Your Guide to Spending the Holidays in Breckenridge: Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Year’s

If you’re dreaming of crisp mountain air, twinkling lights, and the kind of cozy moments that only happen when you’re tucked away in a comfy mountain town, Breckenridge is about to steal your holiday-loving heart. Whether you're planning a Thanksgiving getaway, a Christmas escape, or a New Year’s celebration with a little sparkle, here’s everything you can do to make your holiday trip unforgettable.

Thanksgiving in Breckenridge: Slopes, Scenery & Simple Joys

Picture this: You wake up in your home-away-from-home, sip coffee as snowflakes fall, and breathe in the slow, grounding rhythm of the mountains. That’s Thanksgiving in Breck.

Hit the Early-Season Slopes

By late November, Breckenridge Ski Resort is open and ready for skiers and riders. Conditions are often surprisingly great thanks to cold temps and snowmaking.

Enjoy a Holiday Meal—Your Way

You get options here:

• Cook in your fully stocked vacation rental kitchen for a cozy, home-style feast.

• Or head into town for holiday menus at local favorites like Hearthstone, Briar Rose, or Aurum.

Warm Up with a Stroll Down Main Street

All the shops are decorated, the seasonal drinks are flowing (hello, spiced cocktails and peppermint mochas), and the energy feels festive but not too busy—perfect for travel during Thanksgiving week.

Start Holiday Shopping Early

Boutiques, local artisans, and specialty stores make it easy to find gifts you won’t see anywhere else.

Christmas in Breckenridge: Where Holiday Magic Feels Real

Breckenridge doesn’t “dabble” in Christmas—it glows with it. This is the time of year when Main Street feels like a real-life snow globe.

Celebrate the Lighting of Breckenridge

The town flips the switch on the holiday season with a full celebration, including the Race of the Santas (yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like—hilarious). If you’re in town the first week of December, don’t miss it.

Skiing, Snowboarding & Snow Adventures

Christmas week is prime time for winter fun. Popular options:

• Ski and snowboard at Breckenridge Ski Resort

• Glide through the forest on a guided snowshoe tour

• Go dog sledding or book a sleigh ride under the stars

Visit the Breckenridge Troll

Isak Heartstone, our famous giant wooden troll, is an absolute hit for families and photographers.

Enjoy the Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade

Skiers and riders parade down Peak 9 with glowing torches—it's a memory-making moment that guests talk about all year long.

Settle in for Cozy Nights

Think fireplaces, board games, hot cocoa, and snow drifting past the window. It's a Hallmark-movie moment—minus the dramatic plot twist.

New Year’s in Breckenridge: Ring It In, Mountain Style

Whether you're looking for a quiet celebration or a high-energy night out, Breckenridge has a New Year’s Eve vibe for every traveler.

Catch the New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Conditions permitting, fireworks light up the skyline above the mountains—an unforgettable way to kick off a fresh start.

Head to Main Street for Après & Nightlife

Bars, lounges, and restaurants all host NYE events. Popular picks:

• Blue River Bistro for drinks and late-night energy

• Cecilia’s for dancing

• Breckenridge Distillery for a unique tasting experience

Start January 1st on the Slopes

There’s nothing like carving fresh trails as your “new year, new me” moment… even if the resolution is simply to have more fun this year.

Try Something New

Snowmobiling, Nordic skiing, fat biking—why not kick off the year with a new adventure?

Why Guests Love Spending the Holidays Here

• Cozy, comfy vacation rentals where everyone can gather

• Stress-free booking (exactly what you want during the holidays)

• Family-friendly activities mixed with adult-only fun

• A picture-perfect mountain vibe that makes every moment feel special

If your idea of a perfect holiday includes beautiful scenery, warm spaces, and memories made together, Breckenridge is where you want to be.