10 can’t-miss holiday activities to experience in Colorado Springs this year
The holiday season is fast approaching, and people around Colorado Springs are starting to fill their calendars with festive plans.
With the brand-new Old Colorado City Christkindlmarket making its debut next month, plus dazzling holiday lights, there’s a bit of something for everyone on this list.
Here are 10 can’t-miss holiday activities happening around Colorado Springs this season:
Click on the name of the event for more details and to purchase tickets.
When: Open through Dec. 24. Click here for calendar.
Where: 5050 Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade
Head to the North Pole in Cascade for some Christmas family fun. The amusement park includes vintage rides, village shops, visits with Santa, a train ride and much more. Be sure to check out their calendar for non-peak day and peak day dates (reservations are required).
When: Public skating sessions run now through January. Click here for calendar.
Where: Acacia Park in downtown
Colorado Springs residents are lacing up their skates and gliding into the season at this downtown outdoor rink. This season features special theme days hosted by local sponsors, including Nov. 29, when visitors wearing a funny hat receive $1 off admission courtesy of Poor Richard’s, and Jan. 10, when guests dressed in red, white and blue or military gear get $1 off admission, thanks to the Colorado Air National Guard.
When: Nov. 28-30, Dec. 5-7, 12-14, 19-21
Where: 4218 County Road 3A, Cañon City
Come see sparkling lights on America’s Highest Suspension Bridge this Christmas season. In addition to the immersive walk-through experience, visitors can enjoy photos with Santa, cookie and ornament decorating, seasonal treats, light-up souvenirs and a Christmas Market with local artists and crafters.
Historic Holidays Walking Tours
When: Every Saturday from Nov. 29 to Dec. 20
Where: Downtown Colorado Springs
Learn some Colorado Springs history with a holiday twist at this downtown event. During this 90-minute tour, visitors will spend about 60 minutes exploring downtown, followed by additional time warming up at a local eatery. Tickets include an appetizer and drink.
When: Various dates in December. Click here for calendar.
Where: 3330 Chuckwagon Road
The Christmas Chuckwagon Supper Show highlights the talent of the Flying W Wranglers, combining clean humor and festive music for a memorable holiday performance. Your ticket also includes a Christmas dinner including smoked center-cut Angus strip steak, smoked Berbere chicken and all the trimmings.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Electric Safari
When: Dec. 5-23, Dec. 25-Jan. 1
Where: 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road
Animals and holiday lights come together for a family-friendly celebration at the Electric Safari. Come see over 85 one-of-a-kind light sculptures, illuminated inflatable animals and holiday-safari themed drone show, with opportunities to feed animals for an additional fee. Electric Safari has consistently ranked among the nation’s top holiday zoo light displays, placing third in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards from 2019 to 2024. It’s in the running again this year.
When: Saturday, Dec. 6 at 5:50 p.m.
Where: Tejon Street from Boulder Street to Vermijo Avenue
This year marks the 41st annual Festival of Lights Parade in downtown Colorado Springs. Marching down Tejon Street, this parade is one of the most celebrated events around town during the holidays. Enjoy over 100 illuminated floats, charming characters and holiday music for a memorable experience for all ages.
Old Colorado City Christkindlmarket
When: Dec. 11-14 and 18-23, 12-8 p.m.
Where: Bancroft Park, 2408 West Colorado Avenue
For the first time, Colorado Springs residents won’t need to drive to Denver to enjoy the Christkindlmarket. This year, Old Colorado City is hosting one right in their own backyard. The German Christmas market features vendors selling traditional German gifts, handcrafted beer steins and food staples like currywurst and Bavarian pretzels. A cozy heated tent will host nightly entertainment as well, including brass bands and polka music.
When: Dec. 19, 20 and 24
Where: Broadmoor Hall
Head to The Broadmoor this holiday season for dinner and entertainment. This year, Julie Bradley, Sinatra-style crooner Derek Evilsizor, soprano sensation Amy Mushall and international jazz artist Nelson Rangell hit the stage for a can’t-miss performance. On the menu are chargrilled filet mignon and roasted Verlasso salmon, with a special holiday dessert.
When: Jan. 31 from 12-3 p.m.
Where: Memorial Park
Let the fruitcakes fly! What started in 1996 with locals throwing fruitcakes in the park has since become a beloved annual tradition. Attendees at the 31st Annual Great Fruitcake Toss can take part in competitions such as distance, balance, accuracy, basketcake and the bake-off. And yes, there will be plenty of fruitcake samples to enjoy as well.