The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Lights Throughout the Mile High City

As the winter chill settles in and the holiday season approaches, Denver transforms into a glittering wonderland. The Mile High City is renowned for its vibrant holiday lights.  Fun fact: Denver was once known as the Christmas Capital of the World and was one of the very first places to use exterior lighting to express holiday cheer! For those seeking a memorable experience, this guide highlights the top holiday light attractions in Denver, ensuring you make the most of this magical season. Exploring Denver’s holiday displays is not just about admiring the lights; it’s about experiencing the community spirit and festive cheer that define Colorado during the holidays. Whether you’re a Colorado local or planning a visit, here are our picks for must-see dazzling displays. 

1. Mile High Tree

A cornerstone of Denver’s holiday celebrations, the Mile High Tree is an immersive light display that stands as one of the tallest digital Christmas trees in North America. Located at the 16th Street Mall, this 110-foot-tall tree features a captivating light show set to festive music. Visitors can step inside the tree for a 360-degree light experience, making it an Instagram-worthy stop for holiday enthusiasts.

Pro Tip: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and secure the best photo opportunities. 

2. Denver Zoo Lights

Denver Zoo Lights offers a family-friendly adventure filled with illuminated animal sculptures and over a million twinkling lights. This annual event transforms the zoo into a nighttime wonderland, with themed areas that showcase Colorado’s rich biodiversity and holiday spirit. Kids will love the interactive displays, while adults can enjoy seasonal treats and beverages.

Why It’s Unique: The combination of wildlife and holiday cheer makes this event a favorite for families and visitors of all ages.

3. Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens’ Blossoms of Light is a sensory delight, featuring an immersive trail of sparkling lights that winds through the gardens. The event highlights eco-friendly LED lights, making it a sustainable option for environmentally-conscious visitors. With warm drinks and holiday treats available, it’s the perfect setting for a cozy evening stroll.

Insider Tip: Buy tickets early, as this event often sells out quickly! 

4. Mile High Drone Show

This holiday season, Denver is lighting up the night sky with the inaugural Mile High Drone Show, an awe-inspiring display of 400 drones creating festive, high-tech animations. From November 22 to December 31, 2024, visitors can enjoy this free, nightly 15-minute display at 7 p.m. Featuring animations as large as 400 feet high and 500 feet wide, the show brings holiday favorites like Santa and his reindeer, Denver landmarks such as Union Station, and fun surprises like the Blue Bear to life. Produced by Denver-based Brightflight Drone Shows in collaboration with VISIT DENVER, this dazzling event is a must-see celebration of the season! 

Best viewing spots for the show include: Sculpture Park at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, 54thirty Rooftop at the Le Méridien Denver Downtown, Peaks Lounge at Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center, and Tivoli Quad on Auraria Campus. 

5. Luminova Holidays at Elitch Gardens

Elitch Gardens takes holiday lighting to a whole new level with Luminova Holidays. This immersive event features larger-than-life displays, including a 65-foot Christmas tree, over 4 million sparkling lights, and a 300 ft. candy cane tunnel. The park’s roller coasters and rides provide a thrilling backdrop, blending holiday magic with excitement. This event is perfect for families looking for a mix of traditional holiday cheer and amusement park fun.

6. A Hudson Christmas

Set at the Hudson Gardens in Littleton, the Hudson Holidays returns to enchant visitors with its glowing trees, festive vibes, and dazzling lights that ignite the holiday spirit. Starting Friday, November 29, 2024, and running on select dates through January 12, 2025, this beloved tradition offers a spectacular stroll through illuminated gardens, a captivating lighted maze, and larger-than-life themed exhibits. Guests can snap selfies with Santa, savor warm beverages and cocktails, and enjoy family-friendly fun, including special theme nights and seasonal events. It’s a holiday experience sure to delight all ages!

Pro-Tip: Bundle up and take your time exploring the expansive gardens.

7. Camp Christmas

Get ready to unwrap the ultimate holiday experience—Camp Christmas is back at its original home, The Hangar at Stanley Marketplace! Running now through December 24, this 15,000-square-foot wonderland is a 360-degree kaleidoscope of yuletide cheer. Step into a surreal mashup of nostalgic holiday scenes, whimsical pun trees, and glittering displays that capture the magic of the season. Snap a photo with Santa, discover your holiday superpower, and sip craft cocktails from the Base Camp and Fairy Bars. Perfect for all ages (kids 2 and under get in free), Camp Christmas is a playful, immersive experience that will leave you smiling and reconnecting with the joy of the holidays. Tickets are needed and are on sale now—don’t miss the magic!

8. Christmas in Color

Get ready to experience the magic of the holidays from the comfort of your car with a dazzling drive-thru light show, Christmas in Color! Featuring over one million sparkling lights synchronized to festive music, this unforgettable event spans six incredible locations, including iconic spots like Red Rocks and Water World. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends—buckle up for a journey through a winter wonderland! 

Denver’s Holiday Markets: A Bonus Treat

No holiday light tour is complete without visiting Denver’s holiday markets. These markets combine shopping, dining, and entertainment in a festive setting. From handcrafted gifts to delicious Colorado-inspired treats, these markets are the perfect way to round out your holiday adventure.

Top Picks:

• Denver Christkindlmarket – Inspired by traditional German markets, this event offers an authentic holiday experience with unique gifts and seasonal delicacies.

• Cherry Creek Holiday Market – Located in one of Denver’s premier real estate districts, this market features local artisans and gourmet food vendors.

Making the Most of the Season

Whichever way you choose to celebrate, exploring Denver’s holiday lights is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and holiday cheer. Whether you’re marveling at professional displays like the Mile High Tree or enjoying lights from your car, there’s something for everyone.

Do not forget to explore the local neighborhoods! Areas like Washington Park and Capitol Hill are particularly festive, with residents competing to create the most eye-catching decorations. These neighborhoods showcase Denver’s strong sense of community, highlighting why the city remains a top destination for real estate investment.

DIY Light Tours: Grab some hot cocoa, hop in the car, and take a self-guided tour through Denver’s charming neighborhoods.

At Blue Pebble Homes, we’re proud to be part of this dynamic city. As a real estate brokerage, we’re here to help you find the perfect home. Happy holidays from all of us at Blue Pebble Homes.