Lighting of Breckenridge + Race of the Santas
Experience the magic of the holiday season in Breckenridge with the Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas. This beloved event transforms the charming mountain town into a festive wonderland. Witness the dazzling illumination of Main Street with over 250,000 lights, enjoy the spectacle of hundreds of Santas racing down the street, and cheer on costumed pups in the Holiday Dog Parade. It's a perfect kickoff to the holiday season for all ages.
What to Expect
Hundreds of Santas running down Main Street
Event Details
Duration
Evening events
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Breckenridge
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Breckenridge Tourism Office
Food & Drink
Festive hot drinks and a cash bar are available at the Handmade Holiday Market. Food trucks and beverage vendors are also mentioned in relation to other events.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented, winter wonderland
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free – Get tickets
- Parking: Convenient paid parking is available at the South Gondola parking structure. Several downtown lots are also available but fill quickly. Guests are encouraged to arrive early or utilize the free Breck Free Ride shuttle system. Free parking is available at the Free Skier Shuttle Lot on McCain Road, serviced by the Breck Free Ride Green and Red bus routes.
- Pets: Pet-friendly for the Holiday Dog Parade; dogs must be on a leash and prepared for cold weather.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially if driving, as downtown lots fill up quickly. Consider using the free Breckenridge Free Ride shuttle to avoid congestion.
- Dress warmly in layers, as December in Breckenridge can be very cold. Comfortable footwear is recommended for walking along Main Street.
- Check the event schedule for specific timings of the Holiday Dog Parade, Race of the Santas, and the Lighting ceremony, as they are sequential.
- If participating in the Race of the Santas or Moose March, register in advance as spots may be limited, and consider purchasing Santa suits or hats with registration.
- Explore the additional holiday activities like the Handmade Holiday Market and Explorium Fest for a full day of festive fun.
Special Events & Promotions
- Holiday Dog Parade
- Race of the Santas
- Children's Moose March
- Handmade Holiday Market
- Holiday Giving Event
- After Paw-ty at Main Street Station
- The Christmas Clock (dance production)
- $5 Ornament Painting
- Explorium Fest (free access)
- Arts District Winter Weekend
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lights are used for the Lighting of Breckenridge?
Nearly 250,000 LEDs are used to illuminate Breckenridge's Blue River Plaza and surrounding areas, transforming the town into a winter wonderland.
Where is the best place to park for the event?
The most convenient paid parking is at the South Gondola parking structure. Free parking is available at the Free Skier Shuttle Lot on McCain Road, with shuttle service to downtown.
Are pets allowed at the event?
Yes, dogs are welcome to participate in the Holiday Dog Parade. They must be on a leash and owners should ensure their pet's health and safety in cold weather.
What is the route for the Race of the Santas?
The race is a .7-mile fun run down Breckenridge's historic Main Street, finishing in Blue River Plaza.
Do I need to buy a Santa suit to participate in the Race of the Santas?
No, a Santa suit is not required to register, but they are available for purchase with registration or at the Breckenridge Rec Center. Participants can also bring their own.
More Christmas Events Near Breckenridge
More Christmas Events near Golden
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.