5 definitive Christmas experiences in the Pikes Peak region
A recent study suggests that consumers are thinking less about STUFF for the holidays and more about experiences.
We’ve put our elves together to come up with a list of the top holiday experiences in the region.
Here’s what those little pointy-hatted folks came up with:
1. Santa Express Train by Royal Gorge Route Railroad
If your kids are into “Polar Express,” there’s nothing like putting them aboard the real thing, a decorated train with Santa. Expect hot cocoa, cookies and plenty of holiday magic. 6 p.m. through Dec. 26, 2011, except Dec. 25. Additional departure at 12:30 p.m. Dec. 17. Departs from Santa Fe Depot, Cañon City, $19-$44/free kids 1 and younger; 1-888-724-5748.
2. “The Puppet Maker: A Story of Christmas”
This may be the best original production you’ll see all year. David Simpich carves the marionettes, writes the plays and operates the marionettes while he provides the voices. It’s a spectacular thing to see for adults or kids. 7 p.m. Fridays through Dec. 16, 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Wednesday, Dec. 10-11, 14-15, 18, 21-24, 29-30 and 27-31, no show Dec. 25, The Simpich Showcase Marionette Theatre, 2413 W. Colorado Ave., $10-$14; 465-2492.
3. Colorado Youth Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
Of all the versions of “The Nutcracker” playing in the region this season, this is probably the most kid-friendly, scaled down to 70 minutes with magic, music, dancing and more. 7 p.m. Dec. 20, Pikes Peak Center, 190 S. Cascade Ave., $15-$29; 520-7469.
4. Electric Safari at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo flips a switch and lights up the mountain with light sculptures at Electric Safari. There’ll also be Santa visits and more, 5:30-8:30 p.m. (last ticket sold at 7:30 p.m.) Dec. 16-Jan. 1, closed Christmas Eve. A Special Signing Santa Night is 5:30-8:30 p.m. Dec. 20, 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, $5.25-$8.25/free ages 2 and younger/$4.25 military/Sky Ride packages available;or 633-9925 ext. 111.
You’ll be treated like the royalty you are at the Christmas Madrigal Banquet at Glen Eyrie Conference Center. A five-course gourmet dinner is accompanied by song and dance and musical instruments and tales presented by the Lord and Lady of the Manor, Dec. 15-17, 19-21, 3820 N. 30th St., $99; 265-7055.
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