The Local newsletter is your free, daily guide to life in Colorado. For locals, by locals.
Backcountry Film Festival
Before you hit the hill this winter, stop by this festival hosted by Colorado Mountain Club to shop gear, catch communication tech demos, and meet mountaineering experts. This backcountry bash also doubles as a fundraiser for the nonprofit, which recently lost federal funding for its Snow Rangers program. Backcountry beginners should get tickets for December 11; more experienced explorers can stop by on the 12th. Both nights will include a happy hour, clinics, and—the headliner of the program—a film screening which will give you ample inspo for this schussing season. Dec. 11–12; 5–9 p.m.; $10–$25
The Holiday PickleParty
Already dreading the impending inquisition about your dating life when you’re home for Christmas? Perhaps you’ll find a hottie you can bring home for the holidays at PickleMatch’s end-of-year singles pickleball mixer. Participate in friendly competition across 13 courts, grab a drink or two, and get to mingling. Dec. 12; 7–9 p.m.; $28 per person
Holiday Tours of the Governor’s Mansion
If your own home is looking a little lackluster this season, take a stroll through Polis’ palace for some holiday inspiration. The Colorado Governor’s Residence at the Boettcher Mansion is decked out for December and open for tours this weekend. As you take in the splendor and snap a few pics, docents will share the rich history of the building. Dec. 12–13; 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; free
Chautauqua WinterFest
No need to head for the North Pole this winter: The big man is coming to Boulder. Slip Saint Nick your wishlist in person at this annual festival. Plus, little ones can decorate cookies, explore a winter fairy forest, and visit a petting zoo with mini pigs and fainting goats. Although the Jeff and Paige holiday concert is sold out, you can still join the 1.5-mile caroling hike with Jeff on Saturday. Dec. 12–13; times vary; passes $27–$37, some activities free, some activities extra
Denver BAZAAR Holiday Markets
We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but you only have two more weekends before Christmas Day. Take a deep breath—and then head to one of Denver BAZAAR’s holiday markets. Each weekend, the market is posting up in RiNo with vendors selling jewelry, pottery, soap, and more giftable items. Or, make your way to the inaugural Highlands Square pop-up, where you can visit the hot cocoa bar and food trucks in between panic-shopping. RiNo: Through Dec. 21; Fridays 4–9 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Sundays 11 a.m.–5 p.m, free admission; Highlands Square: Dec. 13; 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; free admission
Taylor Fest and Rock and Roll Playhouse plays the Music of Taylor Swift
Whether you’re a Baby Boomer or a Gen Alpha Swiftie, there’s a Mile High venue for you to celebrate Taylor Swift’s 36th birthday. Start the morning off with a kid-friendly performance of the pop star’s hits, then leave your little ones with the babysitter and return (in showgirl costume, of course) for a night of dancing and singing through her eras. Dec. 13; Rock and Roll Playhouse: 11 a.m.; $28; Taylor Fest: 9 p.m.; $37
