Memorable Mountain Holidays
At The Real Estate Company – Mountain Division, we love this time of year, when the peaks are dusted with fresh snow, the village glows under twinkling lights, and families gather to celebrate the magic of the mountains. Winter Park, Colorado, isn’t just a ski destination; it’s a place where holiday memories are made.
Whether you’re planning a quick winter getaway or spending the season in your mountain home, here are our favorite family-friendly holiday events to enjoy in Winter Park in December.
1. Tree Lighting & “Deck the Slopes” Celebration
Every December, Winter Park Resort transforms into a winter wonderland during the “Deck the Slopes” celebration. The whole Village sparkles with holiday lights, festive music, and the warmth of community cheer. Families can sip hot cocoa, visit with Santa, and watch the official tree lighting ceremony, which marks the true start of the holiday season in the mountains.
Family tip: Arrive before sunset to stroll through the Village and grab a warm drink. The mountain lights reflecting on the snow make for unforgettable photos.
2. Torchlight Parade & Christmas Eve Fireworks
On Christmas Eve, gather with locals and visitors alike at the base of the mountain for the Torchlight Parade, one of Winter Park’s most cherished traditions. As night falls, ski instructors glide down the slope holding glowing torches, creating a shimmering ribbon of light across the snow, followed by a spectacular fireworks finale.
Family tip: Bundle up, bring blankets, and enjoy hot cocoa while you watch the show. It’s one of the most magical moments of the season.
3. Snow Tubing & Sleigh Rides
Looking for family fun off the slopes? Try the Coca-Cola Tubing Hill at Winter Park Resort, where multiple lanes, banked turns, and a conveyor lift make it perfect for kids (and parents!) of all ages.
For something a little more relaxed, book a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered meadows near Fraser. Wrapped in blankets under the stars, you’ll hear the jingle of sleigh bells and feel like you’ve stepped into a holiday movie.
Family tip: Sleigh rides fill up quickly during Christmas week. Make reservations early!
4. Visits with Santa & Holiday Workshops
Throughout December, the Village at Winter Park hosts plenty of family activities, from photos with Santa and cookie decorating to craft workshops and story-time events. You’ll find hot cocoa stations and fire pits where families gather to warm up between activities.
Family tip: Bring along a small ornament or card for your child to give Santa; it makes the visit extra special.
5. Holiday Markets & Village Strolls
Winter Park’s charm truly shines when you explore its shops and local markets. Cooper Creek Square, downtown Winter Park, Fraser, and Granby host pop-up markets filled with handmade gifts, cozy knits, mountain art, and treats like cider and roasted nuts. Wander through snow-covered walkways; it’s a beautiful way to end a day on the mountain.
Family tip: Visit around dusk when the lights first turn on for the most magical atmosphere.
**6. Family Ski Days & Mountain Adventures
**Of course, no Winter Park holiday is complete without a few turns on the slopes! The resort’s ski school and beginner-friendly areas make it easy for families to hit the snow together. For something different, try snowshoeing, ice skating, or a guided snowcat tour, all fun ways to experience the mountain.
Family tip: Take breaks at one of the resort cafés, a hot chocolate is never wrong during this season.
A Holiday Season to Remember
Winter Park offers everything that makes the holidays magical: crisp mountain air, glowing lights, family laughter (and probably a few toddler meltdowns, but that’s a part of the game), and moments you’ll remember. Whether you’re tubing with the kids, watching fireworks over the slopes, or cozying up by the fire, this mountain town wraps you in the warmth of the season.
From Our Mountain Home to Yours
At The Real Estate Company – Mountain Division, we know how special this community is, especially during the holidays. From our team to your family, we wish you a joyful season filled with snow, laughter, and new memories in the mountains.
If you’ve ever dreamed of calling Winter Park your home, for the holidays or all year long, we’d love to help you find your place here!
