What are the top holiday events happening in Colorado Springs in December?

What are the top holiday events happening in Colorado Springs in December? December is one of the most festive and event-filled months of the year in Colorado Springs. From long-running community traditions to immersive holiday experiences, families have no shortage of seasonal activities to choose from.

This guide highlights the most popular and family-friendly events happening in Colorado Springs in December 2025, including free events, ticketed attractions, and unique local traditions that locals plan for every year.

Festival of Lights Parade and Family Fun Day

When: December 6, 2025
Where: Downtown Colorado Springs and Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
Cost: Free

The Festival of Lights Parade is one of the most iconic holiday events in Colorado Springs. The evening parade features illuminated floats, marching bands, community groups, and a visit from Santa Claus as it moves through downtown.

Earlier in the day, families can attend the Festival of Lights Family Fun Day at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, which includes crafts, activities, performances, and hot cocoa.

Festival of Lights Official Website

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Electric Safari

When: December 5, 2025 through January 1, 2026
Where: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Cost: Ticketed, timed entry

Electric Safari is one of the most well-known holiday events happening in Colorado Springs each December. The zoo transforms into a nighttime experience filled with animated light sculptures across the mountainside.

Timed tickets are required and frequently sell out during weekends and school breaks.

Electric Safari Event Details

Royal Gorge Santa Express Train

When: Runs through December 31, 2025
Where: Cañon City, approximately one hour from Colorado Springs
Cost: Ticketed

This holiday train ride takes families through the Royal Gorge in heated cars decorated for the season. Kids enjoy holiday music, festive meals, and a visit from Santa Claus with a gift.

Santa Express Train Information

The North Pole – Santa’s Workshop

When: Open through December 24, 2025
Where: Cascade, CO
Cost: Ticketed on peak days

The North Pole is a classic Christmas theme park featuring kid-friendly rides, holiday shows, shops, and daily visits with Santa. Peak days require advance tickets, while some non-peak days allow free entry.

The North Pole Official Website

Old Colorado City Christkindlmarket

When: December 11–14 and December 18–23, 2025
Where: Bancroft Park, Old Colorado City
Cost: Free entry

This European-style holiday market features artisan vendors, live entertainment, and seasonal food and drinks. It is a flexible and festive outing for families.

Christkindlmarket Details

Skate in the Park at Acacia Park

When: Open daily throughout December
Where: Acacia Park, Downtown Colorado Springs
Cost: Ticketed

Outdoor ice skating at Acacia Park is a favorite winter tradition. Skate rentals and beginner skating aids make it accessible for kids of all ages.

Skate in the Park Information

Christmas at Flying W Ranch

When: December 4–23, 2025
Where: Flying W Ranch, Colorado Springs
Cost: Ticketed

This Cowboy Christmas Jubilee combines a ranch-style dinner with a holiday music performance by the Flying W Wranglers. Reservations are required.

Flying W Ranch Christmas Event

Holiday Evening at Rock Ledge Ranch

When: December 13, 2025
Where: Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
Cost: Ticketed or small admission fee

This one-night event focuses on historic holiday traditions, wagon rides, music, and costumed interpreters.

Rock Ledge Ranch Holiday Evening

Santa and the Dinos

When: December 13, 2025
Where: Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center, Woodland Park
Cost: Included with admission

Kids can meet Santa among dinosaur skeletons, enjoy crafts, and explore interactive exhibits.

Dinosaur Resource Center Events

Noon Year’s Eve

When: December 31, 2025
Where: Hosted by My Child’s Museum
Cost: Included with admission

This daytime New Year’s celebration includes activities, music, and a countdown at noon, making it ideal for younger kids.

Noon Year’s Eve Event Details

Top Holiday Events Happening in Colorado Springs in December

From parades and light displays to historic celebrations and kid-focused New Year’s events, December consistently offers the most seasonal experiences of any month in Colorado Springs.

If you are planning your holiday calendar, booking early and confirming event details will help you make the most of the season.

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