When in Colorado this season, take advantage of the Rocky Mountain holiday festivities and enjoy all the area has to offer. We've curated a few favorites and unique ideas that are local to our area and will add a spark of joy to your year-end celebrations.

If you love an evening stroll through beautifully lit gardens, you must see Blossoms of Light in Denver. This annual holiday display includes thousands of dazzling, sound-reactive LED-lights set in the Botanic Gardens--holiday music plays in sync to the twinkling surroundings. Sip a warm drink, enjoy a tasty snack and get ready to be wowed. This year they've expanded the coverage of York Street area, and all is available to view from November 23 until the new year.

In nearby Lakewood you'll find foot-stompin' fun at the Cultural Center's 15th annual performance by Timothy P. & The Rocky Mountain Stocking Stuffers. Putting a bluegrass and country spin on holiday tunes is their specialty, and once you go you'll want to make it a family tradition. The talented 10-piece string band led by Timothy P. Irvin performs a handful of shows only, so get your tickets early for one of the most merry and comical concerts this side of the Mississippi.

If the holidays have you at wits end, unwind at the adult-friendly Twist Your Dickens show, a hilarious take on the classic tale of Scrooge and Tiny Tim. This sketch comedy tradition is presented tongue-in-cheek fashion at Fox Arts Center in Aurora. You'll forget any holiday worries as you laugh your way through songs and sketches that poke fun at "A Christmas Carol" and all its characters--each zany show is never the same twice. Put down your eggnog and reserve tickets early for evening or Sunday daytime performances, November 23rd through December 23rd.

For those hard-to-shop for folks on your list, revel in some seasonal retail therapy offered by the Boulder Holiday Gift Festival, an annual extravaganza held on December 9th. This hometown event features more than 100 local artisans and a huge variety of items, including fine art, sculpture, home décor and unique gifts, each hand-crafted and made to last. It all happens at the YMCA of Boulder Valley, where admission is free. Enjoy the live music, and make sure to grab a tasty cinnamon bun from Grandma's Rockin' Rolls.

Foodies will salivate simply reading about the 12 Days of Christmas at the stunning Broadmoor Resort, Colorado Springs.  This sumptuous offering of culinary classes features a different food demo or tasty experience each of the days from December 21st through January 1st, starting with a Partridge in a Pear Tree (poached pears with chocolate) and ending with Twelve Drummers Drumming (a caffeine-lovers delight). Classes offered at $35 per person are taught in the afternoon in the south tower and include a complimentary glass of Prosecco.

Have a wonderful holiday season and be sure to check out our latest listings.