If you are dreaming of the quintessential White Christmas like out of those hallmark movies then head over for Christmas in Colorado. These cozy Christmas towns, in Colorado with their twinkling lights around snow-covered streets and beloved local traditions, are where the true holiday spirit shines brightest.
Imagine stepping into a classic Hallmark movie, where every shop window is decked out with festive displays, the entire town gathers for the Christmas tree lighting, and the holiday lights begin to glow. This Christmas, if you're looking for that heartwarming, small-town charm without the need to jet off to far-flung destinations, be sure to explore these 7 best Christmas towns to visit in Colorado. They’re sure to make your holiday season unforgettable!
Where is the best place to go for Christmas in Colorado?
If you're dreaming of a white Christmas, Aspen is the place where your holiday dreams come true! With its "12 Days of Aspen" extravaganza, this town transforms into a winter wonderland that’s straight out of a Christmas fairy tale. Whether you’re gliding on ice, riding in a sleigh, or catching the dazzling New Year’s Eve fireworks on Aspen Mountain, this is the ultimate Christmas in Colorado destination!
What Colorado town is like a Hallmark movie?
Ever wanted to step into a Hallmark movie? Head to Breckenridge, where the holiday magic is as real as it gets! Picture this: charming historic streets glowing with over 250,000 twinkling lights, Santas racing down Main Street, and cozy sleigh rides through snow-covered landscapes. In Breckenridge, every corner is like a scene from your favorite holiday flick!
What Colorado town has Christmas year round?
Looking for a place where it’s Christmas every day? North Pole, Colorado, has got you covered! This magical town is home to Santa’s Workshop, a Christmas-themed amusement park that’s open all year. It’s like stepping into a holiday wonderland no matter the season—perfect for those who want to keep the Christmas spirit alive all year long!
The 7 Most Christmassy Christmas Towns in Colorado
1. Aspen, Colorado during Christmas
Aspen, Colorado, is not just a ski destination—it's a Christmas wonderland, making it a top spot for experiencing Christmas in Colorado. From December 20–31, the town hosts the "12 Days of Aspen," transforming into a magical winter escape with activities for all ages, including ice skating, sleigh rides, and Victorian caroling. The festivities culminate in a dazzling New Year's Eve torchlight parade and fireworks display on Aspen Mountain. With its blend of luxury and small-town charm, Aspen offers a truly spectacular holiday experience.
Where to stay in Aspen, Colorado for Christmas: The St. Regis Aspen Resort - A luxurious, five-star hotel located at the base of Aspen Mountain, offering elegant accommodations and world-class service.
2. Breckenridge, Colorado during Christmas
Step into a Christmas wonderland in Breckenridge, Colorado, where holiday charm meets winter adventure in the most magical way. Known for its epic ski runs and historic downtown, Breckenridge truly shines during the festive season, making it a perfect destination for Christmas in Colorado. The festivities begin with the Lighting of Breckenridge and the whimsical Race of the Santas, where hundreds of Santa look-alikes dash down Main Street, turning the town into a real-life holiday card. With over 250,000 twinkling lights, cozy après-ski spots, scenic sleigh rides, and jolly parades—including the beloved Holiday Dog Parade—Breckenridge offers a festive atmosphere that lasts all season long.
Where to stay in Breckenridge, Colorado for Christmas: Hyatt Vacation Club at The Ranahan - A luxurious ski-in/ski-out resort located at the base of Peak 8, offering spacious suites and a full-service spa.
3. Vail, Colorado during Christmas
Chance of Snow: High
Must See: New Year's Eve Torchlight Parade
Vail, Colorado, is where the spirit of Christmas in Colorado comes to life in a frosted winter wonderland. As one of the state’s most famous ski towns, Vail dazzles during the holiday season with its Bavarian charm and festive flair. The magic begins in late November with the Revely Vail Tree Lighting and continues through Vail Holidays, where every corner of Vail and Lionshead Villages glows with twinkling lights, red bows, and garlands. From the fun-filled Vail Ugly Sweater 5K Fun Run to the charming Kris Kringle Market, there’s holiday cheer for everyone. The season culminates with the spectacular New Year's Eve Torchlight Parade at Golden Peak, where ski instructors descend the mountain with torches, followed by a breathtaking fireworks display.
Where to stay in Vail, Colorado for Christmas: Tivoli Lodge - A luxurious alpine resort offering elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and direct access to Vail Mountain.
4. Steamboat Springs, Colorado during Christmas
Experience a true Wild West Christmas in Colorado at Steamboat Springs, famously known as "Ski Town, U.S.A." This picturesque northern Colorado town blends outdoor adventure with festive holiday charm, making it a must-visit during the holiday season. Steamboat kicks off the season with its annual Tree Lighting event, followed by the exciting Holiday Festival in Gondola Square. Imagine Santa riding down the slopes on horseback, visiting his workshop with reindeer, and children collecting treats in the Stocking Scramble. The festivities continue with live music, cookie decorating, and a spectacular torchlight parade down the mountain, all capped off with dazzling fireworks. Whether you’re soaking in the natural hot springs or enjoying a horse-drawn sleigh ride, Steamboat Springs offers a magical Christmas experience that captures the spirit of the season in true Colorado style.
Where to stay in Steamboat Springs, Colorado for Christmas: Residence Inn by Marriott Steamboat Springs - A charming resort offering ski-in/ski-out access, spacious accommodations, and a full-service spa.
5. Telluride, Colorado during Christmas
Nestled in a picturesque boxed canyon in the San Juan Mountains, Telluride, Colorado, is the epitome of a Christmas in Colorado. This charming mountain town comes alive during the holiday season, offering a magical blend of stunning scenery and festive spirit. Snow-covered peaks and twinkling lights set the stage for events like Noel Night, where you can enjoy shopping, caroling, and the lighting of the unique Ski Tree made from recycled skis. The nearby Mountain Village hosts the Holiday Prelude, featuring Santa visits, tree lighting ceremonies, and old-fashioned Christmas at Schmid Ranch, where you can cut your own Christmas tree, sip hot cocoa, and make wreaths. The celebrations culminate with a spectacular Torchlight Parade down the ski slopes on Christmas Eve, followed by a breathtaking fireworks display. With its Victorian-style homes, historic downtown, and festive events, Telluride offers a truly unforgettable holiday experience.
Where to stay in Telluride, Colorado for Christmas: The Madeline Hotel & Residences - A luxurious alpine resort offering ski-in/ski-out access, elegant rooms, and breathtaking mountain views.
6. Estes Park, Colorado during Christmas
Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season, making it a perfect spot for Christmas in Colorado. This charming town kicks off the festivities the day after Thanksgiving with the beloved "Catch the Glow" Parade, where dozens of floats, marching bands, and thousands of lights illuminate Elkhorn Avenue. Each weekend in December, Estes Park continues the celebration with events like Breakfast with Santa, adding to the festive atmosphere. With its stunning mountain backdrop and easy access to the snow-covered trails of Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can explore on cross-country skis or snowshoes, Estes Park offers a traditional and picturesque Christmas experience
Where to stay in Estes Park, Colorado during Christmas: The Stanley Hotel - A historic hotel with luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, known for its elegant charm and ghostly past.
7. Durango, Colorado during Christmas
Christmas in Durango, Colorado, is a magical experience perfect for families seeking holiday cheer in a charming small-town setting. The highlight of the season is the Polar Express train ride, offered by the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, where kids can sip hot cocoa, listen to the Polar Express story, and meet Santa himself as they journey to the "North Pole." Durango’s historic Main Avenue is beautifully adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a picturesque backdrop for festive shopping, ice skating, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. Throughout December, the town hosts a variety of holiday events, including singing with Santa, the downtown Christmas tree lighting, and the old-fashioned Christmas Bazaar. With its cozy downtown and family-friendly activities, Durango offers a perfect Christmas in Colorado that will create memories to cherish for years to come.
Where to stay in Durango, Colorado during Christmas: The Strater Hotel - A historic hotel in downtown Durango offering Victorian-style rooms, live entertainment, and a charming atmosphere.
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