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12 Dec 2024
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Events

The Best Winter Events in Breckenridge and Keystone CO


Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge and Keystone are
top Colorado destinations for those seeking winter adventures, relaxation, and breathtaking mountain views. While each town offers its own unique atmosphere and activities, they share a common feature that adds even more magic to any visit: their annual winter events.

Both Breckenridge and Keystone boast a fantastic lineup of winter festivities, making it well worth planning your trip around their seasonal celebrations. From Christmas events and winter sports competitions to stunning snow sculptures and a quirky festival honoring the Nordic god of skiing, these Colorado gems truly take the term "winter extravaganza" to a whole new level.

In this blog, we’ve curated a list of the best winter events in Breckenridge and Keystone that will inspire you to plan your winter getaway immediately.

Before we start, a little about us…

At Great Western Lodging, we offer a superior selection of luxury properties, including ski-in/ski-out options in Breckenridge and Keystone, some of which are pet-friendly. In our destination blog, we've covered extensive information about Breck, including the best coffee shops in town, fishing and hunting spots, and a guide to local nightlife for some fun libations. And soon enough, more interesting content awaits you with great tips to make your travel experience even better.

Ready to immerse yourself in the magic of winter? Time to get into it!

 

The Best Winter Events in Breckenridge


The Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas (December)
 

Every year, on the first Saturday of December, the Lighting of Breckenridge and the Race of Santas fill the mountain town with holiday magic and a playful, spirited atmosphere.

Elevating Christmas festivities to new heights, the Christmas celebration kicks off with the delightful Race of the Santas on Main Street, where participants dash in their most festive Santa outfits. This fun winter event is perfect for families, and some even bring along their furry friends dressed in adorable holiday costumes. It’s a picture-perfect scene with endless opportunities for memorable snapshots. 

Participating in the race is a blast, but simply watching the runners and chatting with the locals is a fantastic way to soak up the Christmas spirit. After the race, both residents and visitors follow Santa in a cheerful procession to the Blue River Plaza, where the lighting of the Town Tree takes place. Get ready to be mesmerized by dazzling lights and enchanting holiday decorations.


Ullr Fest (December)

Ullr Fest is a one-of-a-kind event that captivates both locals and visitors in Breckenridge with its quirky and unconventional activities and sights. Rooted in Scandinavian folklore, the festival pays tribute to Ullr (pronounced Oool-er), the Norse god of skiing.

One of the festival's standout moments is the grand parade on Main Street, featuring Nordic- and snow-themed floats alongside participants dressed in quirky costumes. The celebration also offers a range of exciting activities, such as a talent show, the Ullr Bonfire, and the daring Ice Plunge, among others.

The Ice Plunge is a prime example of the festival’s wild spirit, where participants take the daring leap into a chilly pond through a hole cut in the ice. While you don’t have to join in, the lively celebrations throughout Ullr Fest are incredibly entertaining and are sure to make any visit to Breckenridge unforgettable.

 


Dew Tour
(December)

As one of the most popular ski resorts in the United States, it’s no surprise that Breckenridge hosts an event dedicated to winter sports, bringing together some of the nation’s top athletes to compete head-to-head.

Over four days in December, the Dew Tour hosts thrilling ski and snowboarding competitions, alongside live music performances and autograph sessions. Copper Mountain transforms into a hub of winter excitement, drawing sports enthusiasts and snow lovers alike. Best of all, the event is completely free!


International Snow Sculpture Championships (January)

The International Snow Sculpture Championships are not only one of the most impressive events in Breckenridge but also one of the most anticipated in all of Colorado. Held every January, this annual competition attracts artists from around the world who create stunning, larger-than-life snow sculptures that leave every attendee in complete awe.

You can watch talented artists up close as they transform massive 12-foot-tall, 20-ton blocks of snow into intricate works of art. Once completed, the sculptures are beautifully lit, creating a magical ambiance for an evening stroll along West Adams Avenue near the Riverwalk Center. Like the Dew Tour, admission to this incredible event is completely free.


The Best Winter Events in Keystone

Carnival & the Lighting of River Run (End of November)

This is a must-see event that perfectly combines the magic of the holidays with the charm of Keystone’s alpine setting. Kicking off the winter holiday season, the highlight of the event is the lighting of River Run Village, which transforms the area into a winter wonderland adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. These lights illuminate the charming village, creating a festive atmosphere and setting the perfect mood for a magical winter.

After witnessing the lighting of River Run Village, head to Warren Station to enjoy live performances and participate in fun activities with your loved ones, such as face painting and snapping funny pictures in photo booths. At the Warren Station ballroom, you can sip on hot chocolate, apple cider, specialty cocktails, wine, or beer to make this delightful Keystone event even more enjoyable.

Kidtopia Holiday Spectacular (December) 

Nothing captures the essence of a winter wonderland in Keystone quite like the Kidtopia Holiday Spectacular, an unmissable event for both little ones and adults who are kids at heart. With activities such as ice skating, snow tubing, fireworks, and special visits from Santa, this event is the ultimate winter fun experience.

Kidtopia Holiday celebrations span multiple locations, including River Run Village, Dercum Mountain, Keystone Lake, and Adventure Point. Highlights of this family-friendly event include a breathtaking fireworks display set against the majestic mountains, ice skating at Keystone Lake, snow tubing at Adventure Point, and outdoor craft stations where kids can get creative while you browse for charming Christmas gifts.

Keystone Mardi Gras (February/March) 

The energy and festive atmosphere of Mardi Gras bring River Run Village in Keystone to life.  You can enjoy colorful parades, upbeat music, dazzling beads, and mouthwatering Louisiana-inspired cuisine. Blending the lively spirit of New Orleans with Keystone’s stunning mountain backdrop, this is a very unique way to experience winter in the resort town. 

A most anticipated moment of the event is the lively Mardi Gras parade, complete with vibrant floats, talented performers, and an abundance of beads thrown to the cheering crowd. Live music takes center stage with performances by New Orleans-style brass bands, jazz ensembles, zydeco groups, and funk artists, creating an energetic atmosphere. 

Don’t miss the après-ski parties, where venues throughout the village host themed events, live DJ sets, and festive celebrations perfect for adults looking to extend the fun. 



Keystone Slush Cup (Late March - Early April)

A spring event with a touch of winter vibes, the Keystone Slush Cup is a beloved annual tradition marking the end of the ski season in Keystone. Combining skiing, costumes, and a festive atmosphere, it draws locals and visitors alike for one final celebration on the slopes.

The highlight of the event is the pond skimming competition, where participants, dressed in elaborate, humorous, or over-the-top costumes, attempt to ski or snowboard across a pool of icy water. Awards are typically given in categories such as Best Costume, Best Splash, and Best Overall Performance, ensuring friendly competition and plenty of laughs.

Adding to the excitement, the event features live music and DJ performances, creating an upbeat, high-energy atmosphere throughout the day. Food and drink vendors offer a variety of options, from hearty mountain meals to refreshing beers and cocktails, making it perfect for enjoying the warm spring sunshine.


Quick Tips for Making the Most of Winter in Breckenridge & Keystone

  • Plan Ahead: Book accommodations, lift tickets, and rentals early to secure the best options and avoid last-minute stress.

  • Dress in Layers: Winter temperatures can fluctuate, so wear moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, and a waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget gloves, hats, and goggles for skiing or snowboarding.

  • Explore Beyond the Slopes: In Breckenridge, enjoy snowshoeing, dog sledding, or exploring the charming Main Street. In Keystone, try ice skating on Keystone Lake or snow tubing at Adventure Point.

  • Take Breaks for Après-Ski: Warm up with a hot cocoa or craft beer at a cozy après-ski spot. Explore local dining options, like Breckenridge’s Victorian-inspired eateries or Keystone’s slope-side restaurants.

  • Stay Hydrated: The high altitude can be dehydrating—drink plenty of water and avoid overdoing alcohol.

  • Capture the Scenery: Bring a camera or smartphone to document the stunning mountain views and festive lights in both towns.

  • Enjoy Nighttime Activities: In Keystone, don’t miss night skiing, and in Breckenridge, enjoy stargazing or a quiet evening stroll under twinkling lights.

  • Prepare for Altitude: Take it easy on your first day to adjust to the elevation, and consider carrying altitude sickness remedies.

 

How can you make your trip to Breckenridge and Keystone, CO even better?

While in town, it's a great idea to stay in style with the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. At Great Western Lodging, we offer a superior selection of luxury properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown Breckenridge lodgings, some of which are pet-friendly.

Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience during your trip to Breckenridge.