The Grinch AND Parade of Lights This Weekend!
December 5, 2019
There is so much holiday cheer in Denver and Aurora this weekend that it’s hard to keep up! A must-see is the annual Parade of Lights in downtown Denver, a beloved tradition that welcomes the holiday season to town. Also in Denver are productions of favorite Christmas shows from The Grinch to A Christmas Carol to The Nutcracker and more!
TODAY/TONIGHT, December 5
DENVER LEADS THE CHANGE
When it comes to sustainability, Denver leads the way! This annual summit is an important event for businesses, nonprofits and civic organizations to educate, inspire and drive action which champions sustainability in our community.
The Sustainable Denver Summit attracts nearly 1000 attendees, over 100 presenters, and more than fifty exhibitors to the Colorado Convention Center. As a launching pad for new Commitments to Action, the Summit’s mission is to to make Denver more sustainable. You’ll hear from exceptional speakers, collaborate and network to create and act on sustainability solutions, get behind the wheel of an electric vehicle, and celebrate the Love This Place award winners who are pushing the envelope on sustainability!
Colorado Convention Center, 700 14th St., Denver
8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Tickets: $95-$120
GALA HONORING CAPTAIN “SULLY”
Remember the harrowing crash landing of US Airways Flight 1549 in the Hudson River when the plane ran into a flock of Canadian geese shortly after takeoff from LaGuardia? It was the heroic efforts of the pilot, Captain “Sully” Sullenberger, that transformed the disaster into a miracle—the “Miracle on the Hudson.”
The Spreading Wings Gala at the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum celebrates Captain Sullenberger as the keynote speaker at their biggest fundraising event of the year. As the world-renowned pilot, safety expert, and author, Captain Sullenberger will lead a spectacular evening of storytelling, food, and libations, all geared toward propelling the aerospace industry forward.
Wings Over the Rockies, 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Tickets: $250-$300
Phone: 303-360-5360
Thursday-Sunday, December 5-8
CAMP CHRISTMAS HAS ARRIVED
Christmas celebrations have never been like this! As a massive hands-on installation exploring fantastic “what if” scenarios, Camp Christmas is a mash-up of history and pop culture—all in the name of holiday traditions. Every member of your family will be spellbound by the over-the-top display of decorations, light-shows, and immersive scenarios.
See Marie Antoinette at the helm of a Rococo sled or an ancient Roman festival that has been “Santa-fied.” While perfect for all ages, older kids and teenagers will especially appreciate this “outside the box” approach to the holiday rituals that humanity has been going through for thousands of years.
The Hangar at Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas St., Aurora
Thurs./Sun., 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.; Fri./Sat., 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Tickets: $10 – $15
Phone: 303-893-4100
SEE SANTA AT SOUTHANDS
If the kids are clamoring to get their Christmas lists to Santa, bring them to Southlands so they can sit on his lap and pose for a photo, while you can check some holiday shopping off your list! If you purchase $200 or more at any participating Southlands store, you’ll get a free 5×7 Santa photo!
Southlands, 6155 S. Main St., Aurora
Thurs., 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.; Fri./Sat., 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.; Sun., 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Cost: Various photo packages available
Phone: 303-627-5000
DENVER ZOO CELEBRATiONS
Everyone’s favorite holiday event, Zoo Lights, is back and better than ever! Any time is a great time to go to Denver Zoo, but the zoo undergoes a magical transformation over the holidays that is sure to put you into the spirit of the season.
Little ones as well as adults will be dazzled by the extravagant decorations and lighting displays with over two million lights! And of course, the animals are on their best behavior, especially eager to please!
Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St., Aurora
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Tickets: $15-$20
Phone: 720-432-9162
THE GRINCH ON STAGE FOR ONE WEEKEND ONLY
This heartwarming story is beloved from its start as the classic Dr. Seuss book to the original animated TV special to myriad movies and TV shows. But nothing is like seeing it live, with all the energy and delightful music that will have your holiday spirit soaring!
Featuring the hit songs you know and love, like You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch and Welcome Christmas (written by Albert Hague and Dr. Seuss), this version of the story is narrated by Max the Dog. The mean and scheming Grinch. of course, is up to his devious plan to steal Christmas from the Whos down in Whoville. Kids and adults will delight in this magnificent production!
Buell Theatre, 1350 Curtis St., Denver
Thurs./Fri./Sat., 7:00 p.m.; Sat., 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.; Sun., 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: $30-$115
Phone: 303-893-4100
DISNEY ON ICE
Kids love the magic of adventurous ice skating, awesome acrobatics, and unexpected stunts—especially when they’re done by Mickey Mouse and friends on an exciting treasure hunt! Mickey’s Search Party is a brand-new adventure that follows Captain Hook’s treasure map in the search of Tinker Bell through immersive, fantastic worlds.
These worlds include all of your Disney favorites: the colorful spirit realm of Coco, Moana on the high seas, the icy world of Frozen, as well as appearances by characters in Aladdin, Toy Story, and The Little Mermaid!
Pepsi Stadium, 1000 Chopper Cir., Denver
Thurs./Fri./Sat., 7:00 p.m.; Fri./Sat./Sun., 11:00 a.m.; Sat./Sun., 3:00 p.m.
Tickets: $15-$90
Phone: 303-405-1100
Friday, December 6
CHRISTMAS CHRONICLES AT KIDS NIGHT OUT
What happens if you plan on capturing Santa on Christmas Eve? Siblings Kate and Teddy plot to do just that, but when they plan goes awry, the kids get to spend the evening with Santa anyway! The Christmas Chronicles will screen at this special holiday edition of Kids Night Out at the Southshore’s YMCA.
The fun-packed evening includes a movie, dinner, and crafts! Children must be potty-trained in order to attend, and registration for the event is required.
The Lakehouse, YMCA Southshore, 27151 E. Lakeview Dr., Aurora
6:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Cost: $15-$17
Phone: 720-870-2221
LOVE ACTUALLY IN CONCERT
Don’t miss this sweet and funny film, screened with the Colorado Symphony playing the score live! Love Actually is the ultimate romantic comedy from the makers of Bridget Jones’s Diary and Notting Hill. The all-star cast will take you on a breathtaking tour of love’s delightful twists and turns.
Boettcher Concert Hall/DCPA, Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St., Denver
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $20-$94
Phone: 303-623-7876
Friday-Saturday, December 6-7
DENVER PARADE OF LIGHTS
With the brightest of Colorado holiday traditions, Denver’s Parade of Lights officially ushers the holidays into downtown Denver! Bring the entire family out to celebrate along this two-mile-long parade spectacular, featuring extravagant floats, festive marching bands, and of course, a special appearance by Major Waddles the Penguin and Santa! Don’t forget to bring your mittens and hot chocolate so you can stay warm for the entire parade!
If you prefer to get the best views and watch the parade in high style, you can purchase Grandstand Seating in front of the spectacularly lit City & County Building. No matter how you see it, the Parade of Lights is sure to make you smile!
Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Ave., Denver
Fri., 8:00 p.m.; Sat., 6:00 p.m.
Tickets: FREE to $19 (Grandstand Seating)
Phone: 303-627-5000
Friday-Sunday, December 6-8
GROWN-UPS NIGHT OUT WITH DICKENS
Grown-ups love to celebrate the holidays, too! This wildly funny spoof of A Christmas Carol is bawdy and hilarious, and perfect for a grown-ups night out! With their signature outrageous style, Second City alums Peter Gwinn and Bobby Mort have redesigned Dickens’ tale of Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the Christmas ghosts for a special holiday treat! This zany series of holiday sketches turns the classic on its ear!
Aurora Arts Fox Center, 9900 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora
Fri./Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: $12-$37
Phone: 303-739-1970
Saturday, December 7
JOHN DENVER HOLIDAY CONCERT
A very special holiday treat for John Denver fans, this special celebration of the musical legend of Colorado’s most famous vocalist takes on the spirit of the holidays. In poignant archival video footage, the two-time GRAMMY® Award-winning singer/songwriter John Denver performs his classic songs. At the same time, the music is backed by live performances from the Colorado Symphony and members of his former band.
This concert is an innovative multi-media treat and unforgettable tribute with NEW holiday content.
Boettcher Concert Hall/DCPA, Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St., Denver
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $30-$104
Phone: 303-623-7876
Saturday-Sunday, December 7-8
SWEET WILLIAM MARKET
Vintage, antique, retro, nostalgic—find them all at the Sweet William Market! This beloved Denver flea market is a little smaller and more manageable than the big productions. You’ll get to check many items off your holiday shopping list as you peruse the ample spread of handmade goods and vintage merchandise. Bring the family for a day of fun and finds!
Founder’s Green, 29th Ave. and Syracuse St., Denver
Sat., 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Sun., 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Tickets: FREE
THE NUTCRACKER
The beloved ballet classic with Tchaikovsky’s incomparable uplifting score is a treat you look forward to all year long. The youngest children will be spellbound, while older kids will delight in the action and fantasy of Clara’s magical journey.
Don’t miss the most exquisite dancing, sets and costumes that will transport you to another time, and of course, the music that will have you humming all through the holidays.
Ellie Caulkins Opera House, 1385 Curtis St., Denver
Sat./Sun., 1:00 p.m.; Sun., 6:30 p.m.
Tickets: $40-$160
Phone: 303-893-4100
AURORA SYMPHONY HOLIDAY CONCERT
Nothing gets you in the spirit like your favorite community symphony orchestra playing the sounds of the season! The Aurora Symphony is in concert for one weekend only to take you on a magical journey through a winter wonderland.
The People’s Building, 9995 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora
Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 3:00 p.m.
Tickets: $5-$25
Sunday, December 8
JINGLE BELL RUN
Who says the holidays are only about eating and shopping? This fun 5K run is a meaningful way for people from all walks of life to come together for a great cause—to champion arthritis research and resources. This is a timed 5K race with a USA Track & Field-certified course, but if you prefer to walk, no problem!
Put on your favorite holiday costume, enjoy fun activities, and spread good cheer along with family, friends, and co-workers. All of your registration fees and fundraising efforts go to a great cause!
Washington Park, 701 South Franklin St., Denver
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Registration: $20-$50
Phone: 720-758-9618
CELTIC WOMEN CHRISTMAS
The celestial voices of multi-platinum Irish singing sensation Celtic Woman join with the Colorado Symphony to bring you a glorious Yuletide concert! This renowned all-female ensemble performs classic Christmas songs to fill you with holiday cheer.
Boettcher Concert Hall/DCPA, Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St., Denver
5:00 p.m.
Tickets: $15-$89
Phone: 303-623-7876
Get in the Holiday Spirit Near Southshore!
Away from it all, but close to everything, the lakeside community of Southshore offers access to plenty of things to do every weekend in December! If you’re new to Life at the Lake, drive around and check out the beautiful model homes from Century Communities, Richmond American Homes and Toll Brothers. Available in ranch and two-story designs, Southshore homes are priced between the upper $400s to the $700s.