Seasonal Entertainment Near Lakeside This Weekend!
December 7, 2017
The closer we get to Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, the more seasonal entertainment and family-friendly holiday activities will materialize in Aurora and Denver! From light shows, a Hot Night Snow Ball and a chance to learn the tango, brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Disney on Ice and the Nutcracker Circus! Oh, and don’t miss the rare opportunity to hear Bill Murray on stage! It’s all happening this weekend near Southshore!
Thursday-Saturday, December 7-9
JOE LARSON LIVE!
Joe Larson is a second-generation comedian. Much to his parent’s dismay, Joe went into the family business at the age of 20. Straight away he was chosen “College Comedian of the Year” at the Las Vegas Comedy Festival and was a finalist in both the Johnny Carson Great American Comedy Festival and Boston Comedy Festival.
Just as his comedy career was taking off, Joe became a father, giving him a new level of comfort in his role on stage and on-screen. Unconventional as always, Joe didn’t take on the traditional role of dad, but rather says he is simply a “man with a baby”. He is currently lending his Man with A Baby voice as writer and actor on the hit show Babies Behaving Badly on Discovery Family, TLC and Discovery UK.
Comedy Works-Downtown, 1226 15th St., Denver
Thurs., 8:00; Fri./Sat., 7:30 & 9:45 p.m.
Tickets: $30
Phone: 303-595-3637
For Tickets, visit Comedy Works online
THE SNOWMAN AND THE SYMPHONY
On a cold winter night, a young boy and a magical snowman go together on an enchanted journey that takes them flying through the skies and over the mountaintops, making new friends, including Santa Claus himself! The Snowman is an Academy Award-nominated short film based on Raymond Briggs’ classic children’s book of the same name. Hear the Aurora Symphony perform Howard Blake’s beautiful score – including its most famous song, Walking in the Air live with the film. Enjoy other holiday favorites from around the world during this program including Sleigh Ride and joyful audience sing-along songs.
Heritage Events Center, 14401 E. Exposition Ave., Aurora
3:00 p.m.
Tickets: $20-$35
Phone: 303-873-6622
Thursday-Sunday, December 7-10
NIGHTIME ZOO LIGHTS
Zoo Lights will span 60 acres of the Denver Zoo’s campus, with nightly entertainment, animal encounters, Santa meet-and-greets and, of course, illuminated animal sculptures. These well-lit animals swing through trees, jump across lawns, hide in bushes and appear in places where they’re least expected! Running through December 31, Zoo Lights is one of Denver’s most anticipated seasonal events, and a great opportunity for all ages to enjoy the holidays with family and friends.
Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St., Denver
5:30-9:00 p.m.
Tickets: $7-$13
Phone: 720-337-1400
FIRST DATE
When blind date newbie Aaron is set up with serial-dater Casey, a casual drink at a busy New York restaurant turns into a hilarious high-stakes dinner. As the date unfolds in real time, the couple quickly finds that they are not alone on this unpredictable evening. In a delightful and unexpected twist, Casey and Aaron’s inner critics take on a life of their own when other restaurant patrons transform into supportive best friends, manipulative exes and protective parents, who sing and dance them through ice-breakers, appetizers and potential conversational land mines. Can this couple turn what could be a dating disaster into something special before the check arrives?
Garner Galleria Theatre, DCPA, 14th and Arapahoe, Denver
Thurs.-Sun., 7:30 p.m.; Sat./Sun., 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: $46
COLORADO BALLET MAGIC!
Colorado Ballet’s Nutcracker has been charming audiences with its magical story for 57 years and is a treasured event of the holiday season. Timeless choreography performed by talented dancers to Tchaikovsky’s extraordinary score (played live by the Colorado Ballet Orchestra) is quintessential holiday fare. Complete with tip-toeing fairies, handsome princes, dancing snowflakes and a lovely young girl making her way to the Sugar Candy Kingdom, this gorgeous ballet is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Ellie Caulkins Opera House,1385 Curtis St., Denver
Thurs./Fri., 7:30 p.m., Sat./Sun., 1:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Tickets: $30-$120
Phone: 303-837-8888
DISNEY ON ICE!
Just keep swimming with Dory, Nemo, Marlin and new pal Hank from Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory as they discover the true meaning of family. Then venture to the wintery world of Arendelle where Olaf and Kristoff help reunite royal sisters Anna and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen and learn love is the most powerful magic of all. See Cinderella, Rapunzel, Tiana and the Disney Princesses make their dreams come true through their virtues of bravery, kindness and perseverance. And celebrate true friendship with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and The Toy Story gang. Make unforgettable memories with all your Disney friends when Disney On Ice presents Follow Your Heart and skates into Denver!
Pepsi Center
Thurs.-Sat., 7:00 p.m.; Fri./Sat., 11:00 a.m.; Sat., 3:00 p.m.; Sun., 1:00 & 5:00 p.m.
Tickets: $15-$80
GARDEN HOLIDAY LIGHTS
The Botanic Gardens is a traffic-stopping expanse of incredible illumination that thrills the child in all of us. The gardens have been transformed with twinkling lights, interactive displays, and animated LED lights keyed to sound for eye-popping seasonal entertainment. Holiday treats and drinks are available for purchase to enjoy with the dazzling display, open after dark this weekend.
Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St., Denver
5:00-9:00 p.m.
Tickets: $16-$20
Phone: 720-865-3500
Thursday-Wednesday, December 7-13
YOUR TURN TO SKATE!
Looking for things to do this weekend? Get your ice skates and head to The Pond (or rent a pair there) for a spin around the groomed ice every day! It’s the most fun you can have on two skinny pieces of metal. Practice your toe loop and spiral, or just glide around the frozen stuff for a great winter diversion!
The Pond at Southlands Mall, Main St., Aurora
Weekdays, 4:00-9:00 p.m.; Sat., 11:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.; Sun., 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Admission: $8/Skate Rental: $2.50
Phone: 303-928-7536
Friday, December 8
KIDS NIGHT OUT: ELF
Here’s a chance to let your kids have a night without you, and for you to have a night to yourselves! This week we’re showing Elf, starring Will Ferrell as Buddy who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, big Buddy travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father. Kids will can play games, do crafts eat the food provided, and then watch a movie in our movie theater. Parents can relax with the night off for $15 for one child, and $10 for additional children.
The Lakehouse, 27151 E. Lakeview Dr., Aurora
6:00-10:00 p.m.
Cost: $10-$15
Phone: 720-870-2221
HOT NIGHT SNOW BALL
You are invited to CMDance’s annual holiday fundraiser gala, the Hot Night Snow Ball that begins with delicious cocktails and tasty hors d’oeuvres, followed by a silent auction to help raise money for the arts programs CMDance provides in Denver schools. Experience culture as you watch Zouk and Tango performances by world-class dancers, Adayl Lost and Rachel Farley and John Miller and Jesica Cutler. Then stick around for dance lessons in Zouk and Tango, and listen to live blues music performed by Ronnie Shellist.
McNichols Civic Center Building, 144 W. Colfax Ave., Denver
6:00 p.m.
Tickets: $10-$60
Phone: 323-989-2278
Friday-Sunday, December 8-10
CHRISTKINDL MARKET
For a few more weeks Denver’s Skyline Park looks more like a German town square filled with sparkling lights, seasonal songs, and holiday cheer at with lots of hand-crafted gifts, ornaments, toys, scarves, and European pastries, soups and candy. Enjoy mulled spiced wine or authentic Bavarian beer, as you browse the market.
Skyline Park, 16th Street Mall and Arapahoe St., Denver
11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
SCROOGE’S NIGHT TERRORS
Ebenezer Scrooge has distaste and disdain for his fellow man and anything related to Christmas. The miserly, miserable man is all “bah humbug,” until one Christmas Eve when the ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Future pay him a disturbing visit. During a restless night, the spirits show him his former self, cruel realities of the present and the grim future if he doesn’t change his belligerent ways. Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is a holiday favorite that continues to delight audiences of all ages.
Stage Theatre/DCPA, Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St., Denver
Fri./Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30 & 6:30 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$85
Saturday, December 9
THE NUTCRACKER CIRCUS
Whisk away to the Land of the Snow, and Land of the Sweets, and experience the story of Clara and her beloved Nutcracker doll. Set to the music of Tchaikovsky, The Nutcracker Circus: A Winter’s Dream features acrobats, jugglers, aerialists, and characters bringing this holiday classic to life in a whole new way! Join Movement of the Heart (MOTH) for a magical evening of toys, treats, dreams, and sugar plum fairies. In the holiday spirit, please remember to bring a toy donation benefiting Dolls for Daughters.
The Newman Center for the Performing Arts, 2344 E. Iliff Ave., Denver
2:00 & 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $30-$33
Phone: 303-919-4171
BILL MURRAY AND FRIENDS
Renowned comedian and actor Bill Murray teams up with distinguished German cellist Jan Vogler for a spirited evening of music and literature, for one night only. In this rare live appearance, Murray – as both singer and narrator – brings his charm and wit to songs by Foster, Gershwin, Mancini, and Bernstein, as well as readings of classic American poetry and prose in dialogue with Vogler’s singing Stradivari cello.
Bellco Theatre, 700 14th St., Denver
6:00 p.m.
Tickets: $45-$125
Phone: 303-228-8000
Saturday-Sunday, December 9-10
TINY HOUSE HOLIDAY TOUR
To celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, the first tiny house holiday event in the nation will arrive at the Shops of Northfield, Stapleton for what is sure to be one of the Denver Metro Area’s new favorite holiday traditions. This temporary village will feature festively decorated tiny homes, all built by Colorado builders. At night, drive or stroll through the Shops of Northfield to enjoy these charming tiny homes aglow with festive lights and holiday cheer. See how people live comfortably in these tiny houses while celebrating the season in a big way!
The Shops at Northfield/Stapleton, 8340 Northfield Blvd., Denver
10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Tickets: $5 (kids under 12 – free)
Phone: 303-900-5477
JACKALOPE ARTS FAIR
Get all your holiday shopping done in one destination this year! Jackalope Arts will be back with 150 artisans featuring works of art and home decor, fashion and accessory design, body products, housewares, food and more! Don’t miss the series of do-it-yourself hosted workshops throughout the weekend for both kids and adults. Check out the full schedule of events as well as participating artisans and parking recommendations.
McNichols Civic Center Building, 144 W. Colfax Ave., Denver
10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
FREE
Phone: 323-989-2278
A MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS!
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for more than 30 years. Grammy Award-winner Chip Davis has created a show featuring Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics along with a selection of compositions from his groundbreaking Fresh Aire series, which introduced the distinctive Mannheim sound to all of America. The program celebrates the group’s 30-year anniversary since its first Christmas album and 40 years since the first Fresh Aire album. The evening will include dazzling multimedia effects performed in an intimate setting. Experience the magic as the spirit of the season comes alive with the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller.
Buell Theatre, 1350 Curtis St., Denver
Sat., 4:00 & 8:00 p.m.; Sun., 3:00 p.m.
Tickets: $44-$100
Phone: 303-893-4100
Sunday, December 10
HOLIDAYS AT THE HANGAR
Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum and the Lowry Community Master Association are excited to host their third annual Holidays at the Hangar event! Guests will enjoy carolers, holiday treats, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Have your little ones write a letter to Santa to deliver in person to the red-suited man. Want early access? Purchase tickets to brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus to receive a delicious holiday brunch and early access to Holidays at the Hangar!
Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum, 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver
12:00-4:00 p.m.
Tickets: $8.50-$15
Phone: 303-360-5360
Sunday-Monday, December 10-11
KEVIN SMITH LIVE!
A writer, comedian, podcaster, and film director, Kevin Smith has written and directed numerous films including Clerks, Chasing Amy, Dogma, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, Red State and Tusk. Kevin is the creator of AMC’s Comic Book Men and has also authored several books. He can be heard daily at Smodcast.com, a vast network of podcasts. An Evening with Kevin Smith is a chance to get up close and personal with this talented artist for a rare question-and-answer session.
Comedy Works-Downtown, 1226 15th St., Denver
Sun., 5:00 p.m.; Mon., 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $30
Phone: 303-595-3637
JAY AND SILENT BOB GET OLD
Join the hilarious duo Jay and Silent Bob for a live podcast as movie icons Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes who made history and fans all over the world with the characters Jay & Silent Bob, entertain their fans. Best known for movies like Clerks, Mallrats and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back. Now you can see them live recording their comedy podcast Jay and Silent Bob Get Old. Ranked number one on iTunes comedy podcasts, Jay and Silent Bob Get Old is a sometimes touching, always hilarious look at what happens when two people grow up under the unforgiving gaze of Hollywood.
Comedy Works-Downtown, 1226 15th St., Denver
Sun., 7:15 p.m.; Mon., 9:45 p.m.
Tickets: $30
Phone: 303-595-3637
Wednesday, December 13
PAWS AND CLAWS PHOTO OP!
Bring your furry friends to Paws and Claws Night on Wednesday nights from 4pm – 7pm at the Santa Photo Experience located on Main Street next to Savory Spice Shop.
Southlands Shopping Center, Main Street (next to Savory Spice Shop), Aurora
4:00-7:00 p.m.
THE BIG APPLE
There’s no place in the world quite like New York City. From Broadway to Wall Street, Little Italy to Central Park, New York has a history and an energy all its own. Join Active Minds as we virtually visit one of the world’s most important cities. We’ll explore the city’s past and present, as well as the important people and places that have shaped this unique city.
Heather Gardens (Auditorium), 2888 S. Heather Gardens Way, Aurora
2:00 p.m.
Phone: 303-751-1811
Seasonal Spirit in Southshore!
The spirit of the season is glowingly evident in the master-planned community of Southshore! Drive through the lighted neighborhoods and check out the holiday lights where homeowners enjoy living lakeside in Aurora! Make an appointment to visit the spectacular model from Toll Brothers in Vista Point and the inviting Richmond American Homes model, plus the latest new home designs from Century Communities in The Hills at Southshore. Priced from the upper $300s to the $700s.