New hours and including exciting new festivities for families including glass blowing and a special commemorative stein.

Denver’s old holiday traditions get a new vibe this year as Civic Center Park and Skyline Park are both under renovation until spring 2027. 

The revitalization project, “Civic Center Next 100,” includes improvements to the Greek Theater, upgrades to the Central Promenade, and renovation of the Bannock Street entrance into a public plaza.  

A $1 million grant from Great Outdoors Colorado will allow Denver Parks and Recreation to transform Skyline Park into a year-round destination with a flexible plaza space, ice rink, and concession space for food and drinks.   

With construction happening at both parks, here’s how your family’s holiday traditions will be impacted this season: 

Christkindl Market – Usually held at Civic Center Park, this year Christkindl will be held at the Tivoli Quad at Auraria Campus, running from November 21 to December 23, 2025. Christkindl Market is a free event, but while there will be plenty of options for parking on Auraria Campus, there is a fee to park. This year’s commemorative mug and stein, designed by Colorado street artist Pat Milbery, will feature the Tivoli Brewery building, a special edition with the market’s temporary new location.

Mile High Tree – Up to 140 guests can awe at the spectacle of lights under this 110-foot-tall structure, which features nightly light and music shows adorned with 60,000 LED lights. This year the Mile High Tree will be showcased in the Tivoli Quad at the Auraria Campus. 

Mile High Drone Show – Prime viewing spots for the holiday drone show have moved this year from Civic Center Park to the Tivoli Quad at the Auraria Campus, nearby Sculpture Park and at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. 600 choreographed drones take to the skies to illustrate holiday themes from Santa to Denver landmarks.  

This year, there will be an addition of “The Western Carousel,” a 42-foot Herschell masterpiece, with hand-carved horses and intricate, vintage detailing with rides for adults and kids, available for $5 per ticket. Another new addition will feature a glass ornament workshop where visitors can experience the centuries-old tradition of German glassmaking with master artists.

Skyline Park Downtown Denver Rink – This year with construction, the Downtown Denver Rink will be closed at Skyline Park; however there are still options available for those looking to lace up their skates. 

IN THE CITY

McGreggor Square Skate – Lace up those skates because there is still a rink in downtown Denver, located right in the heart of LoDo. The rink will remain open in January for those who want and outdoor rink for skating, outside of the holiday season. 

Halcyon On Ice – Located on the rooftop at the Halcyon Hotel in Cherry Creek, enjoy a unique experience at a rink in the clouds. Skating is free to the public and hotel guests. Bring your own skates, and savor genuine European Alpine culture with carefully curated music, drinks, dining, and ice skating. 

The Rink at Belmar – Just outside of Downtown Denver in Lakewood, this outdoor rink offers holiday lights and a large space for skaters. Prices start at $10 for children and $12 for adults, including skate rentals if you need them or $8 if you bring your own skates.  

OUTSIDE THE CITY

Parker Ice Trail at Discovery Park – Located right off of Main Street in Parker, this is one of only a few ‘ice trails’ in the country with an ice path that winds around the park like a frozen river or canal. Stay warm after your skate by any of three fire pits as you sip hot cocoa. Admission for the ice path is $10 for Parker residents and $11 for non-residents, and an additional $4 for skate rentals.  

Beaver Creek Village Ice Rink – Located high in the Rockies and nestled in the village of Beaver Creek,  this festive outdoor rink offers ice skating amidst stunning views of the mountains and is adorned with festive, holiday lights. Admission is $5 with your own skates, $10 with skate rental,s ages 12 & under $15 for adults.  

Alderhof Ice Rink at the Arrabelle Hotel – Located in the heart of Vail in Lionshead Village, this ice rink is not just for the luxury guests at the Arabelle, but completely open to the public. You may bring your own ice skates or rent a pair at the rink.