Things to Do for the 2025 Holidays in Colorado Springs
The holiday season in Colorado Springs feels special in a way that’s hard to describe until you’ve experienced it yourself. The Front Range transforms into a place where mountain views meet twinkling lights, neighborhoods come alive with festive traditions, and families embrace winter in all its forms. From outdoor adventures to local events and cozy community traditions, there’s no shortage of family-friendly ways to celebrate the season. For many families, this time of year is also a reminder of what matters most: time together, shared experiences, and the feeling of being part of a community that is Making Life Better.
Whether you’re new to the area or looking to expand your holiday traditions, the activities below showcase some of the best ways to enjoy the season in and around Colorado Springs in 2025.
Why Colorado Springs Is a Great Place to Celebrate the Holidays
Colorado Springs shines in winter because it offers a balance of seasonal fun, small-town charm, and big-city conveniences. Families enjoy mild, sunny days mixed with occasional snowfall, creating a perfect backdrop for both indoor and outdoor holiday activities. The city’s strong sense of community means many events return year after year, giving families traditions they can count on. From stunning foothill views to neighborhoods filled with lights and decorations, there’s something magical about celebrating the holidays here.
Local organizations, attractions, and parks make a point to create family-centered experiences. Whether you prefer festive events, outdoor recreation, or quiet moments exploring local markets, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to build memories that last long after the season ends.
Holiday Light Displays and Festivals
Holiday lights are one of the biggest highlights of the season in Colorado Springs. Families can explore large-scale attractions, community traditions, and neighborhood displays throughout December.
Electric Safari at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Electric Safari is one of the city’s most beloved holiday events. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo decorates its hillside with thousands of lights and themed displays that illuminate the pathways, animal exhibits, and mountain views. Kids especially love the warming stations, holiday music, and opportunities to see animals more active in cooler weather. It’s a recurring annual event, making it a reliable tradition for 2025.
Royal Gorge Bridge Holiday Lights
A short drive from Colorado Springs, the Royal Gorge Bridge hosts its own holiday lights experience each year. Families can walk across the bridge surrounded by festive lighting, mountain scenery, and seasonal music. The event typically runs throughout December and offers a unique twist on holiday cheer.
Glen Eyrie Castle Holiday Lights and Tours
Glen Eyrie Castle offers one of the most unique holiday experiences in Colorado Springs. Each December, the historic stone castle is decorated with seasonal lights, festive greenery, and elegant holiday displays. Families can explore the grounds, take part in guided tours, or enjoy one of the castle’s seasonal teas. The setting feels peaceful and welcoming, making it a memorable holiday tradition for children and adults alike.
Neighborhood Light Displays
Many neighborhoods across Colorado Springs put significant effort into holiday lights. Areas on the north and east sides of town often feature entire blocks with coordinated displays, making them popular for evening drives or strolls. While displays vary slightly year to year, it’s a dependable part of the season for local families.
Outdoor Winter Activities for the Whole Family
Colorado Springs’ climate allows for plenty of outdoor fun without the bitter cold common in other states. Families can enjoy snow days, crisp winter walks, and seasonal recreation throughout December and January.
Santa Express Train at the Royal Gorge
The Santa Express Train is one of the most memorable holiday traditions for families near Colorado Springs. Departing from the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, this festive journey takes riders through the dramatic canyon scenery while the train is decorated with lights, holiday colors, and cheerful music. Children can enjoy cookies and cocoa, listen to stories, and meet Santa during the ride, making it a magical seasonal outing. The event runs throughout December each year, offering families a reliable and unforgettable way to celebrate the holidays.
Ice Skating at Acacia Park
The outdoor skating rink at Acacia Park returns each holiday season and is a favorite among families. With music, lights, and a playful atmosphere, it’s a great way to enjoy winter in the heart of downtown. Skates are available for rent, and families often pair a visit with a stop at a local bakery for hot chocolate afterward.
Snowshoeing and Winter Trail Walks
Surrounding foothills and parks provide several easy snowshoe routes that are accessible for all skill levels. Red Rock Canyon Open Space, Palmer Park, and Fox Run Regional Park are reliable options when snow accumulates. These locations offer scenic winter views, calm trails, and a chance to connect with nature, even in the colder months.
Sledding Hills Around Colorado Springs
Local sledding hills become popular gathering spots whenever snow arrives. Cottonwood Creek Park and Bear Creek Regional Park consistently draw families looking for a simple and fun winter outing. Because Colorado Springs often has short-lived snowfall, sledding becomes an exciting treat when conditions line up just right.
Family-Friendly Holiday Attractions
Beyond lights and outdoor recreation, Colorado Springs features several family-focused attractions that embrace the holiday spirit in 2025.
North Pole – Santa’s Workshop
Located near the base of Pikes Peak, North Pole – Santa’s Workshop continues to be a favorite for families. The amusement park offers holiday-themed rides, character meet-and-greets, and entertainment suitable for young children. Its vintage charm and snowy setting make it a cozy winter tradition.
Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge transforms into a winter-themed destination each holiday season during Snowland. Families can enjoy indoor snowfall, festive décor, holiday characters, and themed activities designed especially for children. The resort’s year-round water park adds another layer of fun, making Snowland a memorable seasonal outing when the weather outside is cold. It’s an ideal choice for families looking for a warm, playful holiday experience without leaving Colorado Springs.
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum Seasonal Exhibits
The Pioneers Museum often features winter-themed and holiday exhibits during the season, providing a quiet, enriching outing for families. Interactive displays, local history, and kid-friendly programming make it a strong choice for colder days when outdoor options are limited.
The Broadmoor Hotel Gingerbread Display
Experience the magic of the holiday season at The Broadmoor’s Gingerbread Display. This display unveils a life-sized gingerbread scene that captures the thrill of winter sports and the joy of the holidays. This year’s theme Spirit of the Games honors the upcoming Olympic games and features motorized elements and sweet details including include macaroons, chocolate, and gingerbread.
Holiday Shopping and Local Makers’ Markets
Local craft markets and holiday shopping events are popular throughout Colorado Springs each year. These markets showcase handmade gifts, local art, baked goods, and family-friendly activities. Many take place in community centers, historic buildings, and outdoor plazas. They’re wonderful opportunities to support small businesses while creating new traditions with kids in tow.
Smaller neighborhood pop-ups occur throughout November and December as well, offering a chance to explore local talent while enjoying a relaxed holiday atmosphere.
Community Traditions Near Challenger Homes Neighborhoods
Families living in Challenger neighborhoods appreciate the access to parks, open spaces, and trail systems that make holiday outings easy. Evening walks to see neighborhood light displays, casual gatherings with friends, and visits to nearby parks create simple seasonal traditions. Many communities are just a short drive from holiday markets, zoo lights, and ice skating, making it easy to enjoy the best of the season without traveling far from home.
These local connections add to the sense of belonging that so many families love about living in Colorado Springs during the holidays.
Making Life Better During the Holiday Season
The holidays remind families of the importance of connection, comfort, and creating memories at home. Challenger Homes designs communities where those moments can unfold naturally, whether it’s sharing hot chocolate on a winter evening, enjoying local events together, or building long-standing traditions in a neighborhood you love. It’s all part of how Challenger supports families in making life better, especially during this meaningful time of year.
If you’re exploring life in Colorado Springs or looking for a new place to put down roots, visiting a model home or exploring available homes can be a helpful next step. You’ll get a feel for the neighborhoods, nearby parks and amenities, and the sense of community that helps every season feel a little more special.