Christmas Events In Denver 2026 bring a festive atmosphere filled with joy, entertainment, and holiday traditions for all ages. From dazzling light displays to holiday-themed performances, the city transforms into a winter wonderland. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these events offer unique experiences that capture the spirit of the season. Keep reading to find out which celebrations you can’t miss this holiday season.
2026 Annual December Festivals in Colorado
Colorado has a lot of reasons to celebrate with festivals in December. The ski season is officially underway, and the holidays are just around the corner. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style in downtown Denver with fireworks.
Exciting events include the Georgetown Christmas Market, which features an outdoor European marketplace, and Christmas trains, such as the Polar Express in Durango.
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Online ticket sponsor Smokin’ Roxi’s Bling & Beads is excited to share their passion for St. Baldrick’s Foundation! Visit their booth to purchase selected jewelry pieces with proceeds benefiting St. Baldrick’s. you can also donate directly to the cause by selecting a donation amount below.
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Events by Month
Start planning now for exciting events and festivals in Denver. Scroll down our month-by-month list and choose from annual favorites, splashy debuts and exclusive showings. Make a night of it and take advantage of great hotel deals.
DIVA (Oct. 4, 2026–Jan. 31, 2027) – Get ready for the ultimate red carpet event! Denver is the exclusive U.S. venue for DIVA, a highly anticipated global fashion and iconography exhibition organized by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London. DIVA celebrates the radical power, creativity and cultural impact of nearly 100 iconic performers, from the operatic goddesses of the 19th and 20th centuries, like Maria Callas, to modern-day powerhouses such as Cher, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, RuPaul, Prince and Tina Turner.
1. Experience a magical and festive candlelight concert
The holiday season is one of our favorite times of the year. It’s the time where the city lights up in a completely new way, with festive lights dazzling the streets and trees being set up in public plazas. Creative, holiday-themed events hit the city, and it feels like everyone’s in a bit of better spirits. To keep you in the most festive of spirits this holiday season, we rounded up 12 can’t miss, joyous, and fantastically festive things to do in and around Denver this holiday season. Enjoy, and happy holidays!
Picture this: stepping out from a crisp winter evening into a beautiful venue surrounded with flickering candles. Once you take your seat and the performance begins, the venue comes alive with the classical sounds of some of the world’s finest classic composers and contemporary hits played by a talented string quartet. That’s exactly what you’ll get with the globally recognized Candlelight series. This year, the wildly popular series is even hosting a couple of holiday specials, like a ballet special and a performance dedicated to the greatest contemporary hits by Adele.
Best Towns For Christmas In Colorado
When it comes to Christmas magic, few places do it better than Colorado. Between the snow-covered mountains and cozy ski towns, the state feels like it’s designed for the holidays. Whether you’re seeking a quiet mountain getaway or a city break packed with festive events, there’s something for everyone here.
Here are some of the best towns in Colorado to visit during Christmas — from world-famous ski resorts to charming small towns that shine extra bright during the holidays.
9NEWS Parade of Lights (December 7, 2024)
Marvelling at massive light displays is a cherished holiday tradition, and Denver has plenty of spots for walks and drives. So don’t miss the chance to see beautiful Colorado Christmas lights, as they are usually gone by New Year’s Eve!
Downtown Denver has been hosting the 9NEWS Parade of Lights since 1975. Denver’s favorite community tradition features more than 40 illuminated floats, giant inflatables, marching bands, equestrian units, and a special appearance by Major Waddles the Penguin and Santa. The live parade starts at 6 p.m., but for those who can’t make it downtown, 9NEWS broadcasts the show live on the day of the parade. Additionally, the channel rebroadcasts the parade throughout the entire month of December.
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What better way to get into the holiday spirit than to admire a dazzling display of holiday lights? The Mile High City pulls out all the stops when it comes to brightening up the chilly winter season with all sorts of outdoor light shows, hotel decorations, and brilliantly lit Christmas trees.
Bundle up and take a gander at some of Denver’s coolest (pun intended) holiday light displays for some festive fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top Christmas events happening in Denver in 2026?
Denver hosts a variety of Christmas events in 2026 including holiday light shows, festive markets, Christmas parades, concerts, and winter festivals. Popular highlights include the Denver Christkindl Market, Parade of Lights, and special holiday theater performances.
Are there family-friendly Christmas events in Denver in 2026?
Yes, many Christmas events in Denver 2026 are family-friendly, featuring activities such as visits with Santa, holiday crafts, ice skating, and puppet shows designed for children and parents alike.
Where can I find Christmas light displays in Denver during 2026?
Some of the best Christmas light displays in Denver 2026 include the Denver Botanic Gardens’ Blossoms of Light, the Zoo Lights at Denver Zoo, and various neighborhoods known for elaborate decorations like the Highlands area.
Are tickets required for Christmas events in Denver 2026?
Many Christmas events in Denver 2026 are free to attend, but some like concerts, holiday shows, and special markets may require advance tickets. It’s recommended to check event websites for ticketing details and availability.
How early should I plan to attend popular Christmas events in Denver 2026?
Popular Christmas events in Denver tend to fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. It’s best to plan and purchase tickets or RSVP early to secure your spot and avoid last-minute disappointments.