Denver Holiday Bucket List: 25 Things To Do Before the End of the Year

Denver Holiday Bucket List: 25 Things To Do Before the End of the Year

There’s something extra special about Denver during the holidays—snow-dusted streets, glowing lights, cozy bars, and endless seasonal events. Whether you’re a longtime local or spending your first winter in the Mile High City, this bucket list covers the must-do experiences that make the season magical.

Bookmark this list and see how many you can check off before the year ends.

25 Holiday Things to Do in Denver

1. Walk Through Zoo Lights at Denver Zoo

A classic holiday tradition with millions of twinkling lights and hot cocoa stops.

2. Visit Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens

Arguably the most magical light display in the city.

3. Ice Skate at McGregor Square

Skate under the stars, then warm up with a drink nearby.

4. Sip Cocktails at a Holiday Pop-Up Bar

Miracle Bar, Sipping Santa, or Tinseltown—pick your festive vibe.

5. Stroll Larimer Square’s Twinkle Lights

Iconic, romantic, and perfect for photos.

6. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride Downtown

Old-school holiday charm through the city lights.

7. Attend the Denver Christkindl Market

European holiday vibes, local vendors, and mulled wine.

8. Book a Heated Igloo Dining Experience

Private, cozy, and festive—perfect for winter dates.

9. Catch a Show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts

Holiday performances and Broadway hits fill the season.

10. Visit Union Station’s Holiday Tree

A must-see centerpiece of downtown Denver.

11. Take a Snowy Walk Through Wash Park or City Park

Fresh snow + peaceful scenery = winter perfection.

12. Enjoy a Cozy Coffee Crawl

Hit local favorites like Wash Perk, Little Owl, and Blue Sparrow.

13. Relax at a Spa, Sauna, or Cold Plunge

Reset before the new year at spots like VIVE Float or Archipelago.

14. Explore Dairy Block’s Holiday Décor

Twinkling lights, festive arches, and warm cocktails.

15. Attend a Holiday Movie Screening

Check out indie theaters like the Esquire or Sie FilmCenter.

16. Visit a Seasonal Rooftop or Après Bar

Fire pits, skyline views, and winter cocktails.

17. Take a Mini Mountain Escape to Evergreen or Golden

Snowy views just 30 minutes from the city.

18. Volunteer Locally or Donate to a Holiday Drive

Spread cheer and give back in the community.

19. Shop Local at Cherry Creek North

Holiday lights, boutiques, and luxury gifts.

20. Try a New Denver Restaurant Before Year-End

Perfect excuse to check off a reservation you’ve been meaning to make.

21. Host a Friends-Mas or Ugly Sweater Party

Holiday fun without the family pressure.

22. Watch the Sunset at Lookout Mountain

Golden hour in winter hits differently.

23. Visit Red Rocks in the Snow

Bundle up and take in the iconic views.

24. Enjoy a Denver Brewery’s Seasonal Beer

Winter ales, stouts, and festive pours.

25. Reflect, Reset & Set Intentions for the New Year

Find a quiet café or scenic overlook and plan what’s next.

Make the Most of the Season

Denver’s holiday season is short but magical—filled with cozy moments, festive experiences, and memories worth making. Whether you check off five items or all twenty-five, this bucket list is your guide to ending the year feeling connected, festive, and fully immersed in everything Denver has to offer.