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10 Best Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Denver

Writen By: Ramsha Rehan

10 Best Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Denver

Christmas in Denver feels like stepping into a snowy holiday postcard twinkling lights, festive streets, cozy food tours, winter wildlife adventures, and family activities wrapped in Colorado’s magical winter charm. Whether you're planning a seasonal getaway or looking for the best Christmas activities near you, Denver offers a mix of bright nights, cultural experiences, and snowy adventures that make the holidays unforgettable.

Below are the best ways to celebrate Christmas in Denver with your family, friends, and partner, and experience your best Christmas holidays seamlessly with Dyvarcity.


1. Denver Botanic Gardens – Blossoms of Light

If there's one place that defines Denver Christmas lights, it’s Blossoms of Light. The entire garden transforms into a glowing wonderland, with illuminated pathways, light tunnels, and dreamy photo spots. This is where holiday magic meets nature, a perfect evening for families, couples, and visitors who want a peaceful winter escape.

Perfect for: romantic nights, photography lovers, and peaceful holiday vibes.

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Discover Denver's Urban Oasis: Botanic Garden General Admission

General Admission to Denver Botanic Gardens: Explore diverse gardens showcasing plants from around the world, emphasizing Western identity and drought tolerance. Discover innovative designs blending European traditions with unique plants. Enjoy art exhibitions and the Science Pyramid. A great place for all ages.

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2. Denver Holiday Lights Tour: History & Christmas Magic!

If you want to experience the most iconic Denver Christmas lights, this guided tour is a must. It blends holiday sparkle with Denver’s past, taking you through historic neighborhoods, festive streets, and glowing landmarks.

You’ll stroll (or drive) past some of the city’s most stunning displays, learn local Denver stories, and enjoy a front-row view of the city’s best holiday decorations without stressing about parking or navigating crowds.

Perfect for: holiday photos, families, couples, or anyone who wants a relaxed and magical night out.

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$24

Denver Holiday Lights Tour: History & Christmas Magic!

Holiday Lights & History Walking Tour in Denver is a magical way to experience the city's festive spirit! For over a century, Denver has been known as "The Christmas City," and this walking tour shows exactly why. Stroll through downtown, surrounded by thousands of twinkling lights, while hearing fascinating stories about Denver's history. The tour visits some of Denver's most beautiful and iconic spots. Imagine seeing the City and County Building illuminated with holiday cheer, standing beneath the towering Mile High Christmas Tree, and exploring the Denver Christkindl Market for delicious treats like roasted almonds and hot cocoa. Key stops include the Denver Art Museum (Hamilton Building), the Historic Denver Mansion, Civic Center Park Holiday Lights, Larimer Square, and the 16th Street Mall. This tour is great for both visitors and locals! **What to Expect:** This 1.5-hour walking tour covers about 1.5 miles, starting in front of the giant broom and dustpan at the Denver Art Museum, and ending at the Denver Pavilions on the 16th Street Mall. The tour group is small, with a maximum of 20 people, ensuring a personal experience. It includes a local guide who knows all the best stories and sights. It excludes gratuities, transportation to/from attractions, food, and drinks. It's not a round trip tour, but it is easy to get back to the start by taking a Lyft or Uber.

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3. Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo

One of the most beloved Christmas events in Denver, Zoo Lights transforms the entire zoo into a glowing wildlife wonderland. Walk through colorful tunnels, animated light sculptures, and glowing animal displays that feel alive with movement and color.

Expect millions of lights, themed zones, festive snacks, and cozy corners to warm up with hot cocoa. It’s a holiday tradition every Denver local recommends and for good reason.

Perfect for: families with kids, date nights, and anyone who loves nature with a little sparkle.

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4.Denver Christkindlmarket

If you're searching for Christmas activities near me or want an authentic European-style market, the Christkindlmarket delivers everything: hand-crafted gifts, artisan ornaments, mulled wine, Bavarian food, live music, and cozy wooden stalls that feel straight out of Germany.

It’s one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Denver, especially if you want warm drinks, festive energy, and unique holiday shopping.

Perfect for: gift hunters, friends’ day out, cultural Christmas experiences.

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5. Ice Skating at the Downtown Denver Rink

A classic winter activity and a must-do if you want a cheerful, festive moment right in the heart of the city.

Twirl under the city lights, enjoy holiday music in the background, and soak in the lively downtown atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or you shuffle slowly with the support rail, it’s pure holiday fun.

Perfect for: families, fun date nights, group outings.


6. Breckenridge Ski Shuttle: Hassle-Free Mountain Winter Fun

For those craving snowy slopes during Christmas in Denver, the Breckenridge Ski Shuttle is the perfect solution. This shuttle service makes it easy to access one of Colorado’s most famous ski resorts without worrying about driving, parking, or winter road conditions.

Once you arrive, the world-renowned Breckenridge slopes await, from beginner-friendly trails to challenging runs for experts. Even if you don’t ski, the mountain town offers festive holiday vibes, cozy restaurants, snowshoeing trails, and scenic winter views that are postcard-worthy.

Perfect for: families, friends, or couples looking for a full day of snowy adventure without the hassle.

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$302.5

Backcountry Skiing Thrills: Guided Adventure near Breckenridge

Guided Backcountry Ski Tour near Breckenridge offers an exhilarating adventure for experienced resort skiers seeking backcountry thrills. Professional guides provide instruction in uphill/downhill techniques, risk management, and decision-making. With rental options and stunning Colorado scenery, enjoy an unforgettable backcountry experience. Expect a strenuous workout with 75% uphill and 25% downhill.

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$106

Breckenridge Ski Shuttle: Stress-Free Mountain Day Trip from Colorado Springs

The Full Day Ski Shuttle to Breckenridge offers a unique, stress-free day trip. Enjoy comfortable, winterized vans and experienced drivers. Perfect for skiers/snowboarders seeking adventure without mountain driving worries. This small group bus service includes bottled water and parking fees, promising a relaxed and convenient experience.

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7. Winter Wonderland at Cherry Creek North

Cherry Creek North transforms into a glowing holiday village, wrapped in more than half a million lights across the neighborhood. You’ll find festive installations, decorated storefronts, seasonal treats, and some of the best shopping in the city.

It’s a beautiful spot for strolling, taking photos, and soaking up the holiday spirit, especially if you love a more upscale Christmas vibe.

Perfect for: holiday shopping lovers, couples, and relaxed evenings out.

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8. Parade of Lights

Denver’s Parade of Lights lights up downtown with glowing floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and festive performers. A holiday favorite, it’s perfect for capturing magical Christmas memories in the heart of the city.

Perfect for: families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts.

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9. Grand Illumination at Union Station

The Grand Illumination transforms Union Station with sparkling lights, festive décor, and holiday displays. Enjoy seasonal treats, live entertainment, and a magical festive atmosphere.

Perfect for: families, photographers, and couples.

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10. Festive Food & Drink Experiences in Denver

No Christmas in Denver is complete without indulging in the city’s festive flavors. From sampling holiday-themed bites on the Denver RiNo Food Tour, where street art meets cozy eateries, to exploring local favorites on the Colorado Springs Downtown Food Adventure, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Warm up with seasonal drinks, discover hidden gems, and enjoy guided tastings that highlight Denver’s culinary creativity. For adults seeking a spirited holiday experience, Denver’s Spirited History Whiskey offers historic stories paired with warming whiskey tastings, perfect for a chilly winter evening. Together, these curated experiences bring the city’s food, culture, and festive spirit to life, making your Christmas celebration both delicious and memorable.

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$85

Denver's Delicious Secrets: A Downtown Foodie Adventure

Downtown Denver Food Tour: Explore Denver's culinary scene and history. Enjoy tastings at five award-winning restaurants, from Neapolitan pizza to green chile. Discover hidden stories and iconic landmarks with a local guide. Perfect for food lovers and history buffs seeking a unique urban adventure.

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$85

Denver RiNo Food Tour: Art, Bites & Hidden Gems

Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour. This walking food tour takes people through Denver's RiNo Arts District. It's a cool, industrial area with lots of art and good food. People will get to try some of the best food RiNo has to offer. The tour is about three hours long. The tour starts at Los Chingones, a restaurant that mixes different kinds of food. A local guide who knows a lot about food will lead the way. Over three hours, the tour will stop at five local restaurants that have won awards. People will taste yummy dishes, and they can even add drinks with alcohol if they want. You'll get to taste things like house-made ricotta gnocchi ( a type of Italian dumpling), Mexican street tacos, pizza made with sourdough, Bavarian pretzels with beer cheese, and ice cream that changes with the seasons. Between food stops, the guide will tell stories about Denver’s food scene and the colorful murals in the RiNo Arts District. The tour includes discounts to other tours and food experiences, 5 food tastings, a Delicious Denver Food Tours Insider's Guide to Denver Dining, and an experienced local foodie guide. It does not include gratuities or alcoholic drink pairings (which are an optional add-on for $30 on site).

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Conclusion: Celebrate Christmas in Denver with Dyvarcity

Christmas in Denver is a blend of sparkling lights, snowy moments, festive markets, and thrilling winter experiences. Whether you're exploring Blossoms of Light, tasting seasonal dishes on a food tour, or heading into the mountains for wildlife encounters, the city offers something for every mood and every traveler.

And with Dyvarcity, planning your holiday becomes effortless. Every experience listed above is curated, verified, and designed to help you create memories, not stress. From cozy food tours to bright nights, snowy day trips to indoor adventures, Denver proves that Christmas isn’t just celebrated here, it’s experienced.

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