DENVER – If you’ve been craving Christmas music, carolers, delicious turkey or festive lights, you will be able to experience all of that starting this week here in the Denver metro.
Here are 7 Thanksgiving events happening this week to get you in the holiday spirit.
1. Downtown Denver Grand Illumination
Nov. 24, 2017 at 6 p.m.
There is nothing quite like a Christmas tree lighting to get in the holiday spirit. As part of Downtown Denver's Winter in the City program, Downtown Denver's Grand Illumination event will light up Downtown, from Denver Union Station to the City and County Building at Civic Center Park. The lights stay on through the end of December.
2. Light the Lights
Nov. 24, 2017
The official kick-off to the largest lighting display in Denver happens on November 24 at 6 p.m. at the City & County Building, where 600,000 lights deck the neo-classical building, according to the folks over at VISIT DENVER. Enjoy family-friendly fun, food and live music in the light of the City and County Building at Light the Lights.
3. Mile High United Way Turkey Trot
Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23, 2017
Last year, the annual Mile High Turkey Trot had nearly 10,000 participants. So make sure to come to the Thanksgiving table guilt-free by burning off all those calories before the big meal at Washington Park. You can register here.
4. Denver Christkindl Market
Nov. 17 through Dec. 23, 2017
Enjoy a German-themed market as vendors in wooden huts serve authentic Glühwein (mulled spiced wine), show off their finely crafted artisan gifts and entertain with live music. This is all happening at Skyline Park on the 16th Street Mall.
5. Downtown Denver Ice Skating rink at Skyline Park
Nov. 21, 2017 through Feb. 14, 2018
Ice skate, fall, get up and repeat! Across from the Christkindl Market, you’ll find downtown Denver’s annual ice skating rink, so bring the whole family or that special someone for a fun night! Skate rentals are $2. If you bring your own skates, you get in free. There will be free days specifically for children.
6. Denver Zoo’s “Zoo Lights”
Preview weekend on Nov. 24 & 25; runs from Dec. 1 through Dec. 31
Experience at light safari with 60 brilliantly-illuminated acres of lights, featuring more than 130 animated animal sculptures that swing through trees, jump across lawns, hide in bushes and appear in places where they’re least expected.
7. Santa’s Village at Chatfield Farms
Nov. 24 through Dec. 24, 2017
Bring the kids to meet Santa before he drops off the presents on Christmas! Make crafts with Mrs. Claus and take a hayride through Santa’s Village. Afterward, come into Santa’s workshop to check out some magical souvenirs.