Denver, if you’re wondering what to do this week, you’ve got a full sleigh of options, so let’s dive right into what’s happening around the Mile High City.

Downtown, Denver Arts and Venues is turning the city into a holiday playground. At the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Colorado Ballet’s The Nutcracker is in full swing at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House through December 28, a classic choice if listeners want snowflakes, toy soldiers, and Tchaikovsky in all their glory, according to Denver Arts and Venues. Over in the Wolf Theatre, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts is running A Christmas Carol, with Ebenezer Scrooge and those famous ghosts haunting the stage well into spring, perfect for listeners who like their holiday with a side of redemption. The Garner Galleria Theatre is offering Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, a campy, fast-paced spoof that’s great if you’re ready for something a little darker and a lot funnier than your usual December fare.

If music is more your scene, the Colorado Symphony has Handel’s Messiah – Awakening at Boettcher Concert Hall December 19 through 21, a fresh take on the beloved oratorio with full orchestra and chorus, as listed by Denver Arts and Venues. Later in the month, Elf in Concert brings the Will Ferrell favorite to the big screen with the symphony playing the score live, a family-friendly way to keep the holiday energy going after Christmas. And don’t sleep on Denver TubaChristmas at Sculpture Park on December 21, where hundreds of tuba and euphonium players gather outside to belt out carols in rich, brassy harmony, according to Denver Arts and Venues.

For something uniquely Denver after dark, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is hosting Christmas in Color, a drive-through light experience that fills the legendary venue with tunnels of LEDs and synchronized music, as described by Denver Arts and Venues. It’s an easy win for listeners looking for a cozy, car-based outing with hot chocolate and a soundtrack.

Union Station is also in the holiday spotlight. According to Denver Union Station’s own calendar, Miracle at Union Station transforms the historic building into a festive pop-up cocktail bar, with over-the-top decorations, themed drinks, and a lively nighttime vibe right in LoDo. It’s a great stop before or after a show downtown.

And for listeners who like browsing and people-watching, the Tanner Gun Show is rolling into the Aurora area December 20 and 21, with the organizers describing it as two full days of vendors and gear just outside Denver.

Wherever you land this week, Denver is packed with lights, music, theatre, and plenty of holiday cheer. Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s happening around town. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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