Already a mighty destination for culture and arts, the city is brimming with holiday music and theater performances. While historically, the city was a jumping point from Denver International Airport to the ski resorts of the Rockies, it has quickly become an arts destination.

The Denver Performing Arts Complex, known locally as DPAC, is the largest complex of arts under a single roof and the second-largest of its kind in terms of seating capacity outside of New York. There are ten performance spaces residing on the 12-acre site encompassing four blocks in Downtown Denver.

The 2023 holiday season promises to be exceptional, with a variety of concerts and shows scheduled throughout the city. Whether you're a fan of classic Christmas music, ballet, or theater, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the most popular events during the holiday season is the Colorado Symphony Orchestra's annual family-friendly Christmas spectacular. This year's performances will take place at Boettcher Concert Hall from December 8-10, 2023. The symphony will perform a mix of classic and contemporary holiday favorites, making it a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.

Another must-see event is the Magical Christmas Ballet, a production of the Nutcracker that will be performed at the Paramount Theater on December 23, 2023. This delightful treat is perfect for the whole family and is sure to enchant audiences of all ages. With beautiful costumes, stunning choreography, and a live orchestra, this performance is not to be missed.

Setting the Stage: Denver Christmas

Denver is a city that knows how to celebrate the holiday season, with a variety of events and performances that are sure to get anyone into the holiday spirit. From traditional plays to contemporary concerts, there is something for everyone in Denver during Christmas.

One of the most popular theater Christmas events in Denver is the annual production of "A Christmas Carol" at the Wolf Theatre. This classic tale is brought to life with stunning sets, costumes, and performances that are sure to delight audiences of all ages. Other popular theater performances during the holiday season include "The Nutcracker" by the Colorado Ballet and "Granny Dances to a Holiday Drum" by the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Company.

In addition to theater performances, Denver also offers a variety of Christmas concerts. From symphonic renditions of classic holiday songs to jazz interpretations of Christmas favorites, there is no shortage of musical entertainment during the holiday season. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra's "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve" is a popular concert that is sure to get audiences in the holiday spirit.

But it's not just the performances that make Denver special during Christmas. The city is also known for its stunning holiday light displays, including the Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens and the Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms. And of course, there are the iconic Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo, where visitors can see the zoo transformed into a winter wonderland with over a million sparkling lights.

Overall, Denver is a city that truly knows how to celebrate the holiday season. With a variety of events and performances, as well as stunning light displays, it's the perfect place to spend Christmas with family and friends.

Most Popular Concert & Theatre Christmas Events in Denver 2023

Denver is a city that loves to celebrate Christmas with a wide range of theater performances. From traditional Christmas classics to modern interpretations, Denver's theaters and venues have it all.

Here are some of the most popular theater Christmas events in Denver for 2023:

Trans-Siberian Orchestra - The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve

Trans-Siberian Orchestra is returning to Denver with their popular Christmas show, "The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve." The show will be held at the Ball Arena on November 18, 2023, and tickets start at $92. The show features an impressive light show, pyrotechnics, and of course, the band's signature rock opera style.

Mariah Carey - The Queen of Christmas

All we want for Christmas is a visit from Mariah Carey, the Queen of Christmas. Good news - she is bringing her festive tour to Denver's Ball Arena on November 21, 2023. The show promises to be a spectacular celebration of the holiday season, featuring Carey's classic Christmas hits and new songs from her latest album "Merry Christmas II You."

Best Of Christmas with Celtic Woman

Celtic Woman is coming to Denver's Boettcher Concert Hall on December 12, 2023, with their "Best Of Christmas" show. The show will feature traditional Christmas carols, along with Celtic Woman's unique interpretations of modern Christmas classics featuring the backing of the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. Tickets start at $68.

Disney On Ice: Frozen & Encanto

Disney On Ice is bringing their magical Christmas show to Denver's Ball Arena on December 1 - 3, 2023. The show features characters from the hit movies Frozen and Encanto, along with classic Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

Denver Christmas Show

The Denver Christmas Show is a three-day event held at the Colorado Convention Center from November 3-5, 2023. The show features a wide range of Christmas gifts, decorations, and crafts from local vendors. The show is a great place to get into the Christmas spirit and find unique gifts for loved ones.

Denver's theaters have something for everyone this Christmas season. Whether you're looking for a traditional Christmas show or something more modern, there's a theater performance that will suit your tastes. Be sure to get your tickets early, as these shows are sure to sell out fast.

Colorado Ballet's Nutcracker

The Colorado Ballet's Nutcracker is a festive fan-favorite that returns to Denver every holiday season. The production features the company's custom-made sets and costumes, which debuted in 2021, and sees sold-out performances year after year.

The Nutcracker is a family-friendly ballet that has become synonymous with the spirit of the holiday season. The performance is presented at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House with live music featuring the Colorado Ballet Orchestra.

From November 25 to December 24, 2023, the Colorado Ballet's Nutcracker will be performed in Denver. The production includes 28 performances, including a matinee with sensory-friendly adaptations on Sunday, November 26.

The Colorado Ballet's Nutcracker is a dazzling and dreamy production that is not to be missed during the holiday season. Whether you are a ballet enthusiast or simply looking for a festive family outing, the Nutcracker is sure to delight audiences of all ages.

Denver's Performance of A Christmas Carol

Denver's Performance of A Christmas Carol is a highly anticipated event that takes place annually at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. The event runs from November 17 to December 24, 2023, at the Wolf Theatre. The play is based on Charles Dickens' classic novel, and it traces the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge's overnight transformation from a money-hoarding curmudgeon to a redeemed and generous man.

The DCPA Theatre Company's production of A Christmas Carol is a joyous and opulent musical adaptation that is suitable for the whole family. The play lasts for approximately two hours, with one 15-minute intermission. The play is a splendidly festive tradition that has become an essential part of the holiday season in Denver.

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class venue that has been hosting exceptional theatrical performances for over four decades. The Wolf Theatre is a state-of-the-art performance space that provides an immersive and engaging experience for the audience.

In summary, Denver's Performance of A Christmas Carol is a must-see event for anyone visiting Denver during the holiday season. The play is a heartwarming tale of redemption that is brought to life by talented actors and musicians.

Sports Events in Denver for Christmas 2023

Nuggets Host Warriors

If your idea of the perfect Christmas gift is courtside tickets to see your defending champion Nuggets play, then we’ve got you covered. The Nuggets host the Golden State Warriors for a matinee matchup of two premier teams on Christmas Day at Ball Arena.

Broncos Welcome Pats

Get your shopping done and clear your calendar on Christmas Eve, the Broncos welcome the New England Patriots to Empower Field for what shapes to be a contested AFC matchup. The last time the Patriots came to Empower was in November 2017, when they lost 41-17. Let’s hope for a different outcome for Broncos Country this holiday season.

Avs Continue Dominance

Mix shopping and sports by taking in one of two Avalanche home games before Christmas. They host the Ottawa Senators on December 21 and the Arizona Coyotes on December 23 before swinging out of town on their next road trip.

Other Holiday Events in Denver for Christmas 2023

In addition to Christmas concerts and theater performances, Denver has a variety of other holiday events to offer in 2023. Here are some of the most popular events:

Blossoms of Light

Blossoms of Light is a dazzling light display at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy millions of twinkling lights, animated displays, and interactive light installations. This event typically runs from late November through early January, and tickets can be purchased online in advance.

Trail of Lights

Another popular light display in Denver is the Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms. This event features more than a million lights, illuminated trees, and holiday displays. Visitors can also enjoy hayrides, Santa's workshop, and other festive activities. The Trail of Lights is typically open from late November through early January, and tickets can be purchased online in advance.

Zoo Lights

Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo is a beloved holiday tradition in Denver. Visitors can see the zoo transformed into a winter wonderland with more than two million lights, animal sculptures, and holiday displays. There are also animal encounters, carousel rides, and other festive activities. Zoo Lights is typically open from late November through early January, and tickets can be purchased online in advance.

Christkindl Market

The Christkindl Market is a European-style holiday market in downtown Denver. Visitors can shop for unique gifts and crafts, enjoy traditional German food and drink, and listen to live music. The market typically runs from late November through mid-December, and admission is free.

Ice Skating

Denver has several outdoor ice skating rinks that are open during the holiday season. The most popular rinks include the Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park, the Belmar Ice Rink in Lakewood, and the Southwest Rink at Skyline Park. Visitors can rent skates and enjoy skating under the stars.

These are just a few of the many holiday events happening in Denver in 2023. Visitors are encouraged to check local event listings for more information and to plan their holiday itinerary accordingly.