December 24, 2011
Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks - begins at 5:30 pm
Location: Base of Winter Park Resort
Admission: FREE
Christmas in Winter Park does not seem complete until you have attended the Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade at Winter Park Resort in Winter Park Colorado. Many say that the Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade is one of the most beloved Winter Park traditions, a tradition that you will want to be sure to keep year after year!
Around 4 pm, the festivities begin with with Christmas carols around the bonfire at the base of Winter Park Resort, next to the Zephyr Lift. Families are encouraged to mingle and just enjoy the lovely lights and scenery. Mountain hosts dressed in Christmas character costumes add to the atmosphere spreading good cheer to everyone. Hot chocolate from the coffee shop really tastes good too, so be sure to check out your options at Starbucks located in the base village of Winter Park Resort near all of the action.
The magic all starts at 5:30pm! Everyone begins to move toward the base of Hughs, the main ski run located right next to the Zephyr Chair Lift. The audience is drawn in as a procession of torch-bearing skiers and riders begin making their way down Lower Hughes trail on their skis and snowboards. A cheerful Santa Claus in a big red suit follows the torchbearing train along with his merry helpers in tow. The finale includes a spectacular fireworks display. And just as you think the event is going to end, snowcats adorned with Christmas colors light up the slopes and dance around celebrating the holiday season! Yes, those snowcats can dance! Conclusion of the festivities end with the snowcats forming a Christmas tree, their lights beaming with everyone cheering. Now the Christmas mood is truly set!
Immediately following the light show at 6pm, visitors are welcome to attend Christmas Eve interdenominational services. One of the services is located in the lower level of the Balcony House at the base of Winter Park Resort across from the Zephyr Chair lift. The Catholic Church service is located in West Portal Level 4, also at the base of Winter Park Resort located across from the Arrow Lift. Services are scheduled to last about an hour.
Have you made your Christmas lodging reservations yet? You will love our selection of homes, cabins, duplexes and townhomes located throughout Winter Park in Old Town and Lakota, or the town of Winter Park, Fraser and Tabernash. We have large and luxurious homes (really much less expensive that you would think) that sleep up to 16 people and some even have up to four private suites. For more information on Christmas lodging please give us a call at 800-545-9378 or send us an email and one of our reservations team will be in touch. Be sure to mention on the subject line that you are interested in Winter Park Chrismtas Lodging options.