As soon as we turn our calendars to November, we know it’s time to kick it up a notch. Special events are being planned and promoted, holiday shopping is in full swing, and now is the time to figure out what we will fill our calendars with. Most of us probably stick to the same routine year after year. Instead, this year let me challenge the same-ole, same-ole and suggest several holiday activities to expand your horizons!
If you are looking for things to do over the holidays….look no further! (P.S. We love a good list of fun activities. Take a gander at our Top 10 Christmas Activities, Colorado Springs New Year’s Events, Fall Activities Near Colorado Springs, and Things to Do in Colorado Springs posts. Bookmark ’em for future reference!).
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FAMILY ACTIVITIES
Photo by Mike Arney on Unsplash
We’ve selected a few kid-friendly options that will create excitement and get everyone in the mood for Christmas! With kids out of school, what better way to make the days go by quicker than by filling their vacation with special events. Whether it is ice-skating or watching a Christmas parade, fill up your calendar with special holiday activities sure to bring a smile to all.
SKATE IN THE PARK (Nov 11 – Jan 31, 2022)
Skate in Acacia Park in downtown Colorado Springs. Special events this year include skating with members of the Colorado College hockey team and learn to skate with Team USA’s figure skating team.
PIONEERS MUSEUM FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS CELEBRATION (Dec 3, 2022)
Register to save your spot for a day of fun at the Pioneers Museum. They’ll have live performances, crafting and more led by organizations from the community.
BEAR CREEK BY CANDLELIGHT (Dec 2, 2022)
Bundle up and walk the candlelit trails of Bear Creek Park in southwest Colorado Springs. Enjoy a chili dinner, live music and a visit from Santa.
Related Reading: Map of Colorado Springs Christmas Lights Display (from Timberline Landscaping)
NATURE WALKS WITH SANTA (Dec 10 & 17, 2022)
Take a hike with Saint Nick and enjoy an interactive reading of “Twas the Night before Christmas.” Make paper snowflakes and enjoy live music after the hike.
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE (Dec 3, 2022)
This year’s parade will resume its usual format and allow spectators to watch beautiful floats decorated with holiday lights in downtown Colorado Springs
ROYAL GORGE SANTA EXPRESS TRAIN (Various dates in Dec & Nov)
Do you or your kids love the movie, Polar Express? Then you’ll be giddy over this experience on a real train. Wear your PJs and get ready to drink your fill of hot chocolate. It’s a popular attraction so book early!
CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO ELECTRIC SAFARI (Starts Dec. 2 , 2022. Multiple nights)
You cannot celebrate this season without a visit to the Electric Safari! Beautiful lights, hot cocoa, fire pits throughout the zoo – a fun night that is a special tradition for our city. Bundle the whole family up and enjoy a memorable evening!
WINTER WONDERLAND WITH THE WOLVES (Dec 18, 2022)
Enjoy breakfast burritos and a visit with the wolves at the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center. Reservations are required!
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DATE NIGHT
So now that the kids are taken care of, don’t think that the fun stops there. It’s only beginning! There are loads of options for a special date night to celebrate sans little ones.
OLD COLORADO CITY CHRISTMAS STROLL (Nov 26)
Enjoy a Victorian Christmas celebration while browsing Christmas specials at local shops and taking in the entertainment strolling the streets (including carolers!). If you decide to bring the kids along, they can meet Prancer the Reindeer and get a photo with Santa.
ADULTS ONLY ELECTRIC MOONLIGHT (Dec 8, 2022)
This time leave the kids at home and have an adults-only night at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo! Enjoy samples of food, libations and live music throughout the zoo.
MUSIC AND PERFORMANCES
Photo by Radek Grzybowski on Unsplash
Do you have a favorite tradition for the holidays? I love to attend a Nutcracker performance – something I have done since I was a teenager. No matter your traditions, here are several classic performances sure to have you dreaming of a white (and warm & snuggly) Christmas!
CHRISTMAS AT THE RANCH (Dec 1 – 22, 2022)
The Flying W Ranch offers an ideal backdrop for a their annual holiday celebration. The Cowboy Christmas Jubilee includes a delicious dinner and live musical show by the Flying W Wranglers.
THE NUTCRACKER (Nov 25-27, 2022)
What is the Christmas season without watching the story of Claire and her nutcracker doll coming to life? A “sweet treat” no matter your age! The Pikes Peak Center always puts on a wonderful show featuring the Oklahoma City Ballet, the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and the Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale.
HEART OF CHRISTMAS (Dec 9-11, 2022)
Now in its 14th year, a phenomenal musical performed both in Norway and in our backyard at the Charis Bible College in Woodland Park. The story of a young girl in the 40s who escapes the war in Europe and comes to America. She discovers the true meaning of Christmas.
IRISH CHRISTMAS IN AMERICA (Dec 16, 2022)
Live music, dancing and singing all in the Irish tradition at the Stargazers Theatre in Colorado Springs.
CHRISTMAS SYMPHONY (Dec 18, 2022)
The Colorado Springs Philharmonic will perform seasonal favorites and holiday classics at the Pikes Peak Center in Colorado Springs.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT (Dec 3 & 4, 2022)
Looking for a goose bump experience? This is not your grandma’s little village choir. Village Seven Presbyterian Church produces the most amazing performances. Extremely talented and well put-together, I have never been disappointed. Nothing short of an amazing experience. This year’s concert will celebrate the hope of the season with new and old versions of beloved Christmas music featuring orchestra, choir, hand bells, contemporary band, drama from Village Arts, and dancers from Turning Pointe Dance Studio. If you can’t make it to the concert in person, they will livestream the Saturday performance on their website and post a recording on Sunday.
ALL ABOUT THAT FOOD (AND DRINK)
Photo by Jennifer Pallian by Unsplash
Admit it. You LOVE the food during the holidays! Who doesn’t? I found a few holiday activities that are all about yummy-to-your-tummy treats and tantalizing and rich meals.
GLEN EYRIE MADRIGAL BANQUET (12 nights in Dec)
Experience a traditional medieval Christmas banquet, hosted in the Grand Hall of the castle. Wassail, singing, and a traditional meal. Get your tickets early because this event always sells out!
FRIENDSGIVING AT THE MELTING POT (Nov 21-23, 2022)
Featuring a Pumpkin Spice Martini & White Chocolate Pumpkin Pie Fondue. Enough said. Sounds like a girls night out to me!
VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS TEA (Nov 25-27, 2022)
Celebrate the season in style with a four course traditional High Tea at Miramont Castle in Manitou Springs.
I wish I could have included all the wonderful activities available this year! There are so many to choose from. Whatever you decide, may it be a magical year for you and your family. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
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