Denver has a lot of fun Christmas events lined up for 2011. Remember to bring your hat and mittens if you decide on an outdoor event since temperatures in Denver can get cold after the sun goes down. Here are a few events that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
Parade of Lights
Website: Denver Parade of Lights
Location: Downtown Denver, starts at Civic Center Park at Bannock Street and 14th Avenue
Date and Time: December 2 at 8pm and December 3 at 6pm
Cost: Free
The Denver Parade of Lights is an annual holiday tradition. Arrive early to get a parking spot and expect to pay extra at any parking garage in downtown. The parade runs for two miles in the downtown area along Colfax, Tremont, 17th Street, Arapahoe, and 15th Street. The RTD Light Rail can bring you close to the parade route and if you decide to park downtown the 16th Street Shuttle is always free. There are booths with refreshments along the route. If you plan on dining downtown that night, it would be best to call ahead and make reservations.
Zoo Lights
Website: Denver Zoo Lights
Location: Denver Zoo, 23rd Avenue between Colorado Boulevard and York Street
Date and Time: December 10 – January 2, 5-9pm each night
Cost: $9 for adults, $5 for children
Zoo Lights is a holiday light display throughout the Denver Zoo. Kids can visit Santa nightly up through December 23. There is also a kids’ New Year’s Eve party on December 31. There are refreshment stands and warming stations available throughout the zoo. You can get $1 off of your admission price if you bring a non-perishable food item.
A Christmas Carol
Website: Denver Center.org
Location: The Stage Theatre, 14th and Curtis, Denver
Date and Time: November 25 – December 24, check the website for exact times and dates
Cost: Tickets start at $35
A Christmas Carol is another annual Denver holiday tradition. Charles Dickens’ tale of Ebenezer Scrooge finding the Christmas spirit is sure to put you in the holiday mood. Tickets can sell out quickly so reserve your tickets well in advance. If you are planning to take the kids, they should be at least 6 to enjoy this show. Reservations are recommended if you are planning to dine at one of the restaurants in the area.
Mannheim Steamroller
Website: Denver Center.org
Location: The Buell Theatre, 14th and Curtis, Denver
Date and Time: December 10 at 8pm and December 11 at 3pm
Cost: Tickets start at $44
Mannheim Steamroller will be in Denver for these two performances only. Tickets are going quickly so reserve as soon as you can. It is an hour and 40 minute long show with one 20 minute intermission.
Source: Denver Post: Christmas Events