Denver's 'Winter In The City:' Schedule, Entertainment, Events

DENVER, CO — Ruining the holiday season was the Grinch's job, or perhaps that of a disgruntled family member, until the coronavirus came along. COVID-19 has caused countless holiday event cancellations across Colorado and continues to impact local businesses.

But the Downtown Denver Partnership is fighting back — with twinkling lights, entertainment and creativity.

The innovation starts with a "deconstructed" parade of sorts. The beloved annual 9News Parade of Lights can't be held in its traditional form, so it will turned into a "multi-week, socially safe extravaganza of activities across downtown," the organization said. Beginning Nov. 27, the parade floats will be displayed throughout downtown Denver, and they'll stay up until Dec. 31.

Also on Nov. 27, all major landmarks will be decked in thousands of lights. Denver Union Station, the City and County Building, the 16th Street Mall, Skyline Park, the D&F Clock Tower, 14th Street, Larimer Square and other iconic spots will come alive with twinkling lights, the organization said.

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The German American Chamber of Commerce will host the Christkindl Market in Civic Center Park from Nov. 20 to Dec. 23. Craftspeople and artisans will offer rare, imported products, and food vendors will dish out European fare, organizers said.

Visitors are invited to grab a Brat and a Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) and stroll around the market, or check out a choir or band performance.

Other Winter in the City highlights:

• Small Business Saturday will be held Nov. 28 — a day after all the decorations and floats go up, so it will be a great day to show local businesses some love, AND get your holiday shopping done.
• Throughout December, there will be live music and cultural group performances at the Pavilions and in Skyline Park Block 1 plaza.
• Santa’s sleigh will be stationed at Larimer Square. A schedule of Santa appearances is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

>> Learn more about Denver's Winter in the City plan here.