Must-Do Holiday Events in Denver This Season—With a TARRA Twist
Although we are deep in the trenches of December by now, there are still many ways to mindfully celebrate the holidays this season. Dazzling light shows and opulent galas may be exciting, but this season is about so much more than having a good time.
The pursuit of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is a year-long mission, but the holidays can act as a microcosm of poor representation in our society today. While 57% of employers do take holidays into consideration when considering their DEI initiatives, there is still work to be done to make the holidays inclusive and welcoming for all.
That said, there are still ways you can celebrate diversity and support small businesses and underserved communities throughout the remaining days of December. Here’s a roundup of some of our favorites:
Holiday Events that Celebrate Diversity
The Naughties, a Holiday Variety Show
When: December 17, 2022, 8:30pm
Where: Luci’s Shambles & Provisions
If you’re looking for a wild and fun variety show, The Naughties is worth attending! Presented by women-led brand MissFitts Entertainment, this memorable evening is part of their mission to “increase female mobility in the nightlife scene by creating female-forward parties.” Full of female and queer talent, you won’t regret going out on the town for this performance!
Wrapping with the Queens & Ice Queen Storytime
When: December 17, 2022, 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Where: Second Star to the Right Children’s Books
Have some presents to wrap and little ones who are big fans of Second Star to the Right’s Drag Queen Storytime? Let the Drag Queens help you get caught up on wrapping as you and your children enjoy festive stories with Alice!
America’s Holiday Extravaganza Spectacular
When: December 21, 2022, 7:30pm
Where: The Clocktower Cabaret
For a more mature Drag experience, celebrate the season with America Jackson and her fellow Queens! This extravaganza is an instant tradition for Denver locals who love the music, comedy and, of course, Drag!
Granny Dances to a Holiday Drum
When: Now through December 17, 2022
Where: Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theatre
The holidays aren’t just for white Americans and those who celebrate Christmas. There are many beautiful and unique winter traditions in every culture worth discovering and honoring! This multicultural celebration incorporates dance, live music, and spoken word to entertain and educate on winter festivals across the globe, from Mexico to China, to the Caribbean.
Curiosity Hour: TARRA Holiday Party
When: December 15, 2022
Where: TARRA Office
‘Tis the season, and TARRA is ready to celebrate! Join us for a free coworking day at TARRA Office to celebrate the holidays and five months as a thriving community for the women of Denver.
Following the work day, there will be a soiree from 4:00pm to 6:00pm with sparkling wine, light snacks, and surprise activities to close out 2022!
Holiday Events to Support Small Businesses
Photo Credit: Christkindlmarket Denver
In addition to shopping small and supporting local Denver businesses this holiday season, our community is full of festive holiday markets where you can support even more artisans and minority-owned shops while finishing off your holiday shopping! Here are a few worth visiting:
Christkindlmarket
When: Now through December 23, 2022
Where: Civic Center Park
Every Denver local knows about the Christkindlmarket, which features vendor products from around the world along with special festive events and lots of cozy holiday foods and drinks! The German-inspired market is definitely worth a visit.
Aprés Ski Holiday Market
When: Now through December 18, 2022
Where: Dairy Block
Featuring a wide variety of local Colorado vendors in addition to national retailers, there’s something for everyone at this holiday market. Enjoy cocktails and live music while you shop—only one more weekend before this event closes until next year!
Cherry Creek Holiday Market
When: Now through December 24, 2022
Where: Cherry Creek Neighborhood
With more than 80 rotating local makers, you could visit this holiday market several times in December and find something totally new each time!
Union Hall x Sacred Voices Holiday Bazaar
When: December 17, 2022, 12:00pm to 6:00pm
Where: Union Hall
BIPOC+ youth-focused organization Sacred Voices has partnered with Union Hall for the second time to bring Denver this fun bazaar featuring local artists and artisans. There are even opportunities to craft your own handmade gifts rather than just buying them!
Fan Favorites to Put on Your Calendar
Photo Credit: Georgetown Loop Railroad
In addition to all of these diverse events, be sure to check out a few of these always-popular festive activities Denver locals love to experience:
- Experience gorgeous light displays and greet the animals at Zoo Lights
- View the Boulder Star on Flagstaff Mountain
- Take a ride on the Georgetown Winter Holiday Train
Celebrating with Intention
While there is nothing at all wrong with enjoying festive holiday events, we should not neglect the heart of this season: family, community, and giving. Whether it’s through one of these events, supporting local businesses or making a donation to a charitable cause, we encourage you to find the joy of the holidays in new and thoughtful ways over the next few weeks. Happy holidays!
