During the holidays many areas of Denver transform into a magical wonderland of twinkling lights and festive cheer. If you are looking for extra special displays as a family outing, check out this list of best holiday light displays in Denver.
Best Holiday Light Displays in Denver
Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens
An annual favorite for over 40 years, Blossoms of Light offers a colorful display of sparkling wonder, draped over and across the gardens. Stroll through a landscape of shimmering trees, glowing sculptures and romantic pathways. Advance reservations are required.
Centennial Center Park Holiday Lights
A lesser-known gem, Centennial Center Park offers a free, family friendly light display. The park is adorned with sparkling trees, festive sculptures and light tunnels perfect for Instagram-worthy moments.
Cherry Creek North Winter Wanderland
Cherry Creek North lights up the season with its Winter Wanderland. Featuring a million dazzling lights wrapping more than 600 trees it illuminates the entire neighborhood! highlight, however, are the stunning light/art installations, including the “Interactive Musical Tree” that dazzles with sound and light choreography.
Christmas in Color
Three locations (Water World, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre and Arapahoe County Fairground) host a can’t miss drive-thru light experience. It is synchronized to music via your car radio. The Red Rocks location has one of the world’s longest light tunnels! Throw the kids in their pajamas, pop some popcorn and enjoy the drive through the dazzling display.
Denver Christkindlmarket
This European-style holiday market at Civic Center Park pairs twinkling lights with charming wooden stalls. Browse for handmade gifts, sip on mulled wine, munch on Bavarian pretzels and enjoy the festive decorations surrounding the market. The event is free and open to the public from Nov. 21 through Dec. 23 in its new location at the Auraria Campus.
Downtown Denver Grand Illumination
Kick off the season with Downtown Denver’s Grand Illumination. Union Station and the 16th Street Mall sparkle with classic lights, while the iconic City and County Building glows in a kaleidoscope of colors. This free display is a staple of the city’s holiday cheer. The initial lighting ceremony is filled with family-friendly activities, food and entertainment. The annual tree lighting happens at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28.
A Hudson Holiday
Set in Littleton’s Hudson Gardens, this display is a true winter wonderland. The gardens are transformed with sparkling pathways, towering trees draped in lights and festive music. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and stroll through this charming place. The family-friendly event will also feature theme nights and special events throughout the season.
Light the Lights
Head to Civic Center Park to see the City & County of Denver Building light up with a choreographed display accompanied by music! Each night at 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. an eight minute show will light up the building. It then goes to a festive, static holiday display until 10:45 p.m. Witness the beauty from late November to late January.
Elitch Holidays
From November 28, 2025 through January 4, 2026, the park will shine brighter than ever with this fresh take on a beloved tradition. Guests will be dazzled by more than four million glittering lights, festive rides, and a brand-new holiday show in the Trocadero Theatre – Spirit of the Season – produced by RWS Entertainment. From magical moments with Jolly Ol’ Saint Nick to roller coasters in a winter wonderland, Elitch Holidays is set to be Denver’s most unforgettable destination for holiday cheer.
Mile High Drone Show
This holiday season, the Denver skyline will come alive once again with the Mile High Drone Show. For 41 magical nights, 600 drones will soar into the sky, creating holiday-themed animations. Starting Nov. 21 and continuing through Dec. 31, 2025, you’ll be able to witness these dazzling displays every night at 7 p.m. for free.
The Mile High Tree presented by Xcel Energy & Xfinity
Join in the free festivities at the Mile High Tree. It’s a brilliantly lit, 110-foot-tall immersive art installation that provides a dazzling lights-and-music show.
Olde Golden Holidays
Small town charm exudes from Golden during the holidays, almost as if it’s straight out of Hallmark special. The sparkling lights line the streets and trees of the downtown center, with special events like the Candlelight Walk, Holiday Parade and Jingle on the Avenue sprinkled throughout the month of December.
The Parade of Lights
The annual Parade of Lights is a Denver tradition that combines lighted floats, marching bands, cultural celebrations and so much more. The parade winds through downtown Denver, creating a magical experience for all ages. Grab a hot drink and enjoy the spectacle!
Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms
This countryside escape blends the magic of holiday lights with the charm of a working farm. The Trail of Lights features illuminated antique tractors, a giant Christmas tree and a historic barn wrapped in festive lights. Perfect for families looking for a more rustic holiday experience.
Zoo Lights at Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo comes alive at night with over two million LED lights creating animal-themed displays. Your entire family will enjoy everything from twinkling tunnels to animated exhibits. Plus, ticket sales and renvenue help support wildlife conservation efforts! Pro Tip: Save when you pre-order treats online, including snacks, beverages and festive glow items, ONLY available during Zoo Lights.
On December 31st enjoy a sensory-friendly night with a variety of accommodations including reduced crowds, low-volume music and quiet rooms for those who may feel overwhelmed by typical light experiences.
Light Displays in Neighborhoods
Denver’s neighborhoods also bring their A-game during the holiday season. The Denver Highlands and Stapleton areas are known for their community driven light displays. Take a leisurely stroll through these neighborhoods to see houses decked out with intricate decorations.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the extravagantly decorated homes on Candy Cane Lane (679 South High St. in Wash Park.)!
Denver’s holiday light displays are more than just spectacles — they’re traditions that bring people together. Enjoy the magic of the season!
