Summer has come and gone. The first snow of the winter season has fallen, and holiday preparations have begun. Forests are blanketed with snowflakes and city trees are adorned with twinkle lights as seasonal music plays everywhere you go.

Life in the Rocky Mountains always gives us reasons to be thankful. The holiday season is no exception. While you’re making your naughty and nice list, don’t forget to add a visit with Santa this year.

The Santa Train Rides have begun at the Georgetown Loop Railroad on weekends from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The last Santa train departs on December 17, 2023, and doesn’t return until next season.

On Thursday, November 30, Central City’s kick-off to the holiday season starts with a children’s parade at 1:30 p.m., led by Father Christmas. Stroll down Main Street toward the City Tree, where kids can decorate it with handmade ornaments.

Following the parade and tree decorating, children gather at the Teller House for goodie bags, storytelling, and greet and meet with Mr. and Mrs. Claus until 3:30 p.m. For more holiday fun, come back on December 1, 2, and 3, for tree lighting, a potluck, and a holiday bazaar.

In Gilpin County, you can find Santa at the Winter Arts Festival inside the Gilpin County Community Center on December 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on December 10, from 12 to 4 p.m.

On December 9 and 16, from 12 to 2 p.m., the Coal Creek Canyon Improvement Association will be hosting a visit with Santa. Share the spirit of the season, surrounded by beautiful scenery and Ho Ho Ho!

Santa is also coming to the town of Nederland! The annual Town Hall holiday tree lighting on Friday, December 1, starts at 4:30 p.m. Music, snacks, a speech from Mayor Billy Giblin, and caroling around town with Mr. & Mrs. Claus will ensue.

Can’t make it to Town Hall? No worries. See Santa and Mrs. Claus during the Holiday Mountain Market on December 2 and 3, at the Nederland Community Center. Enjoy local artisans, musicians, and more while you continue your holiday shopping.

Head to the Covered Wagon on 1st Street in Nederland in December to take a selfie with the jolly fellow. The dates and times are coming soon. Be on the lookout so you don’t miss out. Whether you’re five or 50, you may need something to believe in this holiday season. Let Santa be your inspiration.

If you’re a fan of driving across the beautiful Peak to Peak Highway, venture to Estes Park the day after Thanksgiving for its annual Catch the Glow Parade, where you can spend the afternoon visiting Santa.

The parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the 400 block of West Elkhorn Avenue and continue east on Elkhorn Avenue. The parade will end at the US 34/US 36 intersection.

Seasons Greetings!