Christmas is a special time to spend with our loved ones. But the little ones at home enjoy the holidays the most. From waiting for a visit from Santa Claus to watching the city lights light up the streets, every holiday plan is perfect for the kids!
It’s always a good time to surprise them with a gift, but they always expect to find that special gift under the Christmas tree every holiday season. So you have to be on your toes every moment of the last month of the year.
There are so many things going on in the city that something might go unnoticed. Therefore, if you’re looking for the best 2024 Christmas events for kids in Boulder, we’ve put together a roundup of the most eye-catching and memorable festive activities for everyone to enjoy. Check them out so you can mark your calendar and not miss out on any holiday fun!
A Comprehensive Guide to Kid-Friendly Christmas Events in Boulder (2024)
1
The Grinch that Stole Breakfast
The Johnstown YMCA invites families to celebrate the holidays with The Grinch Who Stole Breakfast. Participants will be transported to the vibrant world of Whoville, where an array of crafts and games await. The highlight of the morning is the opportunity to meet the Grinch himself! Don't miss one of the most awaited kids' Christmas events in Boulder!2
St. Nick on the Bricks at Downtown Boulder
Kids of all ages are invited to meet the jolly man in red himself. Here, youngsters can share their holiday wishes and take precious photos to add to a scrapbook! For an extra dose of seasonal magic, guests can board the 100% electric Tebo Train, affectionately known as the Snowflake Express. Make sure you mark the calendar for this Christmas event for kids in Boulder!3
National Cookie Day & Ornament Decorating
This kid-friendly Christmas event in Boulder is a wonderful opportunity to express creativity and connect with peers. National Cookie Day and Ornament Decorating invites families and children to get creative this holiday season. Unleash your imagination and create one-of-a-kind ornaments to hang on the Christmas tree.4
Free Visits with Santa at Rosetta Hall
Rosetta Hall will host a series of delightful free Christmas events for kids in Boulder giving them a special chance to meet the one and only Santa Claus. Families can also take part in the venue's festive activities, including a toy drive to benefit Shining Stars and much more holiday fun!5
Story Time with Mrs. Claus at Crackpots
Looking for Christmas events for kids in Boulder? Crackpots has prepared one that combines art and storytelling. While the little ones listen to Mrs. Claus, kids can paint their ornaments. There will also be treats and party punch, making it a great plan for kids to get into the holiday spirit!6
The Nutcracker - presented by the Boulder Ballet Company
Experience the return of The Nutcracker at Boulder Ballet, where the theme "Unlocking Tradition" invites families to relive this beloved holiday classic. Be a part of an unforgettable celebration filled with artistry and joy-perfect for the season! This is a must-see among Christmas events for kids in Boulder!7
Ornament Making Workshop (4-9 Years)
This engaging event invites kids (ages 4 and up) to embrace their artistic side as they use a variety of fun materials to create personalized holiday cards. Not only will they hone their skills, but they'll also create heartfelt messages to share with family and friends. Perfect for those seeking memorable kids Christmas events in Boulder!8
Season of Light at Fiske Planetarium
Season of Light features a stunning film followed by an interactive scholarly discussion with an opportunity for audience questions. Participants will discover the historical traditions of holiday lighting, from the Yule log to the Hanukkah Menorah. Ideal for ages 7 and up, this event promises to be a fantastic addition to the list of kid-friendly Christmas events in Boulder.9
Santa's Toy Shop Mini-Camp (5-12 Years)
Young artists will immerse themselves in fun, hands-on projects to create delightful decorations and keepsakes that embody the holiday spirit. With all the materials provided, parents can relax while their children explore their artistic talents. Santa's Toy Shop Mini-Camp is the perfect way for kids to kick off the Christmas season doing what they love!10
Winter Showcase 2024
Winter is part of the holiday season, so don't miss this kid-friendly Christmas event in Boulder. Families are welcome to engage in a variety of activities leading up to the children's Winter Dance performance. Don't miss the games and prizes provided by the East Boulder Community Center!11
Sweets Stroll Festival
One of the most fun, free Christmas events for kids in Boulder this season is the Sweets Stroll Festival! Held in downtown Estes Park, participants receive a punch card to explore local candy shops, ice cream parlors and more treats! Little ones can meet their favorite frozen princesses and Santa for a day of family fun.12
Cookies & Cocoa with Santa
Bring the whole family to taste and savor delicious treats and sip on a nice cup of hot chocolate. Meanwhile, the kids can make festive crafts or write heartfelt letters to Santa! Don't forget to bring your camera to create and share beautiful family memories that will last a lifetime.13
Studio Time Christmas (18 months-9 Years)
Kidcreate Studio has prepared several Christmas events near Boulder today! This class is an opportunity for children (ages 18 months to 9 years) to express their creativity through unstructured art activities. It's also a great way to bond with them, as caregivers are required to attend. Be sure not to miss out on!14
Stars and Laser Winter Lights at Fiske Planetarium
This unforgettable experience is a fantastic highlight among Christmas events for kids in Boulder! Everyone who attends Stars and Laser Winter Lights will be amazed! It offers the chance to be mesmerized by a guided night sky tour and a stunning laser light show set to classic holiday music. Participants will explore the stars and constellations that light up the winter sky.15
Polar Express PJ Story Time at the Maude Jellison Library
The YMCA of the Rockies presents Polar Express PJ Story Time. Kids can explore a toy train village that brings the story to life while enjoying treats and hot cocoa. Encourage them to attend in their PJs to engage in a festive and perfect atmosphere. Without a doubt, this is a must-attend among Boulder's kid-friendly holiday events!16
Estes Park Quota Festival of Trees
Celebrate Christmas with a magnificent display of beautifully decorated holiday trees. Enhance the excitement by entering for a chance to win your favorite tree! Be sure to add the Estes Park Quota Festival of Trees to your list of Christmas events for kids in Boulder!17
Ornament Making Workshop (18 Months-6 Years)
In this engaging workshop, kids (ages 4-9) will explore their inner artist by creating holiday cards using an assortment of colorful materials. The Ornament Making Workshop is a fun and easy way for families to come together and celebrate the holiday season. Don't miss this enchanting opportunity among the many Christmas events for kids in Boulder!18
Gingerbread Tea at St Julien Hotel & Spa
Indulge in the Gingerbread Tea celebration at St. Julien Hotel & Spa, a unique kid-friendly event. Dress in your finest for a delightful afternoon filled with live jazz, gourmet teas, and delicious treats. Little ones can have a blast decorating gingerbread cookies. You can also contribute to their Toy Drive by bringing an unwrapped toy.19
Freezie Fest with Cookie Crawl
For these holidays, Freezie Fest & Cookie Crawl is the perfect opportunity to enjoy community connection and spoil your sweet tooth. This family-friendly event includes exciting train rides, meet-and-greets with Santa, and reindeer games. Wind your way through downtown, visiting various shops and eateries to sample delicious festive cookies!20
Toddler & Preschool Playgroup - Winter Wonderland (18m-6 Years)
Experience the joy of winter crafting at Kidcreate Studio! Parents and children are welcome to participate in this exciting workshop, where they'll engage in hands-on activities to stimulate their artistic growth. From making beautiful decorations to creating one-of-a-kind gifts, your kids will take home unique creations to share with loved ones.21
Chase the Glow 5k
Do you love a good, fun run with the kids? Register for the Chase the Glow 5K! This activity features a stunning 5K course decorated with twinkling holiday lights. Cross the finish line in Bond Park, surrounded by festive decorations and a cheerful atmosphere. Refuel with warm, locally made hot chocolate and holiday cookies!22
Holiday Bowling Pin Painting Party
Among the many free Christmas events for kids near Boulder, the Holiday Bowling Pin Painting Party is a top choice! Families and kids can transform ordinary bowling pins into charming seasonal characters. Dive into the holiday fun while creating one-of-a-kind handmade gifts or festive decorations for the season. Invite your loved ones for an evening of creativity, laughter, and holiday cheer!23
Santa Visits at the Lula Dorsey Museum
Christmas just isn't Christmas without Santa! So if you're planning for the kids to enjoy the festivities, be sure to take them to this event presented by the YMCA of the Rockies! It's a great way to capture some memorable moments for the little ones. You can also indulge in holiday treats like freshly baked cookies and warm hot cocoa!24
Chautauqua WinterFest
Take part in Chautauqua WinterFest's many activities, including horse-drawn carriage rides and more. For the little ones, there is a petting zoo and, last but not least, a meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, all decorated in a holiday theme. Experience the magic of the holiday season at this unique, kid-friendly Christmas event near Boulder!25
Estes Park Jazz Big Band presents "Home for the Holidays"
Join the Estes Park Jazz Big Band for a unique celebration with their Home for the Holidays concert! As part of the YMCA of the Rockies' holiday events, this performance features holiday favorites that will lift spirits. Bring your family and friends!26
Festivus Celebration at Avant Garde Aleworks
Indulge in a unique holiday celebration at Festivus for the Rest of Us. This Christmas event features several festive activities, such as a trivia trivia contest and a Holiday Cookie Swap. Simply bring your favorite holiday cookies to exchange and share with other participants.27
Holiday Stained Glass Class (Ornaments/Sun-catchers gifts)
For tweens and teens interested in tapping into their artistic side, the Holiday Stained Glass Class at Colorado Glass Works is the ideal Christmas event in Boulder! This interactive workshop is open to all skill levels. During the 1.5-hour session, participants will create beautiful stained glass pieces that can be used as ornaments, sun catchers, or thoughtful holiday gifts. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity!28
Christmas at Hotel Boulderado
Whether you are a resident or visiting Boulder for the holidays, this Christmas dinner is a beautiful way to embrace the holiday spirit. The menu features a variety of classic holiday recipes and popular seasonal dishes, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy a cozy and welcoming atmosphere while savoring a delicious holiday feast prepared by talented chefs. This is definitely a great kid-friendly Christmas event!29
Jeff and Paige’s Holiday Concert
Are you searching for Christmas events for kids in Boulder today? Check out Jeff and Paige’s Holiday Concert, which is tailored for children ages 3 to 9. The event features a delightful blend of music, storytelling, and interactive fun. Families can look forward to celebrating the festive spirit, with the celebration concluding in a tree-lighting ceremony.30
Holiday Festival 2024 at the Macky Auditorium
Take part in the Holiday Festival 2024 at CU Boulder! This vibrant event will showcase a celebration of music featuring student ensembles, including choirs, bands, orchestras, and performances by esteemed faculty artists. Enjoy a delightful blend of beloved holiday classics and exciting new musical masterpieces. Don't miss out on this festive occasion!For those who love spending the holidays as a family, there is no better way to get together and enjoy all kinds of fun and festive activities. Whether it’s going bowling for a themed party or heading to the public park to watch the lights go up, there are plenty of ways to have fun with the family and kids.
So if the little ones are looking forward to a special plan, but don’t know what to do or where to take them, this guide to 2024 Christmas events for kids in Boulder will help! And if you’re still not sure what to do, check out our Boulder events page. Happy holidays and Merry Christmas.