It's Not Christmas In Denver Until You Do These 10 Enchanting Things

Every year, Denver Zoo lights up at night. Visit to see the animated zoo animals, and the live ones. Make plans to include Zoo Lights on your list early this year and save on admission - from December 2nd to 15th, tickets are value priced, and crowds are light. Regular pricing from December 16th through January 1st. Visit 2300 Steele Street, Denver. Visit the zoo's website for more info.

This year marks the 42nd for Parade of Lights - it's a long-standing Denver tradition. The best part? It's free! See the parade on December 2nd starting at 8:00 p.m., and December 3rd at 6:00 p.m.. Click here for a map of the parade route.

Not only is Denver Station all decked out in lights for the holidays, but Santa is here for a photo op and to ask you if you've been naughty or nice. Say hello every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 1701 Wynkoop Street, Denver.

Take a stroll from the City County Building along the Mall at 16th Street to Denver Station, and be enchanted by the city's gorgeous light display. If this tradition isn't on your list yet, it should be.

Don't miss the Colorado Ballet's 56th production of The Nutcracker at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House. If the iconic music and stunningly-talented ballet dancers don't make you feel the Christmas spirit, nothing will. Get your tickets online soon - they sell out every year! 1385 Curtis Street, Denver.

Visit the Colorado Railroad Musuem in nearby Golden and take a ride on the Polar Express. November 10th through December 23rd. Most tickets are already sold out for this event - if you missed out this year, plan to buy your 2017 tickets in August. 17155 W 44th Avenue, Golden.

There's nothing quite like Christmas music on the tuba. Follow your ears to 1600 Arapahoe Street on Sunday, December 22nd from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.. More than 300 tubas will be there!

The symphony performs Handel's Messiah from December 16th through 18th, with a special "sing along" on the 18th. click here to get your tickets. Boettcher Concert Hall: 1000 14th Street, Denver.

Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens this holiday season for the Blossoms of Light - an enchanting field of LED lights. The event starts on November 25th and goes through January 1st. Lights come on at 5:30 p.m. every night. Cost of admission for adults is $13 ($11 for members), $11 for seniors, $10 for children ($8 for child members). 1007 York Street, Denver.