Things to do in Denver in December offer many outdoor activities with the winter charm. Vibrant areas in the city are teeming with big attractions. There are colorful street art and must-try restaurants. Get used to the altitude in The Mile High City. It offers a plethora of urban thrills, before ascending to the Rocky Mountains and ski areas. There will always be something new to see and do.
Getting ready for a trip? Are you confused about what to do in December in Denver Colorado? Take pleasure in winter activities and explore this mile-high city. In this article, You’ll Discover Enchanting Things to Do in Denver in December
Denver Botanic Gardens
Blossoms of Light has been an iconic event of the Denver Botanic Gardens for more than three decades. Their York Street facility is turned into a wintry paradise every year. The plants along the sparkling parade are decorated with holiday light displays. They shine in the darkness.
Enjoy hot beverages, seasonal sweets, or dinner while taking a walk while wrapped up warm. This immersive light show is great for romantic evenings, and family get-togethers. It is also a joyful wintertime pastime with friends. It’s an annual tradition for many, so make sure to buy tickets well in advance. Visit this garden is one of the best things to do in Denver in December
When: November 17, 2023 – January 7, 2024, 4:30 pm – 9 pm
Where: Denver Botanic Gardens, York Street location
Denver Parade of Lights
The Downtown Denver Partnership produces the popular family event, the 9NEWS Parade of Lights. It honors the Christmas joy in Downtown. Almost 40 floats, balloons, marching bands, equestrian units, cultural exhibits, and special guest appearances by Santa and Major Waddles the Penguin are all part of the festivities. Enjoying this parade is also the top priority in things to do in Denver in December.
When: December 2 at 6 pm
Where: Civic Center Park in Denver, CO
The Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas
Returning this year are Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas. These two events raise the bar on small-town holiday charm in Breckenridge. Breckenridge’s streets come alive with holiday festivities during this event. To celebrate the start of the holiday season, hundreds of people dressed like Santa Claus.
After the race, experience the town’s transformation into a living holiday card. It is made possible by more than 13,000 feet and 250,000 LED holiday lights. One of the most photographed locations in the winter months is downtown Breckenridge’s famous holiday lights. It shines and inspires hope all winter long.
Breckenridge ULLR Fest
Breckenridge ULLR Fest is one of the best things to do in Denver in December. It encourages visitors and locals of all ages to give thanks to the Norse god of snow, Ullr. Take part in the Main Street Parade to show your support. You can make history by joining the attempt to break the World Record. You won’t want to miss this party if you’re eager for a legendary one.
Downtown Denver Aquarium
Despite being a frozen state, Colorado has enough marine life for you and your family to admire. The Downtown Aquarium has a variety of interesting aquatic animals, including sharks. More than 15,000 fish, mammals, and plants are present, including a display of swimming Sumatran tigers.
You’re lucky if the Swim with the Fish and Dive with the Sharks programs allow you to swim with 400 of the largest groupers, Moray eels, guitarfish, sand tiger sharks, green sea turtles, and other aquatic creatures.
Denver Art Museum
Currently one of the biggest art museums between Chicago and the West Coast is the Denver Art Museum. More than 70,000 pieces of art from 12 collections—African Art, Architecture and Design, Art of the Ancient Americas, Asian Art, European and American Art before 1900, Latin American Art, Oceanic Art, Modern and Contemporary Art, Photography, Textile Art and Fashion, Indigenous Arts of North America, and Western American Art—represent cultures all over the world.
Also to feature artwork from artists from Denver and the Rocky Mountain region, the museum’s international collections offer valuable opportunities for locals to expand their knowledge of the globe.
Denver Dairy Block
Downtown Dairy Block is categorized as a micro-district that is concealed but accessible. Imagine the tiny house idea taken to a whole neighborhood and adding a food court, eateries, shops, and a hotel. All these are styled to appear amazing on your feed! The Dairy Block is like an art alley on crack.
The area was home to Windsor Dairy. Named for the restaurant chain, the tastemaker’s enclave features 172 rooms of boutique hotel, 19 shops, 19 restaurants, and 7 bars. It also has an astounding 715 art pieces, murals, and interactive installations made by 31 local Colorado artists.
Denver Mint Tour
Only four mints exist nationwide, with the Denver Mint being of special one. With billions of coins produced, it is the world’s biggest coin manufacturer. This free tour will teach you about the rich history of the facility. Tours take place Monday through Thursday at 8 am, 9:30 am, 11 am, 12:30 pm, 2 pm, and 3:30 pm. Excluding a few specific dates and national holidays.
Visit Ski Town
The top ski slopes provide top-notch lodging, thrilling runs, and après ski activities. With the magnificent Rocky Mountains as its backdrop, Colorado offers some of the best slopes in the United States. Within a two-hour drive of Downtown Denver are several exceptional ski slopes, ideal for a day of ice skating, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and skiing. But, if you want to appreciate Colorado’s breathtaking scenery, it will take several days.
Ice Skating at Skyline Park
Free ice skating is available at Skyline Park’s Downtown Denver Rink seven days a week from November to February. Over 25,000 skaters visited it during the previous season! Ice skate rentals cost $11 for adults and $9 for children aged 12 and under, but rink admission is free.
Still, It’s among the greatest winter activities in Denver, especially for families. All season, fourth graders in Colorado receive free skates. The Downtown Denver Rink is a fantastic option if you’re searching for ideas for team outings! Located in the center of the CBD, parties of thirty or more persons receive a dollar off each skate rental.
With these Things to do in Denver in December, You can experience an adventurous outdoor experience with your family and friends. It would be an unforgettable journey in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
