The holidays take on a glow all their own in the Colorado Rockies. From
Steamboat’s small-town sparkle and Santa on horseback, to Breckenridge’s
historic streets lit up with hundreds of thousands of lights, to Vail and
Beaver Creek’s alpine festivities, each resort brings its own twist on winter
magic. Here’s our guide to the season’s standout events.
View the beauty of four magnificent hot air balloons that will illuminate the Mountain Village from 5:30-6:00pm. Spectators can stroll among the standing balloons or watch from the warmth of a slope side eatery.
Join Rabbi Kolby Morris-Dahary of Har Mishpacha: The Jewish Congregation of Steamboat and Shannon Lukens of Steamboat Radio will be on the Steamboat Stage at the base of the mountain in a celebration of the Festival of Light. Whether you are local or visiting, Jewish or not, you are invited to celebrate in song, treats (jelly donuts), and the ritual of lighting a Hanukkah menorah!
- Breckenridge ups the ante on small town holiday charm by transforming its historic downtown into a sparkling snow globe scene thanks to more than 59,000 feet and 250,000 LED holiday lights, which get turned on the first weekend of December during the Lighting of Breckenridge. Those visiting Breckenridge during winter a can expect iconic holiday lights throughout downtown Breckenridge.
Join Breckenridge Backstage Theater as they perform a fun twist on a beloved classic.
Step into the magic of the holidays at the Vail Kris Kringle Market, December 11–14, 2025. Inspired by the charm of traditional European Christmas markets, this festive open-air event fills Vail Village with twinkling lights, fragrant garlands, and the joyful sounds of the season.
On Sunday, Dec. 14, grab your ugliest holiday sweater and join the Vail Recreation District for a fun-filled morning run through Vail Village while collecting donations for the The Community Market and a local toy drive.
Still in search of some stocking stuffers? From western-inspired finds in Steamboat, to charming stores in Breckenridge and luxury boutiques in Vail and Beaver Creek, you're sure to find something truly unique, and that will be reminder of a memorable holiday ski vacation. Here are our staff's favorite shops to wrap up your holiday shopping in Breckenridge, Steamboat, and the Vail Valley.
