Here Come the Holiday Happenings!
As the holiday season begins, Northern Colorado comes alive with community gatherings, heartfelt traditions, and festive celebrations that bring neighbors together. From Thanksgiving turkey trots and compassionate feasts to enchanting holiday markets and tree lighting ceremonies, there’s no better time to experience the warmth, connection, and joyful spirit that define this special time of year.
TOMORROW: Friday, November 21
DENVER CHRISTKINDLMARKET OPENING CEREMONY
Join the official Grand Opening Celebration of the Denver Christkindlmarket’s 25th Anniversary, presented by Bank of America and United Airlines! Emceed by Denver7 anchor Micah Smith, the evening features the ceremonial keg tapping of Prost Brewing, live entertainment from the Guerrilla Fanfare Brass Band, and the Christkind reading the official opening prologue. Festivities follow the Opening of the Mile High Tree by VISIT DENVER — a festive kick-off to the season’s most magical holiday tradition!
Auraria Campus, Tivoli Quad, 1000 Larimer St., Denver
6:40 p.m.–7:20 p.m.
Tickets: Free
CULTURAL CARAVAN PERFORMANCE: ALEJANDRO CASTAÑO & FRIENDS
Experience an electrifying evening of Afro-Cuban music with percussionist Alejandro Castaño and a cast of world-class artists from across the country! This performance — part of Cultural Caravan’s partnership with the Town of Erie Parks & Recreation — promises vibrant rhythms, great company, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Space is limited, so reserve your seat early.
THE ADDAMS FAMILY – A NEW MUSICAL COMEDY
Wednesday Addams has grown up and fallen in love — but her sweet, normal boyfriend and his respectable parents are in for the dinner party of a lifetime! When Wednesday begs Gomez to keep her secret from Morticia, chaos and hilarity ensue in this darkly delightful musical. Performed by Northglenn Youth Theatre’s talented 12–18-year-old actors in a full-length, professional-style production that’s fun for the whole family.
Friday–Sunday, November 21–23
DENVER CHRISTMAS SHOW
Get ready for the holidays with more than 275 booths to shop, photos with Santa, live performances, holiday decor, food, drinks, and festive entertainment! Three days only at the National Western Complex to find gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list while enjoying the magic of the season.
National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St., Denver
Fri. and Sat., 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Sun., 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Tickets: $17 (Children 13 and under free, Parking $15)
Friday, November 21–January 26
LIGHT THE LIGHTS – DENVER CITY AND COUNTY BUILDING
Visitors can enjoy nightly light and music shows at Denver’s iconic City and County Building throughout the season! The dazzling display features synchronized lights and festive music, with static lights glowing until late evening.
Denver Civic Center Park, 101 West 14th Ave., Denver
Tues.–Sun. through January 26 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m.
Tickets: Free
Saturday, November 22
GOBBLE! GOBBLE! WILD TURKEY PROGRAM
How fast can a turkey run, and do they really fly? Discover the fascinating world of wild turkeys thriving right here on the Front Range during this family-friendly program at Heil Valley Ranch! Join us for a short hike, hands-on crafts, and engaging games that bring these remarkable birds to life — perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Heil Valley Ranch, Wapiti Trailhead, Geer Canyon Dr., Longmont
10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Tickets: Free (Registration required)
PETTY FOOLS & COLORADO SPRINGSTEEN: ROCK LEGENDS TRIBUTE NIGHT
Rock out to the timeless anthems of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and Bruce Springsteen brought to life by two powerhouse tribute bands! From “Free Fallin'” and “American Girl” to “Born to Run” and “Dancing in the Dark,” this all-ages night delivers classic hits, great vibes, and unforgettable energy. Enjoy a full bar and food menu, or grab dinner and happy hour at The Passenger Restaurant before the show.
Dickens Opera House, 302 Main St., Longmont
7:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
Tickets: Prices vary (Tickets increase $5 day of event)
Sunday, November 23
SCFD FREE DAY: DENVER ZOO
Explore Denver Zoo during one of seven Community Free Days offered throughout the year! To ensure the best experience for all guests, a limited number of free tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis — released online at noon, 11 days before each Free Day. Walk-ins are no longer accepted, so register early to secure your spot for a wild day of animal encounters!
Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St., Denver
10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free (Must reserve tickets in advance; no walk-ups permitted)
WARM THINGS DRIVE
Help keep the community cozy this season by donating gently used or new hats, mittens, gloves, and scarves at Longmont Yarn Shoppe! All collected items will be delivered to the Rotary Club to warm those in need. Drop off your cleaned donations anytime during shop hours and spread a little extra warmth this November.
Monday–Wednesday, November 24–26
THANKSGIVING BREAK BASKETBALL CAMP
Join CU Women’s Basketball alum and Elite 8 team member Randie Wirt, along with athletic trainer Erica Valenzuela, for a camp designed for all skill levels! Explore basketball fundamentals, good sportsmanship, and teamwork in a supportive environment — whether you’ve never picked up a ball or need a refresher before the season. Perfect for young athletes ages 5–14 looking to learn and grow.
Boulder Country Day School, 4820 Nautilus Ct. North, Boulder
Mon–Wed., 9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Tickets: $185 per participant (Ages 5–14)
THANKSGIVING BREAK DUNGEONS & DRAGONS CAMP
Deep dive into Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons while learning critical thinking, strategy, and empathy! Students will craft their own characters and decks to take home, making this the perfect creative adventure for young gamers. Designed for grades 3–8, this camp blends imagination with skill-building in a fun, collaborative setting.
Boulder Country Day School, 4820 Nautilus Court North, Boulder
Mon–Wed., 9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Tickets: $200 (Grades 3–8)
THANKSGIVING WEEK AFTERNOONS CAMP
Spend your afternoons with crafts, games, and outdoor play during Thanksgiving week! Perfect for pairing with morning camps like BCD Basketball or Thanks-gaming. Campers should pack lunch, snacks, and a water bottle, and dress for the weather — remember, there’s no bad weather, only poor clothing choices!
Boulder Country Day School, 4820 Nautilus Court North, Boulder
Mon–Wed., 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
ZOO LIGHTS AT THE DENVER ZOO
With 80 acres boasting over three million lights, Denver Zoo’s Zoo Lights is still the one making spirits bright! This beloved tradition offers family fun, romance, and sparkling features across the zoo’s stunning winter wonderland. Select nights through January 4.
Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St., Denver
Through January 4, Sun.–Thurs. 4:30–9:00 p.m., Fri./Sat., 4:30–10:00 p.m.
Tickets: $19–$30
Thanksgiving Thursday, November 27
BROOMFIELD TURKEY DAY 5K/10K
Start Thanksgiving morning with a festive 5K/10K at Broomfield Commons, complete with free pumpkin pie for all! Bring the kids for a pre-race fun run, or bring the whole family to walk off that pie together. Plus, donate 5 items to Broomfield FISH’s food drive and you’ll be entered to win prizes — all finishers receive a winter knit beanie and medal!
Broomfield Commons, 13200 Sheridan Blvd., Broomfield
8:30 a.m. (Race starts at 9:00 a.m.)
Tickets: $22–$54 per runner or walker
LUVIN ARMS TURKEY TROT & THANKS-LIVING
Lace up for a heartwarming Thanksgiving tradition at Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary, featuring a 5K or 1K fun run/walk through beautiful sanctuary grounds! After the race, celebrate a compassionate ThanksLIVING Feast where beloved turkey residents enjoy their own festive, plant-based meal while the community gathers to reflect on gratitude, compassion, and living in harmony with all beings. General admission tickets available for non-runners who want to join the celebration.
Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary, 3470 County Rd. 7, Erie
9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. (Check-in at 8:15 a.m.)
Tickets: $35 (5K), $25 (1K), $5 (General admission)
ADVENT HEALTH AVISTA HOSPITAL LOUISVILLE TURKEY TROT 5K
Join your neighbors and friends on Thanksgiving morning for a community tradition that fights hunger! Every entry and food donation supports Community Food Share’s mission to eliminate hunger in Boulder and Broomfield Counties. Last year’s race raised over $76,000 — and for every dollar donated, Community Food Share provides $6 worth of groceries! Enjoy free refreshments, craft beers, coffee, and hot cocoa after the race.
Front Street and Spruce Street, 951 Spruce St., Louisville
9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Tickets: $8.95–$32.80
Friday, November 28
DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS FREE DAY
Explore 24 acres of stunning gardens and plant collections from around the world at Denver Botanic Gardens’ York Street location! This free day — presented in cooperation with the City and County of Denver — offers regular garden hours and is the perfect post-Thanksgiving outing. Tickets sell out, so register in advance; no onsite tickets available for sold-out days.
Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York Street, Denver
9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free (Registration required)
Saturday, November 29
HOME DEPOT WORKSHOP: TEDDY BEAR ORNAMENT
Join Home Depot’s free monthly Kids Workshop to build a festive teddy bear ornament! Perfect for young DIYers, this hands-on activity runs from 9 a.m. to noon while supplies last. Registration is required, so sign up early and get ready for some creative holiday fun.
Home Depot, 12171 Sheridan Blvd., Broomfield
9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free (Registration required)
SHOP SMALL SATURDAY CARRIAGE RIDES
Celebrate Small Business Saturday with free carriage rides through downtown Erie, brought to you by ALLO Fiber and Downtown Erie! Enjoy a charming ride while supporting local businesses and soaking in the festive atmosphere. Perfect for families looking to make the holiday season extra special.
THE VINTAGE HAUS CHRISTMAS MARKET
Step into a beautiful historic home transformed into a festive pop-up market brimming with vintage, modern, country, and kitschy Christmas treasures! Shop locally and sustainably while soaking up holiday cheer with friends in this charming, fun-filled seasonal experience. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift or just browsing, there’s no better way to get into the spirit of the season!
TREE-LIGHTING EXPERIENCE
Kick off the holiday season with old-fashioned family fun at the Annual Tree Lighting Experience! Enjoy live performances, Skyline High School Choir, a dueling ice carving show, Rockettes, photo ops with Santa and elves, hot cocoa, and — of course — the magical lighting of the tree. Watch for Santa’s grand entrance and stick around for visits with the jolly man himself!
Monday, December 2
FIRST MONDAY CRAFT KITS
Stop by the Children’s Area of Longmont Public Library to pick up a free take-home craft kit complete with instructions! Designed for preschoolers through second graders, these creative kits are available while supplies last. A simple, fun way to spark imagination and keep little hands busy at home.
STILL TIME TO MOVE IN TO THE HILL!
From turkey trots and community feasts to festive markets and cozy gatherings, there’s something magical about celebrating gratitude and togetherness right here at home in Colliers Hill. With limited Richmond American homes still available from the mid $500s, now’s the perfect time to make your move and start this holiday season surrounded by everything (and everyone) you’re thankful for.
