How do you normally spend the December holiday season?
For me, December is typically filled with office holiday parties, gatherings with friends and family, and seeing shows (The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol are two of my favorites!). Since this year looks a little different than most, my holiday plans have changed as well. Instead of holiday parties, I’m connecting virtually over zoom calls. In lieu of big gatherings, I’m spending time with those I love in smaller groups. Rather than going to live shows, I’m cozying up with Christmas movies and a hot drink.
Even though these alternative holiday plans are great, I still find myself craving the normalcy of former Christmas seasons. I miss the atmosphere and activities that generally come this time of year. Luckily there are still plenty of things you can do in Downtown Denver to celebrate the season and embrace the festive vibes.
In the stretch from Civic Center Park to Union Station along 16th Street there are so many things to do and see. Below are my top recommendations for a festive December night in Downtown Denver.
Visit the Christkindl Market
The Christkindl Market is an annual event that has shopping, food, drinks, and live entertainment. The entire surrounding area is covered in lights, so a visit to the market definitely brings all the holiday feels.
It’s located at Civic Center Park and runs through December 23. The market opens each day at 11 am and closes at 7 pm Sunday through Wednesday, and 9 pm Thursday through Saturday. From December 17-23, the market is open until 9 pm.
There’s no cost for admission, but be warned that the line gets really long. Like 2-3 hours long. Make sure to plan ahead, especially if you’re going during the weekends, which are the busiest times. I suggest checking out the market during a weekday if possible to avoid huge lines.
There are tons of food options representing a variety of European cuisine. I tried the apple strudel and a pretzel from one of the bakeries and they were both amazing! In addition to all the food options, there are plenty of seasonal drinks like beer, hot wine, schnapps, cider, and hot chocolate. I’m obsessed with the hot red wine – I got mine with a shot of apple schnapps. In addition to all the eating and drinking, make sure to browse the shops and take in the live entertainment!
View the Christmas Lights and Parade of Lights
The best Christmas light viewing in Downtown Denver is found along 16th Street from Civic Center Park to Union Station.
I suggest starting at Civic Center Park where the City and County Building puts on a light show Tuesdays through Sundays at 5:45 pm and 6:45 pm. Even if you miss the light show, the building is still lit up until 10:45 pm. From there, make your way along 16th Street toward Union Station.
The annual Parade of Lights is a multi-week event this year, with stationary floats scattered downtown. As you walk toward Union Station, make sure to stop at the following spots to view the parade floats:
- Glenarm Place between 15th Street and 16th Street
- Plaza at 16th Street and Arapahoe Street
- Courtyard at 16th Street and Lawrence Street
- Parking area at Market Street between 18th Street and 19th Street
- Wynkoop Street between 17th Street and 18th Street
In addition to the Parade of Lights, check out the Mile High Tree at 16th Street and Welton Street (this is right after the first parade floats on Glenarm Place). The tree is lit in the evenings and has a light show and music every 15 minutes or so.
Union Station is at 17th Street and Wynkoop Street. This is the last stop of the Parade of Lights, and the area itself is lit up beautifully this year! As a bonus, Union Station has an outdoor light show that runs from 5-10 pm nightly. Enjoy the lights and show here as the final stop along your tour of Downtown Denver’s Christmas lights!
Grab Drinks at Union Station
Once you’ve finished your tour of Downtown Denver’s Christmas lights, stop for a drink (or a few) at Union Station. Although indoor dining is currently closed, outdoor dining is still open and most places have heaters making it comfortable to sit outside.
Cooper Lounge is one of my favorite cocktail bars in Denver. It’s located on the second floor of Union Station, but was temporarily moved outside under the Christmas tree due to COVID restrictions. The Mai Chai Fizz is delicious and they also have a great hot toddy that is perfect for a chilly evening.
Terminal Bar is another great option for drinks and is open for patio seating. In addition to awesome drinks, it has an extensive food menu if you’re feeling snacky.
The majority of restaurants and bars close at 9 pm, with last call at 8 pm. A couple places are open until 10 pm on certain nights, so double check the hours if you’re looking to stay out later.
Even though this year looks a little different, I’m still finding ways to bring festivity into the holiday season. How have your holiday celebrations changed this year?
