During the holidays many areas of Denver transform into a magical wonderland of twinkling lights and festive cheer. If you are looking for extra special displays as a family outing, check out this list of best holiday light displays in Denver.
Best Holiday Light Displays in Denver
Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens
An annual favorite for over 40 years, Blossoms of Light offers a colorful display of sparkling wonder, draped over and across the gardens. Stroll through a landscape of shimmering trees, glowing sculptures and romantic pathways. Don’t miss the interactive light features and the warm drinks and yummy treats available to keep you cozy. Advance reservations are required.
Centennial Center Park Holiday Lights
A lesser-known gem, Centennial Center Park offers a free, family friendly light display. The park is adorned with sparkling trees, festive sculptures and light tunnels perfect for Instagram-worthy moments.
Cherry Creek North Winter Wanderland
Cherry Creek North lights up the season with its Winter Wanderland. Featuring a million dazzling lights wrapping more than 600 trees it illuminates the entire neighborhood! highlight, however, are the stunning light/art installations, including the “Interactive Musical Tree” that dazzles with sound and light choreography.
Christmas in Color
Three locations (Water World, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre and Arapahoe County Fairground) host a can’t miss drive-thru light experience. It is synchronized to music via your car radio. The Red Rocks location has one of the world’s longest light tunnels! Throw the kids in their pajamas, pop some popcorn and enjoy the drive through the dazzling display.
Denver Christkindlmarket
This European-style holiday market at Civic Center Park pairs twinkling lights with charming wooden stalls. Browse for handmade gifts, sip on mulled wine, munch on Bavarian pretzels and enjoy the festive decorations surrounding the market. The event is free and open to the public from Nov. 22 through Dec. 23 at Denver’s Civic Center Park
Downtown Denver Grand Illumination
Kick off the season with Downtown Denver’s Grand Illumination. Union Station and the 16th Street Mall sparkle with classic lights, while the iconic City and County Building glows in a kaleidoscope of colors. This free display is a staple of the city’s holiday cheer. The initial lighting ceremony is filled with family-friendly activities, food and entertainment.
A Hudson Holiday
Set in Littleton’s Hudson Gardens, this display is a true winter wonderland. The gardens are transformed with sparkling pathways, towering trees draped in lights and festive music. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and stroll through this charming place. The family-friendly event will also feature theme nights and special events throughout the season.
Light the Lights
Head to Civic Center Park to see the City & County of Denver Building light up with a choreographed display accompanied by music! Each night at 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. an eight minute show will light up the building. It then goes to a festive, static holiday display until 10:45 p.m. Witness the beauty from late November to late January.
Luminova Holidays
Elitch Gardens is hosting Luminova Holidays for the fourth year in a row. It boasts larger-than-life displays, immersive experiences, holiday music, rides on Elitch Gardens attractions, interactive activities and much more. This is the perfect way to keep tweens and teens entertained one night this season!
Mile High Drone Show
Hundreds of drones will take to the sky in a holiday-themed spectacular this season. See the futuristic display can be seen from across the city in 15 minute-long shows every night at 7 p.m. From Santa and his reindeer to iconic Denver landmarks like the Mile High Tree and Denver Union Station, each night will bring a new visual experience to life. The drones launch just west of downtown.
The Mile High Tree presented by Xcel Energy & Xfinity
Join in the free festivities at the Mile High Tree. It’s a brilliantly lit, 110-foot-tall immersive art installation that provides a dazzling lights-and-music show. You can experience two of Denver’s most popular holiday attractions in one place: America’s tallest digital tree and the Denver Christkindlmarket.
Olde Golden Holidays
Small town charm exudes from Golden during the holidays, almost as if it’s straight out of Hallmark special. The sparkling lights line the streets and trees of the downtown center, with special events like the Candlelight Walk, Holiday Parade and Jingle on the Avenue sprinkled throughout the month of December.
The Parade of Lights
The annual Parade of Lights is a Denver tradition that combines lighted floats, marching bands, cultural celebrations and so much more. The parade winds through downtown Denver, creating a magical experience for all ages. Grab a hot drink and enjoy the spectacle!
Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms
This countryside escape blends the magic of holiday lights with the charm of a working farm. The Trail of Lights features illuminated antique tractors, a giant Christmas tree and a historic barn wrapped in festive lights. Perfect for families looking for a more rustic holiday experience.
Zoo Lights at Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo comes alive at night with over two million LED lights creating animal-themed displays. Your entire family will enjoy everything from twinkling tunnels to animated exhibits. Plus, ticket sales and renvenue help support wildlife conservation efforts! Pro Tip: Save when you pre-order treats online, including snacks, beverages and festive glow items, ONLY available during Zoo Lights.
On December 31st enjoy a sensory-friendly night with a variety of accommodations including reduced crowds, low-volume music and quiet rooms for those who may feel overwhelmed by typical light experiences.
Light Displays in Neighborhoods
Denver’s neighborhoods also bring their A-game during the holiday season. The Denver Highlands and Stapleton areas are known for their community driven light displays. Take a leisurely stroll through these neighborhoods to see houses decked out with intricate decorations.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the extravagantly decorated homes on Candy Cane Lane (679 South High St. in Wash Park.)!
Denver’s holiday light displays are more than just spectacles — they’re traditions that bring people together. Enjoy the magic of the season!
