Things to Do in Denver, Colorado in December 2024
This year summer felt like it would never end. So when we finally, finally started to cool down in Denver many of us were so excited for the cool off. One of my favorite times of year in Denver is during the holiday season. I love all of the lights, special events and the unspoken agreement to relax and slow down. And then there’s all of the winter fun to be had in the mountains. If you’re worried about the weather and what things to do in Denver, Colorado in December 2024, there’s plenty to do and it’s my hope that you enjoy this time of year in Denver as much as I do.
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Book a Tour
I often say that you “Visit Philly and Experience Denver” I’ve even recorded a podcast episode about how Denver is a great city to experience vs. randomly roam around. I also think it’s important to combine a tour to the mountains, walking tour or other natural experience while you’re in town. The vast majority of Denverites combine outdoor experiences in their day to day life. But, if you’ve never driven in the mountains before or dealt with snow-booking a tour is a much better way to enjoy those experiences. I’ve included a few Denver tours as well as mountain focused tours below.
Where to Stay
There are a large number of well-situated hotels throughout the city of Denver. I’ve shared some of my favorites below.
What Denver is Like in December
I think of December as one of Denver’s moodier months. It gets dark earlier, it’s dark when you wake up and people are definitely in relaxation mode. It’s the time of year when fire places are regularly turned on at your favorite spaces in town and people are heading to the mountains for a cozy couple of days at a cute cabin, hotel or hostel. It’s a great time to visit and there’s a lot of holiday focused events and activities to enjoy.
What Denver’s Weather is Like in December
I attended college out East. It was absolutely baffling that so many people were convinced that Denver’s winter weather was horrible. I couldn’t figure it out. Especially after dealing with lake effect snow and blizzards off of a great lake. Denver’s weather in December is surprisingly mild and you’re often able to enjoy a great cup of coffee while sitting on a patio. Here’s how to prepare for Denver’s weather in December.
- Wear sunglasses
- Put sunblock on
- Layered clothing is a must
- Stay hydrated, I always carry a bottle of water.
- Your skin will feel dry. Chapstick and lotion will be your skin’s best friend.
Denver, Colorado Holiday Events and Experiences
I love the Christmas holiday season so much and I’m really excited about some of the newer experiences happening this year. There are a number of things to do in Denver, Colorado in December 2024 and a surprising number of free or inexpensive experiences to add to your list.
Drone Show
Starting on November 22nd, there will be a 15 minute drone show in downtown Denver. For the past couple of years the 16th Street Mall has been going through a major construction project that has angered and frustrated many Denverites. We’re now in the home stretch of this project. Happily from Curtis street going west there’s plenty to do and enjoy. East of Curtis Street still is under construction and while there are shops on those blocks, it can be a little tricky to navigate around. Regardless, definitely visit downtown Denver.
Winter Wonderland
At times it can feel like Cherry Creek North is losing some of its charm. The exception to that is the Winter Wonderland event hosted during the holiday season. One of my favorite parts of the experience is drinking free hot chocolate as we walk around and enjoy the lights and performances.
Christkindl Market
One of the best things that has happened to the Christkindl (German) Market is that it was moved to Civic Center Park. I think it’s a fantastic location for this experience and adding the Mile High Tree to the market was a smart addition as well.
Dairy Block Market
If you’re at McGregor Square, cross the street and check out the Dairy Block. One of my favorite holiday markets typically happens here on the weekends during the holiday season. Last year they even had free pictures with the Grinch as Santa which was so cute.
Union Station
Even though I’m still not a fan of the furniture after the refresh, I love Union Station. It’s such a wonderful use of the space and a great place to people watch, eat, enjoy a drink or listen to music. I especially enjoy the holiday decorations and Christmas tree that is typically the centerpiece of the space during the Christmas holdays.
McGregor Square
One of my favorite new developments in the city of Denver. I do think that their ice skating rink is a little pricier than others in town. It’s a great place to have brunch and hang out before heading to other parts of the city.
Georgetown Holiday Train
If you get a chance to head up to the historic town of Georgetown, I recommend taking the holiday train. I used to take international students to the mountains and one of my biggest regrets was that I didn’t share this experience often enough with the students.
Visit a Hot Springs
There are people who love to enjoy hot springs all year around. I’m the type of person who prefers going when it’s cold outside. Preferably with snow. Here are some of the hot springs on my list to visit this winter.
My only wish was that more hot springs were accessible by public transit or Bustang service.
Visit Ice Castles
One of the coolest things about the Ice Castles 2024-2025 event is that there are two locations! I’m looking forward to visiting both locations this winter. I even wrote a post with details about visiting the Eagle Location this winter.
First Ski Day of the Season
I’m going to be honest and say that I prefer beginning my ski season in January. I just feel like there’s a much better base and more runs to enjoy. This year it has been exceptionally warm in Colorado. I’m working on this post in the middle of October while sitting outside on a patio. Despite my concerns most resorts have their opening days in November.
I love any excuse to head to the mountains and hang out and in December. Breckenridge is the town that I recommend for most visitors to Colorado who’re excited about visiting a ski town. Below are a few events that I recommend you check out while you’re in Breck in December.
One of the funniest experiences that I’ve had in Breckenridge was attending the Lighting of Breckenridge and the lights didn’t turn on. Everyone gasped at the same time. Eventually it worked. It’s a great time and a fun way to kick off the Christmas season.
New Year’s Eve Shenanigans
One day I plan on going out again on New Year’s Eve. I’m thinking the Mile High Tree event may be the thing that gets me out of my house for an hour or so LOL!
New Year’s Eve at the Mile High Tree
Things to Do in Denver, Colorado in December 2024
For the sports fans, there’s also several teams to support in different leagues. I’ve shared links to some of my favorite match ups below.
Probably the one downside to December is that there aren’t a lot of concerts. Pick out your favorite beanie, wear some layers and be prepared to enjoy Denver on a sunny slightly cool day. December is a great time to enjoy Denver. One thing to think about for people flying into town-weather can be a bit tricky flying in and out of Denver International Airport. Make sure to have a plan just in case you have an unexpected long layover due to a snow storm.