We here at Only in Colorado love a good bucket list, so it should come as no surprise that we did our research and curated somewhat of a “must do” list for this holiday season. What are you waiting for? Print this list, grab your friends, and start marking off the following:
1. Sample chestnuts roasted on an open fire.
Never tried a chestnut? You're not the only one... fortunately, you can change that by visiting the 56th Annual Georgetown Christmas Market; a Victorian-era holiday celebration complete with carolers, European market, and lots of delicious food!
2. Experience Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens.
One of my personal favorite Colorado light displays is that of the Blossoms of Light! However, if you are out and about anyway, you may as well take our...
3. Christmas Lights Road Trip
...Christmas lights road trip, which covers some of the best colorful displays in the entire state of Colorado!
4. Burn off a few of those extra Thanksgiving pounds by running with the Santas.
What better way to kick off the holiday season than by going to Breckenridge, dressing up as Santa, joining hundreds of other Santas, and then sprinting through a 6-block course? (The Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas takes place December 3rd.)
5. Take in a Parade of Lights.
No matter your whereabouts, you are guaranteed to be close to a dazzling Christmas parade complete with colorful lights and memorable displays! (Pictured is the Grand Junction Parade of Lights, which takes place December 3rd.)
6. Visit the North Pole.
Sure, you can visit Santa's Workshop (located in Cascade) year round, but it is even more magical at Christmastime, as Santa prepares for his big night!
7. Travel to Germany without ever leaving the city.
Experience an authentic German Christmas at Denver's Christkindl Market, which features delicious food, incredible lights, and unique handmade gifts.
8. Take a ride on the Polar Express.
Make your kids' entire holiday season by taking them aboard the Polar Express, which runs through January 3rd on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
9. Dash through the snow in a one horse open sleigh.
Is there anything more magical (or romantic, if that's what you are going for) than a horse drawn sleigh? The answer is a big no. (Pictured is Dashing Thru The Snow in Fraser.)
10. Experience the 12 Days of Aspen.
On the first day of Christmas, the Aspen Chamber Resort Association gave to me free food, skating, and craft fair. On the second day? Find out for yourself at the 12 Days of Aspen, which runs December 20th through the 31st.
11. Ice skate at the park.
Last but certainly not least is the outdoor ice skating rink at Colorado Springs' Acadia Park, which offers outdoor skating from now until January 17th.
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