UPDATE: Denver is ablaze with festive cheer as the 2025 Christmas season kicks off with spectacular holiday light displays across the city. Residents and visitors can experience dazzling illuminations from local homes to large-scale public events, making this a must-see season.
Just announced: The city is alive with holiday spirit, featuring innovative light shows and decorations that honor a century-old tradition started by electrician D.D. Sturgeon. In 1914, Sturgeon lit up a pine tree outside his son’s window to spread joy during a difficult time, sparking a legacy that continues today.
This year, holiday lights are brighter than ever, with multiple events across Denver. In Highlands Ranch, a residential home is transformed into a festive wonderland, showcasing a life-sized Chewbacca in a Santa hat and an array of colorful string lights. Visitors can enjoy a cocoa stand on Friday and Saturday nights, with proceeds benefiting local cancer charities.
Experience an incredible 20,000 Christmas lights synchronized to classic holiday tunes at a Broomfield house, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for all ages. Meanwhile, the annual Christmas in Color event at Red Rocks invites families to drive through vibrant tunnels of light.
For a unique aerial experience, Visit Denver has partnered with local drone company Brightflight to present free, fifteen-minute holiday drone shows every night through the end of the year. Prime viewing spots include the Tivoli Quad on the Auraria Campus and the Denver Performing Arts Complex.
The Denver Zoo is also lighting up the season with a spectacular light show, featuring over three million lights spread across eighty acres, delighting guests of all ages. The iconic Blossoms of Light showcase at the Denver Botanic Gardens is celebrating its 40th anniversary, offering a stunning display that transforms the gardens into a holiday paradise.
Union Station boasts a beautiful holiday display, featuring a massive glowing Christmas tree and vibrant lights, perfect for pick-up or a quick stop. Although renovations are ongoing at Civic Center Park, the City and County Building remains a highlight with its dazzling light display through the National Western Stock Show.
As the holiday season unfolds, Denver is alive with opportunities to create cherished memories. Whether through immersive light experiences or local community initiatives, the spirit of giving and joy is palpable.
Stay tuned for more updates on Denver’s holiday happenings, and make sure to share your favorite light displays with friends and family!
