❄️ Winter Magic in Winter Park: Your Ultimate Holiday Guide for 2025
By Elysian Destination Properties & Black Tie Ski Rentals
When winter’s first snow begins to dust the peaks around Winter Park, Colorado, the town transforms into something out of a storybook — all frosted rooftops, twinkling lights, and mountain air filled with possibility. This holiday season, whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic escape, or a lively friend trip, Winter Park has a festive lineup that’ll make you fall in love with winter all over again.
Here’s your local guide (yes, that’s us!) to the top holiday and winter events you absolutely shouldn’t miss — plus a few insider tips to make your trip extra special.
1. Winter Park Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Market
Picture this: you stroll into the heart of the Winter Park village, and a massive evergreen stands tall, wrapped in lights. The annual tree lighting is more than just a ceremony — it’s a full-on winter party. Local musicians serenade the crowd, artisan booths pop up with handmade goods, and there’s no shortage of warm drinks and sweet treats. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season, whether you’re sipping cocoa or exploring gifts by firelight.
The Details: This free event will take place on Saturday, November 29, from 3:30-5:30 pm.
2. Santa & Mrs. Claus Visit to Granby Ranch
If you’re looking for a little extra holiday magic, head over to Granby Ranch for a cozy meet-and-greet with the big man himself. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be settling in fireside to read festive stories, snap photos with families, and gather wish-filled letters from little ones (or the young at heart). It’s the kind of classic holiday moment that makes winter in the mountains feel straight out of a snowglobe.
The Details: Sunday, December 21st from 12 pm – 6 pm and Monday, December 22nd from 8 am – 3 pm.
3. Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade at Winter Park Resort
If there’s one event that feels truly magical, it’s the Christmas Eve torchlight parade. As dusk settles, ski instructors and patrollers glide down the mountain, each holding a torch that makes the slopes glow like a river of fire. Then, when the last skier is down, the sky bursts with fireworks — a moment of pure mountain enchantment.
The Details: This free event will take place on December 24th at 5:30 pm.
4. New Year’s Eve Celebration at Winter Park Resort
Ring in the New Year with mountain-style flair. Winter Park’s New Year’s Eve party brings together live music, fireworks and family-friendly fun. Enjoy a silent disco by Big Little Sound and free sleds, tubes and toboggans at the Rendezvous Event Center’s tubing hill.
The Details: This free event will take place at the Rendezvous Event Center from 7-9 pm.
Insider Tips for a Stress-Free Stay
We know holiday travel can be hectic, so here are a few insider details to help you plan:
- Book early. The season brings out the crowds, and lodging in Winter Park fills up quickly.
- Stay with Elysian Destination Properties. They curate beautiful, high-quality stays throughout Winter Park — from slopeside homes to cozy townhomes equipped with everything you need: hot tubs, shuttle access, and instant ski mountain vibes. Plus, with code POWDERDAYS20, guests can score an extra 20% off their stay!
- Choose Black Tie Ski Rentals for gear. Why wait in line when you can have a personal ski concierge deliver your skis and boots right to your lodging? We offer custom fittings, top-brand gear, and even slope-side support if things need adjusting. You’ll spend less time fussing with rentals — and more time enjoying the snow. Book before 12/5 and get a 20% discount on reservations when you use the code Earlyseason20.
- Reach out anytime. The teams at Elysian Destination Properties and Black Tie Ski Rentals pride themselves on the level of service they offer guests. If any other questions come up as you’re booking your visit, you can always reach out for the insider scoop from locals.
