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Supporting local business this holiday season
more important than ever
BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
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f we have learned anything in 2020 with the growing pandemic, it’s be prepared to evolve and adapt. From large corporate retailers to the shops lining Mainstreet, all businesses have had to make changes due to restrictions brought about by COVID-19. The holiday shopping season is no different. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has warned businesses that consumers are getting their holiday shopping done a lot earlier. They aren’t waiting for the coveted Black Friday event the day after Thanksgiving. Small Business Saturday isn’t expected to have the same feel as years past,
although it is still scheduled for Nov. 27. Wal Mart started doing Black Friday deals early in November and has continued every Saturday. Kohl’s and other major retailers have followed suit. Online shopping is becoming the go-to method for many holiday shoppers. With obstacles presented by COVID and shopping trends changing this year, local businesses are missing out if all that early shopping is done online from big-box stores. No matter how many great deals the big-box stores have, experts stress shopping locally is even more important in 2020 than it has ever been. Frances Padilla, the district director for the U.S. Small Business Administration in Denver, said small businesses have had to
continually pivot and change how they do business just to survive. Supporting them is important to Colorado because these businesses are the majority, they make up 99.5 percent of all Colorado private businesses. “Colorado small businesses have had to go up and down and change on this disaster bridge we’ve been on this year,” she said. “They are flexible and innovative and are working hard to survive in this pandemic. Supporting them is vital to our economy as they are responsible for 1.1 million jobs, funding our infrastructure and community programs. They are the foundation to our local communities.” SEE SHOP LOCAL, PA3
November 26, 2020
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Shop Local FROM PAGE A2
While Amazon shopping is more convenient, the money is less likely to flow through the local economy. For every $10 spent on local, small businesses, Padilla said an average of $7 stays in that business’s local community. In Golden, Nola Krajewski, executive director of the Golden Chamber of Commerce, said with tourism dollars down and restrictions changing continuously, businesses need the support more than ever. “The best way to support local businesses is to take the extra step to purchase locally,” she said. “We know how tempting it can be to buy online, but we remind our community that what makes us so unique and special are the small businesses, small shops, and the dining opportunities. Consider purchasing gift cards to these businesses and gifting your friends and family with local experiences such as a spa day, a shopping excursion, a fitness membership, a museum membership, or a meal out.” Melissa Mare, director of communications of the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce, said “Shop Local, together we are stronger,” is more than just a slogan in 2020. “This is a commitment to our community, a symbol of solidarity, and a helping hand,” she said. “Now more than ever, local businesses need our support if they hope to survive in the new COVID-19 marketplace. Many of our local businesses are family owned and operated, which means they are invested in our town. Yes, our thriving community is special and unique, but not for long if we don’t do our part and shop local not only this holiday season, but all year.”
‘The best way to support local businesses is to take the extra step to purchase locally.’ Nola Krajewski, executive director of the Golden Chamber of Commerce
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November 26, 2020
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Budget-friendly tips
Hometown Holidays 5
for a safe and joyous holiday 2020 safely, consider a virtual gift exchange with friends or family. Drop off or mail gifts and plan a time for everyone to video chat and open presents together. Get dressed in your favorite holiday attire to make the event feel special, whether that’s festive formal wear or ugly sweaters and sweats. Then, take turns opening gifts and feel the joy.
(BPT)
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ncertainty continues into the 2020 holiday season, with limited travel, canceled events and strict budgets changing how Americans will celebrate this year. According to a recent Coinstar Holiday Survey, the majority of Americans said COVID-19 will influence how they celebrate the holidays. Fortunately, by thinking outside the box and keeping a positive attitude, you can stay healthy, stretch funds and create merry moments. Let these tips inspire you to celebrate the holiday season safely and on budget:
COVID-19 doesn’t have to ruin holiday traditions. It’s important to practice safety and make the most of the 2020 holiday season. SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE
Give gifts with meaning
Maintain traditions in new, safe ways Traditions bring comfort and hope, so rather than forgoing beloved activities due to coronavirus concerns, get creative instead. Plan a car caravan to look at holiday lights and have everyone keep a scorecard of favorite houses including winners for most creative, brightest, funniest and overall best. Set up a video chat and bake favorite holiday treats in real time from afar. Relatives can virtually tuck kids into bed by reading classic holiday books through a free digital video platform. These activities are safer to enjoy and will create meaningful memories to make the season special.
Make gifts to save money You can still have a wonderful holiday even on a tight budget. A budget-friendly option is to make it a homemade holiday this year. Face masks and hand sanitizer are great stocking stuffers that you can make and will be appreciated, especially this year. Patterns are readily available to make face masks and you can find recipes online for creating custom hand sanitizer. Another idea is to choose all handmade gifts from Etsy or local artists in your area,
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so you can give unique presents while supporting small businesses.
Cash in spare change Even with fewer in-person gatherings and reduced gift giving this season, most people have increased expenses during the holiday season. Cashing in spare change is a good way to stretch your budget. Research shows Americans with spare change at home estimate that they have on average $113 in and around their homes. These funds can be used to buy gifts or apply to other holiday expenses. Coinstar kiosks found at most grocery stores are an easy way to convert loose change for cash, a no-fee eGift card or tax-deductible charity donation.
Plan a virtual gift exchange According to the Coinstar Holiday Survey, two in five Americans who say their holiday will be different due to COVID-19 say they do not plan to travel or attend inperson gatherings. To enjoy the holidays
Rather than a traditional present, consider alternative gifts that show you care. Do you have a talent that would benefit others, such as tutoring a friend’s child who is studying remotely? Could you drop off a meal for a senior who’s homebound? Could you donate a snack basket for hard-working delivery personnel? Lastly, instead of a present, you could make a donation in the recipient’s name to a charity close to that person’s heart.
Delay holiday celebrations All of these ideas can help you maximize the holiday season, but if you still long to celebrate in person, consider planning a gathering for later in 2021. According the survey, about half said they would consider “Christmas in July” in 2021 for in-person celebrations. So, whether it’s a summer Christmas event, an early Friendsgiving or another winter holiday, it’s something to look forward to once it’s safe again. Send out “save the date” invitations and put your creative juices to work for a summer get-together.
Simple Tips for a Safe and Healthy Holiday Season
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(BPT)
raditionally, the holiday season is a time to gather with family and friends to reminiscence and celebrate all that has happened throughout the year. But with an ongoing pandemic, many are left looking for new and unique ways to enjoy those time-honored traditions in a way that keeps everyone safe and healthy. So, while things will likely look different than we are accustomed to, that doesn’t mean you and your loved ones have to miss out on those most important and cherished traditions. Instead, consider trying these tips and tricks for safe, socially distant holiday fun.
1. Host safely If you plan to host, there are a number of precautions you can take to keep guests safe. If possible, take your gatherings outside where you can increase physical distance and airflow. Choose out-
door activities, such as a bonfire or an active game. If you live in a colder climate, bring out the hats, coats and gloves - and try using a patio or porch heater to warm up. To limit travel, it is best to only invite people from your local area and limit the number of attendees. Provide information to guests about your local safety guidelines and take steps to prevent spread by providing masks and hand sanitizer.
2. Get help from the experts With everything to consider this year, there is nothing better than receiving a helping hand in the kitchen - especially one that can be delivered right to your doorstep. Boston Market, known this time of year as the Holiday Experts, has fully prepared, precooked holiday meal spreads, as well as a la carte sides and desserts that can be delivered to your home, preordered or picked up at any location nationwide. This helpful
solution is also perfect for those taking extra precautions during this unusual holiday season.
3. Go virtual Since you may not be able to see family and friends in-person, consider spending time with your loved ones from afar by using one of the many apps and programs that allow them to gather virtually. To keep the conversation flowing, prepare a list of fun topics, questions to ask or games to play while you are digitally celebrating the season together.
4. Shop conveniently Online shopping has never been
easier - or safer. Instead of heading out to crowded malls or stores, do as much online shopping as possible. Be sure to start early, as shipping times will likely be delayed and stocking of the season’s most popular gifts may be limited. If you do plan to shop in person, be sure to follow your local guidelines to ensure you stay safe. Don’t let the pandemic steal your joy and ruin those time-honored holiday traditions. Instead, try following these helpful tips to ensure a safe and healthy season. You might even discover a new tradition to add to the list!
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Eagles Nest Ranch sponsors
7th Annual Christmas Cards to Troops
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G W T W A C I D g G f o p o d s
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Through the community program sponsored by Eagles Nest Ranch, nearly 4,000 Christmas cards have been sent to U.S. troops serving away from home over the holiday season. (Photo provided by Suzy MazKenzie) BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
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uring the holidays, thousands of U.S. soldiers are separated from their families, which is why the nonprofit, Eagles Nest Ranch, is working to gather cards to send oversees this season. For the seventh year in a row, Eagles Nest Ranch, located in Elizabeth, is asking the region to take a few moments to think of those serving in the U.S. Military. “We want to send them love, encouragement and thanks for their service,” said Executive Director Suzy MacKenzie. “I think now more than ever, our troops need to hear that they haven’t been forgotten. This year has been one of uncertainty, upheaval, and the unknown. Let’s let them know they are thought of and appreciated.” MacKenzie said at Eagles Nest Ranch, one of the populations they serve through the Healing Horses program is the Armed Forces, which includes activeduty military and veterans. After watching the movie, “Christmas
Card,” in 2013, MacKenzie said she was inspired and decided that Eagles Nest Ranch should give back even more. Over the last six years, the program has sent nearly 4,000 cards to U.S. troops serving away from home. This year, while gathered together with family and friends during the Thanksgiving holiday, take a few minutes and ask everyone to sign Christmas cards for the troops. “We think of Christmas as a time to gather together with family to celebrate Christ’s birth,” MacKenzie said. “It’s a time to draw close together and travel distances to see loved ones to celebrate this special day. Our troops are unable to spend the holidays with their families. This is a way for them to know how much we do care and remember their service.” Those interested in participating in the 2020 Christmas Cards to Troops program can take the following steps:
• Buy or make Christmas Cards • Write notes for service members and have family sign it
• Put each card in its own envelope, but do not seal or write on the envelope. Those details will be taken care of by Eagles Nest Ranch. • Purchase enough stamps or send a check, made out to Eagle’s Nest Ranch, to cover the cost of postage. • Send all signed cards and books of stamps to Eagle’s Nest Ranch, 36998 Timber Drive, Elizabeth, CO 80107. All items should be sent by Dec. 5. There are also three drop off centers at The Elizabeth Business Center, located in the Safeway Shopping Center; Isabel’s Coffee, located in Elizabeth; Patty Ann’s Cafe located in Kiowa; and Hero’s Pizzeria & Tavern, 16070 E. Dartmouth Ave, in Aurora. MacKenzie said anyone wanting to volunteer to help prepare and send the cards on Dec. 5 are welcome to participate. For more information, visit the Eagle’s Nest website at www.eaglesnestranch. org.
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November 26, 2020
THINGS TO DO for the
(All events are subject to change or cancelation due to COVID-19 restrictions)
ARVADA
Glow Skate When: Dec. 7 Time: 7:15 pm Where: Apex Center – 13150 @. 72nd Ave., Arvada Cost: Free - $5 Information: https://apexprd.org/ Details: Lace up your ice skates and get ready for the lights and music – Glow Skate is back. This is a familyfriendly event, open to everyone of all ages. The luminous fun takes place at the Apex Center Ice Arena on the first Saturday of every month during the evening Public Skate session from 7:15 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
ENGLEWOOD Holiday Express 2020 When: Dec 4-5, Dec. 11-12
Time: 3 pm – 8 pm Where: Belleview Farm and Train – 5001 S. Inca Dr. Englewood Cost: See website Information: englewoodco.gov/ parks-recreation-library/ Details: Space will be limited and pre-registration will be required. There will be: train rides, sociallydistanced Santa, a craft to complete at home, hot cocoa & S’mores. Masks are required at all times for everyone ages 10 and up.
LONGMONT Last Chance Gift Fest When: Dec. 19 Time: 5 pm Where: Boulder County Fairgrounds Pavillion – 9595 Nelson Rd., Continued on page 9
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L C I D i t g v h i e C a h
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H W W C I D T t s f P p o t t h
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C P W T W M C I D o T
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Meaningful gifts for the amazing women in your life (BPT)
To make this year’s holiday even more meaningful, you may be searching for special gifts to celebrate and honor the women who make a difference in your life whether they are family members, mentors, friends or your spouse. If you want her to know that you care not just about pleasing her with your gift, but that you also want to help lift up and empower women around the world, here are some ideas for holiday gifts that mean a whole lot more.
Support women business owners Help empower women in business this holiday season by searching for local and online women-owned establishments. This way, you can thoughtfully choose appropriate products, services or gift certificates for those you are gifting this year. To make more of an impact, simply donate to women-owned businesses this holiday season to help keep businesses open and thriving.
Indulge in chocolates with a cause By choosing to give the gift of DOVE Chocolate, you will not only be making the life of your loved one a little sweeter, but you will
also be supporting the many ways the company helps to empower women in business around the world. Select purchases of DOVE Chocolate PROMISES made online at Amazon will trigger donations to CARE, the international humanitarian organization fighting global poverty and world hunger. CARE places special focus on working alongside women and girls on financial literacy, because when equipped with the proper resources, they have power to lift whole families and entire communities out of poverty. And, for every online order of qualifying DOVE Chocolate
PROMISES 150-piece bags purchased on Amazon beginning Nov. 13, the brand will donate $5.00 to CARE.
Handmade artisan gifts that honor women locally and abroad Create a special impression with a gift that supports women in business - and that has the ability to change lives. Amazon Handmade and DOVE Chocolate are teaming up to launch unique, limited-run pop-up shops that will offer featured chocolate products as well as artisan handcrafted
items from women-owned businesses on Handmade. The pop-up shops will be located in Chicago, Ill., Seattle, Wash. and West Hollywood, Calif., as well as online. Shoppers will have the opportunity to learn more about each female Handmade Maker, plus DOVE Chocolate’s partnership with CARE that helps financially empower women in cocoagrowing communities in Cote d’Ivoire. Shoppers can also learn about entrepreneur tips from featured Handmade Makers and have opportunities to win daily prizes at each of the pop-up shops. From anywhere in the country, you can also check out their online virtual shops to learn more about featured Makers and their one-of-a-kind products on Amazon.com/unwrapchange.
Donate in her name One great way to show that you honor the causes that the special woman in your life cares about is to make a donation in her name to an organization. Take time to research local and national organizations that educate, empower and support women in a way that is relevant and meaningful to your gift recipient and then make an investment of time or money in her honor.
Continued from page 7 Longmont Cost: Free Information: www.giftfestivals.com Details: The Last Chance Gift Fest is an annual Holiday shopping Extravaganza. You will find the perfect gift at this Colossal Sale, featuring a vast assortment of art, crafts, toys, home decor, delicious food, unique items and much more. This Free event features more than 170 of Colorado’s finest vendors offering a tremendous selection of unique holiday gifts.
PARKER Hometown Holiday Experience When: Nov. 27 – Nov. 29 Where: Downtown Parker Cost: Free Information: parkercolorado.net/ Details: Usher in the holidays on Thanksgiving weekend in downtown Parker while taking in the sights and sounds of the holidays from O’Brien Park to Discovery Park!.As you walk between the parks, you’ll be able to grab a selfie or a family picture by the Town tree, enjoy the holiday lights, listen to holiday music and enjoy other holiday accents. Cherry Creek Rotary Christmas – Pictures with Santa When: Nov. 22 Time: Noon – 4 pm Where: Parker Petit + CO – 19555 Mainstreet, Parker Cost: $20 Information: parkerpetit.com/Santa Details: Make your reservation online at parkerpetit.com/Santa. There is a $20 sitting fee, which
includes one edited image and unlimited download of that image. Free gift wrap for purchases made during this time. Masks Required. Please note that due to the pandemic, children will not be able to sit on Santa’s lap. Cherry Creek Rotary Christmas – Pictures with Santa When: Nov. 28 Time: 12 pm – 4 pm Where: Holiday Inn Parker, 19308 Cottonwood Dr., Parker Cost: $20 Information: www.beneformaphoto.com Details: Pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus will be done using the Beneforma Photo Booth. This event benefits Parker Pays It Forward. Masks Required. Please note due to the pandemic, children will not be able to sit on Santa’s lap. Cherry Creek Rotary Christmas –
Pictures with Santa When: Dec. 4 Time: 1 pm – 3 pm Where: Colorado Community Banks – 12907 S. Parker Rd., Parker Cost: $20 Information: www.beneformaphoto.com Details: Get a picture with Santa & Mrs. Claus. Write your letter to Santa with our letter form and box of crayons. There is one free picture with Beneforma Picture Booth per family. Masks Required. Please note due to the pandemic, children will not be able to sit on Santa’s lap. Cherry Creek Rotary Christmas – Pictures with Santa When: Dec. 5 Time: 9 am - noon Where: Holiday Inn Parker, 19308 Cottonwood Dr., Parker Cost: $20 Information: www.beneformaphoto.com
Details: Pictures with Santa will doen using the Beneforma Photo Booth. You will also be able to write your letter to Santa. This event benefits for Rotary Satellite Club of Parker-Cherry Creek Valley United. Masks Required. Please note due to the pandemic, children will not be able to sit on Santa’s lap. Cherry Creek Rotary Christmas – Pictures with Santa When: Dec. 13 Time: Noon – 4 pm Where: Holiday Inn Parker, 19308 Cottonwood Dr., Parker Cost: $20 Information: www.beneformaphoto.com Details: Pictures will be done using the Beneforma Photo Booth. This event Benefits Colorado Miss Amazing. Masks Required. Please note due to the pandemic, children will not be able to sit on Santa’s lap. Continued on page 11
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November 26, 2020
Ways To Brighten Your Holidays This Season (PAID CONTENT)
The holiday season is filled with plenty of ways to celebrate, but nothing is quite as fun as starting a new tradition. The best way to get into the holiday spirit is at Winter Wanderland—an unforgettable holiday experience happening in Cherry Creek North starting November 19th. Stroll down 16 blocks of magic around every corner with multiple holiday happenings to enjoy in a socially distanced and responsible manner throughout the season.
1.Winter Wanderland Light Walk
When: Thursday, Nov. 19 - Sunday, Jan. 3 Where: Eight trees throughout Cherry Creek North
The Winter Wanderland Light Walk is Denver’s newest holiday light attraction. Come witness more than half a million twinkling lights and eight spectacular tree displays of vine lights choreographed to music.
2. Prismatica*
When: Thursday, Nov. 19 - Sunday, Jan. 3 Where: Gart Plaza (3rd & Milwaukee)
Get ready to be dazzled by a new brilliant light art installation that’s traveled around the world. Prismatica is a dynamic display consisting of 25 towering prisms bursting with light and dancing with color. *Conception and Execution: RAW Design in collaboration with ATOMIC3; Production: Quartier des Spectacles Partnership, Montreal, Canada
3. Holiday Thursdays
When: Thursdays: Nov. 19 - Dec. 17 (excluding Thanksgiving) Where: Throughout Cherry Creek North Hours: 5pm - 8pm
Need a bit more time to get your holiday shopping done? Visit Cherry Creek North on Thursday evenings to find the gifts you need as retailers stay open late. Plus, pick up a little something
for yourself with free treats and giveaways throughout the neighborhood.
4. Cherry Creek Holiday Market
When: Thursday, Nov. 19 - Wednesday, Dec. 23 Where: Fillmore Plaza (between 1st & 2nd Ave.) Hours: Sunday - Wednesday, 10am - 6pm Thursday - Saturday, 10am-8pm
This outdoor market, produced by Fetch, brings together local artisans in a festive atmosphere filled with European chalet-style décor, twinkling lights, live music, warm drinks and plenty of fun backdrops for holiday selfies. Entry is free but reservations are encouraged as market capacity is limited. To make reservations, visit CherryCreekHolidayMarket.com.
5. Small Business Weekend
When: Friday, Nov. 27 - Sunday, Nov. 29 Where: Participating Cherry Creek North businesses
With the highest concentration of locally owned businesses in Denver, there’s no better place to shop small than Cherry Creek North during Small Business Weekend. Find the most unique gifts for your loved ones this season, while helping support local shops in the community. Shoppers can win big by supporting local through great deals and chances to win prize packages from participating businesses.
Let Cherry Creek North brighten your holidays. Enjoy shops, lights and bites in Denver’s own Winter Wanderland. Find full details at CherryCreekNorth.com/Holidays.
Continued from page 9 Cherry Creek Rotary Christmas – Drive By visit with Santa When: Dec. 19 Time: 9 am – 10:30 Where: Parker Senior Center – 10675 Longs Way, Parker Cost: Free Information: www.beneformaphoto.com Details: Drive-By Santa with cinnamon rolls for the first 150 attendees. No reservations needed. Stay in your car. This event benefits the Parker Senior Center. Cherry Creek Rotary Christmas – Breakfast with Santa When: Dec. 19 Time: 9 am – 10:30 Where: Parker Senior Center – 10675 Longs Way, Parker Cost: $17 Information: www.beneformaphoto.com Details: Buffet breakfast with Santa. Reservations can be made at (720)708-2889. Cost is $17 per person. Letter and Crayons for children will be provided along with family games at each table. Must wear a mask when not at your table and during pictures. Please note due to the pandemic, children will not be able to sit on Santa’s lap.
CASTLE ROCK
Holiday Light Show @ Philip S. Miller Park When: Dec. 3 Time: 5 pm – 11 pm Where: Philip S. Miller Park – 1375 West Plum Creek Parkway, Castle Rock Cost: Free Information: crgov.com/calendar Details: Drive through or take a walk-through Philip S. Miller Park and enjoy some added holiday decorations to the already beautifully-lit park. A food truck serving goodies and hot chocolate will be available to complete a night of family photo ops and a celebration of socially-distanced community spirit and good cheer. Festival Park Starlight Market When: Dec. 4 Time: 3 pm – 8 pm Where: Festival Park – 300 Second St., Castle Rock
Cost: Free Information: www.crgov.com/calendar Details: Kick off your holiday shopping with Castle Rock’s premier craft and food market. Shop from more than 30 vendors including unique crafts, specialty items, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and more. Get some unique gifts while enjoying the 30-foot Christmas tree, hot cocoa, and holiday music. Holiday Drive-In Movie-National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation When: Dec. 5 Time: 5 pm – 8 pm Where: Festival Park – 300 Second St., Castle Rock Cost: Free (reservation required) Information: CRgov.com/Registration Details: Spend a much-needed date night or a night out with the family while enjoying the nostalgia of a drive-in movie. You can watch the hilarious Griswold family’s antics on a 30-foot screen. There will be food trucks on site. The event is free, but does require pre-registration due to limited capacity. Registration will begin on November 16 at CRgov.com/Registration.
LONE TREE The Nutcracker When: Dec. 10 – 11, Dec. 17-18 Where: Lone Tree Arts Center – 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree Cost: See website Information: balletariel.org/nutcracker-2020/ Details: Ballet Ariel’s The Nutcracker Suite once again defines the season. A stellar cast and a magnificent score, coupled with festive costumes and incomparable choreography and artistry create an enchanted world for Clara’s magical journey.
LONGMONT The Annual Holiday Show: Web-athon edition When: Dec. 5 Where: LongmontPublicMedia.org Cost: Free Continued on page 15
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Who NOSE whats left over...
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OVER THE
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AIR & SPACE MUSEUM
Colorado's Official Air & Space Museum OPEN: MONDAY-SATURDAY 10AM-4PM, SUNDAY 12PM-4PM 7711 East Academy Boulevard, Denver, CO 80230 I Near Quebec & Alameda
WingsMuseum.org
How to spread joy
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November 26, 2020
C
to everyone from anywhere this holiday
(BPT)
OVID-19 restrictions mean the 2020 holiday season will be different this year, but that doesn’t mean you have to become a Grinch. Although extensive travel, large group gatherings and many traditional activities can’t happen, you can find imaginative ways to be just as joyful with a dash of creativity. In fact, many people are embracing this as an opportunity to take a unique approach and discover new ways to make one-of-a-kind memories with family, friends and coworkers.
Alternative approaches to work holiday parties The culmination of the work year is the annual holiday celebration. This is typically a time to enjoy great food, fun games and cheers to a job well done. However, with the pandemic causing many offices to go remote as well as restrictions for restaurants and group gatherings, this year will have to be a celebration of a different kind. Fortunately, technology is making many things possible. Employers want to show employees they care and are expected to shake things up in creative ways. This could include sending meals to everyone through home delivery and then meeting online to enjoy them together. This might be a video gathering for an ugly sweater contest paired with fun games that can be played digitally such as bingo and holiday trivia. Maybe it’s hiring a live musician to play and everyone can sign in for a virtual happy hour while enjoying the customized tunes. Might someone suggest karaoke?!
Online shopping expected to soar Last year, 56% of consumers reported they would make their holiday purchases online vs. at retail stores, according to the National Retail Federation. The experts at Purchasing Power - an employee purchase program - have witnessed this trend growing exponentially since March and expect at-home shopping to soar over the upcoming holidays. With so many people continuing to work or attend school at home, Purchasing Power anticipates the most popular (and practical) gifts to be purchased and delivered right to people’s doors include new laptops and home electronics, personal health and fitness equipment and ergonomic office furniture. Of course, toys, video games - there are many new products and gaming systems this year for kid and adult gamers - and small luxury items will still bring smiles to those longing for unexpected
The holidays can still be festive, it just takes some effort to adapt this year. SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE
surprises during the 2020 holidays. With money being tight for many families this year, employers want to help by offering things like year-round financial programs that allow workers to purchase items without the stress or high-interest rates associated with credit cards. Ask your employer about voluntary benefits like Purchasing Power, which enables you to buy namebrand consumer products and services and pay over the course of a year through automated payroll deduction, with no interest, fees or required credit checks. Learn more at www.purchasingpower.com.
Travel less, make more memories at home With airline travel at a minimum and health top of mind, many people won’t be traveling to bake holiday treats and celebrate good tidings in person. Consider alternatives this year and plan a family video chat time to bake cookies together. Select and share a recipe ahead of time and then sign on to your digital device to talk with
the
each other as you each prepare dough, bake and enjoy treats. This might be the perfect time to tackle that traditional family recipe that’s been handed down for generations and see who proves most successful. For younger children with shorter attention spans, you may just want to plan a virtual cookie or cupcake decorating party. Or perhaps you get crafty and make some handcut snowflakes or colorful paper garlands. As you add the perfect touches to holiday treats, exchange memories of holidays past and even pull out old family photo albums or videos to reminisce. Make sure to enjoy a few treats together and take video stills to capture these special moments for future celebrations. Finally, wrap the fun up by reading a traditional holiday book to little ones before bedtime. The 2020 holiday season is sure to be unique, but “different” can still be good. With an optimistic mindset and clever ideas, you’ll put a new spin on family and workplace traditions and make some lasting memories.
2020
Nutcracker Suite YOU NEED IS
BALLET
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December 17 7:00 pm
December 18
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Lone Tree Arts Center
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Shopping Safely at Park Meadows Retail Resort
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(PAID CONTENT)
ark Meadows is still your one stop, safe, shop for all things holiday shopping, dining and entertainment! With constant sanitation procedures in place and social distancing throughout the property, you and your loved ones can feel safe as you venture to Colorado’s Only Retail Resort for all of your holiday needs. You’ll find something for everyone on your list as Park Meadows remains one of the most diverse shopping centers in the area with 185 stores and 13 full-service restaurants! This year, shop early. The first and last hours are always a good idea to avoid the crowds and find your favorite items! Individual store hours including sales and other offerings can be found on ParkMeadows. com as well as information on your contact free Santa visit! At Park Meadows, you will find that masks/facial coverings are required to enter the shopping center. If you do not have one, one can be provided by the Security team. Entrance and exit doors are designated and marked throughout the property while hand sanitizer dispensers are located at every directory and throughout the entire shopping center. Faucets, soap dispensers, and toilets have been converted to completely touchless with every other stall and hand washing
Continued from page 11 Information: longmontcolorado. gov/ Details: Enjoy some of your favorite local musicians as they perform original tunes and holiday standards to help get us into the mood of the season, presented by Longmont Museum.
GOLDEN The Polar Express Railroad Museum When: Nov. 7 – Dec. 23 Where: 17155 W. 44th Ave., Golden Cost: See website Information: coloradorailroadmuseum.org/polar-express/ Details: The revised and updated show will still bring you all your favorite characters and the Magic of THE POLAR EXPRESS™. Put on your pajamas and your most fashionable mask, and bring the family to enjoy sharing hot cocoa and cookies together as the “Hot, Hot, Hot—Chocolate” song and dance unfolds before your eyes. Wreaths and Wine When: Dec. 5 Time: 11:30 am Where: Something Styled, Inc. – 1941 Youngfield St., Golden Cost: $90 Information: eventbrite.com/e/ wreaths-wine-2020-tickets125977968495?aff=ebdssbdestsear ch Details: Workshop Includes all materials, all product for the wreath, simple ornament bar and wine. No food will be provided. You can bring your own. Tickets are non-
sink closed for distancing. All Dining Hall and Restaurant capacities have been reduced while stores may only adhere to a 50% capacity at any given time. As we inch closer and closer to Black Friday, and the month of December, Park Meadows remains committed to strict health and sanitation guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of all. To aid your shopping experience, Park Meadows hosts a curbside pickup service to assist in purchasing items as safely and easily as possible. After placing a purchase order with a participating store (participating stores can be found on the Park Meadows website), shoppers will receive a text stating when their order is ready for pickup. The next step is simply arriving at Park Meadows and park-
ing in the designated curbside area, located on the east side directly in front of and in between LL Bean/ Crate & Barrel. Upon arriving, all you will need to do is send a text to the phone number conveniently located on the curbside pickup signage stating that you’ve arrived and which stall you’re parked in. Your prepaid order will then be delivered in a completely contact free manner! Athleta, Kendra Scott, Altar’d State, Lenscrafters, and Mrs. Fields are just a few of the participating stores (not to mention all the restaurants)! The SpotHolder waitlist application is yet another way Park Meadows is advocating for reduced capacities and social distancing. Spotholder is a line queue tool used by a list of stores to avoid lines and
wait times when entering their store. QR codes have been placed within your favorite store windows throughout the center as a scannable way to get in line to shop! Once you scan the code, you’ll choose the time that you want to shop and then receive a text once it’s your turn to arrive and shop safely (mask required)! Though this holiday season might look different than it has in the past, Park Meadows Retail Resort is committed to maintaining, the utmost sanitation standards. As we look towards a healthy, happy holiday season, we hope you’ll join us at Colorado’s only Retail Resort and make your loved ones feel special with stores for everyone on your list!
Cost: $15-$20 Information: tickets.denverzoo.org/ Details: For 29 years, Zoo Lights has been transforming Denver Zoo into Colorado’s wildest winter wonderland. And this year, they’re Illuminated with Life—from a spectrum of luminous new experiences to all kinds of unexpected holiday fun.
toe. This is where Marie Antoinette commands a Rococo sleigh, where ancient Roman festivals become Santa-field, and where pink is more than just a color – it’s a place.
refundable and non-transferable. Please read the policy guidelines for refunds on eventbrite.
DENVER
Parade of Lights When: Nov. 27 – Dec. 31 Where: Throughout Downtown Denver Cost: Free Information: downtowndenver. com/9news-parade-of-lights/ Details: The Downtown Denver Partnership is transforming the community tradition, 9News Parade of Lights, in 2020. We are thrilled to announce that this year’s parade will be a multi-week, socially safe extravaganza of activities across downtown. The floats you know and love will be displayed throughout downtown, from Denver Pavilions to Denver Union Station, offering multiple chances for our community to relish in the charm and excitement of the holiday season. Denver Botanic Garden’s Blossoms of Light When: Nov. 29 – Jan. 3 Where: 1007 York St., Denver Cost: $14-$21 Information: catalog.botanicgardens.org/ Details: Denver Botanic Gardens’ signature event for over three decades, Blossoms of Light, is an annual holiday lights extravaganza that transforms their York Street location into a twinkling winter wonderland. Denver Zoo Lights When: Nov. 29 – Dec. 30 Where: 2300 Steele St., Denver
AURORA
Camp Christmas When: Nov. 21 – Jan. 5 Where: The Hangar at Stanley Marketplace – 2501 Dallas St. #135, Aurora Cost: $8 - $21 Information: denvercenter.org/ tickets-events/camp-christmas/ Details: Camp Christmas is a 10,000-square-foot wonderland. It’s not just pretty lights and mistle-
LAKEWOOD
Rink at Belmar When: Nov. 21-Jan. 19 Where: Belmar, 464 Tell St., Lakewood Cost: Skate rental Information: belmarcolorado.com/ live360/ Details: Belmar kicks off its 15th season of ice skating with The Rink at Belmar. Whether it’s a family tradition or a first date, the center’s outdoor ice rink located at the district’s Plaza is the place for good times this winter.
16 Hometown Holidays
November 26, 2020