Camp Christmas. Photo by Amanda Tipton Photography.

A Christmas Carol, playing at the Wolf Theatre November 17 through December 24, is the classic Charles Dickens story of how Ebenezer Scrooge earned a newfound love for Christmas after encountering three distinct spirits on Christmas Eve: Christmas Past, Present and Future.

There are numerous local markets, light displays and foods to help you get into the holiday spirit with your family or that special someone. Let’s take a look.

HOLIDAY FOODS/MENUS

The Brown Palace

321 17th St., Denver, CO 80202 | 303-297-3111
Tea Service: Mon – Fri from 12-4pm and Sat & Sun from 11am-4pm
Atrium Cocktails: Mon – Sat from 4:30-8pm

When you’re all dressed up for the holidays, there’s no better place to show off your sparkle than the lobby of the legendary Brown Palace Hotel. Whether you want to sip a cup of tea or enjoy a refreshing cocktail, this elegant setting is the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of the season. Live music accompanies your beverage service. Reservations are limited during the holidays. Book early for best availability.

Illegal Burger

1512 Larimer St., Denver, CO 80202 | 303-634-1300
Sun-Thu from 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat from 11am-10pm

If your family is finicky, sometimes a good ol’ burger and fries will do the trick, so head on down for a quick bite at Illegal Burger in Writer Square. Order off the menu or create your own specialty with distinct toppings including maple bacon dip sauce, jalapeño aioli, adobo birria and grilled pineapple. And because calories just don’t count at the holidays, make sure to order a side of green chili cheese fries and a milkshake. No reservations required.

Sam’s No. 3 – Downtown Denver

1500 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80202 | 303-534-1927
Hours vary: check their website before visiting.

Sam’s No. 3 has almost 100 years under its belt with locations in Downtown Denver, Aurora, and Glendale. Kids have a great menu with Mickey Mouse Pancakes, French Toast, Burgers and Tots, Chicken Strips, the Bacon Breakfast Burrito and more. Reservations not required but the downtown location is packed before showtime, so arrive early.

LIGHT DISPLAYS

Camp Christmas

Stanley Marketplace, Aurora, CO 80010 | 303-893-4100
Nov 16 – Dec 24. Times vary

Handcrafted by Camp Director Lonnie Hanzon and his band of Denver-based magic makers, Camp Christmas is a dazzling dreamscape made just for you. Immerse yourself in a 15,000 square-foot, 360-degree kaleidoscope of yuletide cheer at this year’s Camp Christmas!

Christmas in Color

Pack up the kids and drive through Christmas in Color’s Colorado locations, such as Water World (8800 N. Pecos St., Federal Heights, CO 80260), Arapahoe County Fairgrounds (25690 E. Quincy Ave., Aurora, CO 80016) or Bandimere Speedway (3051 S. Rooney Rd., Morrison, CO 80465) while listening to holiday music via your car radio. See giant candy canes, snowmen, arched pathways and more. 

Denver Zoo Lights

2300 Steele St., Denver, CO 80205 | 720-337-1400
Dec 2 – Jan 7. Times vary

Visit the Denver Zoo for numerous light displays across the grounds for the ultimate Christmas experience. All ages welcome and prices vary between members and non-members.

Denver Union Station Grand Illumination

1701 Wynkoop, Denver, CO 80202 | 833-391-0338
One night only! Nov 24 at 4pm

Experience classic holiday hit performances from the Denver Dolls, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus and the lighting of the 40-foot-tall Christmas tree with more than 7,000 lights. The event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are encouraged, but not required.

MARKETS

Dairy Block’s Mistletoe Market

1800 Wazee St., Denver, CO 80202 | 303-309-4847
Weekends from Nov 16-Dec 17

The Dairy Block has a full line-up of events sure to take the chill off a winter day in its heated alley! More than a dozen vendors will fill the alley with ceramics, clothing, art and sustainable goods — perfect for gift giving or personal indulgence. Plus, the shoppers will be entertained by live carolers, holiday music, cocktails and a gift wrapping station.

Cherry Creek Holiday Market

105 Fillmore St., Denver, CO 80206 | hello@cherrycreekholidaymarket.com
Nov 16 – Dec 24. Times vary

Visit the 4th Annual Cheery Creek Holiday Market. Located in Cherry Creek North’s Fillmore Plaza between 1st and 2nd Ave., walk around and browse more than 50 local makers, designers and creators to meet your holiday season needs.

Art District on Santa Fe Holiday Market

858 Santa Fe Dr., Denver, CO 80204 | 720-773-ADSF
Nov 1  – Dec 30. Times vary

Visit the Art District on Sante Fe Holiday Market for art and creative work from local artists and businesses for the perfect gift ideas. This 36th annual holiday exhibition features reasonable priced, unique handcrafted artwork by local artists.

DETAILS
A Christmas Carol
Nov 17 – Dec 2, 2023 • Wolf Theatre
Tickets