Our Favorite Ways to Celebrate the Holidays in Vail

As the popular holiday song will tell you, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year”! There is nothing better than celebrating the holidays in Vail. Everything is blanketed in white, trees are lighted, festive decorations are hung, and the jolly atmosphere is tangible. Being in Vail Village and Lionshead over Christmas and New Year’s is simply magical. We hope you can experience all the festivities with us!

Whether you’re visiting Vail, Colorado in the winter or in the summer, there are countless things to do! Access our complimentary Vacation Guide for all the best restaurants, shopping, and activities in our breathtaking region.

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Events and Activities For Your Holidays in Vail

Vail Holidays and Other Holiday Events

Vail Holidays takes place each holiday season and includes the Vail Tree Lighting, the Vail Lantern Walk, and kid-friendly activities like cookie decorating. These Vail events all take place prior to the Christmas holiday. On December 31, Vail Holidays picks back up with the annual New Year’s Eve Torchlight Ski Down and fireworks display. Both are popular traditions in Vail so get there early.

In Beaver Creek, the Vilar Center for the Performing Arts has a number of classic holiday shows and concerts. Past performances have included “A Classical Christmas Celebration” with the Boulder Symphony Orchestra, “A Christmas Carol,” and “The Nutcracker.”

Holiday Shopping

In the market for last-minute gifts? You are in the right place! Vail Village and Lionshead are both known for their boutique shopping. You’ll find everything from fine art and sculptures to jewelry to casual and designer clothing. Almost every brand of outdoor gear and clothing can be found. Brands like Burton, The North Face, Patagonia, Smartwool, Icebreaker, Helly Hanson, Marmot, and more even have their own storefronts. Want really high-end Vail shopping? Anything at Gorsuch will fit the bill. How about custom skis or a custom snowboard? Try Liberty Skis or Weston Snowboards, both locally-owned and operated.

More shopping can be had down the valley from Minturn to Eagle. Minturn has one of our favorite gift boutiques, The Uptown Store. Down in Eagle, mountain and road bike aficionados will find good specialty bike shops. The Riverwalk at Edwards is very popular for its array of boutiques. There are several clothing stores, a great outdoor clothing and gear store called Ptarmigan Sports, The Kitchen Collage for your favorite chef, Vintage Magnolia for flowers and gifts, and our favorite book store, The Bookworm. Along with books, it also has a fantastic café and small gift selection that’s great for stocking stuffers. And don’t forget your furry friends with toys and treats from Wags & Whiskers, also in Edwards.

New Year’s Eve Events

Can you imagine a better place to ring in the new year? New Year’s Eve in Vail features ski champagne powder by day and celebrate in style by night. Special dinner menus, live music, and dancing abound. Have a favorite restaurant? It is likely offering something special on December 31st. Be sure to make your reservations early. New Year’s is one of the busiest times of the winter season.

For families, Vail has the previously mentioned Vail Holidays Torchlight Ski Down and fireworks. It’s early enough in the evening for even the youngest revelers.

Enjoy Festive Accommodations

Lodge at Lionshead features great amenities like a sauna, hot tubs, a fitness center, and top-of-the-line Concierge Services. Our staff can help bring the magic of the holidays to your condo. We can arrange to have trees and other holiday decor delivered, help with holiday caterers, gift delivery, and more. We also offer luxurious condos in different sizes ranging from studios to four-bedrooms. Browse our accommodations and start planning for holidays in Vail!

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