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. 16, 2023 | 2:00 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 2pm 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. The ice rink will also be open for skating.
Full schedule of the day’s events:
2-4pm Santa Saddles Up
2-6pm Steamboat Holiday Market
4-6pm Steamboat Holiday Skate Party
This is a FREE event!
STEAMBOAT HOLIDAY MARKET
Date & Time
Dec. 16-17, 2023 | 2:00 PM — 6:00 PM
Location
Steamboat Square
2305 Mt. Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 (see on map)
Elevate your holiday experience by joining us at the base of the Steamboat Ski Resort for the inaugural Steamboat Holiday Market. As you leisurely stroll amidst charmingly adorned tents, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the unique offerings from local businesses, making it the perfect opportunity to check off your holiday shopping list. Immerse yourself in the joyful spirit of the season as you revel in this enchanting market.
This is a FREE event!
NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS AND LIGHT UP SNOW CAT PARADE
Date & Time
Dec. 31, 2023 | 5:30 PM — 6:00 PM
Location
Steamboat Resort
2305 Mt. Werner Circle (see on map)
Celebrate the new year in style! Kick off the evening with a Light Up Snow Cat parade and featuring Steamboat SnowSports Instructors performing synchronized skiing illuminated by the light of torches. At the conclusion of the parade fireworks will light up the sky over the resort to ring in 2024.
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!
