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The 9NEWS Parade of Lights is the signature event of the holiday season in downtown Denver, taking place at 6 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021. In addition to the parade, there are many other ways to get into the holiday spirit. Check out elaborate lights displays, blockbuster museum exhibitions and much more. Stay for the weekend and take advantage of great hotel deals.
We strive to post the most current and accurate event information, but changes and cancellations do occur, so please check the official event website to confirm all details before attending.
HOLIDAY LIGHTS | FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS | MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS | MUSEUM EXHIBITIONS
The 9NEWS Parade of Lights is free and will make a circuit through the heart of downtown beginning at 6 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021, featuring more than 40 units, including extravagantly illuminated floats, giant helium-filled character balloons, magnificent marching bands, traditional equestrian units and vibrant cultural displays. And of course, a special appearance by Major Waddles the Penguin and Santa! If you miss the parade, the floats will be displayed until Dec. 26 on various plazas like Denver Union Station and Denver Pavilions.
The parade will follow the same route as it has in the past by starting in Civic Center Park, then making a circuit around downtown and ending roughly at Glenarm Place and 13th Street. For more information, see the 9NEWS Parade of Lights web page.
WHEN: Nov. 18–Dec. 31, 2021
WHERE: Cherry Creek North
During Winter Wanderland, explore 16 sparkling blocks with more than a half-million lights and discover eight twinkling displays choreographed to music. New this year is an interactive art installation, "domino effect" by Creos, which will feature 120 brightly colored dominos, each with its own sound profile. And during Saturday Night Lights (Dec. 4, 11 and 18) stroll beneath 600 illuminated trees while enjoying free festive treats and entertainment.
WHEN: Nov. 19, 2021–Jan. 1, 2022
WHERE: 16th Street Mall at Welton Street
Join in the free festivities at this festive holiday attraction, the Mile High Tree. It’s a brilliantly lit, 110-foot-tall immersive art installation that provides a dazzling lights-and-music show.
WHEN: Nov. 19, 2021–Jan. 8, 2022 (closed Nov. 25 and Dec. 25, 2021)
WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver Botanic Gardens is proud to host Blossoms of Light, an annual family-friendly event that has become a tradition for people across Colorado. Come interact with incredible light displays — a large field of sound-reactive, animated LED lights — plus sip warm drinks and nibble on tasty treats as you stroll. Pre-purchased timed tickets are required.
WHEN: Nov. 22, 2021-Jan. 2, 2022
WHERE: Denver Zoo
It's official: Zoo Lights has been making magic, memories, and even marriages for 30 amazing years! Presented by Your Hometown Toyota Stores, this illuminating annual event transforms Denver Zoo into Colorado's WILDEST winter wonderland. Don't miss this year's historic celebration, with more than a million lights sparkling over 80 acres—plus a host of special measures to keep your family safe and healthy.
WHEN: Nov. 24, 2021-Jan. 23, 2022; 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m each night
WHERE: City & County of Denver Building
Each night, at 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m., an interactive holiday show will occur for 7-9 minutes, and then goes to a static holiday look until 10:45 p.m.
WHEN: Nov. 24, 2021-Jan. 2, 2022
WHERE: Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
Making its Colorado debut, this family-friendly event brings larger-than-life holiday displays and immersive experiences for all to enjoy. It features more than 3 million dazzling lights, a 65-foot-tall Christmas tree, a 25-foot-tall snowman that never melts, a 200-foot-long candy cane tunnel, giant ornaments, a wall of lights, rides on limited Elitch Gardens attractions, train rides for the kids (and the kids at heart), interactive activities like a light-up hopscotch, strolling holiday entertainers, Old Saint Nick and his elves, and more.
WHEN: Nov. 26; 5-8 p.m. (Grand Illumination); Nov. 26-Dec. 27; 5-10 p.m. (Merry & Bright Lights Show)
WHERE: Denver Union Station
The annual Grand Illumination event will feature performances of classic holiday hits by the Denver Dolls, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the grand highlight of the evening—the lighting of the station’s outdoor 40-foot-tall Christmas tree that features more than 7,000 holiday lights. Also, the Grand Illumination kicks off the Merry & Bright Lights show, which will once again transform the exterior façade of Denver’s landmark train station into a spectacular canvas spreading holiday cheer. You can see it each night of the season. Miracle at Union Station, a whimsical pop-up cocktail bar, will open on Nov. 24. Meanwhile, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making regular appearances at the station from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 28; and Dec. 5, 12 and 19.
WHEN: Nov. 26, 2021–Jan. 2, 2022
WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms
Stroll through the Colorado countryside along a winding path glistening with lights. Features this year include a three-sided light tunnel, illuminated antique and model tractors, a children's play area and warms holiday food and drink. Visitors must purchase a ticket online for a specific day and time.
WHEN: Permanent installation
WHERE: Daniels & Fisher Tower
Night Lights Denver features rotating content designed by local artists and the community and projected on the Arapahoe Street side of the Daniels & Fisher Tower every Tuesday through Sunday evening.
WHEN: Thru March 13, 2022
WHERE: Dever Art Museum
See more than 100 paintings made between 1855 and 1913 in the first comprehensive examination of France's stylistic impact on American painting of the period. From academic training in Paris to exploration of the countryside landscape, Whistler to Cassatt reveals both the visual and conceptual influences of France on American painters in the 19th and early 20th century.
WHEN: Thru April 17, 2022
WHERE: Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Experience and celebrate the many facets of this iconic instrument, from its origin and continued evolution to the music it creates and the cultural impact it has had. The exhibition features more than 60 instruments and explores the cultural and physical history of the guitar—from lutes and ouds to modern, high-tech and experimental instruments. You will learn about the science behind the guitar and discover how it became the cultural icon it is today.
WHEN: Thru Dec. 31, 2021
WHERE: Skyline Park
Bundle up for some free ice skating in the heart of downtown and enjoy special events.
WHEN: Nov. 11–Dec. 23, 2021 (on select days)
WHERE: Colorado Railroad Museum
The story of The Polar ExpressTM is theatrically re-created and combined with a magical train ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum. Children get to meet Santa and experience all the sights and sounds of this classic tale as if happening all around them. This year, a whole host of carefully crafted updates have been made in order to ensure the health and safety of guests, cast and crew, so put on your pajamas and your most fashionable mask and bring the family to enjoy sharing hot cocoa and cookies together as the "Hot, Hot, Hot—Chocolate" song and dance unfolds before your eyes.
WHEN: Nov. 18–Dec. 24, 2021
WHERE: Cherry Creek North
The free Cherry Creek North Holiday Market at Fillmore Plaza features 30 local artisan vendors, live music, and festive drinks and decor.
WHEN: Nov. 18, 2021-Jan. 2, 2022
WHERE: Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park
An over-the-top, outdoor/indoor extravaganza as big as the season it celebrates! Leave your worries behind and immerse yourself in Denver Center for the Performing Arts' (DCPA's) biggest holiday experience ever! Journey through artist Lonnie Hanzon’s fantastical wonderland of lights, dazzling decorations, music and memorabilia as you explore mesmerizing yuletide scenes spread across a six-acre landscape. Most importantly, Camp Christmas is an opportunity to rediscover (and reimagine!) the holiday spirit and connect with people you love.
WHEN: Nov. 19–Dec. 23, 2021
WHERE: Civic Center Park
This outdoor event brings the most beloved elements of an authentic German holiday experience to The Mile High City. Stroll through a European village decorated for the holiday season as you shop for finely crafted artisan gifts and treats at charming wooden huts. Fuel your shopping with authentic Glühwein (mulled spiced wine), German Biers and hot chocolate, and nosh on Bavarian-style pretzels, fresh smoked salmon, Knödel, Goulasch, Nürnberger Sausages, pastries, caramels and European chocolates.
WHEN: Dec. 3–5, 2021
WHERE: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison
Enjoy a one-of-a-kind drive-in movie experience at the iconic Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre with a new lineup of films to celebrate the holidays. Here's what's happening for Parade of Lights weekend:
WHEN: Dec. 3 & 5, 2021
WHERE: Milepost Zero food hall
Santa will be available for photos on the following dates/times on Parade of Lights weekend:
WHEN: Nov. 26–Dec. 31, 2021 (on select days)
WHERE: Hudson Gardens & Events Center
Hudson Christmas is back after two long years. You'll be enchanted by even more towering trees draped in thousands of colorful lights. A grove of dancing Christmas trees, a multi-colored forest inhabited by giant snowmen, the holiday light tunnel and glowing reindeer will light up Hudson Gardens into an extravaganza of holiday cheer.
WHEN: Thru Dec. 31, 2021
WHERE: Denver Pavilions
Ready to get up close and personal with the things that go bump in the night? Come to Distortions Monster World (if you dare), where surprises will greet you around every corner on an out-of-this-world interactive adventure. This series of cinematic environments featuring immersive installations and infamous creatures and characters will truly transport you to another place!
WHEN: Nov. 27–Dec. 31, 2021
WHERE: Evergreen
See classic Christmas Stories depicted in ice! The mountain community of Evergreen is “hiding” ice sculptures around town and Santa is flying in from the North Pole to do some special readings.
WHEN: Dec. 5–12, 2021
WHERE: Cherry Creek Shopping Center
Individuals with all spectrums of special needs and their families are invited to a private photo session where extra care is taken to support the sensory, physical and other developmental needs to make this a magical holiday experience.
WHEN: Nov. 5–Jan. 9, 2022
WHERE: Adventure Golf & Raceway, Westminster
During the holiday season, Buccaneer Bay, Adventure Cove and The Lost Continent transform into beautiful holiday-themed light displays with more than 100,000 interactive lights on all three courses!
WHEN: Nov. 11–Dec. 11, 2021
WHERE: Curious Theatre Company
A mother frantically paces a police station in the middle of the night, desperately trying to pry information about her missing son from evasive detectives. As tensions escalate and the story unwinds, the chasm between Jamal’s interracial parents widens. Winner of the prestigious Laurents/Hatcher Award and a New York Times Critic’s Pick, this explosive drama examines our nation’s racial divide through the eyes of parents on the brink.
WHEN: Nov. 19-Dec. 26, 2021
WHERE: Denver Center for the Performing Arts’ Wolf Theatre
Essential to the holiday season in Denver, "A Christmas Carol" is a joyous and opulent musical adaptation that traces money-hoarding curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge’s triumphant overnight journey to redemption.
WHEN: Nov. 27–Dec. 24, 2021
WHERE: Ellie Caulkins Opera House
The beloved holiday favorite returns in a dazzling production like no one's ever seen, featuring all-new sets and costumes created especially for Colorado Ballet. A sellout every year, this magical tale of Clara, the Nutcracker and the Mouse King is going to be dreamier than ever.
WHEN: Thru Dec. 19, 2021
WHERE: Prismajic
Shiki Dreams is the latest immersive adventure from Prismajic, the creators of 2019’s smash hit Natura Obscura. The multi-sensory immersive experience leads guests on a fun and mystical journey of exploration and discovery that combines art and technology in beautiful and amazing ways.
WHEN: Thru Dec. 31, 2021
WHERE: 1421 26th St.
"Black Girl Magic" is more than a buzzword or trend. It's the essence of Black women. The Museum for Black Girls is a space to celebrate this essence, as well as educate about the journey to our present state and liberation. Finally and most importantly, our museum serves as a love letter to Black women and our experience. This interactive pop-up gallery features multiple, vibrant exhibits.
WHEN: Thru Dec. 31, 2021
WHERE: Denver Pavilions
Earth Illuminated is an immersive experience where the natural world and digital media merge to take you on an ethereal journey. Wander through a 13,000-square-foot space showcasing our planet's beauty from air, land and sea. Explore a series of immersive environments and large-scale interactive art installations that change the way you experience art and nature.
WHEN: Thru Dec. 31, 2021
WHERE: History Colorado Center
Take a nostalgic ride down Colfax, with stops at the quirky and memorable places that gave the street its worldwide reputation.
WHEN: Thru Jan. 2, 2022
WHERE: Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art
Following a temporary closure due to water damage earlier in the year, the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art has reopened with a new exhibition: Truth, Beauty and Power: Christopher Dresser and The Aesthetic Movement. Museum visitors will learn about this lesser-known design movement (1865-1900) along with Dresser, a British designer. The exhibition features works from the museum's permanent collection, many of which will be publicly displayed for the first time.
WHEN: Thru Jan. 2, 2022
WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens
Interdisciplinary artist Ana María Hernando harnesses the power of painting, poetry and installation to honor and alter traditional feminine craft and community. Her love of plants, flowers and the spirit of nature permeates her work. Fervor features her installation Écoutons | Escuchemos | Let's Listen, created in response to bird sounds submitted from more than 200 people across the globe.
WHEN: Thru Jan. 9, 2022
WHERE: Longmont Museum, Longmont
It’s been 150 years since the Chicago-Colorado Colony founded the town of Longmont! This anniversary exhibit looks back on the forces that shaped Longmont’s past and the recurring themes that will undoubtedly define its future.
WHEN: Thru Jan. 30, 2022
WHERE: MCA DENVER — Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
Roberts's mixed media works on paper and on canvas combine found images sourced from the Internet with hand-painted details in striking figural compositions that invite viewers to look closely and to see through the layers. She focuses her gaze on Black children — historically, and still today, among the most vulnerable members of our population — investigating how societal pressures, projected images of beauty or heroism, and the violence of American racism condition their experiences growing up in this country as well as how others perceive them.
WHEN: Thru Jan. 30, 2022
WHERE: MCA DENVER — Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
Renowned artist and musician Jason Moran presents a gathering of artworks that celebrates space and creative expression in jazz history, as well as the importance of music and live performance as vital forces in Black culture and American life. Through a range of media, Moran highlights his fascination with the physical environments where music is born and how the residue of music-making can be captured.
WHEN: Thru Feb. 6, 2022
WHERE: Lighthouse Denver
Renowned for transforming venues into unforgettable art experiences, the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit strives to highlight the unique architecture of its spaces while integrating influences from its history and community. Get ready to be transported the second you step inside!
WHEN: Thru Feb. 26, 2022
WHERE: Museo de las Americas
This visual arts exhibit curated by the Chicano/a Murals of Colorado Project honors the Colorado Chicano/a mural tradition of using public art in service to the people and communities that are historically dehumanized and oppressed in US society.
WHEN: Thru Mar. 5, 2022
WHERE: History Colorado Center
Narkita Gold is a Denver-based artist who's been honing her skills in digital photography since 2009. Her exhibition Black in Denver is a portrait and interview series that takes delves into Black life in Denver.
WHEN: Thru Mar. 6, 2022
WHERE: Clyfford Still Museum
To celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Clyfford Still Museum, this exhibition takes inspiration from the museum’s beloved inaugural exhibition while highlighting some of its most compelling revelations since. Featured surprises include photographs of lost paintings from the 1930s, undocumented and mysterious artworks found during inventory, ways in which our understanding of Still’s earliest years and artistic training has expanded, and even a few architectural quirks of the building.
WHEN: Thru Apr. 30, 2022
WHERE: History Colorado
This exhibit explores the rich contributions of History Colorado's State Historical Fund. Through the preservation of the built environment, the SHF has enhanced vibrant communities across the state for more than three decades.
WHEN: Thru May 2022
WHERE: Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre
MOA presents Sculpture on the Green II at Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre, the second installation of an ongoing, annual, rotating exhibition. This year features Colorado sculptor Robert Mangold. The sculptures are made from industrial steel piping. Some are painted a brilliant red, while others are simply polished, allowing for the beauty in the raw material to be revealed.
WHEN: Thru July 30, 2022
WHERE: History Colorado Center
Local photographer Armando Geneyro connects the build environment with the people who shape its meaning. A versatile photographer, Armando specializes in events coverage and photojournalism. His passion for street photography allows him to connect to his subjects and immerse himself in different cultures.
WHEN: Thru Aug. 1, 2022
WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens
Seeing the Invisible presents virtual works that engage with existing features of the natural landscape. The augmented reality exhibition features new works by international artists including Ai Weiwei, El Anatsui, John Gerrard, Ori Gersht, Mohammed Kazem and Sigalit Landau — including several artists’ first works in AR. Beyond the boundaries of what is possible with physical artworks, many of the works created for the exhibition address themes of nature, environment, sustainability and the intersection of the physical world with the digital one.
WHEN: Thru Mar. 5, 2023
WHERE: Denver Art Museum
Lares Feliciano's Memory Mirror is an immersive installation that invites visitors to explore their relationship with memory through animation, dioramas and interactive storytelling. Designed to evoke the memory of a relative's living room, this exhibition will transform the museum's Precourt Family Discovery Hall into a surreal domestic den that is both familiar and fantastic.
WHEN: Oct. 24, 2021–TBA
WHERE: Denver Art Museum
This thematic presentation will explore land, people and place by linking ancient and contemporary artworks that address political and social issues at the heart of the region’s cultural heritage as well as expand the narrative through voices that include women artists and contemporary voices that speak to the diversity of the Americas.
WHEN: Oct. 24, 2021–TBA
WHERE: Denver Art Museum
Gio Ponti was one of the most inventive Italian architects and designers of his time. For more than 60 years, Ponti’s exuberant approach found expression in public and private commissions from buildings, interiors, and furniture to glass, ceramics, and flatware. These diverse and prolific achievements led to Ponti’s hiring in 1965, at the age of 74, to collaborate with Denver-based James Sudler Associates on the design of a new building for the Denver Art Museum.
WHEN: Oct. 24, 2021–TBA
WHERE: Denver Art Museum
A series of thematic installations drawn primarily from the architecture and design collection, By Design: Stories and Ideas Behind Objects illustrates the abundance and versatility of approaches to design. How does it come into being? Who creates it and for what purpose? How does it serve society? What trends inspire it?
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Celebrate the new year by checking out museum exhibitions, lights displays and art shows.
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