Hello, Estes Park! With the holidays in full swing, Estes Park is buzzing with festive cheer. From creative workshops and cozy concerts to glowing runs, reindeer meet-and-greets, and plenty of chances to sip something warm, there’s something magical happening on nearly every corner. Here are our picks for A&E this weekend, Dec. 12–14.
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 through Jan. 4. 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.
Free Movies at Historic Park Theatre
This weekend, the Historic Park Theatre is hosting free screenings of three different films: “Silent Night” (2012 made for TV movie about the creation of “Silent Night”), “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000), and “The Polar Express” (2004), throughout the weekend. Additionally, Haunted Ghost Tours are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 12, and Saturday, Dec. 13, and History Tours on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Drafts & Crafts Night at the Publick House
Get creative with a pint in hand at Drafts & Crafts Night on Friday, Dec. 12, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.’s Publick House (203 Cleave St.). In partnership with Bear & Bee, this festive workshop invites guests to paint a holiday candle holder and craft a custom-scented candle. Your $36 ticket includes all materials and a complimentary beer to sip while you create.
Chase the Glow 4-Mile & 1-Mile Run/Walk
Experience Estes Park’s holiday magic on the move at Chase the Glow, a festive family-friendly run and walk happening Friday, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m. Starting and finishing in Bond Park, participants will follow a paved 4-mile or 1-mile route illuminated by the town’s spectacular Christmas light displays. After crossing the finish line in the heart of the Christmas Village, enjoy hot chocolate and locally made Christmas cookies. Registration is $65.45 for the 4-mile and $46.19 for the 1-mile.
Sleigh the Games
Get ready for a weekend of high-energy holiday fun as Adventure Fit Events brings Sleigh the Games to the Estes Park from Dec. 12–14. This three-day festival combines more than a dozen winter-themed games and activities—think indoor snow tubing, ice skating, team sled-pull racing, axe throwing, a winter obstacle course, and even “capture the elf.” Participants who complete all events will be eligible for prizes, and spectators can enjoy the lively atmosphere with contests like wood chopping, an ice block challenge, and the log throw. View the full schedule by clicking here.
Live Music with Neilson & Nicholson at the Legion
Enjoy an evening of local talent as Skip Neilson and Karen Nicholson bring their acoustic rock sound to the Tavern at the Legion on Friday, Dec. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. at American Legion Post 119 (850 N. St. Vrain). Grab some great food and drinks from the Tavern while you listen, and don’t miss the Queen of Hearts raffle (now over $8,000!) with ticket sales beginning at 6 p.m. and the drawing at 7 p.m.
Puzzle Palooza at The Bull Pin
Put your puzzle skills to the test at The Bull Pin’s Puzzle Palooza on Friday, Dec. 12, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Gather a team of four and race against fellow holiday-spirited crews to see who can complete their puzzle first. The Bull Pin provides the puzzles and festive drinks; you bring the focus, speed, and seasonal sparkle.
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.
Dr. Seuss Story Time at Macdonald Book Shop
Kick off a festive December morning with a special holiday edition of Story Time at Macdonald Book Shop (152 E. Elkhorn Ave.) on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 9 to 9:30 a.m. Kids and families are invited to gather for a reading of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” along with other seasonal favorites. Longtime story-time host Michele will lead the fun, making this a warm and whimsical way to start your weekend. Free and open to all ages
Festive Flavors at the Estes Valley Community Center
Add some holiday sparkle to your kitchen with Festive Flavors, a three-week hands-on cooking series at the Estes Valley Community Center (660 Community Dr.), held Saturdays from Dec. 6–20, 9–11 a.m. Led by instructor Vikki Haan, each session explores a different seasonal theme, from homemade holiday snack mixes to classic and creative cookies to crafting a show-stopping Christmas brunch pastry board. Participants will take home 2–4 jars of gift mixes, at least a dozen cookies, and delicious leftovers from the day’s creations. The full series costs $90, with a $40 drop-in option available.
Holiday Art Market at The Bird’s Nest
Shop local and find something truly one-of-a-kind at the Holiday Art Market, happening Saturday, Dec. 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Bird’s Nest (1221 High Dr.). This one-day-only event brings together Estes Park artists offering handmade gifts, artwork, and seasonal treasures perfect for holiday giving. It’s a cozy, creative way to support local makers while checking off your shopping list.
Yuletide Open House – Christmas Around the World
Take in a global celebration of holiday traditions at the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center during this year’s Yuletide Open House, happening Dec. 13–14 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The historic home will be transformed with festive displays inspired by Christmas customs from around the world, offering a warm, family-friendly journey through Italy, Germany, Mexico, and more. Guests can enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, snap photos with Santa, and take advantage of free shuttle service from the Estes Park Visitor Center. Admission is free, but advance reservations are required.
Holiday Hot Chocolate Bar & Mulled Wine at The Barrel
Warm up coziest treats of the season at The Barrel (251 Moraine Ave.) on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. This free, festive drop-in event features a fully loaded Hot Chocolate Bar packed with toppings—from whipped cream and crushed candy canes to caramel drizzle, cookies, and sprinkles—plus aromatic mulled wine simmered with winter spices and citrus. It’s the perfect stop for families, holiday shoppers, and anyone craving a little seasonal cheer.
Colorado Creative District Celebration
Celebrate Estes Park’s vibrant creative community at the Colorado Creative District Celebration on Saturday, Dec. 12, at Bear & Bee (175 Cleave St.) from 12 to 4 p.m. The free, family-friendly event features live music from Cowboy Brad and more, delicious bites from food trucks on site, and hands-on kids’ crafts and games. Don’t miss the official ribbon cutting at 12:30 p.m. It’s a festive afternoon honoring the artists who help bring Estes Park’s creative spirit to life.
Reindeer Rendezvous
Get into the holiday spirit at the Reindeer Rendezvous on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Wildfire Homes subdivision (1616 Continental Peaks Cir.). Start inside the beautifully decorated townhome for a cozy hot cocoa bar complete with all the fixings before heading outside to meet real reindeer ready for photos. Free and family-friendly, this cheerful neighborhood event invites the community to sip, mingle, and enjoy a little holiday magic. Visitors are also welcome to tour the new townhomes while they’re there.
Holiday Screen Favorites with the Estes Park Chorale
Celebrate the sounds of the season as the Estes Park Chorale presents Holiday Screen Favorites on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies (1700 Brodie Ave.). This year’s concert highlights beloved holiday music from film and television, including classics from “Home Alone,” “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “The Polar Express,” and more. Admission is $10 at the door.
Brewery Book Fair with Macdonald Book Shop
Settle in for a cozy afternoon of books and brews as Avant Garde Aleworks (920 Dunraven St.) hosts a special Brewery Book Fair with Macdonald Book Shop on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 2 to 6 p.m. Browse a curated selection of staff favorites and new reads. Guests receive a drink discount with any book purchase, making this the ideal pairing of literature and lager.
‘Nutcracker Suite’ at The Stanley Hotel
Step into a world of holiday magic as Boulder Ballet brings the ‘Nutcracker Suite’ to the Pavilion at The Stanley Hotel on Dec. 13 and 14. This performance highlights beloved excerpts from the classic ballet, from the twinkling elegance of the Sugar Plum Fairy to the sweeping Waltz of the Flowers. With showtimes at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday, audiences of all ages can experience the wonder of Tchaikovsky’s timeless score and Boulder Ballet’s exquisite artistry. Tickets range from $25 for children and $35 for adults, with VIP options available for an elevated holiday outing.
Paint & Sip at the Estes Valley Community Center
Unwind with an evening of creativity at the Estes Valley Community Center (660 Community Dr.) on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 4 to 6 p.m. Instructor Jan Fischer will guide participants step-by-step through a festive painting project. The session includes wine and charcuterie, generously sponsored by Spur Liquor and Safeway, making it the perfect blend of art and relaxation. Tickets are $45, and all materials are provided.
Kids Holiday Party at Bear & Bee
Give the kids a festive night out at Bear & Bee’s Kids Holiday Party on Saturday, Dec. 13. From 5 to 8:30 p.m., children ages 5–12 can dive into an evening of arts and crafts, games, pizza, and plenty of holiday cheer at the Makers’ Studio & Boutique (541 Big Thompson Ave., Suite 201). The event costs $42 for the first child and $30 for siblings. Spots fill quickly, so early registration is encouraged.
Breakfast with Santa at The Bull Pin
Start your Sunday with a little holiday magic at The Bull Pin during their festive Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Families can enjoy a cheerful holiday breakfast buffet, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and snap a keepsake photo. With seasonal music, festive décor, and holiday drinks available for purchase, it’s a cozy, memory-making event for all ages. Tickets are $15 for kids and $20 for adults.
Football at Tavern at the Legion
Catch all the game-day action at American Legion Post 119 (850 N. St. Vrain) on Sunday, Dec. 14, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Tavern is offering happy hour specials all day long, plus football-themed food and drink deals to keep you fueled. Settle in to watch the Broncos take on the Packers at 2 p.m., enjoy the full menu, and cheer alongside fellow fans.
Sip and Paint Bowling Pins at The Bull Pin
Let the holiday creativity roll at The Bull Pin on Sunday, Dec. 14, with a festive Sip and Paint Bowling Pins workshop. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., guests can design and decorate their own full-size bowling pin using provided paints, glitter, stencils, markers, and more. Each $45 ticket includes a seasonal handcrafted cocktail and all materials, with $30 of every ticket supporting The Bull Pin’s EPHS Scholarship Fund.
Estes Park Village Band’s Christmas Concert
The Estes Park Village Band’s annual Holiday Concert is on Sunday, Dec. 14. The free concert begins at 3:00 p.m. in the Estes Park High School Auditorium (1600 Manford Ave.).The holiday concert will be conducted Judy Vasel, Melinda Workman and Chuck Varilek and feature songs like “Happy Holidays/White Christmas,” “Candlelight Carol,” “Greensleeves,” “Coventry Carol,” and “It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year.”
Sweets Stroll
Take a delicious walk through downtown Estes Park during the annual Sweets Stroll on Sunday, Dec. 14, from 3 to 5 p.m. Start by picking up your free punch card at the Estes Park Visitor Center, then visit participating candy shops, bakeries, chocolatiers, and ice cream spots, each offering a complimentary treat. Kids and families can also stop by for free photos with Santa. Part of the Sleigh the Games winter festival, this self-guided stroll is a festive (and tasty!) way to celebrate the season.
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 runs through Dec. 22, and is open Friday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.