Christmas in Telluride Colorado is a heart warming and delightful spectacle.
Snow covered peaks of the San Juans, historic buildings aglow with a million twinkling lights, big bright bows and lights everywhere you see.
But you need not just take in the festivities and events – this is also the perfect time to enjoy the crunchy powdery snow beneath your feet on hikes or ski slopes.
If you plan the spend the forthcoming holidays in Telluride, then you can enjoy a perfect break filled with holiday cheer and alpine goodness.
Here is an ultimate guide to spending Christmas in Telluride, Colorado.
Also Read: 20 Best Things to do in Telluride, Colorado
Best Thing to do for Christmas in Telluride, Colorado
Telluride, Colorado Christmas is not just a local event; rather its something to be experienced at least once in your life.
This cheery Colorado town sprung right inside a box canyon is a picture perfect holiday destination.
It hosts parades, markets, festive activities, as well as holiday events each year during Christmas.
While the snow may be not as packed as it is further in the season, the skiable terrain is enough to ensure you have a great time outside.
Here are the best things to do in Telluride, Colorado for Christmas.
Shop for gifts on Noel Night
Noel Night is a unique Telluride Christmas tradition.
It signifies the beginning of the Holiday season and is held on the first Wednesday of December each year.
It includes tree lighting ceremony and has plenty of opportunities to shop locally for gifts and souvenirs.
You will find deep discounts at many stores as local retailers are eager to ring in those last quarter sales.
Dine in at the inviting local restaurants to end the day on a high note.
See the amazing Ski Tree
When I mentioned tree lighting on Noel Night, I wasn’t talking about a regular old Christmas tree!
The Telluride Christmas Tree is actually made up of donated old skis and is over 15 feet tall!
It is assembled newly every year and the lights are sponsored by the Telluride Ski & Snowboard Club.
The brightly lit star on the top of the ski tree is made up of ski poles!
The Ski Tree, located in Elks Park, is a symbol of the town’s skiing roots and heritage.
The tree lighting event also includes a bonfire to appease Ullr, the Norse god of snow, and to pray for a white winter as well as good ski season.
You can sip on free hot chocolate as you attend the festivities.
Noel Nights is, by far, one of our favorite things to do in Telluride in December.
Attend the Telluride Fire Festival
The Telluride Fire Festival is an annual event that takes place during the week of Christmas.
It features fire performances, art installations, live music, and a market with food and drinks.
There are also workshops where you can learn how to make your own fire art.
The festival is similar to ‘Burning Man’ and adds warmth and cheer to the chilly winter nights in Telluride.
It is one of the most fun attractions for art lovers visiting Telluride during Christmas.
Visit the Telluride Arts Holiday Bazaar
The Holiday Bazaar is a must-visit during Christmas at Telluride.
It features over 40 local artists and vendors who sell unique handcrafted gifts, jewelry, artwork, clothing, and more.
You can also enjoy live music as you shop for one-of-a-kind items to gift your loved ones or take home as a souvenir of your trip.
Go to the North Pole in Mountain Village
Mountain Village Holiday Prelude festival transforms this charming Rocky Mountain town into the North Pole.
The event lasts for two weeks and includes ice skating, train rides, and Santa meet and greet.
Kids can participate in holiday craft workshops, sip hot cocoa, and watch family friendly movies.
It also includes many activities for adults including thrilling ice skating performances on the Mountain Village Ice Rink and cash bar selling variety of holiday themed drinks. .
This is followed by a dazzling display of fireworks that lights up the winter sky, creating a spectacular sight.
Also Read: 22 Best Places to Visit in Colorado in Winter
Watch the Torchlight Parade on Christmas Eve
Telluride’s Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade is a magical spectacle.
This iconic event is an annual tradition in Telluride, where the night sky is illuminated with a procession of torch lights that cascade down the mountain slopes.
The event is held at the Telluride Ski Resort, a location renowned for its impressive slopes and stunning views.
Skiers and snowboarders as well as resort employees, adorned in bright torchlights, glide down the snowy slopes in perfect formation.
They descend down the Coonskin and Telluride Trail while views can watch from the base of the ski slope.
This creates a mesmerizing sight to behold, a cascade of lights that gives an ethereal glow to the winter night.
The Torchlight Parade is a must-attend event to get into the holiday spirit.
Attend the WinterSing Concerts on your Telluride Christmas Vacation
The Telluride Choral Society hosts the WinterSing concerts each year during Christmas.
These beautiful choral performances include traditional Christmas carols, as well as contemporary holiday songs.
The concerts are held in Christ Church in Telluride, Colorado.
Tickets usually sell out quickly, so be sure to book them in advance if you want to attend.
Admire the view of the snowy San Juans from the gondola
The free gondola ride from the town of Telluride to Mountain Village offers stunning views of the snowy San Juan Mountains.
They look spectacular at Christmas when they are covered in snow.
It is a great way to take in the beauty of this winter wonderland and also serves as transportation to Mountain Village.
The gondolas are decorated beautifully for Christmas and resemble a trip to the North Pole.
You can hop on anytime during your visit to experience breathtaking views and take memorable photos.
This is a favorite with kids of all ages when visiting Telluride in Christmas vacations.
Enjoy sleigh rides around Telluride
Taking a sleigh ride around Telluride, Colorado, is a quintessential Christmas experience.
Telluride Sleighs and Wagons is known for their enchanting horse-drawn sleigh rides.
Beginning at sunset, you’re swept away on a scenic journey through frosty landscapes and snow-laden trees, under the starlit sky.
A highlight of the ride, particularly for architecture enthusiasts, is the breathtaking view of the historic San Miguel County Courthouse.
This 1887 courthouse is a prominent feature of Telluride’s skyline and its charming Victorian architecture is all the more captivating when illuminated by twinkling Christmas lights.
Back in the cozy, rustic sleigh, warm blankets and the sound of the sleigh bells jingling make the ride an unforgettable part of your Telluride Christmas experience.
Also Read: 8 Best Spots to enjoy Horseback Riding in Colorado
Tips to Plan your Christmas trip to Telluride
The Holiday Season from Christmas to New Years is one of the most crowded times in Telluride.
It is also one of the most expensive times to visit the ski town.
That’s why make your Telluride Colorado Christmas vacation reservations well in advance to get better deals.
Also, a White Christmas at Telluride is not actually guaranteed.
There have been years when it hasn’t snowed like normal; you need to be prepared for the possibility when planning a Christmas Telluride trip.
However, it still looks as pretty as with snow and the activities make it exciting to visit.
Being in Telluride Colorado Christmas time is a truly magical experience.
Visit Santa Claus, finish your Christmas shopping fun, and have a wonderful time on Christmas Day.
Your holiday vacation in Telluride will be filled with festive events and unforgettable memories.
Are you planning to visit Telluride, Colorado for Christmas this year?
What are your favorite Christmas things to do in Telluride, Colorado? Let us know your Telluride Christmas 2023 plans below.