Traveling to Steamboat Springs over the holidays this year? The holiday spirit is strong in our snowy mountain town and December is one of the best times to visit, take in the sights, enjoy the snow, and simple unwind from the long year behind you. With the addition of festive lights up and down our main streets and sprinkled around the town, our decorations make this place feel like a holiday village.
It is abundantly clear why local’s are quickly swept up in the spirit of things here in Steamboat and why visitors choose to spend their holiday season here, too. Check out this handy list for some of our favorite things to do in December in The ‘Boat!
Local’s Tip: Please feel free to use and reference this tentative events calendar to help plan your trip to Steamboat. See you in the ‘Boat!
LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAY SHOPPING
No matter how organized you are, chances are there will still be a necessity for a little last-minute Christmas shopping. Take the free bus downtown and walk around window shopping and enjoy peering in and enjoying the window displays. When you see a place that calls to you, wander inside and feel free to check it out! With our downtown decked out in colorful lights and decorations, your Christmas spirit will slide right back into place with a simple walk about. Everywhere you turn you will see something special. Steamboat is home to a variety of different stores and galleries, so there is always something for everyone!
SANTA SADDLES UP
Date & Time
Dec. 14, 2024 | 1:00 PM — 4:00 PM
Location
Steamboat Square
2305 Mt. Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 (see on map)
See Santa Saddle Up, Steamboat is excited to bring back the tradition of the Santa Horseback Procession. Santa will ride into the resort from the Torian Plum Area right down the slopes into the heart of Steamboat Square escorted by legendary locals Bob Dapper and Dean Vogelaar. This happens promptly at 1:00 pm and takes just a few minutes so be sure to be here early not to miss it. Immediately following the ride Santa will be available on the Steamboat Stage to visit with guests and take pictures. Complimentary hot chocolate and cupcakes will be available. Skeeters ice rink will also be open for skating.
Full schedule of events coming soon.
This is a FREE event!
HOLIDAY DRONE SHOW
Date & Time
Dec. 14, 2024 | 5:30 PM — 6:00 PM
Location
Steamboat Square
2305 Mt. Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 (see on map)
Join us at Steamboat Resort for an unforgettable evening of magic and wonder! As the sun sets on the sky will come alive around 5:30 PM with a mesmerizing drone show that captures the heart of Steamboat’s spirit and the festive holiday season. Watch as lights dance through the air, creating dazzling formations that will leave you in awe. Bring your friends and family to experience this one-of-a-kind celebration—it’s a night of spectacular sights and unforgettable memories you won’t want to miss!
Holiday Drone Show- 5:30-6:00pm
Holiday Skate Party – 6:00- 7:30pm
Open for Night Skiing 6:00- 8:30pm
IMPORTANT: Please note, drone shows and all events are weather dependent and for safety reasons will be cancelled in the event of heavy snowfall and or wind.
This is a FREE event!
HOLIDAY SKATE PARTY
Date & Time
Dec. 14, 2024 | 6:00 PM — 7:30 PM
Location
Steamboat Square
2305 Mt. Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 (see on map)
Join us for a festive Holiday Skate Party at Skeeter’s Rink, located right at the base of the resort. Delight in the sheer exuberance of the season as you skate beneath the stars. The scene promises to be one of enchantment and fun, making it a must-attend event for all ages. You’ll groove to your favorite holiday tunes, and we’ve got a magical display of lights to amp up the atmosphere.
This is a FREE event!
HOLIDAY BALLOON GLOW
Date & Time
Dec. 14, 2024 | 5:30 PM — 6:00 PM
Location
Steamboat Square
2305 Mt. Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 (see on map)
Get prepared for an evening of sensory delight. View the beauty of four magnificent hot air balloons that will illuminate the Mountain Village from 5:30-6:30pm. Spectators can stroll among the standing balloons or watch from the warmth of a slope side eatery. Enjoy night skiing and swing by Timber & Torch or The Range Food and Beverage Hall to warm up and enjoy dinner and drinks. Get ready for the Holiday Balloon Glow Celebration to kick-off the holidays!
This is a FREE event!
HANUKKAH MOUNTAIN CELEBRATION
Date & Time
Dec. 28, 2024 | 3:00 PM — 3:30 PM
Location
Steamboat Square
2305 Mt. Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 (see on map)
Join Rabbi Kolby Morris-Dahary of The Jewish Community of Steamboat on the Steamboat Stage at the base of the mountain in a celebration of the Festival of Light. Whether you are local or visiting, Jewish or not, you are invited to celebrate with us in song, treats (jelly donuts), and the ritual of lighting a Hanukkah menorah! Happy Hanukkah from the Jewish Community of Steamboat!
This is a FREE event!
NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS AND LIGHT UP SNOW CAT PARADE
Date & Time
Dec. 31, 2024 | 5:30 PM — 6:00 PM
Location
Steamboat Resort
2305 Mt. Werner Circle (see on map)
Get ready for an unforgettable New Year’s celebration! The night kicks off with five snowcats, decked out in thousands of twinkling lights, leading the way down the mountain. Following this radiant procession, Steamboat Snow Sports Instructors will glide down the slopes, performing synchronized skiing, illuminated only by glowing torches. This magical parade sets the stage for a stunning fireworks display, lighting up the sky to welcome 2025 in dazzling style. Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration!
This is a FREE event!
Stay In A Luxe Holiday Home
At the Steamboat Lodging Company, we aim to keep the Holiday spirit alive, even while you’re away from home. After a day of holiday-themed delights, there is nothing better than luxe accommodations like those found at the Steamboat Lodging Company. All our homes are set up with your ultimate comfort in mind. Get an amazing night’s sleep on your bed fitted with hotel-style luxury linens, relax in your own plush seating area, or simply step just outside and enjoy the spectacular views of the Yampa Valley… book your stay with us today!
