Winter is a season of enchantment, and Greeley, Colorado, knows how to capture that magic. As the snowflakes fall, the city comes alive with a flurry of festive events from the downtown corridor to the west side Family FunPlex.
Ready to revel in winter fun? Visit Greeley and discover one-of-a-kind holiday festivals and events.
Festival of Trees
November 29-December 6
One of the highlights of the season is Greeley’s Festival of Trees. This annual celebration transforms the lobbies of the Union Colony Civic Center into a winter wonderland. Starting the day after Thanksgiving, visitors can attend public hours to enjoy beautifully decorated trees and other creative displays designed by local businesses, non-profits and organizations.
Be sure to check out the Festival of Trees Artist Market, running November 29 through December 5. Stock up on unique Christmas gifts that support local creators, like bespoke goods, handmade items and artwork. You can access the market free of charge during Tointon Gallery public hours and during select weekend hours.
The nine-day festival also features several ticketed special events catered to a variety of ages and interests:
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Friday, November 28 | 7 to 9 p.m.
Inviting 21+ guests for a curated selection of whiskey and spirits tastings. Mingle with local distillers and enjoy delectable snacks. Looking for a more exclusive experience? Check out the VIP ticket option for access to rare sips and chef-curated pairings.
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Saturday, November 29 | 9 to 11:30 a.m.
A whimsical morning of Grinch-themed fun including face-painting, Who hair-dos, a scavenger hunt, crafts and so much more!
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Thursday, December 5 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Sip on wine while enjoying runway looks that range from cozy-chic to dazzling ensembles.
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Friday, December 5 | 7 to 9 p.m.
Come for the laughs, holiday cheer and questionable fashion choices while enjoying a special screening of the holiday favorite, “Elf,” in the Hensel Phelps Theatre.
All the proceeds from the Festival of Trees go toward supporting the Union Colony Civic Center and the Greeley Philharmonic Guild. It's both a beautiful display of holiday spirit and the chance to make a meaningful contribution to the arts.
Discover more details at GreeleyFestivalofTrees.com.
Downtown Greeley Winterfest
November 29, December 6, December 13
Winterfest offers the ultimate winter wonderland experience in downtown Greeley over three incredible weekends.
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Holiday Open House
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Saturday, November 29 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The annual Holiday Open House coincides with “Shop Small Saturday.” Begin your shopping day by picking up a bingo card at any one of the participating downtown businesses. Fill out your card and enter to win a gift basket. The day also includes holiday crafts, special treats, live music, photo ops for kids, and more!
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Light Up Lincoln
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Saturday, November 29| 5:30 p.m.
As the sun sets, join the community at historic Lincoln Park for the countdown to “Light Up Lincoln.” Enjoy carolers, sweet treats and even a visit from Santa Claus.
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Holiday Lane
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Saturday, December 6 | 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Downtown Greeley’s 9th and 10th Street Plazas bring the holiday magic with festive displays, live performances and a Holiday Gift Market you don’t want to miss.
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Santa’s Workshop at LINC
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Saturday, December 13 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Unleash your creativity with holiday-themed crafts, like yule logs, ornaments and holiday cards. Bring your holiday greeting cards to the LINC to be stamped with a unique Greeley holiday image. We’ve also got the inside scoop that Santa will be visiting from noon to 2 p.m. if you’re looking for some photo opportunities.
Homesteader’s Holiday at Centennial Village Museum
December 5-6
Immerse yourself in the history of Centennial Village Museum while it's decorated for the holidays and shop for unique gifts for everyone on your list.
Choose from three different events that each offer a unique, historic holiday experiences:
- Christmas Tree Lighting
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Friday, December 5 | 4 to 6 p.m.
See the village come alive with holiday lighting! Enjoy free cocoa and cookies while strolling the grounds.
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Friday, December 5 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
A new interactive storytelling program that brings holiday history to life. From Victorian traditions to keeping holidays alive during hard times, learn how Christmas played a role in our past. Choose from two one-hour sessions. Ticket purchase is required to attend.
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Saturday, December 6 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Spend the day exploring the village’s historic buildings, making seasonal crafts and dipping candles. Enjoy live music, caroling and visits with Cowboy Santa.
Bring a canned food item for free admission to the Christmas Tree Lighting or Homesteader’s Holiday Saturday event. It’s a great way to give back to the community while celebrating the season.
Holiday Celebrations with Greeley Recreation
Greeley Recreation has a sleigh-load of festive events to make your holidays even brighter.
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Friday, November 28 | Noon to 5 p.m.
After feasting on Thursday, head over to the Greeley Ice Haus on Friday for the “Skate Your Turkey Off” event. Burn off that delicious turkey dinner with an afternoon of skating and bring the whole family to join in the post-feast fun. Admission is $10 (includes skate rental).
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Friday, December 12 | 5 to 8 p.m.
Get into the holiday spirit with a “Jingle Bell Jam” at the Family FunPlex. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, sip on hot cocoa and decorate an ornament. It's an evening of holiday magic, and the best part—it's free!
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Friday, December 12 | 6:30 p.m.
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Saturday, December 13 | 3 p.m.
Prepare to be dazzled by Learn to Skate participants and Mountain View Skating Club’s figure skating exhibition, “Winter Wonderland Ice Show.” This showcase is a perfect holiday experience for the whole family. Admission is $10 and children 2 and under get in for free.
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Wednesday, December 17 | 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Join the free Zumba® Holidance class and let the music and moves add some natural endorphins to your holiday season. This class is suitable for ages 12 and up and is free for all to attend. Give yourself a break from holiday preparations and spend one hour focusing on fitness and fun.
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Saturday, December 20 | Noon to 1:30 p.m.
Another Santa sighting, this time at the Greeley Ice Haus. Lace up your skates and experience a different side of Kris Kringle. Don't forget to capture the magic with selfies in the photo booth, and be sure to get crafty with some festive creations. Admission is $10 (includes skate rental), and the cheer is abundant and free!
