Thanksgiving weekend is one of the most lively times to experience Denver. Visitors can enjoy a mix of seasonal events, outdoor activities, and special holiday performances across the city. It is a weekend that brings together tradition and entertainment. This will give travelers and residents many options to explore.
From festive lights to ice skating rinks and interactive challenges, there is no shortage of ways to spend quality time with family and friends. These things to do in Denver on Thanksgiving weekend are perfect for creating memories beyond the dinner table.
Stroll Through Downtown Holiday Lights
Thanksgiving weekend marks the start of Denver’s holiday light season. Streets, parks, and plazas glow with creative displays that make evening walks feel magical. The Denver City and County Building is one of the most popular stops, with a brilliant light show that draws families each year.
Larimer Square and Union Station also transform into colorful backdrops for photos. Visiting after sunset adds to the charm and creates a relaxing way to cap off a day of shopping or sightseeing.
Join a Local Turkey Trot
For those looking to balance the Thanksgiving feast with fresh air, Denver has several turkey trots across the city.
These fun runs bring together people of all ages to walk, jog, or run at their own pace. The atmosphere is lighthearted, often with participants wearing themed outfits or costumes.
Many events raise funds for local charities, so it feels good to take part. Completing a morning run makes the holiday meal later in the day even more rewarding.
Explore Denver’s Museums and Galleries
Thanksgiving weekend is an excellent time to enjoy Denver’s cultural side. Many museums remain open and feature special exhibits during the holiday period. The Denver Art Museum and the Museum of Nature and Science offer hands-on experiences that work well for families.
Smaller galleries also host local artists and unique installations worth exploring. Taking a few hours to enjoy these spaces creates a meaningful break from holiday busyness.
Catch a Seasonal Show or Concert
Performing arts venues across Denver schedule holiday programs around Thanksgiving weekend. Visitors can watch classic productions like The Nutcracker or enjoy live concerts with festive themes. Many theaters decorate their lobbies and make the entire experience feel special from start to finish.
Attending a live performance can become an annual tradition and brings an alternative to crowded shopping centers. It is also a great way to support local performers.
Take a Day Trip to the Mountains
Denver’s location makes it easy to plan a quick trip to the Rocky Mountains during Thanksgiving weekend.
Towns like Golden, Estes Park, and Georgetown celebrate the season with parades, craft markets, and local gatherings that feel festive and welcoming. Snow often covers the higher elevations and turns the landscape into a postcard-perfect scene for photos.
Visitors can enjoy hot drinks in cozy mountain cafés or take a short scenic hike before heading back. Spending time outside the city adds variety to the weekend and offers a peaceful reset before diving back into family meals and busy holiday schedules.
Warm Up with Local Food and Drink
Thanksgiving is all about flavors, and Denver’s food scene serves plenty of seasonal inspiration. Many restaurants craft creative holiday menus that go beyond the traditional turkey. Diners can try roasted vegetables, spiced desserts, and inventive twists on familiar classics.
Breweries and cider houses also roll out winter releases during this season, from rich stouts to spiced ciders, making it an ideal weekend for sampling local drinks. Pairing a hearty dish with a seasonal brew transforms an ordinary lunch into a memorable afternoon outing.
Visitors can explore neighborhoods like RiNo or LoDo to discover popular restaurants, cozy pubs, and casual tasting rooms. For travelers or locals hosting friends, a food-focused stop adds warmth and variety to the weekend itinerary, while also supporting Denver’s thriving culinary community.
Challenge Your Mind at an Escape Room
For a unique group activity, try one of the themed Denver escape rooms. These interactive games are built for teamwork, communication, and quick thinking under pressure.
At EscapeWorks Denver, you can race to freedom in Blackbeard’s Brig, solve ancient puzzles inside the Egyptian Tomb, outsmart criminals in Casino Heist, or confront supernatural forces in The Exorcism.
Each room has its own storyline and atmosphere, making it easy to choose one that fits your group’s style. Playing together turns an ordinary afternoon into a shared adventure and creates a memory that will last long after the weekend is over.
Plan Your Thanksgiving Weekend with EscapeWorks Denver
EscapeWorks Denver loves helping groups make the most of their holiday time. Our games are perfect for holiday outings, whether you are hosting friends, spending time with family, or looking for new things to do in Denver on Thanksgiving weekend.
Book a room with us to add an interactive twist to your holiday plans and leave with a story worth sharing.
