Planning a holiday in the snow this winter season? Look no further! Winter Park is truly a magical & wonderful place to spend the holidays. In addition to the world-class skiing, Winter Park also plays host to several truly unique and memorable events that make the holidays even that much more special.Check out some of our favorite holiday events and activities in Winter Park, CO this winter season.
Now that Winter Park is gearing up for the '25/26 ski season, it's the perfect time to map out some events & activities to do while you're in the area. Whether you're a local who's already carved more runs than you can count or a visitor planning your first powder-filled getaway, this season's calendar is stacked with experiences that go well beyond skiing. Think festive holiday traditions, groovy live music, and ski clinics that'll actually make you better (not just tired!) From early season to mid-April, this guide breaks down the best standout events so you can pick what fits your style — whether that's après-ski at Sunspot Lodge, glow tubing at night, or learning a few tricks in the park. Here's to crisp mornings, fire-lit nights, and a season that feels as rich as the terrain! It is abundantly clear why local's are quickly swept up in the spirit of things here in Winter Park and why visitors choose to spend their holiday season here, too. Check out this handy list for some of our favorite holiday things to do!
Local's Tip: Please feel free to use and reference this tentative events calendar to help plan your trip to Winter Park! Keep this guide on hand as you plan your weekends or spontaneous ski days. Mark the stuff you don't want to miss, then make room for surprises — some of the best moments happen when you least expect them.
Date & Time
Nov. 29, 2025 — Dec. 31, 2025
Date & Time
Nov. 29, 2025 - Dec. 24, 2025
Price
FREE
Join in on the fun at Winter Park for Deck the Slopes! From November 29th to December 24th, the Resort will transform into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights, festive cheer, and unforgettable weekend activities for the whole family. Bring the whole crew to enjoy holiday drone shows lighting up the night sky, meet live reindeer up close, and take part in an array of magical experiences that will make your holiday season truly unforgettable!
Date & Time
Nov. 29, 2025
3:30 PM — 5:30 PM
Price
FREE
Thanksgiving weekend begins the holiday spirit in Winter Park! Come see the festive Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony in the Winter Park Village and enjoy holiday songs while you watch the holiday tree brighten, immediately followed by photos with Santa. Bring the kiddos and bring your camera!
Date & Time
11:00 AM — 5:00 PM
Dec. 13, 2025
11:00 AM — 5:00 PM
Dec. 13, 2025
11:00 AM — 5:00 PM
11:00 AM — 5:00 PM
Date & Time
Dec. 13, 2025
Dusk (Approx. 5:45PM)
Dusk (Approx. 5:45PM)
Local's Tip: Visit the Derailer or The Locals Call (formerly Doc's) deck for the best view!
Date & Time
Every Thursday, Friday, & Saturday
December 11, 2025 - April 4, 2026
4:00 PM — 8:00 PM
There's no wrong way to après, but this one might just top them all! Ride the Gondola every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 4–8pm (no lift ticket needed!) as you soar above the spruce trees to the Lodge at Sunspot. Settle in with live music, food and drink specials, and sweeping mountain views. Whether you're sipping a cocktail at golden hour or dancing with friends, Mountaintop Après is the perfect way to wind down—or turn it up. Last ride up the Gondola is at 7pm.
Local's Tip: To see the full music schedule CLICK HERE!
Date & Time
Every Day!
A thrilling adventure for everyone in your crew. Jump in the fast lane, keep it slow, create a chain with your crew, or fly solo and experience exciting, banked curves. Advance purchase is highly recommended. Walk-up ticket availability is not guaranteed, and tubing times do sell out.
Plus, don't forget to check out Glow Night Tubing! Night Tubing will run from December 18, 2025 - March 28, 2026. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays - From 5:00pm - 7:00pm.
Local's Tip: With limited space for participants, it's always good idea to book ahead! For more info, CLICK HERE!
Winter Park Resort Holiday Party
Date & Time
Dec. 13, 2025
3:30 PM — 5:30 PM
Price
FREE
The Holidays are here! That means sparking snow, delicious hot chocolate, and, of course, Santa's reindeer. Kick off the holiday spirit with photos with Santa, a cozy cup of hot cocoa, and live holiday music - then gather to watch the dazzling drone show. This family friendly party is a favorite of both locals and tourists alike!
Date & Time
Every Thursday, Friday, & Saturday (and some holiday dates)
December 18, 2025 - March 28, 2026
4:30 PM — 6:30 PM
Experience the quiet beauty of winter woods at twilight. Your guide will lead you up The Gondola to begin your hike. Once you enter the forest trail you can enjoy the beautiful starlit Colorado sky and take in the quiet peace of the winter night. When you return from the trail, you will be able to enjoy a complimentary beverage in the lodge. Based on sunset times, this tour will include varying amounts of darkness throughout the season.
Local's Tip: With limited space for participants, it's always good idea to book ahead! For more info, CLICK HERE!
Date & Time
Every Thursday, Friday, & Saturday (and some holiday dates)
December 18, 2025 - March 28, 2026
4:30 PM — 6:30 PM
Relax after a long day on the slopes with a scenic snowcat tour atop Winter Park Resort. Meet your driver at the Adventure & Supply Co shop. Once aboard the tour cat, watch the sun set over the Fraser Valley and see the stars come alive over expansive views as you make your way to Vasquez Ridge. Then travel to Lunch Rock to enjoy s'mores and beverages for the entire family, before heading back to the base. Tour price includes tour, s'mores, and one beverage.
Date & Time
Dec. 24, 2025
5:30 PM
Price
FREE
The most beloved tradition at Winter Park is back, and you're invited! At 5:30pm, cozy up with a cup of cocoa around the fire and watch as our skiers make their way down the slopes illuminating the night under a brilliant fireworks display. Before the big event, get your fill of holiday cheer with a variety of other festivities at the base. Take your picture with Santa at the Village Gazebo from 1-4pm, grab some sweets from Treeline Treats, and visit the Gondola Circle for Bradley's for delicious hot cocoa. Following the Torchlight Parade, West Portal will also be hosting a non-denominational church service, and all are welcome to attend.
Date & Time
Dec. 26, 2025 — Jan. 3, 2026
4:00 PM — 8:00 PM
Price
FREE
Celebrate the holidays and make memories all week long from December 26 - January 3 at Holiday Après. A limited-time après extending beyond the usual Thursday, Friday, and Saturday schedule this will surely be a hit for everyone in your group! Come and enjoy live music, plus food and drink specials this holiday season at The Lodge at Sunspot.
From December 26 through January 3, ride the Gondola to Mountaintop Après at the Lodge at Sunspot from 4–8 PM (no lift ticket or reservation required!) and enjoy a cozy escape above the spruce trees. As part of the festivities, don't miss out on the other signature nighttime experiences like Glow Night Tubing, Sunset Snowcat & S'mores Tour, all available throughout the Holiday Après week.
Local's Tip: If you plan to head up The Gondola to The Lodge at Sunspot before 4pm you'll need a '25/26 Ikon Pass, Winter Park Season Pass, valid lift ticket, or Scenic Gondola Ticket. The last ride up the Gondola to Sunspot will be at 7pm, the last ride down the Gondola to the base will be at 8pm.
Live Music Schedule
December 26, 2025 - Courtlyn Bills and Friends
December 27, 2025 - Taylor Scott Band
December 28, 2025 - Andrew Cooney and Shawn Eckels
December 29, 2025 - Easy Tiger
December 30, 2025 - TBA
December 31, 2025 - Dealer Take Four
January 1, 2026 - TBA
January 2, 2026 - Kory Montgomery Duo
January 3, 2026 - Drew Freeman Band
Date & Time
Dec. 31, 2025
7:00 PM — 9:00 PM
Location
Rendezvous Event Center
78821 U.S. Hwy 40
Winter Park, CO 80482
Price
FREE
The town of Winter Park shines on New Year's Eve! On December 31st the Rendezvous Event Center in downtown Winter Park will host sledders and tubers, and a Silent Disco Party featuring tunes by Big Little Sound. This event is free and open to the public, so bring the whole gang!
Local's Tip: Arrive a little early as sleds, tubes, and toboggans are provided on the event center's tubing hill and are first come, first served!
Where To Stay?
Winter Park is always ready to celebrate the winter season! This community is so welcoming, and encourages everyone to live like the locals do! When you're ready to visit this little corner of paradise, be ready to be adventurous, and celebrate the beauty of the surrounding area. Experience all that Winter Park has to offer with a bit of help from your favorite local lodging company Winter Park Lodging Company!
For more info about Winter Park, CO check out these other great resources:
- 1-Day Ski Itinerary at Winter Park
- Three Easy Ways To Get To Winter Park
- Child Care Options & Kid-Friendly Activies in Winter Park