We love the holidays in Denver because there is no shortage of snow or things to do! Beginning in late November and running all the way through the new year, there is an abundance of shopping, sights, lights, and shows. It's hard to choose what the must-see and must-do events are this season, which is why our Denver movers are sharing some of their favorite things to do, see, and buy.

To Do:

Santa's Toy Factory

Santa's Toy Factory will be open until Christmas Eve in the Southwest Plaza. This holiday adventure is perfect for families. Center Court is transformed into the North Pole and kids get to meet Santa and test the new toys in the factory before they are delivered on Christmas morning. Kids can even design, paint or build their very own toys at Santa's Toy Factory.

Santa's Flight Academy

At Santa's Flight Academy, kids get the chance to join the elves on Santa's flight crew. Not only do you get a special visit with Santa, but you also get to create a personalized Cadet Badge with an elf code name and a flight crew job. Kids have the opportunity to try on a virtual flight suit and learn how to operate Santa's sleigh and get it ready to deliver gifts on Christmas Eve.

Noon Year's Eve

The Denver Children's Museum Noon Year's Eve brings Times Square to Colorado. On New Year's Eve, kids have the chance to experience the sights and sounds of New York City to celebrate 2018 – all before bedtime! From 9am-4pm, there will be countdowns, confetti, fireworks and more, all leading up to the ball drop. Favorite characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse have even made appearances in past years.

To See:

Blossoms of Light

The Denver Botanic Gardens hosts the Blossoms of Light annual holiday light show that just can't be missed! Enjoy the interactive lights, holiday treats, warm drinks and even holographic glasses that will make the event truly magical. The Blossoms of Lights show is perfect for the family or large groups and even hosts holiday parties and has specialty engagement packages.

The Nutcracker

The Colorado Ballet is performing The Nutcracker through Christmas Eve. Don't miss the 57th annual award-winning production that follows Clara and her new nutcracker through a battle against the Mouse King. The Colorado Ballet is known for selling out shows throughout the holiday season with one of the best performances of the classic story in the nation.

The Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo hosts the magical Zoo Lights every year throughout the month of December. You'll find enchanting, animated light displays throughout the zoo campus that includes animals swinging through the trees, jumping across lawns and hiding in the bushes. The Zoo Lights are completed with Santa meet-and-greets, animal encounters and a variety of live entertainment.

To Buy:

Backyard On Blake

One day only, the shops at the Backyard are offering a holiday shopping weekend. With some of the best local shops in the area, you are guaranteed to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Filled with a variety of shops and restaurants you can make a day out of Backyard on Blake and enjoy the Denver community around a fire while sipping locally sourced hot chocolate.

Mistletoe Marketplace

Don't miss the first annual Mistletoe Marketplace in Cherry Creek this holiday season. HALCYON is bringing the most unique boutiques together for the perfect holiday shopping experience. Alice 105.9 will be hosting the event with stocking giveaways, seasonal treats, and drinks for all to enjoy.

Christkindl Market

Denver's 17th annual Christkindl Market in Skyline Park brings both local and European vendors together to share unique works with the community. From music to food and drink to gifts and crafts, anything you might need this holiday season can be found at the Christkindl market.