Looking for things to do during the holidays in Aurora, Colorado? Whether you’re a long-time resident, a new arrival, or you’re exploring the area with an eye on a future move, Aurora shines with family-friendly events, dazzling light displays, outdoor fun, and rich cultural experiences. As a local real estate expert, Deborah Ullom at Deborah Ullom | Lifetime Properties helps clients not only find the right home but also fall in love with the lifestyle that makes Aurora special—especially during the festive season. Use this guide to plan memorable outings, discover local gems, and get insider tips for enjoying winter in and around Aurora.
Skate, Shop, and Celebrate at Southlands
Southlands, Aurora’s open-air shopping and dining destination near E-470 and Smoky Hill, turns into a charming winter village each year. The star attraction is its outdoor ice rink—known locally as “The Pond”—which typically opens in mid-November and runs through January. It’s a perfect evening out for families, date nights, or a post-shopping treat.
What to expect:
- Festive atmosphere: Twinkling lights, music, and seasonal décor create a warm, inviting setting even on chilly nights.
- Skating fun: Rent skates on-site, and bring gloves and thick socks for comfort. Early evening sessions tend to be less crowded on weekdays.
- Seasonal events: Southlands often hosts a community tree lighting, live performances, and visits from Santa. On select days, you’ll find carriage rides and themed family activities.
Insider tip from Deborah: If you’re evaluating neighborhoods, combine a late afternoon visit to nearby communities like Tallyn’s Reach or Beacon Point with an evening skate. You’ll get a true sense of how locals gather, shop, and celebrate—great context for understanding what living here feels like.
Experience Gaylord Rockies’ Over-the-Top Holiday Attractions
Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center is one of Aurora’s marquee holiday destinations. If you’re searching for things to do during the holidays in Aurora, Colorado with a big “wow” factor, this is it. Expect indoor and outdoor experiences designed for all ages, such as:
- ICE! walkthrough exhibits: Elaborate, themed ice sculptures carved by artisans—kept at chilly temperatures. Parkas are typically provided, but dress warmly.
- Snow fun: Tubing, snowball build areas, and seasonal play zones ensure the little ones burn off energy.
- Gingerbread decorating: Reserve a session to build and decorate with the help of cheerful holiday hosts.
- Evening spectacles: Expect light displays, festive music, and a lively atmosphere you can enjoy even if you’re not staying overnight.
Local strategy: Book activities ahead when possible and consider weekday visits for fewer crowds. If you have visiting family, Gaylord Rockies makes an excellent base for a staycation, pairing festive fun with easy access to Aurora neighborhoods you may want to explore with Deborah.
City Traditions: Aurora Municipal Center Tree Lighting and More
The City of Aurora rings in the season with a community tree lighting at the Aurora Municipal Center. Families gather on the Great Lawn to see the tree glow, enjoy music, sip hot cocoa, and take photos with festive backdrops. It’s a relaxed, hometown-style celebration that reminds you how connected Aurora’s community really is.
While you’re in the civic campus area, keep an eye on the Aurora History Museum’s “Festival of Wreaths.” This beloved tradition displays wreaths crafted by local artists, businesses, and community groups—many available for auction to support the museum. It’s a fun, quick visit that doubles as inspiration for your own holiday décor.
Why buyers love these events: If you’re relocating, community traditions like these give you a feel for the city’s personality. Deborah often recommends timing a visit around a city event to see firsthand how Aurora residents engage and celebrate together.
Stanley Marketplace: Holiday Shopping, Food, and Festive Workshops
Stanley Marketplace, located on the Aurora–Denver border in an original aviation building, is a can’t-miss stop for local shopping and seasonal cheer. Inside, you’ll find indie boutiques, makers, craft workshops, and family-friendly happenings throughout the holiday season.
Highlights:
- Thoughtful gifts: Find handmade jewelry, bath and body products, specialty foods, and unique home décor—all from local and Colorado-based artisans.
- Food and drink: Warm up with hot chocolate, festive pastries, or winter ales. Cheluna Brewing Co., a local favorite inside Stanley, often adds seasonal releases.
- Santa and pop-ups: Look for photo ops, mini markets, and kid-friendly activities that rotate weekends in December.
Deborah’s take: Stanley’s indoor format is a winner on snow or wind-whipped days. If you’re exploring neighborhoods like Central Park, Lowry-adjacent Aurora, or North Aurora, Stanley is a convenient anchor for a cozy, festive break between home tours.
Shop Local on Havana Street and the Town Center at Aurora
Aurora’s Havana Street corridor is famous for its international dining and local businesses. During the holidays, the area sparkles with decorations and often hosts “Holiday on Havana” festivities—think visits from Santa, giveaways, and storefront décor competitions. It’s a great place to shop small while discovering new cuisines for post-shopping meals. You’ll find Korean BBQ, Ethiopian coffee ceremonies, Vietnamese pho, and more—perfect for gathering the extended family after a day of errands.
The Town Center at Aurora also embraces the season with photos with Santa, pop-up vendors, and special shopping hours. Go early on weekends for easy parking and a more relaxed shopping experience. If you’re narrowing down neighborhoods, this area gives strong insight into the convenience factor—what it’s like to run errands, access services, and find everyday amenities close to home.
Catch a Holiday Show: Aurora Fox Arts Center and Vintage Theatre
Support Aurora’s thriving arts scene by booking a holiday performance. The Aurora Fox Arts Center and Vintage Theatre offer seasonal productions ranging from classic holiday comedies to family musicals. These intimate venues make for a special night out without the hassle of big-city crowds, and both are proud contributors to Aurora’s cultural identity.
Family tip: Many shows feature matinees that pair nicely with a late lunch on East Colfax or in the Aurora Cultural Arts District. For out-of-town guests, it’s a low-stress way to add cultural flair to the itinerary without driving into downtown Denver.
Outdoor Winter Fun: Trails, Wildlife, and Big Colorado Skies
If you love crisp air and mountain views, Aurora’s open spaces deliver. Cold-weather gear and a thermos of cocoa are all you need to enjoy:
- Aurora Reservoir: The trails offer serene winter walks with sunrise and sunset views across the water. Watch for waterfowl and occasional bald eagles. The beach is closed for swimming in winter, but the surrounding paths are open for walking and running.
- Cherry Creek State Park: A short drive from many Aurora neighborhoods, this regional gem offers winter birding (bald eagles frequently nest nearby), gentle hiking, and snow-dusted prairie scenes. After a fresh snowfall, you can sometimes spot cross-country skiers on flatter trails.
- Plains Conservation Center: On certain dates, you’ll find educational programs, stargazing events, and guided experiences that bring the prairie ecosystem to life—even in winter. Kids love the hands-on learning, and adults appreciate the quiet, big-sky landscapes.
Safety essentials: Dress in layers, pack traction cleats for icy days, and check weather and sunset times. If you’re home shopping, Deborah recommends visiting a nearby park as part of your neighborhood evaluation—you’ll understand how easily you can work nature into daily life.
Drive-Through Light Hunts and Neighborhood Sparkle
Aurora’s neighborhoods take pride in creative décor. A DIY lights tour is an easy, low-cost way to soak up the season:
- Tallyn’s Reach: Known for grand trees and elegant displays.
- Saddle Rock and Saddle Rock Ridge: Lots of family-friendly streets with cheerful lights.
- Murphy Creek: Often features coordinated cul-de-sacs and porch décor.
- The Conservatory: Bright, colorful displays across many blocks.
- Public displays: Check out The Gardens on Havana for commercial décor and the Southlands area for a big community tree and streetscape sparkle.
Pro tip: Make a route with a few nearby neighborhoods, bring travel mugs, and keep an eye out for homes offering synchronized light shows. It’s also a handy time to see how streets are lit, how snow is managed, and how neighbors engage—subtle signals that matter when you’re selecting a place to live.
Give Back: Holiday Volunteering and Donations
Aurora’s generous spirit shines in winter. If you want to add meaning to your holiday season:
- Support local shelters and warming initiatives with coats, gloves, socks, and hygiene kits.
- Donate pantry staples and holiday items to Aurora-based food pantries and community services.
- Sponsor a family or contribute to toy drives run through local schools, civic groups, or public safety departments.
Families often find that a morning of volunteering—followed by a simple treat like cookies at Stanley Marketplace or skating at Southlands—turns into a cherished holiday tradition.
Quick Day Trips Near Aurora
While this guide focuses on things to do during the holidays in Aurora, Colorado, it’s worth noting that many of the metro area’s marquee attractions are a short drive away. Consider a night out at Denver Zoo Lights, a glowing walk through the botanic gardens’ light displays, or a festive European-style market downtown. For many Aurora residents, part of the appeal is enjoying both suburban convenience and easy access to big-city holiday experiences.
Home for the Holidays: Buyer and Seller Tips from Deborah Ullom
Aurora’s holiday season is also a surprisingly smart time to make real estate moves. With decades of local expertise, Deborah Ullom at Deborah Ullom | Lifetime Properties offers practical strategies tailored to this time of year:
For buyers:
- Less competition: Many shoppers pause for the holidays, giving you more negotiating power and a calmer touring schedule.
- See homes in winter conditions: You’ll get a true read on insulation, windows, snow/ice management, and natural light—details that matter come February.
- Neighborhood insight: Attend a local event and then tour nearby communities the same day. Deborah can structure your showing route around city tree lightings, skating times, or a performance, so you get a realistic, lifestyle-based feel.
For sellers:
- Cozy staging wins: Use warm lighting, winter greens, and subtle seasonal scents (think pine or cinnamon) to create an inviting atmosphere without clutter. A tidy entry and safe, shoveled walkways are a must.
- Curb appeal counts: Simple, tasteful exterior lights and a welcoming wreath make your property feel well cared for.
- Flexible scheduling: Offer twilight showings so buyers see evening curb appeal—plus the neighborhood in holiday glow. Deborah coordinates with you to balance privacy, festivities, and market exposure.
For investors:
- End-of-year opportunities: Some sellers are motivated to close before year-end, and fewer competing buyers can open the door to favorable terms.
- Rentability check: Tour nearby amenities—like Southlands, Gaylord Rockies, and transit corridors—to gauge year-round tenant demand.
Practical Planning Tips for a Smooth Holiday Season
- Weather and altitude: Aurora is sunny but can be brisk. Dress in layers, hydrate, and use moisturizer and SPF—yes, even in winter.
- Reservations and tickets: For high-demand activities like Gaylord Rockies’ attractions or popular shows, reserve ahead. Weekdays are easiest.
- Parking and timing: Arrive a bit early for Southlands and Stanley on weekends. For light tours, start just after sunset to beat later crowds.
- Family-friendly pacing: Pair an active outing (skating or a trail walk) with a relaxed, indoor stop (hot cocoa, a craft market) to keep everyone happy.
- Real estate readiness: If you might fall in love with a home while visiting, have lender pre-approval and documents ready. Deborah can connect you with trusted local lenders, inspectors, and contractors to keep momentum during the busy season.
Aurora’s holiday season has a little of everything: community-centered events, big-ticket attractions, hidden-gem arts, open spaces, and a vibrant global food scene. It’s a fantastic time to explore the city’s heart—and, if you’re in the market, to match your lifestyle to the right neighborhood and home.
As your local guide and advocate, Deborah Ullom at Deborah Ullom | Lifetime Properties is here to help you make the most of the season—whether that’s curating a holiday-themed house-hunting itinerary, advising on staging that sells in December, or pinpointing the neighborhoods that fit your wish list. Reach out to start a conversation, and let’s make this holiday season the one where you find your place in Aurora.
