20 Festive Christmas Things To Do in Colorado Springs

Experience the magic of the winter season in Colorado Springs, where snow-kissed landscapes and festive cheer create an enchanted atmosphere. The city offers a hosts of activities that blend traditional Christmas charm with the unique spirit of the Rockies. Let's explore some of the must-do things that make the holidays in Colorado Springs truly unforgettable.

From enchanting light displays and thrilling outdoor adventures to timeless holiday performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy during this special time of year. Embrace the Christmas spirit and make lasting memories with your loved ones as you uncover the captivating attractions and events that make Colorado Springs a genuine winter wonderland.

Illuminating Holiday Light Displays

Colorado Springs transforms into a bright and sparkling canvas during the holidays, thanks to dazzling light displays that are sure to ignite your holiday spirit. Take a drive or stroll through the city to witness the festive creations that illuminate the night.

must-see displays include the Parade of Lights in downtown Colorado Springs, where you can marvel at intricately designed floats adorned with millions of twinkling lights. The Garden of the Gods Club's annual light display is another highlight, featuring a tunnels of lights, life-sized nativity scene, and a gingerbread house contest that'll leave you feeling like you've stepped into a real-life fairytale.

Garden of the Gods Club Light Display

The Garden of the Gods Club transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland during the holiday season, with more than one million lights illuminating its gardens and trails. Meander through tunnels of sparkling lights, and snap a photo with Mrs. Claus at the North Pole village. Don't miss the life-sized nativity scene and the annual gingerbread house contest, which showcases edible creations that are almost too pretty to eat.

Bundle up in your coziest winter attire and enjoy a hot cocoa or apple cider as you walk through the magical displays. The Garden of the Gods Club's light display kicks off in late November and runs nightly through New Year's Eve, making it the perfect addition to your holiday calendar.

Parade of Lights

Kick off the holiday season in Colorado Springs with the annual Parade of Lights, a cherished tradition that draws thousands of spectators each year. The downtown streets become a dazzling canvas of color and light as floats adorned with millions of twinkling LEDs, elaborate costumes, and festive music march through theheart of the city.

The parade features custom-built floats from local businesses, nonprofits, and schools, each vying for the coveted "People's Choice" award. Grab a spot along the route early to secure the best view, and don't forget to bundle up – temperatures can drop as the sun sets on this magical evening. The Parade of Lights takes place on a Friday and Saturday evening in early December, ensuring there's plenty of time to enjoy all the other fabulous things on this list.

Outdoor Adventures for Santa's Helpers

If you're looking to embrace the great outdoors this holiday season, Colorado Springs offers ample opportunities to create lasting memories with your loved ones. From snowshoeing and hiking to ice skating and sledding, there's a wintery activity that will get everyone in the spirit of the season.

Spend a day exploring the picturesque trails of Pikes Peak or Garden of the Gods, or lace up your skates and glide across the ice at the Acacia Park Ice Rink. For a thrilling adventure, try your hand at ice climbing or go on a guided snowmobile tour. With so many exciting ways to enjoy the Colorado winter, you'll never want to spend another holiday season cooped up inside!

Pikes Peak - America's Mountain

Experience the magic of Christmas from high atop Pikes Peak, where snow-kissed landscapes and breathtaking views await. Embark on a scenic drive or measure your mettle on foot, tackling one of the many hiking trails that lead to the summit. Rent snowshoes or cross-country skis and explore the pristine, snow-covered trails, or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning views from the comfort of your car.

The summit of Pikes Peak is home to the historic Pikes Peak Highway and the city's official Christmas tree, "America's Mountain." If you time it right, you might even catch a glimpse of Santa as he checks in on the kids in Mc mourlessly true fashion. With the summit closed to vehicles in the winter months, now is the perfect time to explore the peaks untouched by snow, creating a unique and unforgettable holiday experience.

Garden of the Gods Park

Garden of the Gods Park is a geological masterpiece, showcasing towering sandstone formations, vivid red rock spires, and lush pine forests. In the winter, the park becomes a winter wonderland, blanketed in a sparkling sheet of fresh snow. Strap on some snowshoes or rent some cross-country skis, and explore the park's seven miles of scenic trails.

Connect with nature and enjoy the serene beauty of the park, all the while burning off those Christmas cookies and candy canes. Your family and friends will cherish these outdoor adventures in the shadow of the grand red rock formations, making this a perfect choice for those who love to stay active during the holidays. Don't forget to take a moment to admire the intricate ice patterns that form on the park's famed Kissing Camels formation – they're truly a sight to behold.

Acacia Park Ice Rink

Glide across the ice and create lasting memories with loved ones at Acacia Park Ice Rink. This charming outdoor rink offers hours of holiday fun, with plenty of opportunities to practice your spins, turns, and jumps. Lace up your skates and enjoy the classic holiday experience under the twinkling lights and the majestic Pikes Peak mountain backdrop.

Season passes and hourly admission rates are available, making this a budget-friendly option for families and friends looking to stay active during the winter months. Warm up with a hot cocoa or apple cider from the nearby shelters, and indulge in some classic holiday treats like roasted chestnuts, popcorn, and peppermint bark. The Acacia Park Ice Rink is open daily from mid-November through early February, offering ample time to enjoy this winter wonderland with your loved ones.

As the winter sun sets on another magical day in Colorado Springs, reflecting upon the season's vibrant lights and breathtaking vistas, we feel a warmth that transcends the chilliest temps. Let the memories made here fuel your passion for the outdoors and inspire you to embrace the beauty of each season. We'll see you again next year, under the lights, on the trails, and on the ice, as we celebrate another holiday season in our oh-so-special slice of paradise.