The 2020 holiday season will look different in downtown Denver

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The Downtown Denver Partnership announced the holiday plans for the city with some key changes due to COVID-19.

There will still be lights and festive decorations, but there won't be fans in the bleachers for Parade of Lights or skaters on the ice at Skyline Park.

Here are the 2020 changes:

PARADE OF LIGHTS

November 27-December 31

The beloved community tradition, 9NEWS Parade of Lights, is transforming in 2020! This year’s Parade will be a multi-week, socially safe extravaganza of activities across downtown. The floats you know and love will be displayed throughout downtown for several weeks beginning Friday, November 27. We invite you to come downtown and experience the Parade like never before.

GRAND ILLUMINATION

November 27

On Friday, November 27, Downtown Denver’s major landmarks will light up for the holidays during the Grand Illumination. Hundreds of thousands of lights will illuminate Denver Union Station, the City and County Building, the 16th Street Mall, Skyline Park, the D&F Clock Tower, 14th Street, Larimer Square, and more.

DENVER CHRISTKINDL MARKET

November 20 – December 23

The German American Chamber of Commerce will host a Christmas market in Civic Center Park in the spirit of an age-old German tradition. Craftspeople and artisans will offer rare, imported products, and food vendors will dish out European fare.

Grab a Brat and a Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) and stroll the Market, soaking in the warmth and merriment of the holiday season. The Market is packed with entertainment, including bands, choirs, dancing, and much more.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

November 28

Did you know over 60% of downtown businesses are locally owned and operated? Show your support for local businesses and take advantage of special promotions by shopping and dining downtown on November 28th and all throughout the holiday season.

PERFORMANCE

Throughout December, there will be live music and cultural group performances at the Pavilions and in Skyline Park Block 1 plaza.

SANTA

Santa’s sleigh will be stationed at Larimer Square. Stay tuned for a schedule of Santa appearances!

Download the App – Coming soon!

Are you ready to bundle up and experience the holiday whimsy of Downtown Denver? Download the Parade of Lights app onto your smartphone and uncover where you can find the Parade floats along with Winter in the City attractions; this includes the most festive lights, decorations, markets, music, and more. This app will have the most up-to-date information on upcoming interactive activities like scavenger hunts and other family-friendly fun.

Winter In the City 2020 Disclaimer

With the health and safety of our community as our #1 priority, Winter in the City is different this year. This year, you’ll find activities spread throughout Downtown Denver, and as the Rink takes a breather to ensure healthy holidays for everyone, the Parade of Lights will be lighting up all December long for our community.