So why wait for the busiest weeks of the season? Come early, enjoy quieter slopes, check a few gifts off your list, and soak up plenty of holiday spirit along the way. Consider it your chance to get a head start on Christmas mountain style.
Steamboat kicks off the holidays with a Balloon Glow. View the beauty of four magnificent hot air balloons that will illuminate the Mountain Village from 5:30–6:30 p.m. Spectators can stroll among the standing balloons or watch from the warmth of a slope-side restaurant.
It doesn't get any more cowboy than this! Santa rides into Steamboat Square on horseback. The event starts at 1 p.m. and as soon as Santa arrives, he's available for photos.
Vail Village lights up for the holidays at the annual tree lighting celebration at the Children’s Fountain in Vail Village, located on Gore Creek Drive in between Pepi’s and Lancelot. There is live caroling, an appearance by Santa, and more!
Fun for the entire family, the Ugly Sweater Fun Run is a noncompetitive event that will start and finish at Bart & Yeti’s in Lionshead. Start time is 8:30 a.m. Choose from a 5K or 3K run through Lionshead and Vail Village. Join the celebration afterward at Bart & Yeti’s, with refreshments, raffle prizes, and awards for the best outfits for individuals, teams, kids, and dogs.
First up is the Holiday Dog Parade, where four legged friends show off their festive finery. Then comes the children's Moose March, followed by the Race of the Santas. Hundreds of red suited runners take over Main Street in a spectacle that's equal parts holiday tradition and good natured hilarity.
Join the race yourself or find a spot along the route to cheer on the Santas as they dash toward the finish line.
Named for the Norse god of snow, this beloved December tradition brings locals and visitors together to summon a snow filled season. Viking helmets and faux fur are practically the dress code, and the streets fill with colorful costumes, music, and revelers ready to pay tribute to Ullr.
