Embracing the Holiday Spirit in Denver: Activities and Events to Celebrate the Season
As the festive glow of Christmas lingers and the New Year approaches, Denver transforms into a vibrant hub of holiday activities and community spirit. This is a limbo land filled with cheer, where you can savor the last remnants of the seasonal festivities while gearing up to welcome 2026. Whether you’re looking for dazzling lights or family-friendly events, there’s something for everyone in the Mile High City this holiday season.
A Shift in Holiday Events
Due to ongoing construction in Civic Center Park, many of the city’s cherished holiday traditions have made a temporary home at the Tivoli Quad on the Auraria Campus. Here, visitors can marvel at the Mile High Tree, a towering 110-foot immersive art installation that serves as the centerpiece of the holiday festivities. It’s not just a sight to behold; it’s also the perfect spot to catch the hypnotic Mile High Drone Show. Both the tree and the drone show continue to light up the season through the end of the year, but be mindful—parking at Auraria can be quite pricey, so plan accordingly.
Meanwhile, the City and County Building has donned its seasonal attire once again, glowing brightly with holiday lights that will remain on display through the National Western Stock Show, creating a magical backdrop for holiday wanderings.
Free Activities to Explore
Denver is teeming with free and inexpensive events, perfect for keeping the festive spirit alive without breaking the bank. Check out these ongoing activities that promise fun for everyone:
Kwanzaa Celebrations
When: December 26 – January 1
Where: Welton Street and various venues
Denver embraces cultural diversity with a series of Kwanzaa events, beginning with the Grand Kinara Lighting on December 26. Following the lighting, families can enjoy the Opening Celebration & Circle of Wisdom at Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theater, along with additional community events throughout the week. More details can be found on Brother Jeff’s site.
Camp Christmas at Stanley Marketplace
When: Daily through December 28, 4 – 8 p.m.
Where: Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas Street, Aurora
Stanley Marketplace transforms into a winter wonderland with Camp Christmas, featuring a Merry Badge Scavenger Hunt and holiday-themed activities. While entry is free, the entertaining Camp Christmas Express immersive ride is available for just $10.
Foothills Art Center Holiday Art Market
When: Daily through December 29
Where: Foothills Art Center, Golden
Celebrate local craftsmanship at the Holiday Art Market, which showcases works from over eighty artists. With items starting at just $5, it’s an excellent opportunity to find unique gifts.
Mile High Tree and Drone Show
When: Daily through December 31, 5 – 10 p.m. (tree) and 7 p.m. (drone show)
Where: Tivoli Quad, Auraria Campus
Dive into a stunning visual experience as you step inside the Mile High Tree, where holiday lights dance to multicultural music. Nearby, the Mile High Holiday Drone Show features 600 drones performing intricate light displays—don’t miss this awe-inspiring spectacle!
Grand Illumination at Denver Union Station
When: Daily through December 31
Where: Denver’s Union Station
Marvel at the forty-foot Christmas tree adorned with over 7,000 lights at Union Station, making it a must-see stop during your holiday adventures.
Santa’s Little Factory
When: Daily through January 4
Where: Little Man Factory, 4411 West Colfax Avenue
Bring the kids to Santa’s Little Factory for festive fun including photos with Santa, gingerbread house building, and live holiday music.
Upcoming Events to Ring in the New Year
As Denver prepares to transition into a new year, several exciting events are on the horizon:
bRUNch Club: Onesie 5K and Holiday Market Party
When: December 28, 9:30 a.m.
Where: Stanley Marketplace
Gather your family and dogs for a fun-filled 5K run or walk, followed by a celebratory brunch at Stanley Marketplace.
Westword Pop-Up Concert
When: December 29, 7 p.m.
Where: The Crypt, 1618 East 17th Avenue
Westword members can enjoy a free pop-up concert featuring local artists. Not a member? Check how to join here.
Zero Fare for New Year’s Eve
When: December 31, 7 p.m. – January 1, 7 a.m.
For the 17th consecutive year, RTD offers a free ride on all transit services to make New Year’s Eve celebrations accessible.
Fireworks Over Downtown Denver
When: December 31, 9 p.m. and midnight
This beloved tradition lights up the Denver skyline with free fireworks shows, with the best viewing from 16th Street.
SCFD Free Days
Locations and dates vary
Thanks to the generous contributions to the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District, various arts institutions across the metro area periodically offer free admission days—a perfect way to start your new year filled with culture.
In celebration of the holiday season, Denver offers abundant opportunities for entertainment and community connection. Whether you choose to explore new traditions or revisit beloved events, the Mile High City awaits with open arms and dazzling lights. Enjoy the festivities!