The holidays are here, and we encourage you to get out and explore our amazing community this season. We’ve curated a list of the best things to do in Denver during the winter holidays. Whether you’re looking to spend the day outside in the snow or cozied up inside—we’ve got a little something for everyone on our list. Stay warm!
Be present in all things and thankful for all things.
—Maya Angelou
Go to The Nutcracker
Colorado Ballet will perform “The Nutcracker” for the 62nd year this holiday season.
Colorado Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” production returns to its home at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House beginning Saturday, November 26.
For a second year, “The Nutcracker” will showcase its new sets and costumes created especially for Colorado Ballet by designers Thomas Boyd and Holly Hynes. The production will feature five different casts of dancers and live music performed by the Colorado Ballet Orchestra.
Go Ice Skating at Skyline Park
The cozy Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park is one of our favorite winter traditions. Nestled in the heart of downtown, the rink is a walk away from a host of fabulous restaurants and shops, making it an ideal location for your next date night. They also host Sunday family days, a broomball competition, yoga on the ice, and skating lessons throughout the season. The best part? Aside from skate rentals, it’s all free.
Enjoy a Polar Express Train Ride
For 2022, the POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride performances are scheduled three times a night. The season launches with performances four evenings each week, increasing daily after Thanksgiving. Opening Night is November 11, and the final performances occur on December 23.
Zoo Lights at The Denver Zoo
When it comes to holiday magic, you can always count on Zoo Lights—where natural wonders take on a new light. This year, their newest installations illuminate nature’s brilliant animation with enchanting additions like Aurora Borealis, Savannah Sunset, and Electric Jungle. As you wander through our winter wonderland, keep an eye out for nightly ice-carving demonstrations, cozy fire barrels, and festive holiday food and drink!
Enjoy Holiday Mini Golf
Now through January 8, 5 to 9 p.m. nightly except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day; free to $12.75 at the gate; Adventure Golf and Raceway, 9650 Sheridan Boulevard, Westminster.
Bonus: Parade of Lights
The 9NEWS Parade of Lights is free and will make a circuit through the heart of downtown beginning at 6 p.m. on Dec. 3, 2022, featuring more than 40 units, including extravagantly illuminated floats, giant helium-filled character balloons, magnificent marching bands, traditional equestrian units, and vibrant cultural displays. And, of course, a special appearance by Major Waddles the Penguin and Santa!
Check out our Family Friendly Edition post for even more weekend fun!
