The holidays are a time of year filled with traditions and moments that define the season in memorable style. For many holiday revelers, it’s hard to imagine this meaningful time of year without some quality time set aside with family and friends to get out and explore the best Christmas lights and displays in town. If you’re lucky enough to be heading to Estes Park, Colorado at Christmastime, you’ll be delighted to find that in addition to the incredible scenery waiting to greet you, this destination is one that also has a reputation for being decked out in its holiday best! The following are just a few of the many options to include on your itinerary when you want to be sure you see the best Estes Park Christmas lights and displays this year.
Try the Annual Estes Park Holiday Lights Driving Tour
Each year, Estes Park proudly provides visitors and locals alike with a self-guided driving tour map to follow that hits some of the most glittering holiday stops in town. While the map changes each year depending on the businesses and homes that choose to participate, it’s always well worth exploring in good company at your own preferred pace. The holiday lights driving tour often runs from late November through the beginning of the New Year giving travelers plenty of time to enjoy the experience no matter when they happen to arrive in town over the holidays. In years past, the tour has included a starting point at the YMCA of the Rockies where the administration building and dining hall alike are typically decked out in style. From here, the route often travels along Highway 66 and is dotted with cabins and lodges along Wind River aglow in holiday décor. You won’t want to miss driving past the Wild Horse Gift Shop where the easy-to-spot Bigfoot and many elk statues even get the Christmas light treatment.
Holiday Fun at Bond Park
In 2024, the holiday fun at Bond Park will once again kick off for locals and visitors alike looking to make the most of the Christmas light-focused fun beginning November 23. Located at 170 MacGregor Avenue, Bond Park hosts a Nightly Light Show Spectacular each evening between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm. This dazzling display showcases a state-of-the-art Pixel Pine Tree that illuminates in color and song, much to the delight of guests of all ages! It’s an event you’ll definitely want to have your camera ready for to commemorate the exceptionally exciting moment.
If you find yourself in Estes Park for holiday fun on December 7, you’ll be right on time to make the most of the Snowman Festival hosted at Bond Park as well. This event includes plenty of beautiful Christmas lights and displays to check out as well as a family-friendly scavenger hunt, carriage rides, fantastic food, beverages, and beyond. December 21, 2024, marks the arrival of the Sweet Stroll Festival at Bond Park where little ones can enjoy a meet-and-greet with Santa and collect tasty treats while admiring the holiday décor!
Downtown Lights Sure to Inspire
You won’t have to travel far from Bond Park to enjoy the holiday lights and displays adorning downtown Estes Park. Many of the downtown restaurants, shops, and parks are brimming over with holiday lights, making it a great place to enjoy the view and grab some great photos too. The vast majority of the trees along the George Hix Riverside Plaza and Elkhorn Avenue are twinkling in a holiday glow this time of year, so if you have yet to get that perfect Christmas card picture, this could be the ideal backdrop. Even the shop windows host Christmas displays where you can enjoy a whimsical take on marketing for gifts that might be the last you need to check off your list before Christmas Day arrives.
Historic Stops Illuminated in Holiday Style
A must-visit destination when you want to enjoy impressive holiday lights and displays during your Estes Park getaway is the historic Stanley Hotel. Here, the rows of trees that dot the property are strung up in lights each year and the historic location itself is decked out in twinkling décor from top to bottom. It’s a beautiful sight and it might just be the highlight of your holiday light display journey if you’re a history buff too.
Book Your Getaway Today
No matter when your travel plans bring you to Estes Park, booking your accommodations through Mountain Village at Lake Estes is a sure way to infuse luxury, comfort, and elevated standards of style into the experience. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our inviting and exciting lineup of property options available across Estes Park, including our holiday rental selections, and how we can help you create a truly unforgettable stay. We look forward to seeing you in scenic Estes Park soon!
