Colorado Parents Magazine December 2022

Holiday Gift Guide

Gifts You Can't Miss

4 Unique

Ways to Visit Santa

Single Parenting This Season?

MAKING TIME FOR MEDITATION

DECEMBER 2022

COLORADOPARENT.COM

good to know

Legendary Sledding From building a snowman to skiing down the beautiful mountains, the winter activities in Colorado are endless.

There’s an exciting adventure awaiting every family. Add sledding to the winter activity list, and head to the Traditional Sledding Hill at Frisco Adventure Park. This vast area is perfect for the family to sled down during the snowy season. This spectacular sledding experience is free to all! Forgot your sled? Don’t panic because the Frisco Day Lodge sells great sleds for only $20. Make sure to check the website before heading to the snowy hills because opening day depends on the natural snow. Plan to park at the Frisco Nordic Center which is in the adventure park.

DECEMBER 2022 COLORADOPARENT.COM

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HOW TO SAFELY INTERACT WITH WILDLIFE

Follow these tips for a safe and fun family experience.

The best time of the year is here! Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate and enjoy these Christmas light events with the whole family. Many of these events are free and don’t require a reservation in advance.

PUBLISHER Amy Foreman

Anthony Bui

Jade Gray

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Brandon Foreman

ART/PRODUCTION Graphic Designers Madison Graham Grace Knox

MARKETING Director of Marketing Emily Mancuso Marketing Assistant Maggie Sharp

BUSINESS OPERATIONS Director of Operations Laurie Acosta Client Relations Coordinator Sarah Miller EDITORIAL Managing Editor Amanda Miller Assistant Editors Austria Cohn Emily Drez Editorial Assistants Sarah Batrous

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LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS

ADVERTISING Director of Business Development Patrick Pacheco Account Executives Crystal Barrett Camille Cavin Jennifer Hoffmann Jeanne Jacobs Ryn Whiteside Business Development Representative

COLORADO PARENT DECEMBER 2022

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Director of Community Partnerships Teri Hodges Community Outreach Roxane Voorhies

Share your feedback and ideas! Email us at edit@coloradoparent.com.

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contents 2022

Here Comes

2022

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With the magical Christmas season just around the corner, it’s a perfect time for the kiddos to visit Santa. From Santa’s workshop to the Polar Express, this list of events will keep the Holiday spirit alive.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Denver Aquarium Join the O’ so jolly Santa Claus for a buffet-style breakfast at the Denver Aquarium starting Saturday, December 10. Sharkey, the aquarium’s mascot, will also be spreading the holiday cheer at breakfast. aquariumrestaurants.com

RIDE THE POLAR EXPRESS

Colorado Railroad Museum All the true Christmas believers will receive a golden ticket to jump on the mystical Polar Express and take a trip to the North Pole. Enjoy warm, delicious cookies and hot chocolate as Santa’s elves sing and dance. Old Saint Nick will also give every believer their first Christmas present of the season. coloradorailroadmuseum.org

CAMP CHRISTMAS

Belmar The winter wonderland in Belmar lasts through December, and it’s a Christmas miracle.

With the Father of Christmas and the fascinating exhibits, it makes for the perfect night out. From the glittering festive lights to the cocktail bars, everyone in the family will feel the holiday cheer. camp-christmas.com

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Legendary Sledding

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4 Ways to Celebrate the Magical Holiday This Year

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Solutions Navigating the Holidays as a Single Parent

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What We Love Snow Play

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3 Simple Holiday Treats

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3 Easy-to-Make Holiday Crafts

TRAVEL TO THE NORTH POLE

Pikes Peak At the base of Pikes Peak, start the holiday off right with a visit to the North Pole in Colorado Springs. Feed Santa’s reindeers, jump on a ride like the Candy Cane Coaster, and enjoy sweet treats. All year long the Christmas spirit is alive and well in Santa’s workshop. northpolecolorado.com —Austria Cohn

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Santa Claus

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Holiday Gift Guide

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contents 37 explore

Setting Healthy Habits We asked Team Testa, a company that works with all ages to connect physical and emotional well-being, how parents can start setting healthy practices for their families.

According to the owner, Andrea Testa, adding exercise and nutrition is the first step to creating healthy habits. Here are some tips for your family to get started.

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The State-cation Just Got So Much Cooler

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Making Time for Meditation It Doesn't Happen Overnight Change can be hard for parents and children, so start small when creating new habits.

“You’re going to be more successful if you start out with baby steps. So choose either adding movement in first or adding in healthy eating habits,” Testa says. One way to slowly increase your family’s exercise habits is by going on walks after dinner. “We want to make sure that families are moving and exercising every day.”

Positive Reinforcement Parents leading by example and having a positive attitude toward these changes can help children adjust. “Whether they [parents] are actually feeling like a million bucks in the beginning or not is neither here nor there. Usually, the rest of the family will follow suit,” Testa says.

Road Bumps Your family might get discouraged by the new habits you’re setting up. “Figure out what is going on and find a way to pivot together as a unit,” Testa says. The best way to get over these challenges is to sit down and chat with the whole family and find out why they are discouraged. testawellness.com

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Our Top Picks for December Go on an adventure this holiday season.

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To Do Today

fresh mindset

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Fresh Mindset Ana Koepke shares the importance of giving back and setting examples for her children.

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4 WAYS TO

CELEBRATE THE MAGICAL HOLIDAY THIS YEAR

Snow and Ice ICE! A Charlie Brown Christmas Bundle up and enjoy the two million pounds of colorful ice featuring the classic Charlie Brown Christmas this December. The family will love this immersive experience with adored characters, and the ice sculptures that are carefully made into magical creations. Enjoy your favorite scenes that have been recreated, and don’t forget to take a plunge down the ice slides! The exhibit is kept cool to keep the ice from melting, so dress accordingly. There will be parkas provided for guests to keep the chill away. The last day to experience the ice exhibit is January 1, so reserve a ticket online today.

Location: Gaylord Hotel, Aurora —Austria Cohn

SEE THE LIGHTS Light Up the Holidays The streets of Boulder shine bright this winter with Light Up the Holidays. With the twinkling bulbs and decorations, and the Christmas-themed events, everyone will start feeling festive.

Light Up the Holidays has special activities and promotions that take place downtown, so stop by some of the cutest local businesses to grab a gift or snack. Right off Pearl Street, enjoy St. Nick on the Bricks event every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. All the kids can meet Santa this Christmas for free.

While you wait, take a ride on the Snowflake Express along Peal Street.

Location: Pearl Street, Boulder

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Winter Wanderland Through the month of December, Cherry Creek North sets up its annual Winter Wanderland Light Walk where visitors can see nearly one million twinkling lights throughout the entire neighborhood. Bring your phone and scan the QR code on all the Christmas trees for a chance to win a gift card for a Cherry Creek North shopping spree! Check the calendar to see what types of events are going on including the Holiday Market where you can enjoy live music while you shop for the best Christmas presents.

Location: Cherry Creek North, Denver

Deck the Halls & Enjoy These Performances

Mile High Tree The best way to enjoy the holiday is with the bright, 110-foot tall Mile High Tree in the heart of downtown. The tree is open all season long (and it’s free!) so everyone has a chance to enjoy festive music that is in sync with a unique light show. Viewers can step inside the magnificent tree to take beautiful, holiday pictures any day from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m.

Location: Corner of 16th and Welton Street, Denver Festival of Trees & Wreaths The annual Festival of Trees and Wreaths is back in Durango this year with a weekend full of beautiful decorations and exciting activities.

This free seasonal event takes guests through the enchanted forest of Christmas trees and wreaths. The festival takes place between December 2 and 4, so make time to head to Durango and grab a creative gift while you’re there. Vote for your favorite creation and participate in the auction that supports the Community Connections organization. Its mission is to help people with disabilities in Southwest Colorado. There is a virtual option for the event as well that allows viewers to bid on items and watch the beautiful festival from the comfort of their homes.

Location: Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum Performances The Nutcracker The Colorado Ballet brings back the beloved classic performance The Nutcracker. Through the month of December, travel to the land of magic and follow the fascinating story of a girl who becomes friends with a nutcracker.

Location: Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer The dearly loved Christmas story, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, is brought to the Denver Center of Performing Arts this Christmas.

On the weekend of December 16, watch the heartwarming tale about friendship.

Location: Denver Center of Performing Arts Home for the Holidays Beginning December 15, watch the Home for the Holidays performance

by Lone Tree Arts Center. Enjoy your favorite holiday songs and see the O’ so great Santa and Mrs. Claus on a night of Christmas fun.

Location: Lone Tree Arts Center

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solutions

Navigating the Holidays as a Single Parent

By Anthony Bui

The holiday season is often a very stressful time of the year for parents as they try to navigate through the hustle and bustle of gifting, traveling, visiting with family, and everything else this season entails. Things are already difficult as is for a two-parent household, but imagine a single-parent home and how much more difficult it can be to go through this season seemingly alone.

Though it is certainly hard, it is not an impossible task with the right mindset.

Common Misconception When talking with parents, one major misconception they point out is the idea that parents that are co-parenting never get along with each other nor like one another. Of course, every situation is different. There are cases where it is very difficult, and there could be some unresolved issues between parents that make co-parenting borderline impossible. No matter the situation, the most important thing to remember in all of this is the wellbeing of the child. Gary A., a single dad, expresses, “Sharing your child’s time with a co-parent is what you make of it ... it’s about sharing. While I used to think about making every minute with my daughter count when she was with me by cramming several activities or holiday events in one day, it’s the time you share together doing whatever that’s special during the holidays.”

Aimee R., another parent, shares that she is able to co-parent well because of a mutual understanding that they must put their son first. Simply put, no matter the situation, it is vital that both parents are willing to put things aside and put their children first.

This is not an uncommon sight to see even though the media typically portrays co-parenting in a less-than-flattering light.

Parents can’t let this idea prompt hesitancy in them and push them more towards trying to do things all alone. There are tons of misconceptions out there about single parenting, but Aimee puts it best, stating, “I also believe that other misconceptions are merely opinions. I cannot speak on every other single parent’s situation, but always remember to put your kids first.”

Being a single parent is hard. You are going to make mistakes, feel overwhelmed, and there will be times where you will tell yourself that you have failed as a parent. A parent’s job is to protect their children, to make them feel safe and secure, and to do everything they can to ensure their happiness. So, it is easy to blame oneself when their children are in a not-so ideal situation due to their parents not being together during a season where family often means everything. Though it is very easy to blame yourself, know that doesn’t do anything for you or your children.

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Hard Moments, Tips, and Advice Gary’s advice for other single parents is to communicate. He highly recommends utilizing a shared Google calendar so that both parents can keep track of events and important appointments. He also advises that you trust each other as well as the child as you embark on this journey together. He shares, “Co-parenting during the holidays became much easier once we let our daughter become a bigger voice in the what/where/when of our relationship.”

There is no need to force your child to do something they don’t enjoy. The time you get with each other during the holidays should not be treated as a narrow window to cram every holiday activity you can with your child before having them go away to their other parent. Instead, simply enjoy the time you do have together doing the things that you both enjoy. They will remember these moments way more.

The most difficult thing that Gary found himself struggling with was wondering if his daughter was having a good or bad day when she wasn’t with him. While it is normal to want to know about the well-being of your child, Gary had to learn to resist messaging her every second she wasn’t with him. Instead, he learned that what works best for him was just a check in of the highs and lows at the end of the day. This allows him to not only keep in touch with his daughter but to also make some time for himself.

Aimee found that the most difficult part about navigating the holidays as a single parent was dividing the time. It’s hard to only get to spend part of the season with your child, but she advises parents to not create drama over it and to always keep the children’s interest first.

She emphasizes that parents should “remember what the holidays are about. How do you want your kids to remember it? You don’t have to go overboard to suffice the situation.

Compromise the best that you can with your ex. Create a positive environment.”

Aimee concludes with one final remark: “As I cannot speak on all situations, I would like to say this: Co-parenting is only hard if you allow it to be. Make sure your children understand that they are not the reason for the split. Again, keep your kids first, and do not use them against the other parent. Remember, your ex is going through adjustments as well.”

Have grace for yourself. This is a very difficult thing to navigate, and no one will ever have it truly mastered. You learn as you go, and you always love your child as the season comes and goes.

good to know

COOL STUFF FOR A CHILL WINTER DAY

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Have a cool winter season with these products.

The Mega Sling Snowball Launcher is an exciting invention to bring a little more chill to the holiday season. The threeperson snow launcher can send snowballs and balloons up to 300 ft away. The simple design is perfect for kids and adults, so let’s raise the snowball fight stakes this season. $17.99, airhead.com

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By Austria Cohn

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With snowy days ahead of us, traveling through the snow is easier with a sleigh or a wagon. Good thing we found a Millside Industries Convertible Garden Wagon Sleigh so the kiddos can ride in style through the snow. The sleigh wagon duo is made with wood and alloy steel.

Choose from red, blue, or black for your winter wonderland adventures. $107.55, amazon.com

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For the snowy, cold nights, stay indoors and do a fun craft like the Medium Round Plastic Snow Globe Kit that makes for a great present. The kit includes three clear, oval-shaped globes, three white bases, plugs, and instructions to create your unique masterpiece. $15.95, snowdomes.com

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Cozy up in matching Cozy Holiday HoodieFootie Family Pajamas this holiday, and even wear them for the Christmas card!

Each set is machine washable and carefully crafted with mid-weight fleece to keep fingers and toes warm. If the red and navy plaid doesn’t fit the family’s style, choose from several other cute designs. Starting at $8.99, pajamagram.com

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3 SIMPLE HOLIDAY TREATS

PEANUT BUTTER BALLS

What are the holidays without lots and lots of baking?

We compiled a list of our favorite holiday recipes that everyone in the fam will enjoy chipping in with (and munching on)!

By Sarah Batrous

HAYSTACKS Yields approximately 30 haystacks Skill level: Easy Ingredients: • 11 oz butterscotch chips • 11 oz milk chocolate chips • 10 oz dry chow mein noodles • 1 cup peanuts, salted or unsalted (optional) • Sprinkles (optional) • 2 parchment paper-lined baking sheets In a large bowl, pour chow mein noodles and peanuts and mix together. In a separate, microwave-safe bowl or in a double boiler over simmering water, melt butterscotch chips and milk chocolate chips. Stir frequently until smooth then pour the melted mixture over the chow mein noodles and toss with two spoons.

On two parchment paper-lined baking sheets, heap small mounds using two spoons or a ¼ measuring cup and cover with sprinkles. Leave on the counter to set or place in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes until chilled and set. These treats will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in an air-tight container.

Inspo: foodnetwork.com

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Yields 15-20 balls Skill level: Easy Ingredients: • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter • 3 tablespoons butter, softened • 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted • 1 package chocolate almond bark • Wax or parchment paper-lined baking sheet In a mixing bowl, mix the peanut butter and butter together with a hand mixer or by hand. Gradually add the powdered sugar until well combined then gently knead the dough. Line a large baking sheet with wax or parchment paper. Using a spoon or your hands, scoop and roll 1-inch balls of the mixture then place on the baking sheet.

Refrigerate dough balls for 20 minutes or until hardened.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 2-3 blocks of almond bark for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. Repeat as necessary. With a fork, dip or roll one ball at a time into the chocolate until covered.

Place back on the lined cookie sheet. Let harden completely before serving. In an airtight container, balls will keep in the refrigerator for 5 days. Best of all, they’re gluten-free!

Inspo: Better Homes and Gardens: New Cook Book

WHITE CHOCOLATE CHUNK CRANBERRY PECAN COOKIES Yields about 24 cookies Skill level: Moderate Ingredients: • 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough • ½ cup white chocolate baking chips or one 4 oz white chocolate baking bar, chopped • ½ cup sweetened dried cranberries • ½ cup chopped pecans (optional) • Parchment paper-lined baking sheet To begin, preheat the oven to 325 degrees or per package instructions.

In a bowl, break up the dough and mix in the dried cranberries and the white chocolate as well as any other mix-ins like pecans. Once thoroughly combined, scoop and roll 1-inch balls of dough and place them on your baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes, then serve.

Inspo: pillsbury.com

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play 3 E A S Y-T O - M A K E

HOLIDAY CRAFTS

By Sarah Batrous and Sarah Miller

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T H E H O L I D A Y S A R E A G R E AT T I M E T O B R E A K O U T T H E C R A F T S U P P L I E S A N D M A K E S O M E FA N TA S T I C H O M E M A D E C H R I S T M A S G I F TS . H E R E A R E O U R P I C K S F O R S O M E E A S Y B U T F U N A R TS A N D C R A F TS T O D O W I T H T H E K I D S O R O N Y O U R O W N .

Paintbrush Christmas Ornaments: These paintbrush Christmas ornaments offer lots of creative liberty. We created Santa Claus, the Grinch, and a snowman.

What you need: 3 Paint Brushes (2-inch head) Small Paint Brushes Acrylic Craft Paints Pom Poms Felt Fabric Snowflake Stickers White Pipe Cleaners Christmas Ribbons for hanging Googly Eyes Glue Scissors

For Santa:

First, paint the handle of the 2-inch head paint brush red and set it to dry. Then, paint Santa’s snowy white hair and his face with skin-tone colored paint. Once all the paint is dry, glue pom poms on the handle for decoration, a white pipe cleaner to serve as the brim of Santa’s hat at the bottom of the handle, and create his face with googly eyes.

On the left of the pipe cleaner, glue a fabric star on top and place a snowflake sticker on the star. Once finished, cut out and tie a Christmas ribbon so you can hang the ornament on a door or Christmas tree.

For the Snowman:

To get started, paint the handle green and the face of the brush white.

You can leave the bristles as-is. Once the paint is dry, paint your coal eyes and mouth with dots of black paint or black marker and a carrot nose. Use black pom poms to create a tophat above the face and dot a few tiny pom poms on the bristles to make coal buttons. We recommend using hot glue for this portion. Tie your ribbon through the brush hole and now you have a totally adorable Frosty the Snowman.

Inspo: alwaystheholidays.com

For the Grinch:

First, paint the handle of the brush red to serve as a hat and the bottom portion of the brush, including the bristles, green to be the Grinch’s face and beard. Once the paint is dry, paint yellow eyes, black eyebrows, and a mouth on the bottom part. Glue a row of pipe cleaners horizontally above the eyes to form the brim of a Christmas hat and a row of pom poms above the pipe cleaners for decoration. For the final touch, attach your Christmas ribbon and hang your devious-looking ornament anywhere you would like.

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Reese’s Miniatures Snowman Candy Jars: What you need:

4-Inch Smooth Styrofoam Balls 1 Quart Smooth Mason Jars (regular mouth opening) Glue Gun and Hot Glue REESE’S Peanut Butter Cups Miniatures (1-11 oz. bag) Paint Brush Black Buttons Orange and Red Felt Scissors Fluff Stuffing Glitter (optional) Who doesn’t love a cute snack jar to place all your Christmas candy inside? Before you begin, go ahead and fill your jar with Reese’s or any other Christmas candy you would like along with some fluff stuffing to serve as snow (and maybe some glitter for extra pizazz).

On the lid of your mason jar, hot glue the styrofoam ball, then begin cutting out long ribbons of red felt and a circle or two. This will be your scarf and earmuffs. Around the head, glue the band and circle of felt on top of the band. On top of the circle and on the left and right sides of the head, glue Reese’s candies to become earmuffs and a little hat.

To form the face, glue two black buttons to be eyes and create a button smile as well. For the nose, cut out and fold the orange felt in half to become a pointy carrot nose. Once all the glue is set, reassemble your jar. To form the scarf, glue a folded smaller ribbon of red felt around your longest ribbon. Make sure the “knot” of your scarf is on the front then glue it all around the styrofoam ball and to the jar. For the final touch, glue Reese’s to the front of the jar to be the buttons. Once finished, you should have a lovely candy jar to gift to friends and family or keep as a decoration.

Inspo: bakerella.com

Snowflake Sticks What you need: Popsicle Sticks Blue Paint or Markers Glue Gun and Hot Glue Clear, Regular Glue Glitter (blue and white) Pom Poms (white)

This is another classic craft that you can have lots of creative liberties with. To begin, paint or marker your popsicle sticks blue. Once dry, apply a thin layer of glue to the face of each stick and cover them with glitter. When the glue and glitter are set, using four popsicle sticks, position them to form a “snowflake.” Think of the arms of a clock and have popsicle sticks in each direction, then glue them together. In the middle of the snowflake where each stick intersects and at each stick’s end, glue your pom poms. In the end, you should have a gorgeous, glittery snowflake decoration.

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home Holiday Gift Guide It’s that time of the year again! Make holiday shopping easy with our gift guide with plenty of ideas for all age groups from your youngest all the way up to oldest people in your life. Check out this gift guide and get started on getting your loved ones something that will bring a smile to their faces.

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Baby Soothie sleeve. This plushie and sleeve combo was designed to bring comfort to your infant through familiar smells.

Ages zero and up. miniducklings.com

My Pal Violet Smarty Paws.

This snuggly and customizable puppy is perfect for your children. Ages six months and up. store.leapfrog.com

Grabease. These easy-tohandle utensils are perfect for helping promote toddler independence as they attempt to feed themselves. grabease.com

Contours Journey GO 5 Position Baby Carrier.

This stylish utility baby carrier allows you to carry your baby in five different positions without the need for an infant insert. contoursbaby.com

Madame Alexander It’s All Me Doll. It’s All Me dolls are a mashup of all your favorite activities and come in a variety of styles that bring a smile to any kid’s face. Ages three and up. madamealexander.com COLORADO PARENT DECEMBER 2022

Baby Starters Doll. The perfect first doll for your growing baby. Give them a friend that they can cherish as they grow up. amazon.com

Bouncy Pals. This inflatable rideable toy is bound to be a hit. Ages 18 months and up. mybouncypals.com

Youth Bedtime Defenders. Help your child feel safe at night when they go to sleep with this glow-in-thedark toy to fight the night so your kid can sleep tight.

Ages three and up. bedtimedefenderz.com

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Lil Nipper. These infant-sized automatic nail clippers make trimming your infant’s nails safe and easy. lilnipper.com

LeapFrog LeapPods Max. Enjoy the beauty of music and dance with these fun headphones that give children both a fun and educational experience.

Ages four and up. store.leapfrog.com

Vtech My First Kidi Smartwatch. Do your kids always ask to play with your smartwatch? Well, now they can have their very own Kidi Smartwatch to help them keep track of their daily routines.

Ages three to five. vtechkids.com

Vudeco Glow in the Dark Blanket. This fun blanket glows in the dark for up to three hours with just 10 minutes of exposure to a light source. vudeco.life

LeapLand Adventures Learning Video Games. With over 150 learning items to explore, kids are able to enjoy the fun of video games whilst still actively engaging their minds and learning along the way. Ages three and up. store.leapfrog.com

Miko 3.

Make learning fun with this super smart AI. Ages five and up. miko.ai

Yumology Sweets Lab. Learn the science behind your favorite treats with this sweets-making lab kit. Ages four and up. learningresources.com For Keeps Fashion Dolls. Spread positive vibes with these affirming and self-empowering dolls. Ages four and up. walmart.com

MeandMine Aha! Brain STEM Magic Tricks. Have fun and challenge your brain with this box of tricks.

Ages five and up. meandmine.com

Playmobil City Life.

City life never looked so fun with this awesome build-ityourself kit. Ages 4-10. playmobil.us

Koosh Flix. This easy catch-and-throw game is perfect for killing time and working on that hand-eye coordination. Ages six and up. target.com

Playmobil Family fun. A unique new way for children to have fun by constructing real life themes such as family fun. Ages 4-10. playmobil.us

Carrera Mario Kart. Bring this classic game to real life with this track-and-car combo. Ages three and up. amazon.com

PlusPlus Triceratops Mega Maker. Dinosaur lovers will love putting together this prehistoric creation! Ages 18 months and up. plusplususa.com DECEMBER 2022 COLORADOPARENT.COM

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Dream Seekers. These fairy friends will surely inspire you to follow your dreams as you laugh and play together. Ages three and up. moosetoys.com

Flippin Frenzy 360 Degree Tornado Action.

Monster trucks are cool.

Flipping RC trucks are even cooler. Ages four and up. spinmaster.com

Paw Patrol To the Rescue Learning Video Game.

This learning video game is perfect for your Paw Patrol fans.

Ages four and up. store.leapfrog.com

Awkward Yeti House Pets vs Aliens. Get ready for an all out war with this twist on a classic.

Ages six and up. nuttheads.com

Drops Holiday Snowman Benny Burr.

These adorable huggable plushies are a great addition to any household. Ages three and up. gund.com

World’s Smallest Chutes and Ladders. Enjoy this shrunken down version of a classic game. Ages three and up. amazon.com

Simply Fun Chalk-A-Word.

This two-five player word game is a perfect mix of strategy and fun for the whole family. Ages eight and up. simplyfun.com

Joke King. Channel your inner jokester with this card game. Ages four and up. target.com

Harry Potter Sorting Hat. You’re a wizard! Now, channel your inner magic and find your house.

Ages seven and up. amazon.com

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If I Were a Magical Unicorn. Do your children ever wish they were a unicorn?

Show them what it would be like with this book! Ages two to seven. amazon.com

Anxiety Attack! Stressing Out Has Never Been This Fun. You will stress out, but don’t worry, stressing out has never been this fun with this board game. Ages eight and up. theawkwardstore.com

Rubik’s Race. This fastpaced game is bound to work your mind as you race against friends to complete puzzles. Ages seven and up. walmart.com

Hey Papa Dude! What Do We Do Now? by Papa Dude. Join best friends Papa Dude and Charlie Crab on their latest adventure. amazon.com

Soggy Doggy. Have some laughs and get soaking wet with your family with this great game. Ages four and up. amazon.com

Robotech Action Figure and Car. Take your love for the anime franchise Robotech with this action figure and car combo. Ages eight and up. amazon.com

RC Optimus Prime Transformers. Autobots assemble! Have a blast defeating the Decepticons with this remote control Optimus Prime.

Ages eight and up. jadatoys.com

World’s Smallest Battleship. To your battlestations! Enjoy this very classic game with these very tiny ships.

Ages three and up. amazon.com BST AXN Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Collect all four of these loveable turtles and fight crime.

Ages eight and up. jadatoys.com

Lamp Angel. This lamp with its color changing LED base is a perfect addition to any nightstand. inpoweredlights.com

Reversible Plush Unicorn. Collect all of these lovable and reversible plushies. teeturtle.com Paco Sako Peace Chess.

Enjoy this variant of chess that promotes peace, friendship, and collaboration. Ages six and up. mastersofgames.com

Unstable Unicorns.

Build your unicorn army and battle your friends with this fun card game. Ages eight and up. unstablegames.com Urban Hydration Bright & Balanced Aloe Vera Leaf Moisturizer. This naturally inspired plant based product works wonders for itchy, dry skin. urbanhydration.com

Urban Hydration Bright & Balanced Aloe Vera Leaf Face Toner. This naturally inspired plant based product removes excess oil and balances your skin’s pH, while hydrating and refreshing your skin. urbanhydration.com

Tulip One Step Tie-Dye Kit. This simple at-home tie-dye kit is easy to use and great for beautifying your wardrobe. Ages 14 and up. tulipcolor.com Plus-Plus Puzzle by Number Earth. Create colorful puzzles or work in 3D for a more intricate build.

Ages five and up. plusplususa.com

Nick Jonas’s Linkee. Enjoy this quick to learn and fun trivia game brought to you by Nick Jonas, a huge fan of this trivia game. Ages 12 and up. amazon.com DECEMBER 2022 COLORADOPARENT.COM

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Kids Against Maturity. Bring a spark to any family game night with this instant crowd pleaser. Ages 10 and up. amazon.com

The Heart and Brain Quiz Game.

For the trivia lovers, use your heart and brain to answer these questions. Ages eight and up. theawkwardstore.com

Leader Climb Like Amanda Empowerment Journaling Craft Kit. Channel your inner writer and express yourself with this journaling craft kit. Ages eight and up. kidscrafts.org Care Like Greta Glass Water Bottle and Sticker Kit. Save the planet with this water bottle. kidscrafts.org

Pull Start Fire. When the dark and cold draw near, there is no need to fear with this easy fire starter kit that involves no matches and lights for at least 30 minutes, so that you can continue toasting those marshmallows and making memories with your kids. Not for children. amazon.com

Michal Max Shave Cream, Anti-Aging Moisturizer, and Eye Cream.

Take skin care seriously with Michal Max’s face care products. michalandmax.com

Stone+Lain Dinnerware Set. This 16-piece dinnerware set is perfect for your home. stonelain.com COLORADO PARENT DECEMBER 2022

Bearback. Take care of your back and body without fear of unreachable spots. getbearback.com

GoSun Chillest Cooler No Ice Freezer. Take tailgating to the next level with this on-the-go cooler that basically acts like a mobile refrigerator. gosun.co

Aquapaw Pro Pet Grooming Tool.

Make bathing your furry best friend easier with this grooming tool. aquapaw.com

UltimatePower 90W GaN USB-C PD Wall Charger. Enjoy a fast charge with this quick charging port powered by Gallium Nitride Technology. ezq.com

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CreateHER Happy Holidays Felt Craft Kits. This holiday crafts project helps young girls embrace their creativity. Ages eight and up. kidscrafts.org Caminito Cozy Blanket. You can never have enough cozy blankets in your life so add another with this Caminito Cozy Blanket that is able to easily roll up and travel with. caminito.com

Roast Master. Roast your friends in good fun and not fear hurting feelings with this card game. Ages 17 and up. amazon.com

Whatever Card Game. This embarrassing and awkward card game is perfect for groups and parties.

Ages 17 and up amazon.com

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explore The State-cation Just Got So Much Cooler

This winter season, take the family to Silverthorne and Frisco for a holiday filled with exciting adventures. From hitting the icy slopes to watching hilarious performances, there are activities to escape the cold and places to gear up for the snow.

By Austria Cohn

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Enjoy the Snowy Days Your family’s winter adventure awaits at these exciting snow-filled places.

High Country Tours

Snowmobile up, down, and around the mountain this winter at the High Country Tours in Silverthorne. The tour offers guests incredible views and an unforgettable experience while providing all the necessities like snowsuits, boots, and helmets. Departure times are 9 a.m., noon, and 3 p.m. so jump online and reserve a spot today! Want to explore without a guide?

Rent a snowmobile and explore the country's beauty yourself. colorado.com/snowmobiling/high-country-tours

North Pond

Grab your skates and take them out on the smooth ice at North Pond in Silverthorne while being surrounded by the dazzling rocky mountains. The ice rink is at the intersection of Highway 9 and Hamilton Creek Road. The beautiful, natural ice rink is only open when conditions permit, and there are no rentals so bring your skates.

Snowshoeing

The Frisco Nordic Center located right next to Lake Dillon offers safe, well-marked trails for every snowshoer. Rent the gear you need and either go on a guided tour or a solo adventure.

Ugly Sweater Time The Lake Dillon Theater Company in Silverthorne is the place to be in December because of the Holiday Follies. With contests, music, dancing, comedy and more, the night will fill you with holiday joy! Do you have a busy schedule? Don’t worry, the Holiday Follies are occurring throughout December, so grab your ugly Christmas sweater and reserve a ticket.

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Shop ‘til You Drop

With 40 different main brand stores, all the shopping every family needs is at the Outlets in Silverthorne. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m., and on Sunday, the mall closes at 6 p.m. There are constant sales happening at your favorite stores, so stay updated on the latest deals online.

Outdoor Gear

Find the best, long-lasting winter gear for sports, and outdoor adventures at these stores. From finding the perfect hiking boots to the best golf clubs or camping tents, Columbia has you covered. Blue Valley Ski & Board shop offers rental equipment for all snow journeys.

Children Clothing

Find adorable children's clothes that you trust at Carter’s, where you can find an outfit for all the youngsters in your house. Grab your teens a fashionable outfit from Zumiez that has clothes to match every teenager's unique style and hobby.

Shoes

Silverthorne outlets have several options to find the perfect pair of shoes that fit your needs. Famous Footwear sells several name brand shoes like Nike, Converse, Adidas, Vans and Birkenstocks.

Find comfortable and casual footwear at the Crocs store.

Parents

From finding a night-out clutch to finding a pair of sunglasses for soccer games, you can get the perfect accessory for any occasion at Coach. Upgrade your home to fit your style with items like a new espresso machine or holiday plates from Williams Sonoma.

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Explore Downtown Your Frisco bucket list should include these delicious, local eateries that offer a selection of entrees and drinks. From a romantic date night to family-friendly dining, these spots will fill everyone's belly.

Brunch East of Mainstreet, Bread and Salt offers mouthwatering brunch plates and drinks to start your family’s morning off right. With entrees like the Frisco Omelet ($12.95), Mushrooms Forever!

Benedict ($16.95) and Challah French Toast ($13.95) everyone will find a dish they will enjoy.

7 a.m.-2 p.m. breadandsaltfrisco.com Happy Hour The Uptown on Main restaurant offers pizza, pasta, food off the grill, and a full bar. Happy hour is Monday through Friday where they offer local spirits, handcrafted cocktails and 12 draft beers. Several deals are offered during happy hour including $5 well drinks or $3 off wine.

3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. uptownfrisco.com Date Night The 5th Ave Gille on Mainstreet is the perfect romantic getaway that offers exquisite cuisine and a selection of cocktails, drafts and wines.

Some of the top entrees offered are the Steak and Shrimp Udon ($28), Grilled Norwegian Salmon ($32), and Pan Seared Rocky Mountain Trout ($31).

11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

5thavegrille.com/home

Sustainability in Every Cup Enjoy a cup of freshly-brewed coffee, tea or a delicious treat at Red Buffalo Cafe in Silverthorne, where sustainability is at the forefront. “I have actively sought to protect our environment by promoting sustainable life, community and business practices,” says the Owner of Red Buffalo Cafe, Erin Young. “To limit our environmental footprint of transporting and to improve and support the Colorado economy, we prioritize suppliers within an 80mile radius.” The Red Buffalo Cafe has won several awards including first place for Best Coffee Shop and Best Place to Work in 2021. Head to Silverthorne and grab a warm sustainable cup of coffee. Addtionally, the cafe also serves breakfast and lunch snacks, so plan to stay a while in the fun atmosphere. redbuffalocafe.com

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Explore the Past Plan a free day of fun at the Frisco Historic Park and Museum to see a collection of historic buildings, artifacts, exhibits, and more.

The historic park and museum is located in downtown Frisco and hosts several events including Wassail Days. The last day to enjoy Wassail Days is December 4, so plan on enjoying a warm cup of hot spiced cider between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. townoffrisco.com/things-to-do/frisco-historic-park-museum

Take Santa’s Sleigh for a Ride Head to Frisco for a wonderful winter night that warms your heart with a sleigh ride through the beautiful Frisco Adventure Park. The Scenic Hot Cocoa Sleigh Ride lasts about 50 minutes, and it takes a brief stop so everyone can warm up with a hot cup of cocoa (adults can add some Peppermint Schnapps!). Make a reservation beforehand, dress for the cooler temperatures, and bring a blanket because the activity is outside. Two Below Zero also offers private sleigh rides. dinnersleighrides.com

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wellness Making Time for Meditation

By Sarah Batrous

The holiday season is LOUD. The kids are out of school, so your house is loud. The hustle and bustle of looking for the perfect last-minute gift is loud; and, you know what else is loud? Your mind and all the thoughts running around in it.

Let’s talk about how meditation can help you keep your cool this holiday season.

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Kat Mindenhall, a mother of two children, ages 8 and 12, has been attending meditation classes at Kadampa Meditation Center Colorado (KMC) since they were young. She weighs in with some helpful advice about how meditation has helped her keep the train on the tracks and about how you can get started.

Mindenhall is no stranger to the stress of the holidays, saying that she has always had a tenuous relationship with the season since parents are having to plan a whole bunch of stuff while watching their schedules fill up and they're having to cope with all of the things that everyone needs from them.

While all this is happening, parents are having to cherish others, stay present, provide a nice experience for their children, and actually try to enjoy it all themselves.

She attributes the stress to feeling like others want to run the show, like ornery in-laws who want Christmas to look a certain way, or your own internal demons who crave perfection.

She has found that much of managing the stress and chaos parents face during the holidays is all about the attitude you have when facing it. Your mindset can either “pull us toward the stress and the pressure or pull us toward being in the present moment, accepting how things go, and enjoying everything.” Practicing meditation and therefore having a calmer and kinder viewpoint has aided in fortifying her mind, giving her the courage and wisdom to tackle whatever may come.

It’s no secret that while the holidays are a joyous time, they can be incredibly

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draining and leave you running thin.

Meditation has helped Mindenhall not feel so much like she’s giving and giving until there's nothing left for her. “We have a lot of ways to feel grateful and loved, all these directly opposing that really common feeling parents get that the holidays are just a bunch of work with little fun for themselves,” she says. “My meditation practice really helps me enjoy the holidays and feel happy.”

As for getting started, a beginner’s class may be what you need. However, if that feels daunting, you can get started at home with the use of apps or beginner’s meditation videos on YouTube. Also, the attitude you approach meditation with is very important. Mindenhall warns against having a perfectionist attitude and instead suggests you try to remain flexible and light-minded.

Having an optimistic approach to your quiet reflection time is what’s going to make all the difference. To find the time or guidance you need, having a meditation teacher and community who can help will ensure you have the space and support to succeed in meditation.

If you’re on a time crunch and need some zen, taking 5 to 10 minutes in the carpool line can help realign your day.

Mindenhall says that meditation practice needs structure, so carving out that little bit of time each day is going to help you prioritize your health.

When you find this time, guided meditation videos or apps on your phone are going to be your best friend. Over time,

these five minutes will grow into a peaceful habit.

“Meditation is like a muscle that gets stronger, so we can understand that every time we try to meditate, we're making progress, even if we feel distracted. The more we do it, the easier it gets and the faster we can connect with the peace inside our heart,” advises Mindenhall. “In the beginning, you might not feel like five minutes of quietude is enough to do much with, but over time you’ll see how possible it is with what little time we do have to successfully master our thoughts, still our mind, and become increasingly happy.”

When it comes to getting the kids involved, child-centered meditation or yoga videos on YouTube may be the way to go at home. If leading your kids feels a bit daunting, KMC Colorado is one of many centers that offer kids’ classes, where meditation can become a game, and what they learn they can apply to their daily lives at home. After all, what’s the harm in a little more independence this holiday season?

All in all, adding meditation to your self-care schedule could make a world of difference in your life and in the lives of your loved ones who want to see you happy and relaxed.

And the best part? There is no need to worry about perfection. Successful meditation should look like downtime and feel like peace–however that looks to you.

So, carve out a little time in your day just to self-assess, realign with peace, and tackle the day with clarity.

happenings Our Picks

DECEMBER

1

Disney on Ice All your favorite Disney characters will be coming to town for special performances during the Disney on Ice Road Trip Adventures show. Dec. 2-4. Ball Arena, Denver. disneyonice.com

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happenings

Our Picks

2

3

Forbidden Broadway: The Next Generation

The hilarious, satirical roast and performance is in Denver with goofy costumes and sing-along songs. Tickets start at $52, so reserve tickets online to see the Tony Awarding-winning theater performance. Dec. 7-Jan. 1. Galleria Theater, Denver. denvercenter.org

Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl

Wear your unique, one-of-a-kind ugly sweater to the Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl. Enjoy delicious drinks and listen to live music. Dec. 17.

Colorado Springs. pubcrawls.com

4

A Colorado Christmas This family-friendly event will bring everyone together with some of the best seasonal songs like “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Dec. 9-11.

Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver. artscomplex.com

5

Sensory Friendly Home for the Holidays This sensory-friendly event is the perfect way to enjoy the season.

Watch dancers and singers perform some of the top holiday songs, and Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there, too. Dec. 18. Lone Tree Arts Center. kidphysical.com

HEADS UP! Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information and check with locations about individual COVID rules.

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COLORADO PARENT DECEMBER 2022

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happenings Our Picks

6

Parade of Lights The legendary 9News Parade of Lights is back for a night of twinkling lights.

Plan to get dinner with the family before attending the magnificent (and free!) parade that will start the magical season off right. Dec. 3.

Bridgepoint Plaza, Denver. winterindenver.com

Ring in the New Year with fireworks in downtown Denver.

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7 8

Cirque: Spirit of Christmas

Enjoy this Cirque-themed Christmas event all month long that will be the perfect entertainment for the whole family. The show is 75 minutes long, tickets start at $35, and the show will be recurring until January 1. Gaylord of the Rockies. christmasatgaylordrockies.com

A Classic Parker Holiday The cherished annual celebration is back with songs and carols performed by the Parker Chorale and Parker Symphony Orchestra. Traditional Christmas songs and a few surprises will be sprinkled throughout this 90-minute performance. Dec. 10-11.

PACE Center, Parker. parkerarts.org

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Prepare for an unforgettable night out with fireworks that will start the whole family’s New Year’s off right.

The 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver brings back another exciting and colorful show for everyone to celebrate the New Year. This free, family-friendly event begins December 31, and there are two spectacular shows at 9pm and midnight. Each show will last approximately eight minutes and can be seen anywhere along the mall.

From 8pm until the last show, all the fireworks will be synced to music played by DJs along 16th Street Mall.

This is a great way to celebrate the New Year, explore the downtown area, and support local businesses.

Plan your trip ahead because parking is limited, and in most areas, it costs money. There are several parking garages near the mall and meter parking. If you plan to take the RTD Light Rail or the MallRide shuttle, make sure to check the times because the schedule is different due to the event.

There are great spots to eat on 16th Street like Illegal Petes, The Cheesecake Factory, Henry’s Tavern, Mellow Mushroom and so much more! Also along the outdoor mall are great shops where everyone can find something like a new book at Tattered Cover or the Sportsfan shop with Colorado swag and great gifts. So plan a day or whole night out of the firework show and explore Denver’s downtown.

16th Street Mall, Denver. downtowndenver.com

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WOW!’s New Year’s Eve Parties

The annual children's New Year’s Party is back at the WOW! Children’s Museum. This is the perfect activity for the kiddos to celebrate the New Year and still make their bedtime. Dec. 31. WOW! Children’s Museum, Lafayette. wowchildrensmuseum.org

If you're looking for a different experience with fireworks for the New Year, Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs has a must-see display. The AdAmAn Club consists of mountaineers who climb the icy slopes of Barr Trail each year on December 30. At the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, AdAmAn members and their guests ignite a fireworks display from the summit to usher in the New Year. The climbing party leaves the trailhead of Barr Trail on December 30, with an overnight stay at Barr Camp. On December 31, they flash mirrors to friends and families in the Colorado Springs area. In the early afternoon, they finish the ascent to the summit. At the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, they celebrate with a spectacular fireworks display. adaman.org DECEMBER 2022 COLORADOPARENT.COM

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happenings

December Explore your creative side by painting at the Holiday Party Llama event which is fun for all family members (no art experience is required!). There will be professional artists to help guide parents and children to create a masterpiece. Tickets start at $25, and reservations are required. Painting with a Twist, Colorado Springs. paintingwithatwist.com

Race to the finish line during the Gingerbread Run on Dec. 4.

Pajamas with Santa. 5:30-8pm.

Bring your cozy pajamas and spend the evening with Santa while enjoying yummy snacks! There are appetizers and a wine and beer bar for the parents so everyone can enjoy the Christmas movie on the big screen. Buy tickets online and all the proceeds will be donated to Mount Saint Vincent Children’s home.

Spruce Mountain Ranch, Larkspur. sprucemountainranch.com

to do today FREE

December 1 Thursday

Alice in Winterland. 6:30pm. The OneRepublic comes to Denver for an unforgettable performance with top songs like “Good Life” and “Stop and Stare” along with their newly released single “I Ain’t Worried.” Also playing is Band Camino and Dermot Kennedy. The Alice in Winterland event is brought to you by the Alice 105.9 channel. Fillmore Auditorium, Denver. audacy.com

Cherry Creek Holiday Market.

11am-7pm. Grab all your unique and locally crafted gifts at the Cherry Creek Holiday Market this season! This recurring event happening throughout the month of December features over

VISIT OUR DIGITAL CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

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SPECIAL NEEDS 70 local makers. There will be live music, beautiful and unique art from local artists and a festive atmosphere.

This event is free, family and dogfriendly! Cherry Creek North, Denver. cherrycreekholidaymarket.com Lagerhard and Live Music. 6-9pm.

This free, recurring event will be a fun night full of live music and beer every Thursday. The Bierstadt Lagerhaus is a German-style brewpub in the heart of downtown that’s home to some of the best lagers in town. It’s perfect for a night out with friends, or make a weekend out of it and rent a hotel room in the RiNo District. Bierstadt Lagerhaus, Denver. bierstadtlager.com

2 Friday

First Friday Art Walk. 5:30-9:30pm.

Roam the streets of Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe to see the newest art, listen to music and eat at local food trucks. Many galleries open their doors for guests to see artists' work, but there is also street art everywhere.

This walk is free, but there is limited free parking, so plan your visit ahead of time. Art District Santa Fe, Denver. denversartdistrict.org

COLORADO PARENT DECEMBER 2022

SPANISH/ESPAÑOL Olde Golden Candlelight Walk.

6:30pm. Enjoy the magical holiday with a free candlelight walk down Washington Avenue in the historic Olde Golden area. The small, intimate town atmosphere will bring neighbors, friends and families together to sing carols. Shops along the walk will be open and have warm cider, hot chocolate and delicious treats for you to enjoy. Foothills Art Center, Golden. visitgolden.com

3 Saturday

Annual Toy Drive at Knights of Columbus in Fort Collins. 9am-2pm.

The holiday season can get expensive, if you're in need of help this season, the annual Toy Drive supplies 550 children with toys. The Kenzi’s Cause Organization hosts this event and plans to provide each child with a large, small and wooden toy along with a stocking for Christmas. This is on a first-come, first-served basis, so plan ahead. A birth certificate and picture ID are required for parents to receive the services.

Knights of Columbus, Fort Collins. kenzicauses.org Holiday Party Llama. 2-3:30pm.

Race of the Santas. 4:20pm. The Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas will bring the holiday spirit alive and make the children laugh. Hundreds of jolly ‘Ol Santas will be running down Main Street as LED lights shine bright. Register for the race before December 3, or show up and enjoy the race of the Santas.

Mainstreet, Breckenridge. gobreck.com Reindeer Games. 1-4pm. The Reindeer Games event has fun activities like sleigh and train rides and obstacle courses where kiddos can win prizes. Parents should bring their cameras because the great Santa Claus will be there along with delicious s’mores and hot chocolate.

Millhouse and Amphitheater, Castle Rock. crgov.com

4 Sunday

Gingerbread Run Fundraiser. 1-5pm.

This holiday-themed fundraiser is free, and if you would like to participate in the Gingerbread race, it’s $20 per runner. Dress up to match the theme and win a door prize. Be a cheerleader for your loved ones participating in the race, or run it yourself! Parking downtown near the race is paid to park. City Auditorium, Colorado Springs. pikespeakregion. timebanks.org Ho-Bo CareBoxer Rescue.

10am-6pm. Calling all dog lovers to the Denver Pet Expo to learn more about the Ho-Bo organization and have the opportunity to adopt a dog.

Happening Saturday and Sunday there will be lots of Ho-Bo swag, animalrelated vendors and organizations that will fill the day with love! Arapahoe County Fair and Event Center, Aurora. denverpetexpo.com

happenings

5 Monday

9 to 5: The Musical. Book a babysitter and enjoy the hilarious comedy 9 to 5: The Musical for the perfect date night full of laughter, or bring the whole family to this performance.

Go on a journey with three female coworkers who conspire to take over their company. The musical will be happening until December 7 and will last two hours and 30 minutes.

Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs. colorado-springs-theater.com Free Day at Nature & Science Museum. At the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Monday is a free day for everyone to enjoy the exhibits! Guests can explore and watch a Planetarium show or see a performance. Denver Museum of Nature and Science. dmns.org

6 Tuesday

Friends Book Sale. 10am-5pm. Grab a new, fascinating book, DVD or a gently used children’s game, among other small gifts, at the Lafayette Public Library. From 50 cents to $4, find great gifts or new reads while simultaneously supporting the literacy programs at the Public Library. Lafayette Public Library. lafayettepubliclibrary.libcal.com

7 Wednesday

Early Winter Family. Starting on Wednesday and ending December 11, head to C Lazy U Ranch in Granby for a fun and exciting week or weekend.

There’s a Kids’ Club where counselors will take your kiddos on activities in the morning and afternoon so that you can have some adult time. There’s also delicious food, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and more. Reserve a spot today and enjoy a luxurious weekend full of winter-filled activities.

C Lazy U Ranch, Granby, clazyu.com Free Day at Clyfford Still Museum.

The exciting abstract gallery focuses on the artist Clyfford Still and his unique artistic vision. The museum offers a free day for families and children to explore the fascinating art. Every month there is a free day so jump on the calendar to plan your next visit. Clifford Still Museum, Denver. cliffordstillmuseum.org

9 Friday

Annual Gem & Mineral Show.

10am-6pm. Find unique gems and minerals at the show that will make for a perfect necklace or gift. Happening Friday through Sunday, explore the different vendors that are selling tools and supplies, along with fossils and jewelry for an affordable price. This is a family-friendly event that has activities for kids! Boulder County Fairground, Longmont. rockandmineralshows.com Free Day at Four Mile Historic Park.

Four Mile Historic Park travels guests back to 1859, and is free the second Friday of every month! Learn about Colorado’s history and all the future activities coming up. Reservations are required, so claim a ticket today. Four Mile Park, Denver. fourmilepark.org Kids Night Out. 7-10pm. Take the kiddos between the ages of 3 and 13 to a night full of fun and pizza! Get the night off at the Wulf Recreation Center gym while your kids run and do gymnastics. Make sure your children wear comfortable clothing and pre-register for the event. Wulf Recreation Center, Evergreen. evergreenrecreation.com

10 Saturday

Boulder Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl.

1-8pm. Yep, it’s that time of year to dust off your ugly sweater and have a drink.

This is the perfect holiday occasion for a date night or friends' night out. Get great deals on drinks and food, and enjoy free entry into the best bars in Boulder. Listen to live music while you drink and don’t forget to capture the unforgettable ugly sweater moments.

Boulder. pubcrawls.com Mannheim Steamroller Christmas.

4pm & 8pm. The Grammy Awardwinning musician Chip Davis brings the Christmas spirit to life with the Mannheim Steamroller Christmas performance. There are beautiful multimedia effects and iconic music that will be performed Saturday and Sunday. Tickets start at $45, so reserve yours online today! Buell Theater, Denver. mannheimsteamroller.com WinterFest 5k & Fun Run. 10am. The exciting and jolly-filled Winterfest is in Thorton with a handful of events to celebrate the holiday season. Saturday there is a race for serious runners and an untimed fun run and walk for everyone. Everyone that registers will receive a collectible finisher mug! The Winterfest is full of exciting events like breakfast with Santa, a Holiday Concert and more! Carpenter Park Fields, Thornton. thortonco.gov

11 Sunday

Holiday Fairy Playshop. 10am & 2pm.

At this magical experience, create a spiritual gift for someone you love or a beautiful trinket for the house. Decorate a fairy door ornament and make a unique and beautiful fairy doll. The event costs $30, and you must register for the event 24 hours before attending.

Discover Your Spiritual Gift, Littleton. discoveryourspiritualgifts.com

100 Things to Do Before You're 12.

10am-2pm. There are so many fun outdoor activities for kiddos and this event will take your child on an exciting day filled with snowy adventures. Sign up your child today, so they can start knocking exciting, snow-filled activities off their bucket list. This event is $5, and make sure to dress your child in warm clothes for the outdoors. Bison Ridge Recreation Center, Commerce City.

Build confidence in reading during Read to a Dog on Dec. 15.

present if requested. Denver Public Library. denverlibrary.org

14 Wednesday

Bear Cubs: Wild Winter Wonders.

10:30am-noon. The Wild Bear Nature Center presents Wild Winter Wonders where guests will learn about nature and wildlife survival during the cold season. Children and adults will love this exciting learning adventure with fun activities and crafts! Wild Center Bear Nature Center, Nederland. wildbear.org Kids’ Zone: Gym Jam. 11-11:45am.

For ages three-seven, your child will love the games that focus on large motor skills, problem-solving, cooperative play and more. Make sure your kiddo is dressed appropriately in gym shoes and has a water bottle.

Registration starts at $44 and the event reoccurs every Wednesday. Parker Recreation Center parkerrec.com

15 Thursday

Read to a Dog. 3:45-5pm. This is the perfect activity for your elementary school kiddo to build confidence and fluency in reading. Sign up the day of at the Children’s Library, so your child can read to a trained therapy dog. Children's Library, Broomfield. compass.broomfield.org

16 Friday

Game Night. 3:30-4:30pm. Calling all teens for an hour of competition, so come ready to game. Enjoy some drinks and snacks while you play some of your favorite games at the library. Pikes Peak Library, Colorado Springs. ppld.librarymarket.com

17 Saturday

12 Monday

13 Tuesday

December

Crafts for Kids! 3:30-4:30pm.

For kids ages 5-12, build a new craft every Tuesday that will be a great gift or decoration in the house. No registration is required, but children need to be accompanied by an adult. Upon notice, sign language interpreters can be

Family Make and Take: Winter Wreaths. 1pm. Create a beautiful winter wreath using natural materials like pinecones, season colors and more!

After creating your wreath head to the Gardens for a scavenger hunt with the family. All supplies are provided, so your family should bring ideas and creativity. Tickets start at $12. Botanic Gardens, Denver. botanicgardens.org Happy Holidays Parents Night Out. 5:30pm. At 5280 Gymnastics South, kids can have fun doing gymnastics, crafts and other fun activities while parents get the night off for some last-minute Christmas shopping or time to relax. This event happens once a month, and tickets start at $30.

5280 Gymnastics South, Littleton.

5280gymnastics.com

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Sensory Friendly - Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. 2pm. Watch a prince be cursed into a beast and fall in love with one of your favorite Disney princesses. The show will run until December 31, and tickets start at $56 (children will get a discounted price).

Buy tickets online or by calling the box office. On December 30, there will be a sensory-friendly performance at 2pm, and tickets are $15. Arvada Center. arvadacenter.org

Enjoy the Cherry Creek Holiday Market in Cherry Creek this month.

18 Sunday

Beatles for Kids. 11:30am. The Rock and Roll Playhouse brings an unforgettable performance for kids and families. The Beatles will play at noon at the Bluebird Theater, and the doors will open at 11am. Tickets are $15 each, and everyone is encouraged to rock out to the iconic music. Bluebird Theater, Denver. therockandrollplayhouse.com Christmas Symphony. 2:30pm.

Enjoy the holidays with the annual Christmas tradition performance! The Philharmonic and the Colorado Springs Chorale perform amazing music that will give every guest Christmas cheer.

The conductor Thomas Wilson will have the symphony play beloved singalongs for everyone to enjoy. Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts, Colorado Springs. csphilharmonic.org Chanukah Celebration. 5pm. Go to Cherry Creek to celebrate the first night of Chanukah with families and guests of all ages. This beautiful festival will have face painting, fire juggling, delicious treats and crafts that everyone can enjoy! Cherry Creek North, Denver. cherrycreeknorth.com

19 Monday

Day at the DAM. 9:30am-3pm. This two-day event over winter break will bring out the creativity in your child.

There will be artists present to guide your kiddo to create an amazing art piece that is inspired by what they see in the museum. Claim a ticket online today. Denver Art Museum, denverartmuseum.org

20 Tuesday

Mean Girls. Through January 1. Cady

Meet Santa Claus and enjoy Reindeer Games on Dec. 3.

Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. Tickets start at $35. Buell Theatre, Denver. denvercenter.org

at the Boettcher Concert hall, and tickets start at $15. Buddy, the star of the classic holiday film, will be played on four giant screens as the Colorado Symphony plays along. Boettcher Concert Hall. artscomplex.com

Taco Tuesday. 11am-8pm. At Pikes Peak Brewing, enjoy an all-you-can-eat taco bar for $12. There will be chicken, pork and black bean options to build delicious tacos. The whole family will love to create their own tacos, and parents can enjoy a locally brewed beer with dinner. Pikes Peak Brewing, Monument. pikespeakbrewing.com

Denver Nuggets Game. 7-11pm.

Support the Denver Nuggets and grab a seat for the game against the Portland Trail Blazers. This exciting game will make for a great family night; tickets start at $21. Ball Arena, Denver. nba.com

21 Wednesday

Candlelight: Holiday Special. The candlelight concert, a Fever original event, features the The Nutcracker and more this season with a multisensory musical experience. Enjoy the 65-minute performance under the gentle glimmer of candlelight. Tickets start at $50, so check the schedule and see the list of events. The Kirk of Highland, Denver. feverup.com

22 Thursday

Elf in Concert. 7pm. The hilariously entertaining Elf movie will be playing

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23 Friday

Parent’s Night Out. 6-9pm. Drop the kiddos off at Woodland Aquatic Center for a night full of fun, while you go out!

For the kids there will be games, pizza and swimming, so you can go to dinner, shop or relax. Registration is required and closes on December 20. Woodland Aquatic Center, Woodland Park. woodlandpark.org

24 Saturday

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service.

4-5pm. Join the Candlelight Service at Impact Rock Church the night before Christmas for a beautiful and traditional celebration with loving

holiday carols. There will be warm apple cider and hot chocolate after the service. Impact Church, Erie. impactrock.com Christmas Eve Nature Walk.

9am-noon. At Fountain Creek Nature Center, take a Christmas Eve nature walk and explore the marsh wildlife.

Take the easy walking trails to discover unique plants. Request binoculars in advance, and no reservations are required. Fountain Creek Nature Center, Fountain. communityservices.elpasoco.com

26 Monday

Immersive Nutcracker: a Winter Miracle. This immersive Christmas miracle is happening until January 2 and will fill the entire family with Christmas cheer. You will feel like you are in the movie yourself, and the kiddos can dance along to the festive music. Tickets are $30, and you can reserve a spot online. Light House Art Space, Denver. immersive-nutcracker.com

27 Tuesday

Winter Break Day Camps. 9am-4pm.

Your kiddos will have a blast at the Winter Break Day Camps at the Zoo! The theme for the camp is Winter Around the World where kids will learn more about cold animals and how they live through the winter. This camp is from Dec. 26 through the 30 and is for preschoolers to 6th-grade students.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs. cmzoo.org

28 Wednesday

Kids Knitting. 3-4:30pm. The Kids Knitting class invites children that already know how to knit and beginners! Bring your own supplies or buy them at the store there. This event is free and drop-ins are welcome.

Alpaca LLC, Eagle. alpacallc.com

29 Thursday

Christmas Beer and Cookies! 5:307:30pm. Enjoy a local beer that’s paired with a delicious cookie. Tickets are $55 per person, and guests will be guided through the RiNo Art District to visit four different breweries.

Everyone can try at least 10 different beers. Ratio Beerworks, Denver. denvermicrobrewtour.com

Spotlight

Kid + Adult Art Class: Basic Printmaking. 1-2:30pm. At the Loveland Museum learn the basics of printmaking and create some winterthemed prints that will make for great pictures on the wall or gifts. This class allows children and adults to explore printmaking and make some unique creations. Reservations are required, so book a spot today! Loveland Museum. thelovelandmuseum.org

31 December

Community Family Yoga. 9-10am.

Explore the benefits of yoga with the entire family at Pine River Library. This class is for all levels and ages, so enjoy a morning of relaxation to start the New Year off right! The instructor is a mother who felt guilty about leaving her child to do yoga, so she created this class for all families. Pine River Library,

Bayfield. prlibrary.org Murder Mystery New Years Dinner Party. 7:30pm-midnight. At Trinity Brewing, attend the 1920s-themed dinner party for a night of mystery!

All guests will be part of the murder mystery as a character or investigators.

Tickets are $100 and include a delicious meal, the murder mystery game and other entertainment. A percentage of the proceeds will be donated to a charity that helps victims of domestic violence. Trinity Brewing, Colorado Springs. trinitybrew.com NYE Comedy Contest. 8pm. Prepare for a hilarious start to the New Year with the Pikes Punk Comedy Contest.

Everyone will have the chance to compete, and the winner will receive a $100 cash prize as well as bragging rights and the title of The Pikes Punk. Plan to show up early because the seating is first come, first serve.

Guests can reserve a ticket online or at the door. The Public House at the Alexander, Colorado Springs. thepublichouseco.com

Telluride Fire Festival

Experience the unique Fire Festival in Telluride from December 2-4.

This unique, flame-inspired weekend event was influenced by the Burning Man Festival. The Co-Founder, Erin Ries, wanted to bring a version of the Burning Man Festival to Telluride to make it more accessible for everyone to

Denver miniFEST. 5:45-8:45pm.

Bridging the Music is coming to Denver for a festival-style evening full of music and art. This is the perfect activity for friends to get together and enjoy an exciting show and atmosphere. Tickets are $20 each, and children are allowed with a guardian. Hermans Hideaway, Denver. hermanshideaway.com

experience the fiery excitement.

They have artists from all over the nation come to Telluride to showcase their work and participate in the events.

"At the Telluride Fire Festival, we have propane-fired sculptures,

fire dancers, people who spin poi, different art pieces with fire, music, and indoor shows," Ries says. One reason that Ries enjoys fire-infused art is that it’s transitional. “Everyone needs it, and it provides warmth,” Ries says. “People take it for granted, and we’re using it to create art and warmth.”

Telluride is a burner community, which means there are a lot of people who reside there who love the Burning Man Festival. “It’s kind of a like-minded group of artistic individuals who follow the 10 Burning Man principles, which we all feel are very important,” she says. A few of the principles include Radical Self Reliance, Radical Inclusion, Leave No Trace, and Radical Self-Expression.

This is all possible because of Rocky Mountain Works, a nonprofit organization that produces the playwright fire festival. Outside of the festival, this nonprofit works to support and help the youth.

“We do workshops all year long for youth,” Ries says. “Especially the youth in the West end of the county that doesn’t really have access to this kind of art.”

Ries is excited to welcome everyone to this year's Festival. This is an excellent event for families, with interactive activities for children and adults. “The biggest thing I can say is that everyone and anyone is welcome, and art is for everyone,” Ries says. “I think there are infinite possibilities for people coming to something like this.”

Ignite the weekend with a unique Fire Festival with performances, music, drinks, different art forms, and activities. December 2 through the 4 will be a weekend packed with everything fire, from performances to art.

Telluride. telluridefirefestival.org

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fresh mindset

fresh mindset It’s my way of giving back and being so grateful for the life that I’ve gotten to experience. I can’t imagine having hardships and not having the love and support that I’ve had…I want to do my part and hopefully teach my kids to do the exact same thing. I can only do that by having them watch me and by setting the example.

ANA KOEPKE is a mother of two, with a three-year-old daughter and a two-month-old son. She is also the co-founder of the nonprofit We’re In This Together (WITT). WITT helps at-risk youth by mentoring, providing resources, and being a stable influence in their lives.

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