Home for the Holidays: December Events in Evergreen, Colorado.
December in the foothills is truly magical, and there’s no better time to experience the heart of our mountain community. From twinkling lights and festive traditions to live music, artisan markets, holiday performances, and visits with Santa, Evergreen comes alive with seasonal cheer all month long. In this guide, you’ll find a curated collection of the best December events in Evergreen, Colorado—including the Holiday Walk, Breakfast With Santa, Winterfest celebrations, and beloved holiday theater productions—each offering a unique way to celebrate the season with family, friends, and neighbors. Plus, a monthly event in Denver that’s not to miss if you’re feeling like getting out of town for a day! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these events capture the warmth, charm, and community spirit that make Evergreen such a special place to spend the holidays.
Downtown Evergreen Holiday Walk
Friday, December 5th, 5-9pm
Evergreen High School, Christ the King Church
A Magical Kickoff to the Holiday Season in Downtown Evergreen
One of the most beloved holiday traditions in Evergreen, Colorado is back once again—the 33rd Annual Evergreen Holiday Walk! This festive community celebration is the official kickoff to the holiday season and transforms Downtown Evergreen into a glowing winter wonderland filled with music, lights, shopping, and seasonal cheer.
The evening begins with a truly magical moment: the traditional Christmas tree lighting at the Evergreen Lake House, where Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive to help light the tree and welcome the holiday season. From there, holiday revelers make their way back downtown to continue the celebration with photos with Santa, live entertainment, and nonstop festive fun.
Downtown Evergreen Becomes a Holiday Walking Mall
During the Holiday Walk, Main Street is closed to vehicle traffic and turns into a charming pedestrian-friendly walking mall. Guests can stroll through downtown while enjoying:
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🔥 Crackling fire pits and s’mores
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🎶 Live music and dance performances by local groups
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🛍️ Festive shopping and holiday specials
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🍪 Seasonal treats and goodies for the whole family
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✨ And endless Christmas cheer at every turn
It’s one of those nights where Evergreen truly feels like it stepped straight out of a holiday movie.
The Return of “Elk on the Shelf”
This year also marks the exciting return of the ELK ON THE SHELF Hunt, a favorite interactive tradition that adds even more fun to the evening. As you explore local shops and restaurants throughout Downtown Evergreen, keep your eyes peeled for hidden elk displays.
How to Play:
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📸 Take a photo (or selfie) with the Elk on the Shelf at participating locations
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📲 Post it on Instagram and tag @downtownevergreen.co and #elkontheshelf2025
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✅ Each tagged post counts as an entry into a random drawing for gift baskets from Downtown Evergreen shops
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💡 Pro tip: The more businesses you photograph, the more chances you have to win
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🏆 Winners will be drawn and DMed on Monday, December 8
A Community Celebration at Its Heart
The Evergreen Holiday Walk is hosted by the Evergreen Downtown Business Association, with support from generous local sponsors and business owners. As you enjoy the evening, be sure to thank the small businesses that help bring this magical night to life each year.
Why Locals Love the Evergreen Holiday Walk
This much-loved event is about more than lights and shopping—it’s about community, connection, and holiday spirit. From kids meeting Santa to neighbors warming their hands by the fire pits, the Holiday Walk brings everyone together in the most joyful way.
If you’re looking for one of the best family-friendly Christmas events in Evergreen, this is one you won’t want to miss. Bundle up, bring your camera, and come celebrate the season in Downtown Evergreen!
https://downtownevergreen.com/events/holiday-walk
CAE’s Winterfest
Saturday, December 6th, 10am- 4pm
Center for the Arts Evergreen
A Festive Holiday Market and Celebration for Everyone!
One of the most joyful and creativity-filled holiday events in Evergreen, Colorado returns each year with the Center for the Arts Evergreen (CAE) Winterfest—a FREE artisan gift market and holiday festival for all ages. Held right at the Center for the Arts, this beloved community event brings together local artists, families, and holiday shoppers for a day full of handmade gifts, live music, and seasonal cheer.
With both indoor vendor tables and outdoor tents, Winterfest celebrates the incredible talent of Colorado’s local artists and small businesses while giving the community a meaningful way to shop small during the holidays.
More Than a Holiday Market
Winterfest is about so much more than shopping (though the shopping is fantastic!). Visitors can expect a full day of festive experiences, including:
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🎅 Santa visiting with children
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🎨 Holiday craft stations for kids and kids-at-heart
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🎶 Live holiday music throughout the day
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🚚 Food trucks and a hot cocoa bar
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🖼️ CAE’s annual member art exhibition, with opportunities to view and purchase original artwork
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🎁 Complimentary gift wrapping, so your treasures are ready to go straight under the tree
It’s the kind of event where you can sip cocoa, listen to music, watch kids create holiday crafts, and find one-of-a-kind gifts—all in one cozy, creative atmosphere.
Free, Family-Friendly, and Full of Heart
One of the best things about CAE Winterfest is that it’s completely free to attend and open to everyone. Whether you’re shopping for meaningful handmade gifts, enjoying time with family, or simply soaking up the holiday spirit, Winterfest is welcoming to all ages and stages of life.
And because this is Evergreen, the event is held snow or shine—a true mountain community tradition—unless weather poses a safety risk for vendors and guests.
Why Locals Love CAE Winterfest
Winterfest is the perfect blend of art, community, and holiday giving. It’s a place where you can support Colorado artists, discover meaningful handcrafted items at every price point, and feel truly connected to the spirit of the season.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly Evergreen Christmas event, a unique holiday shopping experience, or just a beautiful way to kick off the giving season, CAE’s Winterfest is not to be missed.
Come celebrate creativity, community, and the joy of giving—Winterfest is ready to welcome you this holiday season in Evergreen!
https://evergreenarts.org/winterfest/
Frostival
Saturday, December 13th, 11am- 3pm
Evergreen Lake House
A Festive Day of Music, Markets and Community Cheer for Everyone to Enjoy!
Bundle up and head to Evergreen Lake for a daytime, family-friendly Winterfest celebration that brings together live music, local makers, community organizations, and plenty of holiday spirit. This joyful winter gathering is the perfect way to enjoy the season outdoors while supporting small businesses and nonprofits right here in our mountain community.
With the Lake House open and a festive bar serving seasonal drinks, Winterfest creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where families, friends, and neighbors can spend the day together enjoying all that Evergreen does best.
Live Music by The Lake People
Live music sets the tone for this cheerful community festival, featuring performances by The Lake People, a talented local group made up of guitarists Andreas Christian, Andy Potter, Scott Ramsaur, with Dan Ford on the piano, Chris Elam on the drums and David Brooks on the bass. Their sound brings warmth, rhythm, and energy to the lakeside, making Winterfest feel even more magical.
Winter Market Featuring Local Small Businesses
Shopping small is at the heart of this Winterfest celebration, with a wonderful lineup of local Evergreen and Colorado-based makers, including:
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Backstep Branding & G&N’s 3-D Toys
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Grace & Glory Soaps
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Macs & Mutts
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Mia Bella’s Candles
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Pet Popcorn
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Purple Mountain Pigments Face Painting
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Strike Slip Ceramics
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Terra Trails Jewelry
It’s the perfect place to find unique, handcrafted holiday gifts while supporting the small businesses that help our community thrive.
Meet Local Nonprofits
Winterfest also provides a chance to connect with organizations doing important work in our region, including:
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Mountainfilm Evergreen
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Wild Aware
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Evergreen Sustainability Alliance
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Mount Evans Home Health Care & Hospice
It’s a meaningful reminder of the many ways our community comes together through service, education, and care.
Santa at the Lake
One of the sweetest moments of the day is Santa’s lakeside appearance in his sleigh! Families can enjoy free photo opportunities with Santa from 12:00–2:00 PM, creating the perfect holiday memory against the beautiful Evergreen Lake backdrop.
A Perfect Evergreen Winter Day
With live music, shopping, nonprofits, festive drinks, kids’ activities, and Santa himself, Winterfest at Evergreen Lake is a wonderful blend of holiday magic and community connection. It’s a laid-back, joyful way to celebrate the season outdoors and gather with neighbors during one of the most beautiful times of year in the foothills.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly winter event in Evergreen, this festive celebration at the lake is one to add to your holiday calendar.
https://www.evergreenrecreation.com/2025-12-13-frostival
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, December 6, 13th, 20th, 9:30-11am
Participating Evergreen Restaurants
Santa is Coming to Town! Tasty Treats, Crafts, Holiday Cheer and the Big Man in Red!
If you’re searching for one of the most heartwarming holiday events in Evergreen, Colorado, look no further than the Evergreen Chamber’s cherished Breakfast With Santa. This annual tradition brings families together for a cozy, festive morning filled with great food, meaningful memories, and plenty of Christmas magic.
Hosted on Saturday mornings from 9:30–11:00 AM between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the event features the same program and menu each week. This year’s breakfasts will take place at three favorite local venues: Lariat Lodge, The Wood Cellar, and The Wild Game, making it easy for families to choose the location that works best for them.
A Magical Morning With Santa
What makes this Evergreen holiday event so special is the intimate experience it offers. Children have the rare opportunity to spend individual time with Santa Claus, sharing their wish lists, taking multiple photos, and enjoying a relaxed, personal visit. It’s the kind of holiday moment families remember for years.
Every guest also enjoys a delicious breakfast, creating the perfect start to a festive winter morning.
Ticket Information
Admission is $25 per person, and every child over the age of 1 requires a ticket.
To keep the experience intimate and enjoyable for all, space is limited. Tickets are available online only, and none will be sold at the door. Because this holiday event sells out every year, families are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets early.
Why Evergreen Families Love This Event
Breakfast With Santa is more than just a meal—it’s a chance for families to kick off the holiday season together in a warm, joyful setting. Whether you have little ones experiencing the magic of Santa for the first time or older children who still love the tradition, this event is designed for the young and the young at heart.
The Evergreen Chamber and its team of “Elves” work hard each year to create a welcoming, memorable experience for local families. They can’t wait to share the Joy of Santa Breakfast once again!
https://evergreenchamber.org/santa-breakfast/
Season’s Reading: “A Christmas Carol”
Friday- Sunday, December 19- 21
Friday & Saturday, 7:30pm
Saturday & Sunday Matinee, 2:30pm
Center Stage Theater, Evergreen
A Timeless Holiday Tradition on Stage!
The magic of the holiday season comes to life on stage in Evergreen with a beloved classic that has warmed hearts for generations. This year, local theater brings a unique and captivating twist to this timeless story—making it the perfect seasonal outing for families, friends, and anyone who loves a good holiday tradition.
Evergreen Players Present: A Christmas Carol
In another cherished holiday tradition, the Evergreen Players present their exclusive version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol—a true seasonal favorite. Follow the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge, guided by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, and of course, the unforgettable Tiny Tim, as kindness, generosity, and redemption take center stage.
Adding a special twist to this production, six stellar actors perform all of the roles, showcasing incredible talent and storytelling in a way that feels both intimate and dynamic. This show has become a beloved Evergreen holiday tradition that families return to year after year.
A Perfect Holiday Outing for All Ages
These productions are must-see family-friendly holiday events in Evergreen, offering laughter, reflection, and heartfelt moments all wrapped into one festive experience. Whether you’re reliving a favorite story or introducing these classics to a new generation, live theater during the holidays is a beautiful way to slow down and savor the season.
If you’re looking for meaningful Christmas events in Evergreen, Colorado, these performances belong at the top of your holiday calendar.
The Denver Christkindlmarket: 25th Anniversary Celebration
Monday- Sunday, November 21- December 23
Monday-Thursdays, 1-9pm
Friday-Sundays 11am- 9pm
Auraria Campus, Denver
An Authentic German-style Holiday Market That Brings The Charm, Warmth and Wonder of This Season to Life.
What started back in 1998 as a small but joyful event at the Denver Pavilions has blossomed into one of Colorado’s most cherished holiday traditions. Over the years, the Christkindlmarket has grown — moving from Skyline Park to Civic Center Park, and now to its brand-new home on the Auraria Campus for its 25th Anniversary Celebration.
Expect charming wooden vendor huts, twinkling lights, German and European treats, and live entertainment that captures the magic of a European Christmas village. From hot spiced wine and Bavarian pretzels to handmade ornaments and cozy gifts, this market is a feast for the senses — and a heartwarming kickoff to the holiday season.
What’s New This Year
To celebrate its 25th anniversary, the Denver Christkindlmarket is adding new attractions and glass ornament workshops, plus special anniversary activations designed to make this year more enchanting than ever.
Even better— the event continues its commitment to sustainability and cultural exchange, partnering with local organizations to reduce waste and support German language students with authentic, hands-on learning experiences.
Whether you’re visiting for the food, the shopping, or just the joyful atmosphere, the Christkindlmarket is a must-see (and must-taste!) holiday experience that will leave you feeling merry and bright.
https://www.christkindlmarketdenver.com/
Icefest: NYE Celebration!
Saturday, December 31st, 12-6pm
Evergreen Lake
Time to Ring in the New Year! Dance, Skate, and Party on into 2026 in Style!
If you’re looking for a joyful, family-friendly way to celebrate the New Year right here in Evergreen, mark your calendar for one of the community’s favorite winter gatherings: EPRD’s Icefest at Evergreen Lake. This magical daytime event brings together neighbors, friends, and visitors for an afternoon of pure Colorado winter fun—set against the backdrop of one of the most iconic spots in town.
Happening from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Icefest welcomes all ages to experience Evergreen Lake in a whole new way. And if you’ve lived here long enough, you know just how special this lake is—it’s the largest outdoor Zamboni-groomed ice skating rink in North America!
For just $25 per person (ages 5 and up), guests can enjoy a full menu of winter activities. Children 4 and under are free, making this a perfect outing for families. Tickets are available day-of on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is always a smart move.
What’s Included in Your Icefest Admission
Icefest is all about celebrating the fun side of winter, and the activities included in your admission make it easy to stay entertained for hours:
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❄️ Ice skating on Evergreen Lake, plus ice skate rentals
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🏒 Hockey and broomball
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🔨 Ice carving demonstrations
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🎲 Mobile recreation trailer games
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🔥 Firepits and roasted marshmallows
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🎶 Live music
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✨ And plenty more surprises throughout the day
If you work up an appetite (and you will!), food trucks will be onsite serving non-alcoholic drinks and tasty bites to keep you warm and happy.
Good to Know Before You Go
A few helpful notes to make your Icefest experience smooth and enjoyable:
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🚐 Free shuttles will be available from Stagecoach Park.
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🎆 No fireworks or laser show are part of this event.
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❗ The event is ice-dependent. If the lake isn’t ready, Icefest will move to the first open Saturday with safe, quality ice conditions.
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🧊 Zamboni-groomed ice is not guaranteed—it all depends on ice depth and quality.
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🍻 This is an alcohol-free event, making it especially great for families.
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⛸️ Ice skate rentals are available while supplies last.
A Heartwarming Way to Welcome the New Year
Icefest captures so much of what Evergreen does best—bringing people together, celebrating our natural beauty, and embracing the simple joys of mountain living. Whether you’re sipping cocoa around a firepit, gliding across the ice, or listening to live music with the community you love, this event is a sweet reminder of what makes Evergreen feel like home.
Bundle up, gather your people, and start the New Year with something joyful—Icefest at Evergreen Lake is ready to welcome you!
https://www.evergreenrecreation.com/2025-12-31-icefest-new-year-s-eve
Stay in the Loop!
Cheers!
Julia
