December is filled with holiday traditions, events and celebrations. There is much to do nearby (check out our December E Guide) and here are some additional ideas:

Blossoms of Light and Trail of Lights

Enjoy a dynamic display of light and color and a winding path glistening with lights at Denver Botanic Gardens Blossoms of Light and Trail of Lights. For more information, visit botanicgardens.org and search “lights.”

The Broadmoor’s gingerbread display

Head to The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs for an elaborate, life-size gingerbread display that highlights some of the features of the resort. For more information, visit broadmoor.com and search “gingerbread.”

Christmas at Gaylord Rockies

Now through January 1, enjoy s’mores, gingerbread decorating, frozen slides and more at Gaylord Rockies in Aurora. The main attraction is ICE! – a holiday showplace of larger-than-life ice sculptures and colorful ice displays, featuring The Polar Express. For more information, visit christmasatgaylordrockies.com. (See ad on page 2 of the E Guide.)

Christmas at Stanley Marketplace

At Stanley Marketplace in Aurora, enjoy holiday tunes from a pianist, strolling carolers, and musical performances, along with shopping from independent and family-owned businesses in an indoor market. For more information, visit stanleymarketplace.com and click “Events.”

Denver Zoo lights

Enjoy more than three million lights throughout the Denver Zoo, now through January 5. For more information, visit denverzoo.org and search “lights.”

Drive around look at decorated houses

Gather the family in the car to look at houses decorated for the holidays. The Highlands Ranch Community Association will publish a map on December 5 showing the locations of elaborately decorated houses in Highlands Ranch. For more information, visit hrcaonline.org and search “decorating.”

Franktown Festival of Lights

Now through December 29, head out to Franktown for lights, Christmas music, a walking trail, a mini drive-thru experience and animated displays. There is no charge but bring canned goods, non-perishable or hygiene related items to donate. For more information, visit christmasshowtimes.com.

Holiday and Santa Express trains

Take a round-trip train ride through the Royal Gorge. The Holiday Train offers holiday cocktails, meals and 360° views, while the Santa Express Train travels to the North Pole, with Santa Claus, Christmas carols, tasty treats and a gift for every child. For more information, visit royalgorgeroute.com and search “holiday train.”

The North Pole & Santa’s Workshop

Take a trip to a vintage amusement park at the foot of Pikes Peak in Cascade, for fun rides, tasty treats, Santa’s Village and Santa himself. For more information, visit northpolecolorado.com.

Parade of Lights

Head to downtown Denver on December 7 for the 9NEWS Parade of Lights, featuring floats, giant balloons, marching bands, equestrian units, cultural displays, Major Waddles the penguin and Santa. For more information, visit winterindenver.com/parade.

The Polar Express train ride

Now through December 23, the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden presents a theatrical extravaganza, including the “Hot Chocolate” song and dance, a ride to the North Pole aboard vintage coaches and a visit with Santa. For more information, visit coloradorailroadmuseum.org/polar-express.

Trolley and carriage rides

Throughout December, head to downtown Castle Rock for trolley and carriage rides through town. For more information, visit downtowncastlerock.com/events.

 

By Susan Helton