Telluride may be small, but we sure do holidays right. From shopping and events downtown to epic sleigh and train rides, there’s no shortage of fun for the entire family in Telluride for Christmas. Not only do we have special events planned the entire holiday season, but outdoor activities like ice skating, sledding and skiing/snowboarding are mainstays every winter.  

The holidays are a busy time in Telluride, so be sure to book your lodging early. Stay at the River Club for luxurious accommodations on the San Miguel River or book a slopeside room at the Bear Creek Lodge in Mountain Village. Either way, you’ll love everything Telluride offers for the holidays. 

Shop!

That’s right – your favorite holiday pastime! Good thing Telluride has a ton of local stores perfect for your holiday shopping. From outdoor gear at Telluride Sports to unique gifts at HOOK, there’s no shortage of great buys this winter. 

In addition to the brick-and-mortar shops, the Holiday Arts Bazaar is a great spot to get gifts for the entire family. With fine arts, crafts and artisan foods from the Telluride region, everyone in the family will love the local, handmade gifts this holiday. 

Polar Express

Photo: Durango and Silverton Railroad

All aboard! Just a short trip outside of Telluride is one of the season’s best activities: the Polar Express! Hosted by the historic Durango and Silverton Railroad, this holiday train ride is great for kids and adults alike. Riders are invited to wear their PJs, listen to stories, drink hot chocolate and sing Christmas carols. They even get a gift from Santa! If you’re looking for a Christmas tree for the holidays, there is also a Christmas Tree Train that takes guests to the Cascade Canyon to cut down their own tree. Be sure to pick a good one!

Holiday Sleigh Ride

This is an event unlike no other. Telluride Sleighs and Wagons offer horse-drawn rides all year-round, but the holiday events are not to be missed. Guests will take a horse-drawn sleigh to a cozy decorated tent at the Aldasoro Ranch. Dinner, drinks and great views are all included in the price. 

Holiday Festivities

There are plenty of activities around town that are sure to get you in the holiday mood.

Noel Night, which kicks off the holiday season in Telluride, consists of a Main Street lighting ceremony and the ceremonial Ski Tree. Spend the rest of the evening shopping and enjoying the scenery.

The Holiday Prelude is another great event for the entire family closer to the holidays. Mountain Village is transformed into the North Pole for this fest and promises holiday movies, train rides, Santa and his workshop, live reindeer, ice skating and more. 

Other events throughout the month include a trip to the “North Pole” via the gondola, express train rides in Mountain Village, the Fire Festival and more. 

Torchlight Parade

Close out the holiday season with an annual Telluride favorite, the Torchlight Parade. Held on New Year’s Eve, skiers and snowboarders light the way down the Coonskin and Telluride Trail with blazing red torches.