From holiday markets to sing-alongs to Santa sightings, here's what's happening in Denver this weekend.
Friday, December 14
The Polar Express
When: Nov. 10 – Dec. 23
Where: Colorado Railroad Museum
Experience a theatrical recreation of the classic children’s story. Dancing waiters serve cookies and hot cocoa as the story unfolds. (Read more about winter train experiences.)
Christkindl Market
When: Nov. 16 – Dec. 23
Where: 1515 Arapahoe St.
Experience German and European holiday traditions during this annual Denver event. Eat authentic food and festive drinks, enjoy live entertainment, and shop a wide selection of gifts. Admission is free.
A Christmas Carol
When: Nov. 23 – Dec. 24
Where: Stage Theatre
See this musical interpretation of Charles Dickens’ classic novel come to life on stage.
A Hudson Christmas
When: Nov. 23 – Dec. 31
Where: Hudson Gardens and Event Center
See a winter wonderland of outdoor lights at Hudson Gardens. You can even get a photo in Santa’s sleigh while sipping hot cider or cocoa.
Courtesy of Facebook
Christmas in Color
When: Nov. 23 – Dec. 31
Where: Water World
Drive through this spectacular lights festival synchronized to holiday music on your radio at Water World.
Blossoms of Light
When: Nov. 23 – Jan. 1
Where: Denver Botanic Gardens
See the extravagant annual holiday light show at Denver Botanic Gardens, which features an interactive light display and entertainment on select evenings.
Free Ice Skating Rink
When: Nov. 23 – Jan. 6
Where: Denver International Airport
Looking to kill some time before your flight? Go ice skating at the DEN Plaza, completely for free!
The Nutcracker
When: Nov. 24 – Dec. 24
Where: Ellie Caulkins Opera House
See The Colorado Ballet’s 58th performance of the holiday classic The Nutcracker. (Read more about The Nutcracker.)
Zoo Lights
When: Nov. 30 – Jan. 6
Where: Denver Zoo
Back for its 28th year, this lights festival typically sells out on most nights. The light show covers 60 acres and features animated animal sculptures, animal encounters, and entertainment.
Ugly Sweater Party
When: Dec. 14, 7 p.m.
Where: Howl at the Moon
Wear your ugliest holiday sweater for a chance to win $100, plus enjoy live music, drink specials, pictures with Santa, and more.
Drunk Christmas
When: Dec. 14-15
Where: Fiction Beer Company
This version of Charles Dicken's classic is all about the booze. Watch a drunk cast perform as you join them for a beer. Stay late for Christmas karaoke.
A Colorado Christmas
When: Dec. 14-16
Where: Boettcher Concert Hall
The Colorado Symphony will delight you with your favorite holiday songs. There will be opportunities to sing along, and you'll hear a narration of "'Twas The Night Before Christmas." Santa and Mrs. Claus will also make an appearance at this family-friendly event.
Saturday, December 15
Breakfast with Santa
When: Dec. 15-16
Where: Downtown Denver Aquarium
If you attend this breakfast buffet, you just might catch Santa swimming with the fishes.
Courtesy of Facebook
Holiday Carousel
When: Dec. 15 – Jan. 2
Where: Denver Pavillions
Enjoy a nostalgic ride on the annual holiday carousel. Free rides will be available from select restaurants and retailers.
Denver Indie Games Expo
When: Dec. 15, 12-8 p.m.
Where: Dry Dock North
Check out new video games, tabletop games, and more while socializing with classic game enthusiasts. Bring your console or items to trade to join in the fun. You must RVSP for this event.
Sunday, December 16
Ho Ho Ho Slapdown
When: Dec. 16, 1-4 p.m.
Where: Bierstadt Lagerhaus
Sample seven different seasonal beers and vote on the best at this annual holiday event.
Rocky Mountain Goat Yoga
When: Dec. 16, 9 a.m.
Where: Release Studio
Snuggle up to some baby goats before participating in a yoga class. BYOB!
Which events do you plan on checking out this weekend? Let us know in the comments.