Holiday Activities & Deals
Celebrate in Aurora • Celebrar en Aurora • 축하하다 Aurora
In Aurora, our celebrations shine brightly, reflecting the vibrant tapestry of our community. From colorful festivals that bring the world to our doorstep to local events that unite neighbors, our city is a beacon of joy and unity. Whether it's a grand spectacle or an intimate gathering in Aurora, our celebrations illuminate the beauty of togetherness, showcasing the heart and soul of our remarkable city for all to see and share in the joy! Browse this page to uncover discounts and ideas for planning the best holidays yet!
Discover our go-to holiday shopping guide to ensure your seasonal gift hunting is fun and exactly what you’re looking for.
Two Incredible Events, ONE AMAZING OFFER AT GAYLORD ROCKIES RESORT
Experience an unforgettable holiday with our ICE! attraction, featuring hand-carved ice sculptures from The Polar Express™. Embark on a magical journey with the all-new Cirque: Frost, as young Jack discovers his destiny as the legendary winter spirit, Jack Frost.
Save Up to 20%* with Code RESIDENT
November 22 – January 1
Maximum 8 tickets per order. Taxes and fees may apply. It cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Discount not valid on previously purchased tickets. Blackout dates may apply.
THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
Santa’s Grand Arrival & Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kick off the Holiday Season in style at the Town Center at Aurora with Santa’s Grand Arrival & Tree Lighting Ceremony! Bring the whole family to welcome Santa Claus to town and experience an evening full of festive fun, including:
- Holiday Market – Find the perfect holiday gifts from local vendors.
- Christmas Carolers – Enjoy the sounds of the season as live carolers spread holiday cheer.
- Hot Cocoa & Treats – Warm up with some complimentary hot cocoa and sweet treats.
- Elf Workshop – Let the kids’ creativity soar with holiday crafts at our Elf Workshop
- Photos with Santa – Don’t forget to grab a memorable photo with the Big Man in Red! Book your photo reservations HERE!
Friday, November 15th, from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM at the Town Center at Aurora
CHRISTMAS IN COLOR
Drive through millions of lights perfectly synchronized to holiday music you’ll hear right through your radio. Drive by giant candy canes, snowmen, arched pathways, and more. Take your time enjoying this lighting extravaganza!
Cirque: Frost
This Cirque-styled Christmas show features dazzling acrobatics, feats of flexibility, and high-flying stunts. Embark on a magical journey with the all-new Cirque: Frost, as young Jack discovers his destiny as the legendary winter spirit, Jack Frost.
GAYLORD ROCKIES CUSTOM ROOM PACKAGES
With dozens of exciting activities, shows, and events, enjoy So. Much. Christmas. with savings for everyone when you book a holiday getaway at Gaylord Rockies.
Save 30%, Holiday Deluxe Pack
Get the whole family in on the Holiday Deluxe Pack at Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center. You do not need to be a hotel guest to purchase a pass.
Holiday Deluxe Pack includes:
- ICE! featuring Polar Express™
- Gingerbread Decorating Corner
- Elf Training Academy
- Mrs. Claus' Christmas Traditions
- Mistletoe Mile Scavenger Hunt
- Cirque: Frost (Optional Add On)
*Restrictions and fees may apply.
Save 20%, Festive Favorites Pack
Get the whole family in on the Festive Favorites Pack at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center. You do not need to be a hotel guest to purchase a bundle.
Silver Includes:
- ICE! featuring Polar Express™
- Elf Training Academy
- Mistletoe Mile Scavenger Hunt
*Restrictions and fees may apply.
NICK'S 4th ANNUAL HOLIDAY MARKET
Kick off the holiday season at Nick's Garden Center's 4th Annual Holiday Market! This festive event invites locals and visitors to experience a variety of holiday-inspired offerings, including food, drink, unique crafts, and health and wellness products. Held on Saturday, November 23, and Saturday, December 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the market brings together local vendors and artisans in a cozy, community-centered setting. Located at 2001 S Chambers Rd in Aurora, Nick's Garden Center transforms into a winter wonderland, offering something for everyone to enjoy!
Pajama Party With Santa
November 19 | 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Get cozy in your favorite PJs and make holiday memories at our all-day Pajama Party with Santa! Bring the whole family for a magical photo op with Santa himself. Don’t forget to wear your comfiest pajamas! This is a popular event, so be sure to reserve your photo time with Santa here.
Aurora Symphony Orchestra
Join your Aurora Symphony for a symphonic celebration of the holidays featuring music from your favorite holiday films, including A Charlie Brown Christmas, Edward Scissorhands, Home Alone, Christmas Vacation, and It’s a Wonderful Life. December 7th & 8th, APS Avenues.
ICE SKATE AT THE POND SOUTHLANDS
Lace up your skates and visit your favorite place to ice skate all winter long! Enjoy ice skating on The Pond at Southlands! Skating is open to the public daily. Special pricing for Group Events is available. The Pond permits visitors to bring their own skates, but if you’re new to the winter sport, rentals are available. Tickets are $15 reserve your spot here.
HOLIDAY HOMETOWN PARADE
Kick off the holiday season at our Annual Holiday Hometown Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony. You may even catch a glimpse of some special guests—including Santa himself!
Saturday, November 23 at 6:00 pm, at the Town Square at Southlands
Free Photos with Santa at Southlands
Southlands offers four special days of Free Photos with Santa every season. Stay tuned for more details to come, including hours and how to make your reservation!
Begins November 23 (after the Parade) | Guest Services at the Clock Tower
2024 dates are:
- Saturday, November 23
- Monday, November 25 – Wednesday, November 27
Santa Photo Experience at Southlands
The annual tradition continues! Bring the kids & the family to The Southlands Pole for a special visit with Santa and cherish the memories forever with a photo for you to take home. Find The Southlands Pole inside Guest Services At The Clock Tower. Santa Photos opens from November 23 - December 24. Be sure to book in advance; photos will be taken by reservation only.
VISIT THE VILLAGE
A holiday-themed family fun day at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds and Event Center. We welcome all to come by to spend the day strolling through our local vendor village, making crafts, enjoying various children's activities, food, beverages, and more!
Event is from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. on December 7th. Ticket details coming soon.
Crafts With Santa
November 22 | 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Get in the holiday spirit with Crafts with Santa! Bring the kids to join in festive crafting fun while they wait to meet Santa himself. They’ll have a blast making keepsake crafts and taking a magical photo with Santa. Reserve your photo time with Santa here.
Residence Inn Denver Airport at Gateway Park Package
Reserve our Winter Wonderland Escape or Fireside Festivities Package to include the following in your room upon arrival!
- Garland
- Holiday decorations
- Cookies
- Wine
- Hot chocolate
- Holiday snacks/treats
- Holiday lights to create a cozy, seasonal vibe
- Holiday crafts
- *Fireside Festivities Package includes our warm, cozy fireplace to celebrate the season!
The package also includes a full, hot breakfast buffet (that you can take to your room) and complimentary parking. 7-day advanced booking required.
Residence Inn Denver Airport Gateway Park Winter Wonderland Escape OR Fireside Festivities Package OR use Corp ID UKH on the Bonvoy App.
Winter Horseback Rides at 12 Mile Stables
12 Mile Stables is open year-round for horseback rides, lessons, and more! Located inside Cherry Creek State Park, ride through 3,300 acres and 27 miles of riding trails to give your family a great adventure! Visitors can expect sunny days, even in the winner. Be sure to ask about their sunset and dinner ride for an evening you won't forget!
