Denver’s Holiday Season Kickoff Guide: The Best Ways to Start Celebrating This Weekend

Denver locals know: the magic of the holiday season hits our city earlier—and more beautifully—every year. If you’re looking for the perfect way to ease into the festivities without the full December chaos, this weekend is the ideal moment. From twinkling light displays to festive pop-ups and cozy restaurants, here’s your curated guide to the best ways to kick off the holidays across Denver.

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1. Explore Denver’s First Holiday Markets of the Season

Before the big crowds roll in, several boutique markets launch in mid-November—offering small-batch gifts, artisan goods, handmade décor, and local treats.

• Denver Christkindlmarket (Civic Center Park) – Steaming glühwein, Bavarian pretzels, live music, and the first twinkle lights of the season.
  
  

• Cherry Creek Holiday Market – A higher-end, design-forward market perfect for unique holiday gifts and elevated local makers.
  
  

• Union Station Crafts Market Pop-Ups – Smaller, curated, and always festive.
  
  

2. Visit Early Light Displays (Before Everyone Else Does)

Beat the crowds and experience Denver’s glowing neighborhoods and displays while they’re still peaceful.

• Denver Zoo Lights (Preview Nights) – A magical first chance to see the iconic lights before December sellouts.
  
  

• Blossoms of Light (Denver Botanic Gardens) – Calm, romantic, and absolutely stunning during November evenings.
  
  

Downtown Denver Grand Illumination – Early tree lighting + historic Union Station lit up for the season.

3. Sip Something Seasonal Around the City

Denver’s bars and restaurants start releasing their winter menus this week, and there’s no better vibe.

• The Snowdrift Bar (Larimer Square) – A holiday pop-up filled with over-the-top décor and themed cocktails.

• Cru Wine Bar (Cherry Creek) – Mulled wine and cozy outdoor heaters.

• The Treehouse at Forget Me Not – Hot toddies, ambient lighting, and a stylish crowd.
  

4. Plan a Low-Key Holiday Experience 

If you’re not ready for full-blown festivities, go subtle.

• Stroll Old South Pearl or Highlands Square for early lights + window displays.

• Grab a peppermint mocha and wander Wash Park at sunset.

• Hit a heated patio in RiNo or LoHi for a cozy date-night vibe.
  

5. Holiday Fun With Your Dog (Because Denver)

Since half of Denver owns a dog (and the other half borrows one for photos), here are early pup-friendly options:

• Brewery holiday releases with heated outdoor setups

• Santa Paws photos beginning at select pet shops

• A seasonal walk through Central Park or Sloan’s Lake at golden hour

6. A Real Estate Tie-In: Why November Is the Quiet Sweet Spot

With the holiday energy building, November is one of Denver’s most underrated moments to shop, prep, or plan for a move.

Inventory softens, competition cools, and sellers who list before the holidays are typically highly motivated—making it a strategic time for buyers.

For homeowners thinking ahead to a January or February launch, this is also when the behind-the-scenes prep begins: staging consultations, photography schedules, and light improvement projects.

Start the Season Your Way

Whether you’re easing into the holidays with a warm drink, wandering a light display, or supporting local makers, Denver becomes its most charming and festive self during this early window. Enjoy the calm before the December swirl—and soak up the magic while the city feels a little quieter, a little softer, and a little more sparkly.