The 2025 holiday season in Denver promises a vibrant array of festive lights, shows, and parades as Camp Christmas makes a highly anticipated return. After taking a year off in 2024, the immersive holiday experience, created by Lonnie Hanzon, is back with an expanded installation at Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace. This year’s event features themed bars, scavenger hunts, free visits with Santa, and an abbreviated “Express” tour, all set against a backdrop of dazzling decorations and lights. Camp Christmas will run from November 14 to December 24, 2025, with tickets priced at $10 available for purchase in person at 2501 Dallas St., Aurora.
In addition to Camp Christmas, numerous other holiday attractions will illuminate the Denver metro area. The Denver Zoo will host its annual Zoo Lights event from November 24 to January 4, 2026. Spanning 80 acres, the zoo features over 3 million lights that animate various holiday scenes and offer carousel rides and festive beverages. An adult-only night on November 23 will include a complimentary drink.
The enchanting Blossoms of Light display at the Denver Botanic Gardens will run from November 21 to January 11, 2026, showcasing tens of thousands of LED lights across a mile-long path. This year, the display will be closed on November 27 and December 25, with evening hours from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Visitors can also explore the Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms, which continues until January 4, 2026.
The holiday parades will also bring excitement to the streets, with the 9News Parade of Lights set for its 51st year on December 6. This festive event will begin at 6 p.m. from 14th and Bannock streets, featuring approximately 40 floats, including a special appearance by Santa Claus. The parade will wind through downtown Denver over a distance of two miles and is free for the public to attend.
For those seeking musical extravaganzas, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra will perform at Ball Arena on November 15 and at Broadmoor World Arena in Colorado Springs on November 16. Their show, “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO & More,” promises a blend of holiday classics and fan favorites, including a tribute to Beethoven’s Last Night.
Another holiday tradition, “Granny Dances to a Holiday Drum,” returns for its 34th year at the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theatre from December 2 to 21. This multicultural performance, featuring music, dance, and spoken word, showcases new stories and twists, making it a must-see for audiences of all ages.
The irreverent comedy show “Santa’s Big Red Sack” also marks its 23rd year, running from December 4 to 24 at The People’s Building in Aurora. This event promises a lively mix of sketch comedy, music, and humor, aimed at adult audiences.
The Denver Gay Men’s Chorus will present “My Favorite Queens” from December 5 to 14, celebrating holiday traditions through beloved movie songs and heartwarming carols. The performances will take place in Boulder, Denver, and Highlands Ranch.
Additionally, the Parsons Theatre in Northglenn will host “Holiday Hi-Fi” by the Motones & Jerseys on December 14 and 15. This variety show combines classic Christmas carols with modern pop hits and comedic performances, ensuring a festive experience for attendees.
For families looking for interactive holiday fun, the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center will feature “ICE! Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” from November 24 to January 2, 2026. This attraction includes two million pounds of ice sculptures and various holiday-themed activities.
A highlight of the downtown holiday scene is the Mile High Tree, a massive installation with 60,000 LED lights that dance to festive music. This year, the tree will move to the Tivoli Quad on Auraria Campus and will be available for viewing from November 21 to December 31.
Finally, for a spectacular visual experience, a drone show featuring 400 drones will take place nightly at 7 p.m. from November 21 to December 31. The best viewing locations include the Tivoli Quad and various rooftops around downtown Denver.
As the holiday season approaches, Denver is set to shine with an array of events that capture the spirit of celebration, bringing joy to residents and visitors alike.
