Are you lucky enough to be spending this Christmas in Vail, Colorado? Or maybe you’re a proud local who loves getting into the festive spirit of the holiday season.
Either way, Vail is a magical place to be during the holidays. More than 1.6 million people visit Vail each year, and many of these arrivals coincide with the Christmas and New Years’ weeks.
Aside from epic skiing and snowboarding, what else can you expect during a Christmas vacation in Vail? Keep reading for our pick of the best December activities in the Vail Valley.
1. Magic of Lights Vail
Running from now through January 2nd, the Magic of Lights Vail is a family-friendly event you simply can’t miss. The half-mile loop takes you through a nighttime winter wonderland that includes over 500,000 lights, a s’mores station, fire pits, and much more.
2. Vail History Tours
Calling all history lovers! Every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 11 AM you can sign up for a fascinating history tour at the Colorado Snowsports Museum. Learn more about the original Native American tribes that inhabited the valley, as well as the Gold Rush era and the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division.
3. Learn the Science Behind Distilling
Have you ever wondered what goes into making a good whiskey? Sign up for an evening with 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit and learn all about the science of distilling. And don’t worry — you can taste the finished product after the tour!
4. Revelry Outdoor Ice Shows
How would you like to enjoy a free ice skating performance featuring Team USA and Olympic skaters? You’ll find holiday-themed shows on Saturday evenings at Arrabelle Ice Rink and Solaris Ice Rink, so don’t miss out!
5. Enjoy Nightly Live Performances
The month of December brings amazing live entertainment to the Vail Valley. Here’s a sampling of events to choose from:
- Vail Snow Days (December 2-5)
- Powabunga Music Festival (December 9-12)
- “The Nutcracker” at Vilar Performing Arts Center (December 10-12)
- Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at Vilar Peforming Arts Centers (December 20)
To help you get into the holiday spirit, you’ll also find tree lighting ceremonies, fireworks displays, and the annual Kris Kringle market.
6. Vail Astronomy Nights
Bundle up and get ready to go stargazing at the International Bridge in Vail Village. Bring the kids along and learn more about the moon, the planets, and famous constellations from a local astronomer. The scheduled dates for this year are December 23 and 30.
7. Warm up With a Massage
All of these outdoor holiday activities are incredibly fun, but they can also be incredibly cold! When you’re ready to warm up and relax, book a massage at West Vail’s new boutique day spa. We offer an array of treatments from classic Swedish massage to cupping, oxygen therapy, and CBD massage.
Enjoy a Memorable Christmas in Vail, Colorado
When the lifts close for the day, the fun is just getting started in and around Vail Village. Whether you’re into live music, theater, nature, or relaxation, you’re sure to find plenty of amazing things to do during Christmas in Vail, Colorado.
Speaking of relaxation, have you booked your holiday massage yet? You’ll need it after those long days on the mountain!
Apres Massage in West Vail is ready to welcome you this holiday season. Give us a call at 970-445-2114 or use our online booking system to reserve your session today!