As the year comes to a close, Denver is buzzing with a variety of exciting events, activities, and attractions that are perfect for spending a memorable weekend in the Mile High City. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time in Denver this weekend.
Free Winter Attractions and Events
Mile High Drone Show: This holiday season, witness the Denver skyline come alive with the inaugural Mile High Drone Show. For 40 magical nights, 400 drones will soar into the sky, creating breathtaking holiday-themed animations. You can catch this display every night at 7 p.m. until December 31, 2024, at Civic Center Park[1][5].
Mile High Tree: Located in Civic Center Park, the Mile High Tree presents a dazzling light and music show. Each night, enjoy an eight-minute choreographed light and music holiday show at 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m., followed by a festive static display until 10:45 p.m.[1][5].
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre: Even if there are no concerts scheduled, the free Visitor Center at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is worth a visit. It features a museum and the Performers’ Hall of Fame, and the surrounding park offers stunning hiking trails through the red rock formations[1].
Holiday Festivals and Markets
Denver Christkindlmarket: Experience old German traditions at the Denver Christkindlmarket in Civic Center Park. Enjoy authentic cuisine, live music, holiday drinks, and an artisan marketplace until December 23, 2024[3][5].
Blossoms of Light: Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens for the Blossoms of Light extravaganza, a twinkling and breathtaking display of light and color. This event runs from November 20, 2024, to January 12, 2025[3][5].
Unique Art and Light Experiences
Lumonics Light & Sound Gallery: For a unique and immersive experience, head to the Lumonics Light & Sound Gallery. The “Lumonics Immersed” event features light sculptures that pulsate to soothing music, providing a healing and mind-expanding experience. This event takes place every Saturday from 8 to 10:30 p.m.[2].
Ice Skating and Winter Activities
Downtown Denver Rink: Enjoy ice skating at the Downtown Denver Rink, a popular winter destination in the heart of the city. This rink is open until February 2, 2025[5].
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Celebrate the start of 2025 with spectacular fireworks displays at the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver. There are two shows scheduled for 9 p.m. and midnight on December 31, 2024[3][5].
Other Notable Events
Colorado Ballet: The Nutcracker: Catch a performance of the Colorado Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, a timeless holiday tradition[5].
Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms: Visit Chatfield Farms for the Trail of Lights, a festive light display that runs until January 1, 2025[5].
Most Important Facts
Mile High Drone Show: Runs until December 31, 2024, at Civic Center Park, with drone displays at 7 p.m. each night[1][5].
Mile High Tree: Located in Civic Center Park, with light and music shows at 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. until December 31, 2024[1][5].
Denver Christkindlmarket: Open until December 23, 2024, at Civic Center Park[3][5].
Blossoms of Light: At Denver Botanic Gardens from November 20, 2024, to January 12, 2025[3][5].
Lumonics Immersed: Every Saturday from 8 to 10:30 p.m. at Lumonics Light & Sound Gallery[2].
Downtown Denver Rink: Open until February 2, 2025[5].
New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Two shows at 9 p.m. and midnight on December 31, 2024, at the 16th Street Mall[3][5].
Colorado Ballet: The Nutcracker: Performances at Ellie Caulkins Opera House[5].
Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms: Open until January 1, 2025[5].
