Hello, Estes Park! As the days get shorter and the holidays draw near, Estes Park is lighting up with concerts, community celebrations, festive pop-ups, and plenty of ways to spend the weekend. Whether you’re grabbing a seat for punk-rock legends at The Stanley, sipping your way through a holiday-themed taproom, seeing the new “Wicked,” or attending the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, there’s something fun going on around town. Here are our picks for A&E: this weekend, Nov. 21–23, in Estes Park
‘Wicked: For Good’ Flies into the Historic Park Theatre
This week, the Historic Park Theatre opens part two of the “Wicked” musical series, “Wicked: For Good.” The film, adapted from the Broadway stage musical, stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, AKA the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good, in a story about what happened before, during, and after the events of “The Wizard of Oz.” Haunted Ghost Tours and History Tours are scheduled for Friday, Nov. 21, and Saturday, Nov. 22. And, on Saturday, Nov. 22, there is a free screening of “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” at 10 a.m.
Face to Face at The Stanley Hotel
The Stanley Hotel cranks up the volume Nov. 21–23 as iconic punk rock band Face to Face returns for a three-night takeover of the historic Concert Hall. Each night features a full-album performance, plus a set of fan favorites that span the band’s decades-long career. Tickets are $70 for this 21+ event. Hotel guests can elevate the experience with exclusive perks, including a curated DJ set, an intimate meet-and-greet, and even a séance with the band.
Hoppy Holiday Bar at Avant Garde Aleworks
Toast to the festive season at Avant Garde Aleworks (920 Dunraven St.) as the taproom transforms into the Hoppy Holiday Bar, running daily from Nov. 21 through Jan. 4. Launching Friday, Nov. 21, this holiday pop-up features a special seasonal drink menu with whimsical pours like Winter Strong Ale, plus cozy non-alcoholic options including hot cocoa and hot-buttered rum. Throughout the season, guests can enjoy live music, join a town-wide Snowman Scavenger Hunt, craft custom stockings, or test their wit at Festivus trivia.
Jon Pickett (Chain Station) Acoustic at The Rock Inn
Kick off your Friday night with an adventurous acoustic set from Jon Pickett of Chain Station at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern (1675 Highway 66) on Nov. 21 from 5 to 8 p.m. A one-man band and natural entertainer, Pickett blends bluegrass, folk, jazz, and Motown with everything from Paul Simon to Black Sabbath to Kermit the Frog. Expect soulful originals, playful genre mashups, and high-energy mountain-town fun. Free to attend.
Light Eternal: A Concert of Hope
The Oratorio Society of Estes Park brings warmth and inspiration to the season with Light Eternal: A Concert of Hope, performed at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies (1700 Brodie Ave.) on Friday, Nov. 21, from 7 to 9 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. The orchestra and chorus will present John Rutter’s radiant Magnificat alongside Elaine Hagenberg’s luminous Illuminare. Admission is free, with donations encouraged to support the ensemble’s work.
James Davis at Twin Owls Steakhouse
Add an elegant touch to your weekend with live classical and Spanish guitar from James Davis at Twin Owls Steakhouse (3110 S. St. Vrain Ave.). Performing Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21 and 22, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Davis brings warmth and sophistication to the dining room with his refined, atmospheric playing. This recurring weekly experience is available for dining guests only. Reservations are recommended.
Karaoke Night at Lonigans
Take the stage at Lonigans (106 W. Elkhorn Ave.) for Karaoke Night, happening every Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. to midnight. It’s free to join, making it the perfect late-night outing with friends, family, and plenty of sing-along fun.
Estes Arts District Pop-Up Fundraiser
Support local creativity and score some great finds at the Estes Arts District Pop-Up Fundraiser, happening Nov. 22 and 23 and Nov. 29 and 30 from 12 to 4 p.m. Tucked inside the quirky green building down the alley at 143 E. Elkhorn Ave., this indoor “sidewalk sale” offers 50% off holiday gifts, home décor, curios, and select furniture. All items come from the liquidation of the former Wonderful Things gift shop, with 100% of proceeds benefiting the Estes Arts District.
Chef’s Kiss Saturday at Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
On Saturday, Nov. 22, from noon to 8 p.m., visit Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co. (531 S. Saint Vrain Ave.) to enjoy great food and fresh brews. The taproom will be serving Chef’s Kiss’ beloved meatball subs alongside homemade soups and breads. With a dog-friendly patio and plenty of space for the whole family, it’s an easygoing way to enjoy good beer, good food, and good company.
Tree Lighting Ceremony in Bond Park
Kick off the holiday season with Estes Park’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 3:30 p.m. in Bond Park. As dusk settles over the mountains, the heart of downtown fills with festive music, twinkling lights, and neighbors gathering to celebrate the start of the season. Families can enjoy candy canes, take-home ornament crafts, carriage rides, a festive kids’ train, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The highlight of the evening comes when the giant spruce bursts to life with thousands of sparkling lights. Free and open to all.
Greg Miles Acoustic at The Rock Inn
Settle in for an evening of sharp wit, eclectic tunes, and one-of-a-kind storytelling as Estes Park artist and songwriter Greg Miles returns to The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern (1675 Highway 66) on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 5 to 8 p.m. Known for his irreverent humor and genre-hopping repertoire, Miles moves effortlessly from blues to torch songs, John Prine to Nat King Cole, and even the occasional 16th-century liturgical. His performances are warm, unpredictable, and always entertaining. Free to attend.
Tranquil Valley Radio Hour Variety Show
This Saturday, Nov. 22, from 6:30 to 9 p.m., an evening of homegrown entertainment will be held at American Legion Post 119. Listening at the Legion presents its first-ever Tranquil Valley Radio Hour, a variety show inspired by “A Prairie Home Companion.” The lineup features touring singer-songwriter Martin Gilmore, local legends Brad Fitch and Mark Rashid, Random & True, The Kings of Swing, Share the Road, and a cast of familiar Estes Park faces. The night also includes the much-anticipated raffle drawing for a custom-built “American Legion Post 119” guitar handcrafted by Mark Rashid. Nine additional prizes will be awarded. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.
Football Sunday at Lumpy Ridge
Settle in for a laid-back Football Sunday at Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co. (531 S. St. Vrain Ave.) on Nov. 23 from noon to 6 p.m. Mangia Mangia will be serving up their crowd-favorite pizzas and wings, perfectly paired with a full lineup of Lumpy Ridge brews on tap. It’s a come-as-you-are kind of afternoon, so bring your friends, family, and even the dog for great food, cold beer, and all the game-day energy.
Sunday Dinner Live Music at Lonigans
Wrap up the weekend with good food, craft cocktails, and live tunes at Lonigans (106 W. Elkhorn Ave.). Every Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m., the pub hosts free live music in a family-friendly setting.
‘Brushstrokes and Beyond’ at the Art Center of Estes Park
Visit The Art Center of Estes Park (517 Big Thompson Ave.) to check out “Brushstrokes and Beyond,” featuring oil and acrylic works by artist member Eileen Van Baren. Known for her expressive use of color and texture, Van Baren’s paintings capture the vibrancy and depth of the Colorado landscape. The free exhibit is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Mondays until Dec. 22.