DENVER -- Every weekend, Denver7 compiles a list of some family friendly events you might enjoy. Here are our picks for the 7 best things to do in the Denver metro area this weekend.
1. Denver Zoo Lights ready to sparkle this holiday season
What: More than 130 animated animal sculptures will swing through trees, jump across lawns, hide in bushes and appear in places when they’re least expected this holiday season. For the first time this year, guests will be able to control some of those sculptures at interactive stations at the Zoo’s Giraffe Meadows area. Other festivities include a chance to meet Santa Claus, live animal demonstrations, carolers, holiday treats and warming stations.
When: December 1 through December 31, 2017 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele Street in Denver
Admission: Varies
More info: https://www.denverzoo.org/zoolights2017
2. First Friday Art Walk
What: Within the thriving community of the Art District on Santa Fe, enjoy First Friday Art Walks every first Friday of the month. Free guided shuttle coaches pick you up at the light rail station at 10th Avenue and Osage Street and ferry you around the Art District between 5:30 and 10:00 p.m.
When: Friday, December 1 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Santa Fe Art District
Admission: Free
More info: https://denversartdistrict.org/
3. 30th Annual Candlelight Walk
What: Holding a candle and singing holiday songs, everyone walks down Washington Avenue from 15th Street in front of Foothills Art Center to 10th Street, where Santa and the mayor will help “light the lights” of our beautiful town. Experience the “hometown” feel of the holiday season in historic downtown Golden.
When: Friday, December 1 (Gather at Foothills Art Center at 6:00 pm)
Where: Golden
Admission: Free
More info: http://visitgolden.com/candlelight-walk-golden/
4. Lakewood Lights
What: Join the Mayor of Lakewood for the annual tree lighting ceremony! There will be caroling, a brass band performance, holiday carols and more.
When: December 1 and 2 starting at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Lakewood Heritage Center (801 S Yarrow St)
Admission: Free
More info: http://www.lakewood.org/HolidayLights/
5. Annual Lights of December Parade
What: Spectators will enjoy floats created and decorated by local businesses, churches and civic groups. Crowds will enjoy marching bands, lit fire engines, holiday carolers and much more. The grand finale includes an appearance by the jolly old man himself - Santa Claus!
When: Saturday, December 2 starting at 6 p.m.
Where: The Parade starts at 15th & Walnut and heads West to Broadway, then North on Broadway to Spruce, and then East on Spruce ending at 15th.
Admission: Free
More info: https://www.boulderdowntown.com/light-up-the-holidays/events/lights-of-december-parade
6. Lighting of Breckenridge
What: Breckenridge isn’t all about skiing and snowbarding – specially during the holiday season. Head to the mountains as the town transforms for the holidays. Did we mention you can participate in the Race of the Santas? There will also be a holiday market, a dog parade, caroling and the Lighting of Breckenridge, so make sure to get there early!
When: Saturday, December 2 starting at 5 p.m.
Where: Breckenridge
Admission: Free
More info: http://www.gobreck.com/events/lighting-of-breckenridge-race-of-the-santas
7. Santa’s Village at Chatfield Farms
What: Come to Chatfield Farms to meet Mrs. Claus, Santa and his reindeer while walking through colorful holiday lights that illuminate the night.
When: Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays: Nov. 24 – Dec. 24, 2017
Where: 8500 W Deer Creek Canyon Road in Littleton
Admission: $20 Adult, Child (ages 3-15)
$15 Member Adult or Child
$15 Senior (65+), Military
Free for children 2 or younger
More info: https://www.botanicgardens.org
Have an event you’d like for us to tell viewers about? Send an email to oscar.contreras@kmgh.com so he can put your event on the list.