There is no better place to get into the festive mood than a ski resort filled with lights and holiday cheer. Snow-covered peaks and frosty trees make Breckenridge a perfect destination to ring in the New Year. Holiday lights, a torchlight parade, lots of dine-in options, and a pack of winter activities promise an unforgettable New Year's celebration. Unfortunately, fireworks have been excluded from the New Year's program.
Each winter, Breckenridge's historic downtown transforms into a sparkling snow globe scene with about 250,000 LED holiday lights. Take a stroll along Main St to feel the atmosphere. A bit further from the crowded central streets, Festival of Trees brings a winter wonderland to the Blue River Recreation Path: artfully decorated Christmas trees, each designed and sponsored by a local business or a non-profit.
Parades
On December 31, festivities start with the Glow Worm Parade. Kids of ages 5–13 are invited to participate in the parade. During the procession, the kids ski down green terrain with glow sticks. Registration starts at 5 pm at the Beaver Run Ski and Snowboard School on Peak 9. The Glow Worm Parade usually begins after sunset. A quarter-hour later, at 6 pm, the iconic Torchlight Parade gathers spectators by the Beaver Run. The Breckenridge Ski and Snowboard School runs this luminary procession from the top of Peak 9. The best viewing spot is Beaver Run's Imperial Ballroom.
New Year's Eve dining options
Most restaurants in Breckenridge are usually open for Christmas and New Year's Eve. Be ready to pay a separate fee for the holiday dinner and be sure to make reservations because tables tend to fill up quickly. If you prefer to celebrate the night in the comfort of your home, you can pre-order and take away delicious holiday meals from the local restaurants. Also, the local grocery stores usually offer holiday dinners, an easy yet tasty stay-in option.
