What to Do in Breckenridge for the Holidays
From your first sip of hot cocoa under glittering lights, you’ll discover how magical Breckenridge holiday activities can be.
The list of things to do in Breckenridge for the holidays seems endless in this outdoor wonderland. Whether you’re looking for crisp mountain air or cozy indoor relaxation this season, Breck delivers.
Breckenridge Festive Events & Holiday Markets
The Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas marks the season’s arrival with hundreds of costumed Santas racing down historic Main Street and a holiday dog parade leading into the tree-lighting ceremony. The whole family can walk through downtown sidewalks, twinkling with more than 250,000 LED lights at night.
Next on your list of things to do in Breckenridge for the holidays is the Ullr Fest. This festival is a wild salute to the Norse god of snow held mid-December, featuring a Viking parade, bonfire, and the world’s longest snowshoe attempt.
For holiday shopping and an artisan atmosphere, enjoy the Town Square Mall or the Handmade Holiday Market in the Arts District, where local artists present ceramics, jewelry, and prints for sale.
Winter Sports & Outdoor Activities in Breckenridge
One of the most compelling lists of things to do in Breckenridge in the winter and over the holidays involves snow-covered slopes and crisp mountain trails. On the ski side, you’ll find Breckenridge Ski Resort offering more than 2,900 skiable acres and a terrain variety that suits all levels.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, you can cross-country ski or snowshoe across over 30 miles of groomed trails thanks to the Nordic Center.
Families may book a dog sled or a sleigh ride through snow-glazed forest.
Book a Hot Cocoa Sleigh Ride for a fun group outing complete with live entertainment and a hearty dinner in a cozy lodge setting. For something more intimate, reserve a one-horse open sleigh ride and glide through snow-covered trails under the stars for a private, romantic mountain experience.
Lace up your skates for ice skating in Breck at the Stephen C. West Ice Arena just south of Main Street. The arena has public skating sessions, rentals, and themed holiday skate nights perfect for families and couples alike.
Another one of the best things to do in Breckenridge for the holidays is the New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade on Peak 9. Skiers from the Breckenridge Ski & Snowboard School glide down the mountain holding glowing red torches, creating a dazzling trail of light that ends at the base. Before the main event, kids can join the Glow Worm Parade, and the night wraps up with a festive fireworks show to welcome the New Year.
Breckenridge Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re looking for things to do in Breckenridge for the holidays that bring the whole family together, this town makes it effortless.
Kids will glow at the Holiday Dog Parade and Moose March that form part of the Lighting event weekend. Take a ride on the scenic gondola up Peak 8 for panoramic views of snow-kissed ridges or choose a gentle sleigh ride through snow white woods.
Non-skiers aren’t sidelined: head for sledding at Carter Park’s free hill or borrow sleds at the “sled shed” and enjoy family downhill fun, a short walk from Main Street. The compact, walkable layout of downtown Breckenridge means that you’ll spend less time moving from place to place and more time making memories together.
The Alpine Dance Academy and Breckenridge Backstage Theater bring classic holiday magic to town each year with seasonal ballets and performances that captivate audiences of all ages.
Dining & Après-Ski Experiences
For a top après-ski experience, your appetite calls for good food, warm beverages, and cozy venues. Look no further than The Edwin.
Many of Breck’s best restaurants remain open throughout the holidays, and some have festive menus and cocktails.
Tip: The holiday season is one of the most popular times of year to visit Breckenridge, so be sure to make dining reservations whenever possible.
Join Us
Hotel Alpenrock invites you to position yourself at the heart of those Breckenridge holiday activities.
The hotel sits just moments from Main Street and the Blue River Plaza events, keeping you close to the seasonal parade, markets, and lights. Easy access to ski lifts or town shuttles makes your trip smoother. After a full day exploring, return to Alpenrock to cozy up and chill out.
Book your stay with us and let Hotel Alpenrock be your home base for a holiday in Breckenridge.