If you’re spending the holidays in the Denver metro area—whether you just relocated or you’ve been here for years—this is the season when the city really shows off. From immersive light shows to German markets and downtown parades, you can easily fill every weekend from Thanksgiving to New Year’s.

This guide focuses on the best holiday events in Denver and the surrounding suburbs for the 2025 season, with dates, locations, and who each event is best for.

Exploring the Best Holiday Events in Denver

When Do Holiday Events Start in Denver?

Most of Denver’s major holiday events kick off around the third week of November and run through late December or early January:

• Late November: Blossoms of Light, Trail of Lights, Denver Christkindlmarket, Mile High Tree, Zoo Lights, Union Station Grand Illumination
• Early December: 9NEWS Parade of Lights and other downtown holiday events
• Through Late December/Early January: Many light shows and skating rinks remain open into the new year

Always confirm current dates and ticket details on each event’s official website, as schedules can change.

1. Blossoms of Light – Denver Botanic Gardens (York Street)

Best for: Families, couples, out-of-town guests, first-time visitors

If you only do one holiday light experience in Denver, make it Blossoms of Light. The Denver Botanic Gardens’ signature holiday event transforms the York Street gardens into a glowing winter wonderland with immersive light tunnels, color-changing displays, and millions of LED lights woven into the landscape.

Why go:

• Iconic Denver holiday tradition with decades of history
• Carefully designed, artful displays instead of a random light overload
• Plenty of photo-ready scenes around water features, paths, and trees

Planning tips:

• Tickets are timed and often sell out on weekends and the week before Christmas—buy in advance.
• Dress for winter walking: warm layers, gloves, hat, and boots with traction.
• Plan extra time for parking, especially on peak nights.

2. Trail of Lights – Chatfield Farms (Littleton)

Best for: Families, groups, anyone who prefers open space and a “country Christmas” feel

Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms in Littleton offers a more rustic, wide-open take on holiday lights. The nearly mile-long walking path winds through fields, historic buildings, barns, and trees all wrapped in twinkling lights.

Why go:

• Open, scenic setting that feels like a Colorado countryside holiday
• Light tunnels, illuminated trees, and seasonal decor throughout the trail
• Fire pits and warm drinks make for a cozy night out in the foothills

Planning tips:

• Tickets are usually timed-entry, especially on weekends.
• Expect colder temperatures than in central Denver—Chatfield can be windy and chilly after dark.
• Combine your visit with dinner in nearby Littleton for a full night out.

3. Zoo Lights – Denver Zoo

Best for: Families with kids of all ages, multi-generational outings

Zoo Lights is a Denver classic. Each year the Denver Zoo transforms more than 80 acres into an animal-themed holiday lightscape with glowing animal sculptures, animated displays, and millions of lights along the pathways.

Why go:

• Animal-shaped light sculptures that kids love spotting along the way
• Large footprint with different zones to explore at your own pace
• Seasonal snacks, hot chocolate, and sometimes adult beverages

Planning tips:

• Timed tickets are required; walk-up entry is rarely available.
• Arrive early in your time slot to maximize your visit and avoid the latest crowds.
• Consider a weeknight visit earlier in the season for a less crowded experience.

4. Mile High Tree & Drone Shows – Downtown Denver

Best for: Downtown energy, free entertainment, big “wow” factor

The Mile High Tree is a towering digital “tree” made up of thousands of programmable LED lights, and visitors can actually step inside it for a 360-degree light and music show. Paired with scheduled holiday drone shows over downtown, it creates a modern, high-tech holiday experience in the heart of the city.

Why go:

• Free, recurring shows you can fit into any downtown evening
• Unique chance to experience a light show from inside the tree structure
• Drone shows that animate holiday scenes and Denver landmarks in the night sky

Planning tips:

• Check the city’s holiday event schedule for exact show times and locations each night.
• Combine your visit with dinner downtown or a walk through nearby markets and light displays.
• Expect crowds on weekend nights; arrive a bit early to find your viewing spot.

5. Denver Christkindlmarket – Tivoli Quad, Auraria Campus

Best for: Adults, date nights, groups of friends, shoppers

The Denver Christkindlmarket brings a traditional German Christmas market to the city with wooden vendor stalls, imported ornaments, steins, bratwurst, pretzels, and glühwein (mulled wine). Live music, dancing, and cultural performances round out the experience.

Why go:

• Authentic European-style holiday atmosphere with food, drinks, and gifts
• Free admission; you pay for what you eat, drink, and buy
• Central location that’s easy to pair with other downtown holiday activities

Planning tips:

• Evenings and weekends can get busy—go earlier in the day if you prefer a slower pace.
• Bring reusable bags for shopping and cash or card depending on vendor preferences.
• Check the entertainment schedule in advance if there’s a specific performance you want to see.

6. 9NEWS Parade of Lights – Downtown Denver

Best for: Families, long-time locals, parade lovers

The 9NEWS Parade of Lights is Denver’s marquee holiday parade, featuring illuminated floats, giant balloons, marching bands, dance troupes, and Santa at the finale. It’s a one-night event that fills downtown with holiday music and color.

Why go:

• Long-running Colorado tradition that many families attend year after year
• Dozens of entries showcasing local schools, organizations, and performers
• Downtown buildings and city lights create a memorable backdrop

Planning tips:

• Arrive early to claim a spot along the route, especially if you need room for strollers or chairs.
• Consider watching from near the start of the route so you don’t have to wait as long for the parade to reach you.
• Bundle up—temperatures can drop quickly after dark in December.

7. Grand Illumination & Merry & Bright at Union Station

Best for: Date nights, visiting guests, photos, pairing with dinner

Denver Union Station turns into a holiday postcard once the Grand Illumination flips on the lights. The historic train station and its outdoor tree are lit up for the season, with live music, Santa visits, and holiday cocktails adding to the experience.

Why go:

• Beautiful tree and building lighting that make for great photo opportunities
• Festive atmosphere with holiday music and seasonal drinks from on-site bars and restaurants
• Easy walk to other downtown attractions and markets

Planning tips:

• Check Union Station’s event calendar for exact dates and times of the lighting ceremony.
• Reserve a table at one of the on-site restaurants if you want to make a full evening of it.
• Consider taking light rail or rideshare to avoid downtown parking hassles.

8. Elitch Holidays – Elitch Gardens Theme Park

Best for: Families with older kids, teens, thrill-seekers

Elitch Holidays (formerly Luminova) transforms Elitch Gardens into a holiday theme park with millions of lights, themed displays, and select rides operating at night. It’s a blend of amusement park energy and holiday cheer.

Why go:

• See the park lit up with large-scale holiday decor and light tunnels
• Enjoy rides in a totally different atmosphere after dark
• Catch seasonal shows and entertainment created specifically for the holiday season

Planning tips:

• Check which rides and attractions are operating during holiday hours.
• Purchase tickets or passes online to save time at the gate.
• Dress for cold temps—nighttime in the park can feel much cooler than during the day.

9. Camp Christmas – Stanley Marketplace, Aurora

Best for: Adults, teens, friend groups, holiday maximalists

Camp Christmas is an over-the-top, immersive holiday installation at Stanley Marketplace in Aurora. Think themed rooms, vintage decor, unexpected photo ops, and a heavy dose of holiday nostalgia and humor.

Why go:

• Creative, Instagram-ready displays and vignettes around every corner
• Themed bars and lounges for festive cocktails and hangouts
• Interactive elements like scavenger hunts that keep the experience playful

Planning tips:

• Check if specific time slots or ticketed add-ons are required for certain areas.
• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking and exploring throughout Stanley Marketplace.
• Plan time for shopping and dining at the marketplace’s local businesses while you’re there.

10. Ice Skating and Winter Fun – McGregor Square & Beyond

Best for: Families, couples, small groups looking for an active outing

Even with some traditional downtown rinks closed for construction in recent seasons, you still have options for outdoor skating in the Denver metro area. One of the most popular is the rink at McGregor Square near Coors Field.

Why go:

• Skate in a modern plaza surrounded by restaurants, hotels, and big screens
• Fun, active way to enjoy a winter evening without leaving downtown
• Easy before-or-after pairing with dinner or a game at nearby spots

Planning tips:

• Check operating hours and special event nights in advance.
• Confirm whether skate rentals are available and if reservations are needed.
• Look for family or weekday specials if you’re budget-conscious.

FAQ: Denver Holiday Events for Newcomers

What Are the Best Holiday Lights in Denver?

If you want maximum visual impact, prioritize:

• Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens for an artful, classic light walk.
• Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo for animal-themed fun across a large, walkable space.
• Mile High Tree and Downtown Drone Shows for a free, high-tech experience in the heart of the city.
• Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms or Elitch Holidays if you want a more rural or theme-park feel.

Which Denver Holiday Events Are Best for Families?

For families with kids, start with:

• Zoo Lights – Lots to see, animal themes, and kid-friendly paths.
• Blossoms of Light – Shorter walking routes and plenty of stroller-friendly paths.
• Trail of Lights – A more relaxed, open-space experience that’s easy to navigate.
• 9NEWS Parade of Lights – Classic parade with floats, bands, and Santa.
• McGregor Square Ice Rink – Active, fun outing that burns off energy.

Which Denver Holiday Events Are Best for Adults and Date Nights?

For date nights or adult outings, consider:

• Denver Christkindlmarket – Mulled wine, German food, live music, and shopping.
• Union Station Grand Illumination and Merry & Bright – Cocktails, lights, and a beautiful historic backdrop.
• Camp Christmas – Over-the-top decor, themed bars, and tons of photo ops.
• Blossoms of Light – Romantic, scenic walk through the illuminated gardens.

Do I Need Tickets in Advance?

For the largest and most popular holiday events in Denver, plan to buy tickets in advance, especially for weekends and dates close to Christmas. This typically includes:

• Blossoms of Light (Denver Botanic Gardens)
• Trail of Lights (Chatfield Farms)
• Zoo Lights (Denver Zoo)
• Elitch Holidays (Elitch Gardens)
• Camp Christmas (select experiences and time slots)

Many downtown attractions like the Mile High Tree, drone shows, and Christkindlmarket are free to attend but can be crowded, so build in extra time and patience.

How to Build Your Denver Holiday Game Plan

If you’re new to the Denver metro area, keep your first holiday season simple and memorable by choosing:

• One major light walk: Blossoms of Light, Zoo Lights, or Trail of Lights.
• One downtown experience: Christkindlmarket, Mile High Tree and drone shows, or Union Station Grand Illumination.
• One bonus experience: Camp Christmas, Elitch Holidays, or McGregor Square ice skating.

With that mix, you’ll get the city, the lights, and a taste of that only-in-Colorado holiday magic—perfect for turning your first winter in Denver into the start of a new tradition.

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