Christmas In Durango: A Festive Mountain Town Celebration

Christmas in Durango is a truly magical experience. Nestled in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, this charming town transforms into a winter wonderland each year, offering a festive atmosphere that's perfect for the holiday season. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and warm community spirit, Durango is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and memorable Christmas celebration.

From the moment you step into town, you'll be enchanted by the holiday decorations, lights, and festive cheer that fills the air. Durango's historic downtown area is particularly charming, with its turn-of-the-century buildings, boutique shops, and cozy restaurants. As you stroll through the streets, you'll discover an array of local artisans, craftspeople, and shops offering handmade gifts, decorations, and treats.

Durango's Christmas festivities begin in late November, with the annual Polar Express Train, which takes passengers on a magical journey through the snow-covered mountains. Other popular events include the Snowdown Festival, the Durango Christmas Market, and the festive lighting of the town's Christmas tree.

Winter Activities in Durango

Durango offers a wide range of winter activities that cater to all interests and ages. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby San Juan Mountains provide endless opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice climbing. The Purgatory Resort, formerly known as Durango Mountain Resort, is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, with over 1,300 acres of skiable terrain.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, Durango has plenty of scenic winter trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. The Animas River Trail, which runs through the heart of town, is a beautiful place to take a winter stroll, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the frozen river.

Ice Skating and Sledding

Ice skating and sledding are two of Durango's most popular winter activities. The Chapman Hill Ice Rink, located in the heart of town, offers public ice skating sessions, figure skating lessons, and hockey leagues. For sledding enthusiasts, the hills surrounding Durango offer plenty of opportunities for fun and excitement.

Christmas Events in Durango

Durango's Christmas events are a major highlight of the holiday season. The town's festive atmosphere is created through a series of events, including:

• The Polar Express Train: a magical train journey through the San Juan Mountains
• The Snowdown Festival: a winter festival featuring live music, food, and drinks
• The Durango Christmas Market: a festive market offering handmade gifts, decorations, and treats
• The Lighting of the Town Christmas Tree: a festive ceremony marking the start of the holiday season

Parades and Processions

Durango's Christmas parades and processions are a fun and festive way to get into the holiday spirit. The town's annual Christmas Parade features floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. The Polar Express Train also offers a festive procession through the mountains, complete with hot chocolate and cookies.

Shopping and Dining in Durango

Durango's historic downtown area is home to a wide range of unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants. For holiday shoppers, Durango offers a variety of gift options, including handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing. The town's many restaurants serve up delicious local cuisine, including Mexican, Italian, and American favorites.

Some popular shopping and dining destinations in Durango include:

• The Strater Hotel: a historic hotel offering luxurious accommodations and fine dining
• The Diamond Belle Saloon: a historic saloon serving up drinks and live music
• The Rose Chocolatier: a local chocolatier offering handmade treats and gifts

Accommodations in Durango

Durango offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels and resorts, there's something for everyone in this charming mountain town.

Some popular accommodation options in Durango include:

• The Strater Hotel: a historic hotel offering luxurious accommodations and fine dining
• The Rochester Hotel: a boutique hotel featuring comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere
• The Purgatory Resort: a ski resort offering luxurious accommodations and world-class skiing

Insider Tips for Visiting Durango at Christmas

For those planning to visit Durango at Christmas, here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your trip:

• Book your accommodations and activities early, as Durango can get busy during the holiday season
• Pack warm clothing, including a coat, gloves, and hat, as it can get chilly in the mountains
• Take advantage of Durango's free parking and shuttle services to get around town
• Be sure to try some of Durango's local cuisine, including its famous green chile stew

Getting to Durango

Durango is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. The town is located just off Highway 550, which connects to Interstate 25. The Durango-La Plata County Airport offers flights to major airports in Denver and Phoenix, while the Durango Train Station provides rail service to Chicago and Los Angeles.

We hope you've enjoyed this article about Christmas in Durango. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.