Estes Park has something magical in store for you this holiday season with the launch of the very first Catch the Glow Holiday Season! With 7 full weeks of holiday events and experiences, we have something special waiting for every type of traveler. With so many things to choose from, we decided to make it easier for you with these itineraries crafted just for you, depending on what you may be looking for! From pure-hearted family fun to something a bit more spirited, we have the perfect holiday vacation planned for you here in Estes Park! Find your ideal trip below and plan your Rocky Mountain holiday away today!
If you’re seeking…
Some Family Frolicking
Kick off your family-friendly holiday celebrations with the annual Catch the Glow Parade, a whimsical holiday spectacle featuring more than 40 elements including handcrafted floats, marching bands, fire trucks and other specialty vehicles. While you await the parade’s start, your family can spend time visiting Santa and strolling through downtown Estes Park.
Continue your adventure striking poses in front of life-sized holiday displays perfect for a souvenir photo op! From November 18 to January 1, immerse yourselves in the magic of Bond Park as it turns into a dazzling spectacle adorned with awe-inspiring light displays. The colossal pole light tree that hosts synchronized light and music shows every 30 minutes each evening will surely be a hit for children and adults.
On December 10, treat your family to a true classic Christmas experience with Boulder Ballet's, The Nutcracker, at The Stanley Hotel. Featuring professional company dancers, enjoy this holiday classic from the seats of the Stanley Hotel's state-of-the-art Pavilion.
Embark on the "Totally Lit" Christmas Scavenger Hunt at Castle Mountain Lodge, where twinkling lights guide your path to hidden treasures. Seek out whimsical creatures and hidden figures amidst the glow, and revel in the joy of discovery! Then, cozy up by the fire with hot cocoa, spiced cider, or a freshly baked cookie.
Finally, on December 16, head to Bond Park for Glow in the Park Family Day where you and your littles can enjoy meeting Santa, frozen princesses, and even Hallmark movie star Nikki DeLoach! Aside from these delightful encounters, there will be plenty of activities to unwrap, including a ride on a mechanical reindeer, an inflatable slide, a petting zoo and an array of entertaining games! Enjoy the thrill of a sugar rush with the Sweets Stroll as Estes Park transforms into a candy land, offering delectable sweet treats from locally-owned bakeries, candy shops, ice cream parlors, and chocolatiers. Fill your punch card along this sugary trail for a sweet surprise.
A Festive Fantasy
Estes Park is the ideal destination for all holiday fanatics. First, book a stay at Castle Mountain Lodge where you will transform your getaway into a fairytale holiday, starting off with a cozy cabin stay, be mesmerized by the award-winning Christmas light display that transforms the lodge into an illuminated wonderland, and on December 23 take a private trip into the heart of a 40-acre ranchette where you can harvest your own Christmas Tree! Once you’re settled, lose yourself among the illuminated streets of Estes Park, looking like you jumped straight into a Christmas snow globe.
On November 25th and 26th, venture on a holiday shopping spree at The Holiday Makers Market at Bear & Bee Maker's Studio and Boutique, where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones while supporting local artists!
Then for the grand finale, embark on the ultimate holiday journey with our Estes Park Holiday Passport. Traverse through diverse local shops, flavorsome restaurants, cozy coffee shops, local breweries and cocktail bars. Don’t forget to check off your visit to each attraction on your passport for a chance to win a generous grand prize.
A Jolly Jamboree
From sipping Colorado wines at the Estes Park Holiday Wine Fest on December 16 to toasting the season with sudsy craft beverages as you jam out to the music of Chain Station and Step Mother Nature at Frosty Beer Fest on December 9, Estes Park is bursting with “spirited” merriment this season.
Step into a Christmas dreamscape at our Miracle Pop-Up Bar. Affectionately known as Miracle on 7, this whimsical bar at Cousin Pat’s Pub & Grill is decked out to the brim in intriguing holiday décor and specially curated cocktails. Here, even the grumpiest Grinch will find it hard not to be swept up by the spirit!
Relax with a musical interlude, "A Christmas to Remember," featuring talented local artists bringing you your holiday favorites in this musical extravaganza.
And if beer fest isn't enough for your love of suds, check out the 12 Beers of Christmas at Avant Garde Aleworks. With a line-up of limited edition beers, taproom favorites and some exclusive releases, this is one event you don't want to miss. Get your pre-order in early to ensure you don't miss out on this unique holiday beer experience.
Finally, fill your tummy at Bird and Jim where you can experience the 12 days of Christmas. Indulge in a festive 3-course menu with wine pairings, offered for 12 days only!
A Romantic Retreat
Begin your soothing couples retreat at the Stanley Hotel with an exclusive 20 percent Winter Weekend Getaway offer. The imposing beauty of the Rockies is a stunning backdrop to your unforgettable stay as you experience the marvels of Estes Park during the holiday season.
Then, bundle up with your honey as you head for a serene day of snowshoeing. Enjoy a private tour led by one of Estes Park’s many knowledgeable guides as you explore this winter wonderland beneath the majestic Rocky Mountains.
Once you get back to town, warm up with cozy caffeinated sips at The Bird’s Nest with their festive drink specials. Try the Grinchmas Matcha Latte, a blend of matcha with house-made peppermint and white chocolate syrup, adorned with crushed candy canes. Or, indulge in the Snow Day Latte crafted with fig syrup and smoked oak and finished with a dusting of cinnamon.
Conclude your trip with an exquisite Marshmallow Melt Massage at Qi Lounge Wellness Spa. This 90-minute heavenly blend of dry brushing, hot stone therapy, and aromatic cocoa and shea butter treatment will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
So pack your bags and set out to experience the magic of the holiday season in Estes Park, where you can cherish the moments, savor the flavors and create memories that will warm your heart for years to come. You can find more information as well as all events and special offers here. Happy holidays!
