by Elean Gersack

The holidays are upon us so take some time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. Whether you prefer the ballet, the symphony, or children’s entertainment, there are numerous happenings for adults and families alike. Some are close to home and others require a bit of a drive, but they are all worth the effort.

The Brown Palace Hotel:

Afternoon or Luncheon Tea – Daily

Enjoy the rich elegance of the historic Brown Palace Hotel in downtown Denver while sipping tea with friends or family. Luncheon Teas are offered Monday through Friday from noon – 2 p.m. and Afternoon Teas are offered Monday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. For more information, visit
www.brownpalace.com.

The Colorado Ballet: The Nutcracker

November 25 – December 24

Enjoy this holiday ballet tradition at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House in downtown Denver. For more information, visit www.coloradoballet.com.

The Denver Botanic Gardens: Blossoms of Light

December 2 – January 21 – Evenings

Blossoms of Light brings guests on a beautiful journey through the Botanic Gardens. Sparkling lights will be illuminated to highlight the natural beauty of the gardens. For more information, please visit www.botanicgardens.org

The Denver Center for Performing Arts: A Christmas Carol

November 24 – December 24

The Denver Center for Performing Arts has created a new musical adaptation of everyone’s favorite holiday story: A Christmas Carol. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit
www.denvercenter.org.

The Denver Zoo: Zoo Lights

December 8 – 31 – 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

View amazing animal and tree lights throughout The Denver Zoo. Holiday entertainment, music, warming stations, and refreshments will make this a great family event. Admission is $7 for ages 12 – 64, $6 for adults older than 65, $4 for children 3 – 11 and free for those younger than 3. Call 303-376-4800 or visit www.denverzoo.org for more information.

Downtown Aquarium

Various Dates and Times December 9 – December 24

Enjoy breakfast with Santa and the Downtown Aquarium fish. Santa may even take a swim! Spaces are limited so hurry to reserve a time slot. The cost is $14.99 for adults, $7 for children ages 3 – 12 and free for children ages 2 and younger. For more information, call 303-561-4450 or visit www.aquariumrestaurants.com/downtownaquariumdenver.org.

Hammond’s Candies Fourth Annual Candy Cane Festival

Saturday, December 2 and Saturday, December 9 – 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Enjoy Santa, storytelling, cookie decorating and more at an original chocolate and candy maker, Hammond’s Candies. Tour the factory and see how candy canes are made! For more information, visit www.hammondcandies.com.

Lone Tree Symphony Orchestra Concert

Friday, December 8 – 7:30 p.m.

A holiday concert will take place at the Cornerstone Baptist Church at 9941 Lone Tree Parkway in Lone Tree. For more information, visit www.lonetreesymphony.org.

The Wildlife Experience Holiday Film Festival: A Christmas Story

Thursday, December 7 – 6 p.m.

The Wildlife Experience will host a holiday film night featuring A Christmas Story. Enjoy cookies, hot cocoa, spiced cider and other holiday treats. The Holiday Film Festival begins at 6 p.m. and the movie begins at 7 p.m. Admission is $7.95 for adults, $6.95 for seniors, $4.95 for children 2 – 12, and children younger than 2 are free. Museum members receive a $1 discount on ticket prices. Membership card must be presented to receive the discount. For more information call 720- 488-3300 or visit www.wildlifeexperience.org.

The Wildlife Experience: Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, December 2 and Saturday, December 9 – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Join Santa for breakfast at the Wildlife Experience. Children will enjoy holiday crafts, face painting, cookie decorating, lots of goodies, and many festive activities. Then children can share wishes with Santa and parents can snap a photo or two. The cost is $10 for children ages 12 and younger, $14 for seniors and $16 for adults. Members receive $2 off admission prices. Seating is limited and tickets for this event must be purchased in advance. Tickets will not be available on the day of the event. For more information call 720- 488-3300 or visit www.wildlifeexperience.org.