Escape to Telluride this holiday season to experience a true winter wonderland! Watch Telluride transform with its snow-capped mountains, twinkling lights and festive activities and parades. Here’s where to see the best Christmas lights in Telluride—and learn why you should book a vacation rental with Accommodations in Telluride in order to stay central to the best holiday action in town!
Noel Night in Downtown Telluride
Get your holiday in Telluride started off right at Noel Night! This annual tradition in Downtown Telluride celebrates with lights, shopping, and holiday spirit. If you find yourself in Telluride in early December, come to Noel Night to see the beautifully lit up streets and storefronts – the entire town comes alive with twinkling lights!
Stroll down Colorado Avenue, where the historic buildings are lit up – making it look like a scene right out of a postcard! Step into a real-life winter wonderland as the songs of Christmas carolers fill the air and the flurries fall to the ground. It’s a holiday experience you’ll never forget.
Tips for Visiting Noel Night:
• Dress Warmly – Telluride in December is chilly, so bundle up well with layers. Stay warm and cozy as you walk around.
• Arrive Early – Noel Night is a major local event, and parking can get tight. Get there so you can browse the shops with a little less crowding.
• Support Local Businesses – Take advantage of the holiday sales happening during Noel Night to stock up on gifts for family and friends!
Mountain Village Holiday Prelude
Just a short gondola ride away from downtown is magical Mountain Village, which hosts the Holiday Prelude—one of the most festive events in Telluride during the holiday season. The village is transformed into a Christmas wonderland, with sparkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and decorated storefronts. Stop by to enjoy free ice skating, holiday movies, and even visit Mr. Santa Claus himself. The holiday prelude is fun for the whole family!
Tips for Visiting the Holiday Prelude:
• Take the Gondola – You could drive, but why do that when you can take the gondola? It’s free and offers amazing views of the town and San Juan Mountains.
• Check the Event Schedule – Don’t miss a moment of fun. Check the Holiday Prelude schedule online to learn about the timing of different events and activities.
• Skate Under the Stars – The ice skating rink is lit up at night, making it a cheerful experience for all.
Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade
The Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade in Telluride is a parade unlike any other. Each year, skiers and snowboarders descend the mountain with flaming torches, making a mesmerizing glow that lights up the slopes. It’s one of the most unique and breathtaking holiday displays you’ll ever see! Watch as the skiers wind down the slopes of the mountain, their torches glowing against the snow in the most magical way. After the torchlight parade, fireworks light up the night sky! This beloved tradition brings together the entire community for an unforgettable night of fiery holiday fun.
Tips for Watching the Torchlight Parade:
• Find a Good Viewing Spot – Get to the base of the mountain early to grab a prime spot for watching the parade and fireworks.
• Stay Warm – You’ll be outside, so be sure to dress warmly and bring a blanket or two if you’re watching from the base of the mountain.
• Stay for the Fireworks – Stick around for the full show.
Plan Your Holiday Lights Tour in Telluride
Seeing the Christmas lights and displays in Telluride is an experience like no other, but a little planning will help you make the most of your holiday adventure.
• Map Out Your Events – Make a list of the events and displays you don’t want to miss and plan your days accordingly. Between Noel Night, the Holiday Prelude, and the Torchlight Parade, there’s a lot to see and do.
• Dress for the Weather – Telluride can get pretty cold during the winter months, especially in the evenings. Wear plenty of layers, including a warm coat, gloves, and a hat, so you can stay cozy while enjoying the lights.
• Book Early – The holiday season in Telluride is a popular time for visitors, so be sure to book your vacation rental well in advance.
Stay with Accommodations in Telluride
Stay central to these attractions and much more in a comfortable, convenient vacation rental from Accommodations in Telluride! Stay in a warm, well-appointed vacation rental after a day of holiday fun. Gather your favorite people – family, friends, or your significant other – to join you in seeing the lights and displays of Telluride.
With Accommodations in Telluride, you’ll be close to all the holiday action, like getting to Noel Night, catching the gondola to Mountain Village, or watching the Torchlight Parade! After a long day of holiday festivities, you can relax by the fireplace in your vacation rental, sip hot cocoa, and unwind.
Don’t let a Christmas in Telluride pass you by. Things book quickly, so contact Accommodations in Telluride today so you can reserve your very own holiday rental!
