DENVER -- Every weekend, Denver7 compiles a list of some family friendly events you might enjoy. Here are our picks for the 7 best things to do in the Denver metro area this weekend.
1. Denver Zoo Lights continue to sparkle the holiday season
What: More than 130 animated animal sculptures will swing through trees, jump across lawns, hide in bushes and appear in places when they’re least expected this holiday season. For the first time this year, guests will be able to control some of those sculptures at interactive stations at the Zoo’s Giraffe Meadows area. Other festivities include a chance to meet Santa Claus, live animal demonstrations, carolers, holiday treats and warming stations.
When: Friday, November 24 and Saturday, November 25, 2017; December 1 through December 31, 2017 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele Street in Denver
Admission: Varies
More info: https://www.denverzoo.org/zoolights2017
2. Ice skate at Skyline Park on the 16th St. Mall
What: 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 $8 ($6 for children 12 and under). If you bring your own skates, you get in free. There will be free days specifically for children.
When: Nov. 21, 2017 through Feb. 14, 2018
Where: Skyline Park
Admission: $8 for skates, but free if you bring your own.
More info: http://www.downtowndenver.com/places/skyline-park
3. Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens
What: The flowers and plants at the Denver Botanic Gardens may be dormant in the winter months during the day, but at night during the holiday season, the Gardens come alive for the Blossom of Lights.
When: Friday, Nov. 24, 2017 through January 1, 2018 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York Street
Admission: Varies between $10 to $20
More info: https://www.botanicgardens.org/
4. Tour the Governor’s Mansion this holiday season
What: Every year before the Christmas holidays, the Governor’s Residence at the Boettcher Mansion opens its doors to the public for public tours full of holiday cheer, history and design. The tour only takes you through the first floor the residence, but you won’t leave disappointed as you walk through the Great Hall, the State Dining Romo and more.
When: Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 7 – 10 and Dec. 14 through Dec. 17, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Governor’s Residence at Boettcher Mansion, 400 East 8th Avenue
Admission: Free
More info: http://www.coloradoshome.org/
5. Sip, Shop and savor the holiday season at the Denver Christkindl Market
What: The 17th annual Christkindl Market is back for another year of holiday fun at the 16th Street Mall. Sip on authentic Gluhwein (mulled spiced wine), or Bavarian style beer as you wander through the market and enjoy the opportunity to purchase finely crafted artisan gifts and holiday treats by Coloradan, European and international merchants in charming wooden huts
When: Friday, Nov. 17, 2017 through Friday, December 23, 2017
Where: Skyline Park on the 16th Street Mall and Arapahoe Street
Admission: Free
More info: http://www.denverchristkindlmarket.com/
6. Get in the holiday spirit with Loveland's Winter Wonderlights
What: The City of Loveland is ringing in the holiday season with its inaugural Winter Wonderlights at the Chapungu Sculpture Park. The park boasts the only 20-inch LED mappable Christmas tree in the Centennial State. You can also find food vendors, and performances from several groups in the region.
When: Nov. 18, 2017 through January 7, 2018 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Chapungu Sculpture Park, 5971 Sky Pond Drive
Admission: Free
More info: Visit the City of Loveland's website for more information about this holiday celebration.\
7. Very Merry Holiday Movie Series at the Curtis Hotel
What: The holiday spirit could not be kept alive if it weren't for all those Christmas movies that have become classics for families across the U.S. Which is why the Curtis Hotel invites you for a free showing of "A Christmas Story." An adult hot chocolate stand will also be installed for the grown-ups to enjoy.
When: Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017 starting at 6 p.m.
Where: Curtis Hotel, 1405 Curtis Street
Admission: Free
More info: For more info about holiday events at the Curtis Hotel, click here.
Have an event you’d like for us to tell viewers about? Send an email to oscar.contreras@kmgh.com so he can put your event on the list.
