by Elean Gersack
The holidays are near, so take time to slow down and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. Whether you prefer the ballet, the symphony, or children’s entertainment, there are numerous happenings for adults and families alike. Some are close to home and others require a bit of a drive, but they are all worth the effort.
Afternoon or Luncheon Tea - Daily
Enjoy the rich elegance of the historic Brown Palace Hotel in downtown Denver while sipping tea with friends or family. Luncheon teas are offered Monday through Friday from noon to 2 p.m. and afternoon teas are offered Monday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.brownpalace.com.
November 24 - December 24
Enjoy this holiday ballet tradition at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House in downtown Denver. For more information, visit www.coloradoballet.com.
December 1 - January 20 - Evenings
Blossoms of Light will take guests on a beautiful journey through the Botanic Gardens. Sparkling lights will be illuminated to highlight the natural beauty of the gardens. For more information, visit www.botanicgardens.org.
White Christmas
November 23 December 30
The Denver Center for Performing Arts presents White Christmas, based on the Paramount Pictures film. The show includes favorite songs from Irving Berlin and a heartwarming story of post World War II to save a former general’s country inn. For more information, visit www.denvercenter.org.
December 7 January 6 from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.
View amazing animated animal lights throughout The Denver Zoo. Holiday entertainment, ice-carvings, carolers, music, warming stations, refreshments, and a visit with Santa make this a great family event. Wild Ice, Kwanzaa and Zoo Year’s Eve are planned during Zoo Lights this year. For more information, visit www.denverzoo.org.
Friday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m.
A holiday concert featuring “White Christmas”, “Hark the Herald Angels”, “Christmas at the Movies”, selections from the Nutcracker Suite and more will take place at the Cornerstone Baptist Church in Lone Tree. The performance is free so arrive early for the best seats. For more information, visit www.lonetreesymphony.org.
Saturday, December 1 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Enjoy the start of the season at The Village at Castle Pines. Witness the tree lighting at 6 p.m., take a photo with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride. For more information, visit www.villageatcastlepines.com.
December 1, 8 and 15 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Join Santa for breakfast at the Wildlife Experience. In addition to visiting with Saint Nick, children will enjoy holiday crafts, face painting, cookie decorating, lots of goodies, and more. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.wildlifeexperience.org.