety of shopping and incredible food and drink specials, it’s sure to elevate (see what we did there) your next shopping experience. Running every weekend through Christmas, be sure to reserve your free tickets ASAP.
10. HOLIDAY BAZAAR
While you may already be familiar with our next pick, Denver BAZAAR, have you had a chance to check out their special Holiday BAZAAR at Belleview Station? The Holiday BAZAAR is a great opportunity to shop and support local this season with over 40+ local makers and small businesses to choose from. Be sure to check out their site to learn more on how to reserve your tickets to shop, sip and mingle your way into the holidays.
Psst… did we mention you can also enjoy a seasonal cocktail/craft beer at their Jingle Bell Bar?
11. CHERRY CREEK HOLIDAY MARKET
Up next we have the Cherry Creek Holiday Market, which marks the inaugural run for the Holiday Markey located in the heart of Cherry Creek. This Holiday Market is free to attend and open 7 days a week, which is sure to help you find the perfect gift(s) for those on your list. Be sure to check out their site to reserve a shopping time as capacity is limited.
12. WINTER WONDERLAND – BRECKENRIDGE BREWERY
The Farmhouse at Breckenridge Brewery transforms into a Winter Wonderland this December.
This socially-distance Winter Wonderland features a winter skating rink, impressive sledding hill, games, delicious food and of course the amazing Breck Brews we know and love. Be sure to stay up to date on upcoming events and more at their Winter Wonderland.
HOME AWAY FROM HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
We don’t know about you, but all this December fun has us in the mood for some much-needed R&R. What better way to do just that than with a staycation in the heart of Denver?
13. HALCYON
Whether you’re looking for Tinsel & Toddies, for a little Après in the Clouds, or to stay (close to) Home for the Holidays, the Halcyon has got you covered. This luxury hotel in Cherry Creek is offering some amazing holiday offers that you won’t want to miss out on. Between rooftop curling, cabanas, stargazing, incredible day spa, and incredible dining; there is plenty to do or simply nothing at all at the Halcyon this December.
Psst… more on the Halcyon coming soon.
14. THE OXFORD HOTEL
The iconic Oxford Hotel transforms into the quintessential cozy holiday getaway this December to help you relax and unwind after a full day of Holiday fun. Their Wine & Dine special is perfect for those looking to treat themselves as you’ll receive a $50 food/beverage credit for in-room dining from Urban Farmer Denver and complimentary overnight valet.
15. THE CRAWFORD HOTEL
Last but certainly not least on our list is The Crawford Hotel.
Aside from being impeccably decked out for the holidays, you’ll also be able to check out two incredible parade of lights displays in the plaza in addition to the Merry & Bright Lights at Union Station. Does it get any more festive than that?
MAKE IT A DECEMBER TO REMEMBER
While we know this year has been drastically different compared to prior years, especially as we move closer to the holidays, we hope you take some time for yourself to truly enjoy the magic that is Denver in December. We are incredibly grateful to live in such a great city with so many wonderful people, places, and things.
The Denver Ear would sincerely like to wish you a happy holiday season and we hope you stay safe and healthy!
As always, we love seeing and hearing from you, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheDenverEar and tag #TheDenverEar for a chance to be featured.