Many times throughout the year, I find myself writing in these intros that “this is one of the biggest roundups” (spring menus, summer events, Halloween happenings, etc. will do that). But the November and December roundups? They are, for realsies, the biggest. So, let’s get started on this holiday season in What’s In Good Taste in November. If you’re looking for holiday-oriented events, we make that easy – just look for “Holiday Happenings”. And stay tuned for our separate articles, the annual “Holiday Meals In Good Taste” roundup of dine-in and take-away meal deals as well as a completely revamped “Colorado Gifts in Good Taste” list.
FEATURED EVENT: Holiday Happenings The Colorado Choir presents A Christmas Benefit Concert/Food Drive on Nov. 15 at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church. Tickets are a suggested donation of $10/per person plus at least one non-perishable food item for the food drive. The link has a suggested item list. Last year, they brought in more than 700 lbs of food!
* PLUS *
WIN TICKETS to “Sing We Now of Christmas,” The Colorado Choir’s holiday performance on Dec. 5 or 6, in Denver, with seasonal favorites including “Coventry Carol,” “The First Noel,” “Joy to the World,” “Lo! How a Rose E’er Blooming,” and many others. To enter to win a pair of tickets, look for our post on Facebook and Instagram for details. Deadline to enter is Dec. 1. Tickets are also available for purchase on their website.
Ongoing Events In Good Taste in November
Holiday Happenings A Christmas Carol by the DCPA Theatre Company, is one of our favorite productions. The musical adaptation of the classic tale is fun, thought-provoking, kinda creepy, very heartwarming and magical. It runs Nov. 21-Dec. 28 at the Wolf Theatre.
Holiday Happenings Ballet Ariel tickets are available now for two holiday performances in one production: Little Women and Nutcracker Suite. See it Dec. 12-14 in Lakewood or Dec. 27-28 in Northglenn. Little Women takes place during Christmastime and Nutcracker Suite is the famous scene in The Land of Sweets from the Nutcracker ballet. BONUS: Stay tuned for a ticket giveaway through InGoodTasteDenver.com.
Holiday Happenings Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens runs Nov. 21-Jan. 11, with a mile-long path through immersive, illuminated displays that accentuate and highlight the plant collections.
Been There, Loved That Broadway 10 (BI10) officially opens in Cherry Creek North on Nov. 3. The restaurant was originally opened in 2014 in Oklahoma City. They offer hand-cut steaks, fresh sushi and seafood, desserts and extensive cocktail and wine programs. They’re open for lunch, dinner and brunch with plenty of space for special events and catering. Stay tuned for our article about the experience.
Buffalo Prime Rib Special at The Fort is available Friday-Sunday until Dec. 28. The slow-cooked meal includes mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, the Fort salad and breads plus the signature Negrita for dessert.
Bulgogi Burger is the new creation from two students from Aurora’s Overland High School that will be served at all Cherry Cricket locations from Nov. 6 through the end of the month. The ½ lb. beef burger has kimchi mayo red cabbage slaw, bulgogi sauce, green onions, sesame seeds and a brioche bun. $1 from every burger sold goes to the Colorado Restaurant Foundation to support ProStart.
NEWS Camino by Ultreia opens in one of the spots along the north side of Denver Union Station’s Great Hall. Playing off of the “Camino,” the network of ancient Spanish pilgrimage routes, “Ultreia” is the rallying cry to help push pilgrims “onward” or “beyond” on their journey. So, this “little sister” concept to Ultreia serves items like those that pilgrims can get from vendors and restaurants along the way, even to this day. Camino by Ultreia will serve sandwiches and charcuterie boards plus grab ‘n go salads and other items that probably aren’t served along the trail. Sounds like a great stop to make on the way to the theater to us!
Holiday Happenings Camp Christmas returns to Stanley Marketplace, Nov. 21-Dec. 24. Created by local artist Lonnie Hanzon, this reimagined, walk-thru experience takes attendees through six cycles, from “Pre-Soak” to “Fluff & Buff,” with interactive installations and playful prompts.
GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN/SNAP DEALS Chalet Have Another at Moo Bar is a special cocktail for the season, made with Milagro Reposado, Cocchi Rosa and housemade rosemary infused grenadine and topped with Prosecco. It’s available Nov. 1-Dec. 31 and $1 from each cocktail sold will be donated to Hungry to Help.
Holiday Happenings Cherry Creek Holiday Market returns for its sixth year Nov. 20-Dec. 24, with 50 Colorado makers and artisans on Fillmore Plaza. Shop gives ranging from fine art to textiles to bottled craft cocktails. There will also be live music and festive drinks at the Mistletoe Lounge.
Holiday Happenings Cherry Creek North Winter Wanderland, Nov. 20-Dec. 24, is a collection of free events throughout the neighborhood, starting with nearly one million twinkling lights on more than 600 trees, Giving Machines (vending machines for making a positive impact); Small Business Weekend; Saturday Night lights: a Chanukah Celebration: Cherry Creek Holiday Market; and Mistletoe Lounge.
NEWS Cimera has opened, a rooftop restaurant and cocktail bar at The Source Hotel + Market Hall from acclaimed Peruvian Chef Diego Muñoz. Cimera blends the flavors of Mexico, Central and South America. The kitchen is led by Executive Chef Geoff Cox, a Denver local, whose prior recognition for Hop Alley includes a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand and James Beard Foundation Award nomination.
Holiday Happenings Colorado Ballet: The Nutcracker runs Nov. 29-Dec. 28, featuring all-new sets and costumes created especially for Colorado Ballet.
Corrine Week is a never-before-done event in which the chefs tap into the restaurant’s French background to create a unique prix fixe menu served during dinner service Nov. 2-8. The menu includes a choice of appetizers and desserts to bookend one of three entrees that are at different price points, including Boeuf Bourguignon. Click the link for the menu details.
Holiday Happenings Christmas in Color happens at three locations, Nov. 13-Dec. 30. At Red Rocks, Water World and the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds, drive through millions of lights synchronized to holiday music heard through the car radio.
Denver Arts Week is Nov. 7-16, providing Colorado residents and visitors with hundreds of opportunities to experience the wide variety of options Colorado’s arts scene has to offer. That includes expanded First Friday Art Walks, Night at the Museums, Arts Week Deals and, new this year, a partnership with Art & Wellbeing: Flourishing Through the Arts, a new initiative of activities throughout the run promoting the concept of how beneficial the arts can be to one’s wellbeing. Learn more about it in this article I wrote for the Denver Center for the Performing Arts NewsCenter.
Denver Central Market is joining five other metro food halls for the Food Hall Food Drive, a month-long challenge collecting essential pantry items for local nonprofits. DCM’s drive supports Kaizen Food Rescue, which combats food insecurity through equitable food access and waste reduction. Donate items like vegetable oil, masa, beans, pasta, rice, and sauces at DCM through the end of the month.
Holiday Happenings Denver Christkindlmarket is in a new home this year – the Tivoli Quad at the Auraria Campus. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, there will be anniversary activations including a glass ornament workshop. With twinkling lights and entertainment, shop for the holidays just like the German inspiration. The market runs Nov. 21-Dec. 23.
Desert Island Discs: Nancy Wilson/Cannonball Adderley & Bill Evans with Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield celebrates three legendary artists who helped define the sound of modern jazz. Performances happen at three different locations, Nov. 1, 16 and 21.
Been there, Loved that Disney’s LION KING is at the Buell Theatre through Nov. 16. See why it’s so magical, whether you’ve never been or have been multiple times in our article.
Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors plays the Garner Galleria Theatre, Nov. 8-May 10. Filled with clever wordplay and anything-goes pop culture references, it’s a 90-minute, gender-bending, quick-changing, laugh-out-loud reimagining of the gothic classic, perfect for audiences of all blood types.
Drag Bingo Series at Terminal Bar happens on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month. Denver queens Miss Jessica and Talia Tucker host a free night of fierce fun, high-energy performances, cheeky banter, prizes and fun.
Holiday Happenings Elitch Holidays, Nov. 28-Jan. 4, includes a 65-foot-tall Christmas tree, twinkling snowmen, a 300-foot-long candy cane tunnel, giant ornaments, a wall of lights and some rides on Elitch attractions.
NEWS Frameflow is giving away a free professional photo shoot to a deserving Denver business. Community-members can nominate a business by emailing hello@frameflow.co with the business name, location, contact information and 1-3-sentence description explaining why the business deserves to win. Nominations are open through Nov. 7 with the winner announced the week of Nov. 10. Business must be located in the Denver Metro area and only one entry per person will be accepted.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Frost Bite Menu at The OG runs Nov. 1-Jan. 31 and serves bites and sips to warm up with including Pastrami Sandwich on Rye, Biscuit Donuts, Hot Chocolate Martini and Frosted Gingerflower Spritz.
“Genki Bar” is a Japanese-inspired pop-up bar held in Suite 6A of Death & Co. at The Ramble Hotel. The space has a feeling of trekking through the neon jungle of Tokyo’s streets, stumbling into a quaint, unassuming bar. Enjoy Japanese tunes and six cocktails each symbolized by an animal or iconic figure of Japanese pop culture like capybara, monkeys, and No Face. Featuring traditional Japanese whisky and spirits, each cocktail is served with a small snack or treat like Pocky, yuzu mochi, hard candy or cucumber slices. The pop-up is open on select weekends through Nov. 29. Follow them on Instagram @genki.bar for updates.
Holiday Happenings Halcyon Holiday Bake Shop opens, starting Nov. 1. Located next to the hotel’s Kitchen Counter, get decadent treats made daily including house-made pies, cookies and other holiday classics, including those for four-legged friends. Pre-order or purchase on the spot.
Holiday Happenings Halcyon on Ice returns, providing European alpine culture and ice skating on the rooftop with curated music drinks, and dining. Skating is free to the public and hotel guests. Bring your own skates or rent a complimentary pair from Halcyon.
Holiday Happenings Holiday Tea at The Brown Palace is offered Nov. 10, 2025-Jan. 25, 2026. Savor steeped English tea, warm scones with Devonshire cream, delicate savory bites and sweet treats while live piano melodies fill the grand atrium. Reservations fill quickly. Reserve a table on OpenTable.
Holiday Happenings Holiday Tea at Local Jones is offered Nov. 1-Jan. 11. Spend the afternoon sipping tea and a glass of Champagne, while eating warm scones, savory sandwiches and housemade pastries. Pricing begins at $70/person.
Holiday Happenings Hudson Holidays at Hudson Gardens, runs Nov. 28-Jan. 4 with a multi-colored forest inhabited by giant snowmen, a holiday light tunnel, grove of dancing Christmas trees and a tent with warm beverages.
Holiday Happenings ICE! featuring Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! will run Nov. 24, 2025-Jan. 2, 2026. In addition to ice sculptures from the film, guests can take rides down the two-story-tall ice slides, traverse ice tunnels and arches and visit the carver showcase to watch artisans give live carving demonstrations. In addition, there are a variety of activities and events.
JCC Denver Ceramics Sale & Exhibition is Nov. 13-20 featuring handmade ceramic pieces from more than 20 local artists. On Nov. 13, there’s a free lunchtime ceramics class to teach basic hand-building techniques.
GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN/SNAP DEALS Kachina Cantina will donate $1 from every taco plate sold in November to Food Bank of the Rockies.
NEWS Kachina Cantina has launched a Date Night offer – $100 for two people gets you four courses and one welcome margarita per person. There are choices for the first three courses like Grilled Octopus, Poblano Romesco Salad, and Chiltepin-Crusted Pork Belly. Churros to share is dessert. The deal runs through Dec. 31 at 9pm, to be exact.
Holiday Happenings Litmas Holiday Rooftop Popup at Linger starts Nov. 26. Enjoy igloos, lights, cocktails, over-the-top decor and a lively holiday vibe. Walk-ins are welcome with limited reservations available.
Holiday Happenings Magical Winter Nights at The Denver Museum of Nature & Science provides a series of immersive scenes like The Lodge (with fireside vibes, cocoa and cocktails to purchase); A Wild Winterland (moonlit savannah scene with wildlife ambiance); The Frosted Patch (indoor ice-less skating); Celestial Canopy (indoor Northern Lights) and more. It runs Nov. 20-Jan. 4 with 21+ nights on Dec. 4, 11 and 18).
GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN/SNAP DEALS MAKfam celebrates two years in business this month. From Nov. 3, 5-7, they’ll bring back some of their most popular legacy dishes from 11am-4pm: Crab & Cheese Wontons, Salt & Pepper Chicken and Spicy Garlic Butter Rice Cakes. They’ll also give away 25 red envelopes each day, first come, first served, containing vouchers for merch, chili oil, wine and more. One lucky winner will get a $200 MAKfam gift card. In addition, because of the loss of SNAP benefits, they’ll donate 10% of proceeds of lunch sales during their anniversary week to Kaizen Food Rescue, a Denver-based nonprofit founded on the principle that food is a human right. Additionally, MAKfam will be holding a food drive for Kaizen Food Rescue starting on November 10 through the end of the year.
NEWS Marczyk Fine Foods is opening in the Denver Milk Market in early 2026. They 450-square-foot space will carry prepared to-go dishes, dairy products, soups and salads plus grocery and sundry items.
Holiday Happenings McGregor Skate 2025-2026 opens for the season Nov. 28 and runs through Jan. 4 every day and then Fridays-Sundays until Jan. 25. Skates are available onsite to rent or bring your own. An outside bar will be available serving hot chocolate and more.
Holiday Happenings Mile High Drone Shows can be viewed Nov. 21-Dec. 31 from the Tivoli Quad on the Auraria Campus. With more than 600 drones, the show runs 41 consecutive nights.
Holiday Happenings Miracle is opening at Lookout Bar at The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa Avon in Vail Valley. The Christmas pop-up bar will have over-the-top holiday decor, nostalgic cocktails and lots of cheer Nov. 20-Dec. 30.
Holiday Happenings Miracle at Union Station: Holidays at Grandma’s House is the theme of the Miracle Bar in Denver Union Station’s lower-level Gallery Bar. There’ll be over-the-top holiday embellishments, vintage decor and the scent of spiced cider and gingerbread plus Hanukkah decor plus special cocktails. Miracle will be open 4pm-midnight weekdays and 2pm-midnight Saturdays and Sundays. Reservations are highly recommended.
NEWS Molino Chido is slated to open sometime in November at Stanley Marketplace. It’s owned by Chefs Tommy Lee and Michael Diaz de Leon and will serve Mexico City-style tacos and large plates. Listen to their very honest and open podcast conversation with us in the red bar below.
Holiday Happenings Moonlight Elves at The Savoy Denver is a circus-immersive holiday event which two elf houses, Santa’s North Pole elves and the old-magic elves of the South Pole, vie to create the ultimate winter cheer through aerial feats, music and audience participation. It runs Nov. 26-Dec. 7.
GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN/SNAP DEALS / Holiday Happenings Next Level Veggie Grill has holiday offerings and a Gobbler Giveback promo Nov. 1-Dec. 31. They’ll offer the organic Candy Cane Shake, organic Holiday Apple Crumble Shake, Pumpkin Spice Cake and The Gobbler, a sandwich featuring crispy turkey(less) cutlet, housemade stuffing, cranberry sauce and savory gravy on a white bun. Next Level will donate 5% of all Gobbler sales between Nov. 1-26 to food banks including Food Bank of the Rockies.
Penthouse Friendsgiving at The Rally Hotel is an elevated dining experience. Enjoy a cozy table and room decor while feasting on roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes and more. Upgrade to a wine pairing package. For 8-12 guests. This opportunity is available through November.
GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN/SNAP DEALS Poka Lola Social Club will donate $1 from every espresso martini sold in November to Food Bank of the Rockies.
Prophecies at Pearl’s is Call Me Pearl’s new weekly Tarot Card reading event every Wednesday from 5-7pm through December. Sip handcrafted cocktails and see what the cards have to say.
Holiday Happenings Punch Bowl Social has partnered with Dallas-based and nationally acclaimed Ugly Christmas Sweater Shop to host a festive pop-up at its flagship Denver location from Friday, Nov. 14, through Sunday, Dec. 28. They are serving a limited-edition cocktail menu and festive events including Very Merry Karaoke, an Ugly Sweater Pop-Up Shop launch event and other fun.
NEWS Rebel Bread has developed a quarterly schedule of one-off classes and workshops for novice and seasoned bakers in their new teaching kitchen. The fall semester runs through Dec. 20 and includes “Holiday Cookie Extravaganza,” “How to Host a Tea Party: Our Favorite Breakfast Treats,” and “Plant-Based Baking Essentials.”
RiNo Art District celebrates 20 years with a Nov. 7 kickoff to their Art RiNo Passport, a great way to save on shopping, dining and exploring while supporting the district. On Nov. 8, ArtRino is an event at Truss House with art, food, music and culture.
Ski Jorts City is a winter immersive taproom experience from Lady Justice Brewing. It runs Nov. 12-Dec. 31. The Englewood taproom will be fully decked out in apres ski queer winter cheer like fireplaces, cozy blankets, twinkling lights and rhinestone-studded denim. There’ll also be two seasonal beer releases and weekly themed events including Awkward Family Photos, the Ski Jorts Fun Run and Canadian Tuxedo Formal.
TAG Restaurant Group salutes Veterans throughout November. Guests can round up their bill at any TAG location to support Project Sanctuary, a nonprofit providing therapeutic retreats and essential support for military families.
Taste of Stoke & Rye Fall Menu is offered until Nov. 22. The 3-course Fall Seasonal Menu is $99/couple and includes a choice of Colorado Fondue or Black Mussels “Mariniere” to share for the first course. Both diners can select an entrée of Cast Iron Chicken, Scallop Risotto, Grilled Hanger Steak or Wild Mushroom Ravioli. For dessert, enjoy a Smoked Mason Chocolate Jar or Flourless Carrot Cake.
Test Kitchen is an experimental performance series Nov. 20-Dec. 7. It challenges what storytelling can be with distorted reality and the beating heart of a nightclub. Get details in the link.
The Golden Mill has a small show of support to the more than 50,000 federal employees and their families impacted in Colorado, offering a 20% discount on all food and beverage until the shutdown is over. Present a government ID card upon payment good for up to $20 off a tab (merchandise excluded).
Holiday Happenings The Mile High Tree is in a new location this year – the Tivoli Quad at the Auraria Campus, from Nov. 21-Dec. 31. The 110-foot-tall, 39-foot-diameter structure has 60,000 LED lights displayed in a choreographed show to multicultural holiday music.
Holiday Happenings THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train is back on track Nov. 7-Dec. 23. The immersive experience offers a three-part theatrical journey that brings the magic of the classic story during a holiday outing in Golden.
Been There, Loved That Thirsty Lion has launched their seasonal menu for Fall available through Thanksgiving. Offerings include Bacon Wrapped Medjool Dates, Wagyu Beef + Prosciutto Burger, Seared Shrimp & Butternut Squash Linguine, Smoked Pork Ramen, several zero-proof cocktails and Whiskey Apple Crumble for dessert. Stay tuned for our article about the experience.
Time Stands Still, presented by the Coal Creek Theater of Louisville, runs Nov. 1-15. Sarah and James, a photojournalist and a foreign correspondent, try to find happiness in a world that seems to have gone crazy. Theirs is a partnership based on telling the toughest stories, and together, making a difference. But when their own story takes a sudden turn, the adventurous couple confronts the prospect of a more conventional life.
Holiday Happenings Trail of Lights at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms is Nov 21-Jan. 11, with a wandering path through a pastoral setting in the countryside. There’s a longer and a shorter stroll, both of which go through illuminated trees and shrubs, leading through the Green Farm, 1880s Hildebrand Ranch homestead and other areas.
Warren Miller’s SNO-CIETY is a cinematic celebration of the people, places and passion that define snow culture. See tight-knit communities, shared rituals in the Scottish Highlands, Finland, British Columbia and even Denver. The film shows on a specific schedule in Boulder and Denver Nov. 13-15 and 21-22. Click the link for details.
Weekend of Action, by Project Our Town, is your opportunity to sign up to do some volunteering. Choose a carefully-curated service project during their four-day initiative, Nov. 6-9, to benefit local non-profits and underserved populations. There’s also a silent auction that raises funds for supplies such as bean soup kits and care packages for military members, veterans and families in need.
Viva Theater: Murder on the Orient Express runs at the Dairy Arts Center Nov. 7-23. As a luxury train rushes towards Paris from Istanbul, it becomes snowbound in the mountains. A murder occurs and a dark yet funny tale of solving the murder follows.
Holiday Happenings Wassail Days in Frisco returns Nov. 29-Dec. 7 with guests strolling down Main Street, tasting Wassail samples from area merchants and their own recipes. Fill a “12 Sips of Wassail Card” to receive a commemorative mug. There’ll also be a tree-lighting ceremony and fireworks at the start of the week. Throughout the week, get free gift wrapping, sign up for a visit with Santa, enjoy caroling and breakfast and storytime with Santa too.
Holiday Happenings Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo has more than a million lights illuminating more than 80 acres.
Dated Events In Good Taste in November
November 1
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations 5K Fun Run at Cheluna Brewing is hosted by the Colorado Brewery Running Series. Day of the Dead costumes are optional but encouraged.
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations Annual Paint & Sip Party at Los Chingones includes painting a skull mug, chips and dip, a Milagro margarita and sugary churros. $49.31 tickets are limited.
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations Cooper Lounge Dia de los Muertos Celebration runs from 4pm-midnight with a festive party presented by El Tesoro Tequila. The evening features a tarot card reader, themed cocktails, an altar, photo opp area with marigolds and special decor.
Le Bilboquet hosts a Halloween Costume Party at 11am, with DJ tunes, food, prizes (that include signature wines and restaurant gift cards).
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations Sugar Skull Decorating at Kachina Cantina lets guests decorate their own with Skulls by Adriana. Tickets are $25 and include a skull, frosting and house margarita.
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations Que Bueno Suerte has two days of Dia de los Muertos specials including Suerte Stuffed Peppers and BBQ Chicken Mexican Pizza plus La Cantina Margarita and specials for kids including Skull-shaped Sugar Cookies to decorate.
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations The Urban Farm’s Dia de los Muertos event is an afternoon of culture, community and celebration with Aztec dancers, mariachi, Aztec dancers, lucha libre, mariachi, sugar skill decorating, Mexican food, artisan vendors and more.
November 2
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations Que Bueno Suerte continue. See Nov. 1.
GAMEjazz: The Best of the Great American Songbook at Dazzle Jazz features music from the 1920’s-1960’s including Duke Ellington, the Gershwin Brothers, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter and others.
November 3
Leven Wine Club Fall Tasting Event hosts a representative from Paul Hobbs Winery to educate attendees on the ethos of the winery’s minimal-intervention approach including exclusive tastes.
November 5
Van Leeuwen Platte Street opens, in their newest Denver location. The spot will offer more than 30 signature flavors including a selection of coconut-, cashew- and oat-based vegan flavors, plus custom sundaes, handspun milkshakes, house-made waffle cones and bowls, ice handmade cream sandwiches, root beer floats and pints to-go. For the grand opening on Nov. 5, Van Leeuwen will offer $1 scoops from noon-2pm.
November 6
The Guest reopens after a year-long hiatus. The multi-course tasting experience from husband-and-wife team Brian and Sydney De Souza is playful and story-driven, drawing on Brian’s travels and personal experiences. Sydney’s pastry artistry brings creativity to the menu. Located inside The Regular, the restaurant offers two seatings each Thursday-Saturday.
November 7
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations First Friday Dia de Los Muertos by the Denver Art Society features original artwork by more than 150 Colorado artists plus face painting, live music and dances.
NEWS Little Man Ice Cream has a “winter surprise” in store starting at 7pm at their Highlands location. Bee one of the first 500 guests and get a free kids scoop on them.
November 8
Autumn Harvest Craft & Art Walk at the Denver Milk Market features the work of talented local artisans. Participating makers include Anchor Creation, Breanne’s Bed & Biscuits, Harvest & Hide, Rattling Stars Creations and The Crafts Collective.
Boombots Pasta Shop opens in Sunnyside serving fresh takes on pasta dishes like Dirty Martini Bucatini, Green Chile Duck Mac & Cheese and BAMBAM Sticks (huge mozzarella).
Miners Alley’s annual gala, the Ring of Fire Ball, is a night of live music with a western flair plus cocktails, food, an auction, carnival games and interactive props and costumes.
November 9
3rd Annual Chili Cook Off at River North Brewery lets you eat all the chili you want, compete, or be a judge.
Annual Champagne Cascade at The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa celebrates the 37th year of this tradition. A pyramid of 5,201 glasses is the centerpiece of the holiday tradition in the grand atrium. As champagne is poured and flows down the tower, it’s quite the site.
Catfest at the National Western Complex includes cat adoptions, kitten yoga, a Cat Video Cafe, costume contests and craft stations in an Egyptian-cat-temple-setting.
Denargo Market’s Second Sundays include live music, coffee drinks, adoptable dogs and gear tune ups for the season. The first 50 people get free coffee and espresso.
November 11 – Veterans Day
TAG Restaurant Group locations will offer 50% off meals for veterans and active-duty service members (dine-in only, with valid military ID). Each restaurant will also feature a “Missing Man” Table on Veterans Day, a powerful symbol honoring fallen, missing and imprisoned service members, a TAG tradition since 2015.
Veterans Day Special at Thirsty Lion gets guests a complimentary meal with proof of Military service.
November 12 – National Happy Hour Day
Kachina Cantina has happy hour specials all day including $30 margarita pitchers that serve up to six. Food specials including chicken, carnitas or cauliflower street tacos for $3, quesadillas for $5, guac for $7 and chicken pozole blanco for $9.
Straight from the Barrel: A Night with Harlen Wheatley at the Hotel Polaris, is a rooftop evening celebrating bourbon heritage. There’ll be interactive chef stations paired with Buffalo Trace’s award-winning spirits.
November 14
Holiday Happenings Holiday Tree Lighting at The Shops at Northfield is an inaugural event with a 36-foot holiday tree with a walk-through tunnel. Enjoy free hot cocoa, live carolers and a meet-and-greet with Santa.
November 15
DeVotchKa performs with the Colorado Symphony, playing their cinematic sound that meanders between rock, folk and Eastern European influences.
TODAH, which means “thanks” in Hebrew, is the annual fundraising event of the Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center. The event includes dancing, food and community. Attire is black and white like the famous Black and White Cookie.
Holiday Happenings Winterfest at The Orchard Town Center features the lighting of the grand tree in the town square, Santa’s first visit of the year, a holiday-themed performance and activities throughout the evening.
French Dip Chef Competition returns to Pony Up. The three-part series features celebrated Denver chefs battling to create the ultimate dippable sandwich including James Beard Award-winning Chef Matt Vawter of Rootstalk and Radicato in Breckenridge, CO, and Michelin-starred Chef Johnny Curiel of Alma Fonda Fina, Mezcalaria Alma, Cozobi Fonda Fina, and Alteño. The other dates are in December and January.
November 19
A Festive Bubbles Tasting Experience with Blanchard Family Wines, challenges attendees’ palates with a festive tasting of sparkling wines, led by James Blanchard. Enjoy four wines from Colorado and California, each crafted through a different production method. Discover how fermentation, aging, and bottle pressure create the unique flavors perfect for holiday toasting. Tickets are $53 each, which includes gourmet cheese and crackers to complement the tasting. Advance registration is required.
Rare Bird is back with their holiday season, offering a cozy rooftop retreat overlooking Cherry Creek North. Enjoy a covered bar with festive cocktails and ice skating with Halcyon On Ice, with city and mountain views.
November 21
Holiday Happenings Denver Christmas Show returns, Nov. 21-23, at the National Western Complex with 275+ local and regional vendors to shop from, photos with Santa, a Tinsel Town Train, live entertainment and seasonal food. There will also be a Children’s Christmas Market by the Children’s Entrepreneur Network, and Hallmark star Tyler Hynes will make a special appearance on Friday, November 21.
Kick the Keg, Support the Guild, is a first-time fundraiser benefitting the Colorado Brewers Guild. At Call to Arms Brewing Company, in an outdoor tent, with keg-tapping. Each participating brewery will bring a full keg and the first to empty theirs wins $500.
November 22
Holiday Happenings Denver Christmas Show continues. See Nov. 21.
Holiday Happenings Molly Brown House Museum Holiday Tea is served on the third floor, in true high tea style plus self-guided tours of the beautifully decorated home.
November 23
Holiday Happenings Denver Christmas Show continues. See Nov. 21.
Holiday Happenings Heroes and Holidays is a concert presented by The Denver Concert Band in Lone Tree. The program features John Williams’ iconic Superman March along with Edward Gregson’s The Sword and the Crown. The second half includes Leroy Anderson’s Christmas Festival, and Andrew Boysen Jr.’s December Dance along with additional holiday surprises.
Nocturne Renditions Dinner: The Bridge is a five-course dinner exploring the aesthetics of iconic albums and artists through flavor, texture and emotion. The evening includes interactive conversations and culinary discussions by Chef Greg Weadick, the musicians performing on stage and Nocturne co-owners, Scott and Nicole Mattson.
November 24
A Thanksgiving Sparkling Wine Cocktail Class at Blanchard Family Wines, led by Salta Events, teaches how to mix two seasonal, wine-based cocktails to enjoy plus a cocktail mixer to take home. Advance registration is required.
November 26
Holiday Happenings Miracle Bar holiday pop-up opens.
November 27 – Happy Thanksgiving!
Burn It to Earn It Thanksgiving Day Exercise Classes at The Athletic Club at The Westin includes a high-intensity Turkey Burner class and a Gratitude Flow Yoga class. Bring a non-perishable food or cash donation for the Vail Valley Salvation Army and enjoy the class for free.
Holiday Happenings Turkey Day 5K in Frisco is the 12th annual event that kicks off from the Old Frisco Community Center. After, participants can partake of sweet treats from Butterhorn Bakery and mini pies by Saved by the Wine and coffee and cocoa. Register in the link.
November 28
Holiday Happenings Black Friday Artisan Market at The Shops at Northfield is a festival local market with handcrafted goods and gifts from more than 50 vendors plus live music, food and drink specials and more.
Holiday Happenings Grand Illumination of Union Station is the annual lighting ceremony of the 40-foot-tall outdoor Christmas tree, featuring more than 7,000 lights.
Holiday Happenings Home Alone 2: Lost in New York – in Concert with the Colorado Symphony, happens Nov. 28-29. See the movie projected on the big screen with the score performed live.
Holiday Happenings McGregor Skate Grand Opening & Tree Lighting Ceremony includes an ice-skating performance and tree lighting followed by a free screening of the animated movie “The Grinch” on the outdoor McGregor Jumbotron. Milepost Zero will host free photos with Santa too.
Snooze unveils its holiday menu that includes sticky toffee pancakes; peppermint mocha; caramel haze hot chocolate; and a gingerbread latte.
Holiday Happenings Visit Saint Nick at Milepost Zero for free from 5:30-8pm. Grab a bite in the food hall while you’re there.
November 29
Lemur and Friends Art Bazaar, held on The Learned Lemur’s back patio, hosts artists from across Colorado, from bakers to jewelers.
Holiday Happenings Holiday Carolers will stroll through The Shops at Northfield every weekend through Dec. 20, performing festive tunes.
Holiday Happenings Home Alone 2: Lost in New York – in Concert continues. See Nov. 28.
Holiday Happenings Mining Exchange Hotel has a Holiday Market, curated by Auric Gallery, featuring 15 local artists including jeweler Suzy Gardner, woodworker Jo Murto, and live painter Jon Francis. Guests can enjoy live acoustic music, festive beverages, and special surprises for early arrivals.
Holiday Happenings The Grinch is at The Orchard Town Center from 11am-1pm for a mischief-filled appearance, taking over Santa’s House for sassy remarks and photo opps.
Holiday Happenings Keystone presents their Winter Carnival at Warren Station and The Lighting of River Run at the River Run Events Plaza. Click the link for details on both.
November 30
Holiday Happenings A Holiday Evening with Ingrid Michaelson brings the GRAMMY® and Emmy® nominated singer-songwriter and composer to Boettcher Concert Hall to perform with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. Hear some of her new album’s hits as well as selections from her holiday album.
Holiday Happenings Farolito Lighting and Pinecone Ceremony is a tradition at The Fort. The alternative to a typical tree-lighting ceremony reenacts holiday traditions of the 19th century by lighting farolitos. Guests can write a message to someone who has passed or lives far away, tuck it inside the pinecone and tossing it in the courtyard bonfire to transport the message to the heavens.
Holiday Happenings Santa at the Station hosts free visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus in the Great Hall. VIP reservations are available through the link.
Sundays on Santa Fe offers up live art and music courtesy of the Denver Art Society.
-By Courtney Drake-McDonough, Publisher & Managing Editor, InGoodTasteDenver.com
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