The Ultimate Guide to December in Colorado Springs: Holiday Events & Winter Activities
Introduction
There’s something truly magical about December in the Pikes Peak region. As the first snowflakes fall and the sun sets behind snow-dusted peaks, the crisp mountain air carries an extra sparkle of anticipation. Here in Colorado Springs, December doesn’t mean slowing down—it means celebration, connection, and embracing everything that makes this corner of Colorado special.
This time of year combines mountain views with holiday lights, small-town charm with outdoor adventure, and community warmth with festive wonder. Whether you’re a longtime local, someone exploring our city for the first time, or considering making Colorado Springs your home, December offers countless opportunities to create lasting memories.
In this guide, we’re excited to share events, winter activities, and day trips that showcase the best of Christmas and winter in Colorado Springs. From cozy indoor experiences to frosty outdoor adventures, from family-friendly outings to romantic date nights, we’ve gathered the seasonal highlights that make living here during the holidays something truly special.
Holiday Event Highlights
Here are 20+ carefully selected December events, each with dates, details, and what makes them worth experiencing.
1. Blossoms of Light – Denver Botanic Gardens
What it is: A short drive north brings you to one of the region’s most spectacular holiday light displays. Blossoms of Light transforms Denver Botanic Gardens with glowing trees, light tunnels, and festive ambiance across 24 acres.
Dates: November 21, 2025 to January 11, 2026 (closed November 28 and December 25)
Location: Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York Street, Denver
Tickets: Advance purchase required through the Denver Botanic Gardens website; no walk-up tickets available
Cost: Starting around $27 for adults, $22 for children ages 3-15, free for ages 2 and under
Best for: Families, couples, anyone wanting a memorable evening stroll through illuminated gardens with warm drinks in hand
Link: botanicgardens.org/blossoms-of-light
2. Broadmoor Gingerbread Display & Holiday Décor
What it is: A beloved tradition where The Broadmoor Resort showcases its annual life-size gingerbread creation—this year featuring Santa in a golf cart made from gingerbread, chocolate, and candies, crafted with over 958 pounds of materials.
Dates: Display viewable through New Year’s Day. Non-overnight guests can visit during designated viewing dates: November 28-29, December 2-5, December 9-12, and December 16-19
Location: The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Avenue, Colorado Springs
Tickets: Free to view (garage parking available; valet reserved for dining/overnight guests)
Best for: Elegant holiday outing perfect for couples or families wanting to experience resort ambiance without booking a stay
Link: broadmoor.com/holidays
3. Electric Safari – Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
What it is: Preparing the mountainside with millions of lights for the 34th year of Electric Safari, featuring over 90 hand-made light sculptures, larger-than-life illuminated animal inflatables, and a holiday-safari themed drone light show. Electric Safari earned the No. 2 spot in USA TODAY’s Best Zoo Lights in North America.
Dates: December 6-23 and December 25-January 1, 2026 (closed Christmas Eve)
Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, Colorado Springs
Hours: Member early entry 4-5 pm; general admission 5-7:30 pm; event ends at 8:30 pm
Tickets: Advance timed tickets required for members and non-members; some nights may sell out
Cost: Adults $24.95, Seniors $22.75, Children (3-11) $20.75, Age 2 & under $0.75
Best for: Families with kids, anyone seeking a uniquely Colorado holiday experience combining lights, wildlife, and spectacular mountain views
Link: cmzoo.org/electric-safari
4. Old Colorado City ChristkindlMarket
What it is: An authentic German-style holiday market featuring 10 handcrafted wooden huts, the Bank of America Alpenhütte heated tent with entertainment, German food and drinks, artisan gifts, and live cultural entertainment.
Dates: December 11-14 and December 18-23, 2025, from noon to 8:00 pm daily
Location: Bancroft Park, 2408 W Colorado Avenue, Colorado Springs
Tickets: Free admission; food, drinks, and vendor items for purchase
Best for: All ages—especially those who appreciate European market atmosphere, small-business shopping, warm Glühwein, and festive neighborhood charm
Link: occchristkindlmarket.com
5. Cowboy Christmas Jubilee – Flying W Ranch
What it is: A Western-style Christmas Chuckwagon Supper Show set in a festival of twinkling lights at stunning rock formations, featuring the world-renowned Flying W Wranglers performing holiday music.
Dates: December 4-23, 2025, with multiple show times including 3:00 pm, 4:00 pm, 6:00 pm, 6:30 pm, and 7:00 pm
Location: Flying W Ranch, 3330 Chuckwagon Road, Colorado Springs
Tickets: Required; book early for weekend shows
Cost: General admission $68, Children 4-12 $33, Children 3 and under free (must eat off parent’s plate)
Best for: Families looking for a spirited holiday dinner outing with a distinctly Colorado Western twist
Link: flyingw.com/christmas-show
6. Palmer Lake Star Lighting
What it is: The iconic 457-foot-wide “Star of Bethlehem” illuminated on Sundance Mountain, visible from miles away and built in 1935 to inspire hope during the Great Depression.
Dates: Lit nightly from the Saturday after Thanksgiving through December (typically late November through January 1)
Location: Sundance Mountain above Palmer Lake (viewable from Highway 105 and surrounding areas)
Tickets: Free
Best for: Couples or families wanting a peaceful, photo-worthy stop with beautiful winter scenery—perfect for a quiet evening drive
Link: townofpalmerlake.com/star
7. Festival of Lights Parade – Downtown Colorado Springs
What it is: Now in its 41st year, this beloved tradition transforms Tejon Street into a dazzling winter wonderland with nearly 100 illuminated floats, drawing tens of thousands of spectators.
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 5:50 pm
Location: Tejon Street, Downtown Colorado Springs (begins at Boulder/Tejon, ends at Vermijo Avenue)
Tickets: Free spectator event; arrive early for good viewing spots
Parking: Free parking available all day at Bijou-Cascade, Nevada-Colorado, and Kiowa-Nevada parking garages
Best for: Families and community-oriented folks wanting the classic Colorado Springs holiday parade experience
Link: coloradospringsfestivaloflights.com
8. Skate in the Park – Acacia Park
What it is: Outdoor ice skating in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs—a quick, festive outing that pairs perfectly with a café stop before or after
Dates: Typically opens early December through winter (check current season schedule)
Location: Acacia Park, downtown Colorado Springs
Tickets: Pay-to-skate with rental skates available
Best for: Families, teens, locals looking for accessible downtown holiday activity
9. Santa Express Train – Royal Gorge Route Railroad
What it is: A magical journey through the Royal Gorge to the “North Pole” where Santa boards the train to greet every child, with the train transformed into a winter wonderland with over 50,000 dazzling lights, holiday decor, hot cocoa, cookies, and a special gift for each child.
Dates: November 22-December 24 and December 26-30, 2025
Location: Royal Gorge Route Railroad, 330 Royal Gorge Boulevard, Cañon City (about 45 minutes from Colorado Springs)
Departures: Up to 4 times daily at 10:00 am, 12:30 pm, 4:00 pm, and 6:30 pm
Tickets: Required; sells out quickly
Cost: Vista Dome $129 adults/$119 children, Deluxe $119 adults/$109 children, Coach $99 adults/$89 children (ages 1-12)
Best for: Families with young children wanting an unforgettable holiday train experience through spectacular canyon scenery
Link: royalgorgeroute.com/santa-express
10. Electric Moonlight (21+) – Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
What it is: An adults-only version of the zoo’s light event featuring wine, cocktails, and holiday ambiance without the crowds of families
Dates: Select nights in December (check zoo calendar)
Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road
Tickets: Advance purchase required; adults only
Best for: Couples or friend groups seeking a unique holiday date night or social evening
Link: cmzoo.org/electric-moonlight
11. Elf Hunt – Manitou Springs
What it is: A whimsical downtown scavenger hunt where kids search for hidden elves throughout the charming shops and streets of Manitou Springs
Dates: Select weekends in December (check Manitou Springs events calendar)
Location: Downtown Manitou Springs
Tickets: Free or low cost; pre-registration recommended
Best for: Families with elementary-aged children looking for interactive, playful holiday fun beyond traditional light displays
Link: manitousprings.org/elf-hunt
12. Festival of Lights Family Fun Day – Pioneers Museum
What it is: A daytime celebration featuring holiday crafts, storytelling, face painting, musical performances, and family activities—the perfect warm-up before the evening parade
Date: Early December (parade day), typically 2:00-6:00 pm
Location: Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, 215 S. Tejon Street
Tickets: Free admission
Best for: Families with younger children seeking daytime holiday activities in a museum setting
Link: cspm.org
13. Holiday Train – Royal Gorge Route Railroad
What it is: A festive journey through the Royal Gorge with beautifully decorated railcars, holiday cocktails, the 403 Grill menu, and spectacular winter canyon views—similar to the Santa Express but without Santa, creating a more relaxed atmosphere
Dates: Select dates throughout November and December with 9:00 am and 12:30 pm departures
Location: Royal Gorge Route Railroad, 330 Royal Gorge Boulevard, Cañon City
Cost: Vista Dome $124-$129, Deluxe $119-$124, Coach $94-$99 (varies by age)
Best for: Families or adults wanting the scenic train experience without the Santa focus; ideal for grandparents, couples, or mixed-age groups
Link: royalgorgeroute.com/holiday-train
14. Rock Ledge Ranch Victorian Christmas
What it is: An evening transformed with 1860s-era celebrations featuring St. Nicholas in the Barn, wagon rides, old-time musical entertainment, storytelling, blacksmith demonstrations, Victorian festivities in the 1880s Rock Ledge House, and Edwardian celebrations in the 1907 Orchard House
Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 4:00-8:00 pm
Location: Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, 3105 Gateway Road, Colorado Springs
Cost: $4-$8 per person
Best for: History enthusiasts and families wanting a unique glimpse into how Coloradans celebrated the holidays in different eras
15. Brunch with Santa – Kinship Landing
What it is: A festive brunch event with Santa appearances, kid-friendly treats, and photo opportunities in a cozy local atmosphere
Dates: Select weekends in December (check hotel events calendar)
Location: Kinship Landing, Colorado Springs
Tickets: Required; limited seating
Best for: Families with young children wanting Santa photos combined with a relaxed holiday brunch
Link: kinshiplanding.com
16. Colorado Springs Conservatory Holiday Extravaganza
What it is: The fourth annual celebration featuring student musicians performing treasured holiday classics and original works
Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 7:00 pm
Location: Ent Center for the Arts, 5225 N Nevada Avenue, Colorado Springs
Tickets: Check event page for pricing
Best for: Music lovers, families, anyone seeking an elegant evening of holiday performances
17. Holiday Craft Fairs & Makers Markets
What it is: Multiple artisan markets throughout December featuring handmade goods, local creators, festive treats, and one-of-a-kind holiday gifts
Popular venues include:
- Fountain Creek Nature Center Holiday Craft Fair (early-mid December)
- Holiday at The Hill Makers Market (mid-December weekends)
- COS Holiday Food & Gift Festival (select December weekends)
Tickets: Most offer free entry with items for purchase
Best for: Gift-seekers, supporters of local businesses, anyone wanting authentic Colorado-made presents
18. SantaCon Colorado Springs
What it is: A festive pub crawl and social event where participants dress as Santa and spread holiday cheer throughout downtown
Date: December 20, 2025, starting at 5:00 pm
Location: Downtown Colorado Springs
Cost: $14.79-$20.94
Best for: Adults 21+ looking for a fun, social holiday event with friends
19. Santa’s Workshop at The North Pole – Cascade
What it is: A Christmas-themed family amusement park at the foot of Pikes Peak with over two dozen kid-friendly rides including the Candy Cane Coaster, Ferris Wheel, and Peppermint Slide, plus opportunities to see Santa
Dates: Daily through December
Hours: 9:30 am-4:30 pm (closes at 4:00 pm Christmas Eve)
Location: Santa’s Workshop, Cascade (Pikes Peak Highway area)
Cost: Peak days $35 per person age 3+; non-peak days free admission with $35 ride wristband available
Best for: Families with young children wanting a full day of Christmas-themed rides and activities
Link: santasworkshop.com
20. Winter Wonderland at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (Daytime)
What it is: Regular zoo hours during December offer a unique experience to see animals in winter conditions, with many species more active in cooler weather
Dates: Daily throughout December (standard zoo hours)
Location: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road
Best for: Families wanting to combine wildlife viewing with beautiful winter mountain scenery during daylight hours
Link: cmzoo.org
21. Broadmoor Holiday Show & Entertainment
What it is: Annual holiday performances featuring singer Marcus Lovett and daughter Cathryn, the Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale, and The Broadmoor Pops Orchestra
Dates: Select dates in mid-to-late December (typically December 16-17, 23-24, and 26)
Location: The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs
Tickets: Purchase in advance; packages available with overnight accommodations
Best for: Families and couples seeking elegant holiday entertainment
Link: broadmoor.com/holidays
Winter Activities Beyond the Big Events
Living in Colorado Springs during December means more than attending scheduled events—it’s about embracing the season outdoors, discovering cozy indoor spaces, and making everyday moments special.
❄️ Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking
When snow blankets the higher elevations, trails transform into winter wonderlands. Popular spots include:
- Mueller State Park: Clear trails perfect for snowshoeing with thermos-worthy views
- Palmer Park: Accessible trails within city limits for quick winter walks
- Rampart Range: Scenic routes with minimal crowds and maximum serenity
Pack hot cocoa, dress in layers, and enjoy the quiet beauty that makes Colorado winters so special.
⛸️ Ice Skating Options
Beyond Acacia Park, several skating opportunities exist:
- Monument Ice Rink: Less crowded than downtown with mountain backdrop
- Air Force Academy Rinks: Check public skating hours for this unique venue
Whether you’re a graceful glider or wobbling on blades, skating makes for memorable outings.
🛷 Sledding Hills
When fresh snow falls, locals head to favorite sledding spots:
- Monument Hill: Popular with families for its reliable slope
- Bear Creek Park: Multiple hill options for different skill levels
- Cottonwood Creek Park: Great for younger children
Bring sleds, warm clothes, and prepare for rosy cheeks and laughter.
☕ Cozy Cafés & Warm Indoor Spaces
One of winter’s greatest pleasures is pairing outdoor adventures with warm-up stops:
- Hot chocolate at a local café with Pikes Peak views
- Fireplace-side dinners at downtown restaurants
- Dessert stops after evening light displays
- Browsing local bookstores on cold afternoons
These moments between activities often become the memories we treasure most.
🛍️ Holiday Shopping Districts
Three main areas offer festive shopping and dining:
Old Colorado City: Eclectic boutiques, galleries, and restaurants along Colorado Avenue—perfect for finding unique gifts while soaking in artistic neighborhood charm
Downtown Colorado Springs: Tejon Street and surrounding blocks feature local shops, cafes, and restaurants all within walking distance, many decorated for the season
The Shops at Briargate: Convenient north-side shopping with mix of national retailers and local businesses, ideal for one-stop holiday errands
🚗 Day Trips & Scenic Winter Drives
Colorado Springs’ location means quick access to mountain towns and winter beauty:
Cripple Creek (45 minutes): Historic mining town with casinos, shops, and small-town holiday charm
Woodland Park (30 minutes): Forested mountain community perfect for scenic drives and cozy meal stops
Manitou Springs (15 minutes): Colorful, walkable downtown with unique shops, restaurants, and artistic flair
Cañon City (45 minutes): Gateway to Royal Gorge with downtown shopping and the famous train rides
These short drives expand your December horizons while keeping you connected to home base.
Why December in Colorado Springs Feels Special
Beyond the events list and activity guide, there’s something about experiencing December here that goes deeper. Here’s what makes the season meaningful for those who call this place home.
🏔️ Mountain Views Meet Holiday Magic
The combination of snow-capped peaks, evergreen forests, and holiday lights creates a backdrop that does half the work. Whether driving to an event or simply stepping outside, the scenery reminds you this is somewhere special. Sunrise against Pikes Peak. Sunset over the mountains. Stars so bright they compete with Christmas lights. The natural beauty enhances every holiday moment.
🎖️ Military Community & Spirit of Giving
With five military installations in the area, Colorado Springs carries a strong culture of service, volunteerism, and genuine community support. During the holidays, this manifests in toy drives, care package campaigns, community dinners, and neighbor helping neighbor. The ethos here is about caring for one another, which makes December feel more rooted and meaningful than simply consuming holiday events.
🛍️ Local Small Businesses & Authentic Community
December is peak season for discovering neighborhood gems. The German market, local craft fairs, small boutiques, family-owned restaurants—these aren’t just shopping opportunities. They’re connections to real people building something in your community. Supporting them means investing in the place you live, creating relationships that extend beyond transactions.
❄️ Perfect Balance: Outdoor Adventure + Cozy Comfort
Perhaps the best part of winter here is not having to choose between active or cozy. You can snowshoe in the morning and warm up by a fire in the afternoon. Attend an outdoor light display then retreat to a heated restaurant. Sled with the kids then come home to hot chocolate. The climate and infrastructure support both modes, sometimes within hours of each other.
🏡 Home, Not Just a Destination
For residents, December isn’t about being a tourist in your own city—it’s about settling into seasonal rhythms, perhaps starting new traditions, and knowing your community supports and celebrates together. Whether you’ve lived here for decades or just arrived, there’s room to belong. The events aren’t just entertainment; they’re opportunities to weave yourself into the fabric of this place.
Practical Planning Tips
Book Early
Many popular events (Electric Safari, Flying W Ranch, Santa Express Train) sell out or have limited timed entries. Reserve tickets as soon as they’re available.
Dress in Layers
December nights—especially at elevation—can drop to the 20s or teens. If you’re attending outdoor events, dress warmer than you think necessary:
- Base layers + sweater + winter coat
- Warm boots (many events involve standing or walking)
- Gloves, hat, and scarf
- Hand warmers for extra cold nights
Plan for Parking & Traffic
Popular events mean crowded parking. Strategies:
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early for best spots
- Use free downtown parking garages (Festival of Lights Parade, downtown events)
- Consider rideshare for events with limited parking
- Mountain roads (to zoo, Flying W Ranch) may take longer on busy evenings
Altitude Awareness
Colorado Springs sits at 6,035 feet elevation. Visitors from lower elevations should:
- Stay hydrated (drink more water than usual)
- Limit alcohol consumption initially
- Allow time to acclimate before strenuous activities
- Apply sunscreen even in winter
Budget for Experiences
While many events are free (parades, Palmer Lake Star, some craft fairs), others require tickets. Plan ahead:
- Ticketed events: $20-$130 per person
- Dining additions: $15-$40 per person
- Craft fair shopping: Variable
- Parking: Usually free at designated spots
Weather Flexibility
Colorado weather can surprise. Check forecasts before outdoor events and have backup indoor plans. Most events proceed rain, snow, or shine, but occasionally conditions force changes.
Final Thoughts
December in Colorado Springs offers an extraordinary blend of holiday tradition, outdoor adventure, and genuine community warmth. From the glitter of a million lights to the quiet beauty of a mountain trail dusted with snow, from the laughter of children meeting Santa to the satisfaction of supporting a local artisan—there’s depth and variety here that makes the season memorable.
If you’re visiting, we hope this guide helps you experience the best of what makes Colorado Springs special during the holidays. If you’re considering relocating, know that these aren’t just events on a calendar—they’re the rhythms of life here, the traditions that build over years, the connections that transform a place from somewhere you live to somewhere that feels like home.
And if you already call Colorado Springs home, perhaps this guide reminds you of something you’ve been meaning to try, a tradition to start, or a way to see your city with fresh eyes.
From all of us to all of you: may your December be full of warmth, wonder, and memorable moments in Colorado Springs. We’ll see you at the lights! 🎄✨
Looking for more Colorado Springs resources? Whether you’re planning a visit, considering relocation, or simply exploring everything our city offers, there are countless ways to connect with this community. The magic of December is just one chapter in what makes living at the base of Pikes Peak something truly special.
About The Author
The team at My Front Range Living are a group of full time real estate experts serving Colorado Springs, El Paso County and the surrounding areas. Their knowledge of the local community and experience in the industry provide you incomparable value when buying or selling a home. With several years of experience in helping out of state buyers and sellers, they are the go-to team when it comes to relocating and helping Colorado feel like home. Click Here to book a consultation with us.
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