From festive holiday markets and dazzling light displays to art celebrations and family-friendly traditions, here's what's happening around Denver this November and December.
There's something especially exciting about Denver as we head into the final months of the year!
The weather gets cooler, neighborhoods begin decorating for the holidays, and suddenly there are so many fun things happening around the city.
Whether you've lived in Colorado for years, recently moved to the area, or are simply looking for something different to do with family and friends, November and December are wonderful months to get out and explore.
And the best part? You don't have to travel far to find something memorable.
I've rounded up some upcoming Denver-area events worth adding to your calendar!
1. Denver Arts Week: Celebrate the City's Creative Side
When: November 6–15, 2026
Where: Various locations throughout Denver
Admission: Free and ticketed activities
If you enjoy discovering local art, visiting galleries, or exploring Denver's creative neighborhoods, Denver Arts Week is a great place to start.
This annual celebration brings together hundreds of events highlighting the city's arts and culture scene.
One of the highlights is the First Friday Art Walk on November 6, when neighborhoods including RiNo, the Art District on Santa Fe, and the 40 West Arts District welcome visitors for exhibitions and creative experiences.
There's also Night at the Museums on November 7, when participating museums offer free evening admission.
It's a wonderful opportunity to experience Denver from a different perspective while supporting the artists and cultural organizations that make our community so interesting.
Event details: Denver Arts Week
2. Cherry Creek Holiday Market: Shop Local This Season
When: November 19–December 24, 2026
Where: Fillmore Plaza, Cherry Creek North
Admission: Free
If holiday shopping is on your to-do list, the Cherry Creek Holiday Market is worth visiting.
Instead of rushing through crowded stores, imagine strolling through a festive outdoor market filled with local makers, handcrafted gifts, seasonal decorations, and delicious treats.
It's a great place to discover something unique for the people on your list while supporting small businesses.
And even if you're not shopping for anything in particular, Cherry Creek North is a lovely neighborhood to explore during the holiday season.
Grab a coffee, browse the shops, and enjoy the festive atmosphere!
Event details: Denver Holiday Events
3. Denver Christkindlmarket: A Little European Holiday Magic
When: November 20–December 23, 2026
Where: Tivoli Quad, Auraria Campus
Admission: Free
If you've never experienced Denver's Christkindlmarket, this might be the year to add it to your holiday traditions.
Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, this festive gathering features charming vendor stalls, European-inspired food, handmade gifts, seasonal drinks, and live entertainment.
There's something so inviting about wandering through a holiday market with twinkling lights overhead and the smell of freshly prepared treats in the air.
It's a fun outing for couples, families, and groups of friends.
And because admission is free, you can enjoy the atmosphere without committing to a big-ticket activity.
Event details: Denver Christkindlmarket
4. Blossoms of Light: Denver Botanic Gardens After Dark
When: November 20, 2026–January 10, 2027
Where: Denver Botanic Gardens, York Street
Admission: Ticketed
One of Denver's most beautiful holiday traditions returns this November.
Blossoms of Light transforms the gardens into an illuminated wonderland filled with colorful displays, glowing pathways, and creative lighting installations.
It's a completely different experience from visiting the gardens during the daytime.
The combination of winter scenery and beautiful lights makes this a wonderful option for a date night, family outing, or evening with friends.
Because it's a popular seasonal attraction, I recommend checking ticket availability and planning ahead.
Event details: Denver Botanic Gardens Holiday Events
5. Zoo Lights: A Family Favorite Returns
When: November 23, 2026–January 3, 2027, on select nights
Where: Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, City Park
Admission: Ticketed
For families looking to create some holiday memories, Zoo Lights is another wonderful option.
The Denver Zoo transforms into a glowing winter wonderland with elaborate light installations and festive displays throughout the grounds.
It's one of those outings that can be just as enjoyable for adults as it is for children.
Bundle up, plan for a chilly Colorado evening, and enjoy a little holiday magic!
Tickets are scheduled to go on sale to the general public on November 5, so this is another event worth planning in advance.
Event details: Denver Zoo Lights
6. Mile High Tree and Holiday Drone Shows: A Downtown Celebration
When: November 20–December 31, 2026
Where: Tivoli Quad, Auraria Campus, and downtown viewing areas
Admission: Free
Looking for something festive that won't require purchasing tickets?
Denver's Mile High Tree and holiday drone shows are worth adding to your list.
The Mile High Tree is a towering illuminated installation featuring colorful light-and-music displays.
Meanwhile, the holiday drone shows bring animated images to the evening sky.
The drone shows are scheduled nightly at 7 p.m., offering another reason to spend an evening downtown.
You could easily turn this into a fun outing by combining it with dinner, holiday shopping, or a visit to the Christkindlmarket.
Event details: Denver's Mile High Holiday Celebrations
7. Denver's Parade of Lights: A Holiday Tradition
When: Saturday, December 5, 2026
Where: Downtown Denver
Admission: Free public viewing; paid seating options available
Few things bring people together quite like a holiday parade!
The annual 9NEWS Parade of Lights returns to downtown Denver this December, bringing illuminated floats, music, and festive entertainment to the city streets.
It's a wonderful tradition for families and anyone who enjoys the excitement of the holiday season.
If you're planning to attend, arrive early, dress warmly, and check the official parade information for the route and viewing areas.
Event details: 9NEWS Parade of Lights
8. Trail of Lights: A Magical Evening at Chatfield Farms
When: November 21, 2026–January 3, 2027, on select nights
Where: Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, Littleton
Admission: Ticketed
If you prefer something a little quieter than the downtown holiday celebrations, Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms is a beautiful alternative.
Located in Littleton, this seasonal experience features illuminated pathways winding through the countryside.
The setting offers a different atmosphere from the city, with glowing trees, open spaces, and historic farm surroundings.
It's an especially nice option for families or anyone looking to enjoy Colorado's winter scenery in a festive setting.
Event details: Chatfield Farms Trail of Lights
What Makes Denver So Special During the Holidays?
One of the things I love about living in the Denver area is how much there is to experience throughout the year.
Every season brings something different, and the holidays are no exception.
From the energy of downtown Denver to the charming neighborhoods of Cherry Creek, the creativity of RiNo, and the beautiful outdoor spaces around Littleton, there's always somewhere new to explore.
And sometimes, these everyday experiences are what make a community truly feel like home.
When you're searching for a place to live, you're not just choosing a house. You're choosing the neighborhoods, activities, local businesses, and traditions that will become part of your life.
That's why I believe exploring a community is such an important part of the homebuying process.
Make the Most of the Season in Denver!
Whether you're planning a family outing, looking for a fun date night, or simply hoping to experience more of what Denver has to offer, there's plenty to look forward to this November and December.
I hope this list gives you a few ideas for making the most of the season!
And if buying or selling a home in Denver or the surrounding communities is on your mind, I'd love to help you navigate the market and find a place that truly feels like home.
