Christmas in Vail, Colorado, is a magical experience that combines the festive atmosphere of the holiday season with the stunning natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Vail is a popular ski resort town that offers a wide range of activities and events during the winter months, making it an ideal destination for a Christmas vacation.
Whether you're a skier, snowboarder, or just looking for a fun and festive holiday experience, Vail has something for everyone. Here are five ways to celebrate Christmas in Vail, Colorado:
Experience the Magic of Vail's Holiday Events
Vail hosts a variety of holiday events throughout the month of December, including the Vail Snow Daze festival, the Vail Tree Lighting ceremony, and the Torchlight Parade. These events feature live music, festive food and drink, and activities for all ages.
One of the highlights of the holiday season in Vail is the Krampusnacht festival, which takes place on December 5th. This unique event celebrates the Austrian tradition of Krampus, a half-goat, half-demon creature who punishes naughty children during the holiday season. The festival features a parade, live music, and a visit from Krampus himself.
Enjoy World-Class Skiing and Snowboarding
Vail is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, with over 5,200 acres of skiable terrain and 195 trails. The resort offers something for every skill level, from gentle groomers to challenging bowls and glades.
During the holiday season, Vail's ski slopes are decked out in festive decorations, and the resort offers a variety of holiday-themed ski lessons and packages. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, Vail's ski school has a program to help you improve your skills and make the most of your holiday ski vacation.
Explore Vail's Festive Shopping and Dining Scene
Vail's shopping and dining scene is a major part of the resort's holiday charm. The town is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, many of which offer festive holiday menus and decorations.
Some of the top shopping destinations in Vail include the Vail Village, Lionshead, and the Riverwalk. These areas offer a range of unique boutiques, outdoor gear stores, and art galleries, as well as plenty of opportunities to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.
When it comes to dining, Vail has a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget. From fine dining restaurants to casual cafes and pubs, there's something for everyone in Vail. Some of the top holiday dining destinations include the Sebastian - Vail, the Four Seasons Resort Vail, and the Game Creek Club.
Take a Sleigh Ride or Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
For a truly magical holiday experience, consider taking a sleigh ride or horse-drawn carriage tour through Vail's snow-covered landscapes. These tours offer a unique and romantic way to see the resort's festive decorations and enjoy the beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Several companies in Vail offer sleigh rides and horse-drawn carriage tours, including the Vail Sleigh Ride and the Horse-Drawn Carriage Company. These tours typically last around an hour and offer a range of options, including romantic dinners and holiday-themed decorations.
Relax and Unwind at a Luxury Spa
After a long day on the slopes or exploring Vail's festive shopping and dining scene, there's no better way to relax and unwind than with a visit to a luxury spa. Vail is home to a range of world-class spas, each offering a unique and rejuvenating experience.
Some of the top spas in Vail include the Four Seasons Resort Vail Spa, the Sebastian - Vail Spa, and the RockResorts Spa at the Lodge at Vail. These spas offer a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, as well as access to hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms.
Whether you're looking to relieve sore muscles, rejuvenate your skin, or simply relax and unwind, Vail's luxury spas have something for everyone.
Get Festive with Vail's Holiday Accommodations
Vail offers a range of holiday accommodations to suit every taste and budget, from luxury ski-in/ski-out condos to cozy bed and breakfasts. Many of Vail's accommodations offer festive holiday decorations and amenities, including Christmas trees, holiday lights, and festive linens.
Some of the top holiday accommodations in Vail include the Four Seasons Resort Vail, the Sebastian - Vail, and the Lodge at Vail. These resorts offer a range of luxurious amenities, including private ski lifts, outdoor hot tubs, and gourmet dining options.
When booking your holiday accommodations in Vail, be sure to ask about festive holiday packages and promotions, which may include perks like ski lessons, equipment rentals, and holiday-themed activities.
Join in the Holiday Fun with Vail's Family-Friendly Activities
Vail is a great destination for families, with a range of holiday activities and events that are fun for all ages. Some of the top family-friendly activities in Vail include the Vail Tree Lighting ceremony, the Torchlight Parade, and the Krampusnacht festival.
Vail also offers a range of family-friendly ski lessons and packages, including the Vail Ski School's "Learn to Ski" program, which is designed for kids and adults who are new to skiing.
Other family-friendly activities in Vail include ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing. The resort also offers a range of kid-friendly dining options, including the Vail Village's many restaurants and cafes.
We hope this article has inspired you to celebrate Christmas in Vail, Colorado. With its world-class skiing, festive shopping and dining scene, and range of family-friendly activities, Vail is the perfect destination for a magical holiday vacation.
Join the conversation! What's your favorite way to celebrate Christmas in Vail, Colorado? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
What are the best holiday events in Vail, Colorado?
+Vail hosts a variety of holiday events throughout the month of December, including the Vail Snow Daze festival, the Vail Tree Lighting ceremony, and the Torchlight Parade.
Where can I find festive holiday shopping in Vail?
+Vail's shopping scene is a major part of the resort's holiday charm. The top shopping destinations in Vail include the Vail Village, Lionshead, and the Riverwalk.
What are the best ski lessons for kids in Vail?
+Vail offers a range of family-friendly ski lessons and packages, including the Vail Ski School's "Learn to Ski" program, which is designed for kids and adults who are new to skiing.