Celebrate the end of the year in Breckenridge and Keystone with world-class skiing, festive parades, cozy dinners, fireworks, and mountain cabin stays. Discover the best ways to enjoy a magical holiday season in Summit County.
Making plans to wrap up the year in style? The U.S. is packed with amazing destinations; from snow-filled adventures in the mountains to sunny escapes by the beach.
If you're more into the moubntain allure, here's an idea: nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Summit County, Colorado, is a year-round outdoor recreation hub. Towns like Breckenridge and Keystone are top destinations for families, solo travelers, and couples eager to enjoy the great outdoors, breathtaking mountain vistas, and world-class skiing opportunities. These two mountain towns are also magnets for visitors seeking a memorable end of the year surrounded by picture-perfect landscapes, snowy peaks, and charming holiday celebrations.
Here's a bite-sized intro to the good stuff:
- Hit the Slopes: Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding at Breckenridge and Keystone, complete with après-ski spots, scenic gondola rides, and the highest lift in North America.
- Explore Winter Trails: Discover snow-covered trails like Sapphire Point, Boreas Pass, and Mayflower Gulch for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and peaceful alpine views.
- Experience the Magic of the Holiday Festivities: Soak up Breckenridge's festive spirit with events like the Lighting of Breckenridge, Ullr Fest, the Dew Tour, and Keystone's holiday lights.
- Enjoy Cozy Dining and Indulge in Superb Cuisine: Dine at mountain favorites such as Rootstalk, Hearthstone, Ski Tip Lodge, and Keystone Ranch for elegant, festive meals.
- Relax, Celebrate, and Enjoy the Holidays in a Beautiful Vacation Rental: Stay in a warm, well-equipped cabin or condo with fireplaces, hot tubs, and kitchens perfect for family celebrations.
- Ring in the New Year: Watch the Torchlight Parade, fireworks over Breckenridge, and Keystone's lively countdown at River Run Gondola Plaza.
At Great Western Lodging, we specialize in premium, boutique-style vacation rentals, taking pride in creating a true mountain escape where comfort meets adventure.As locals, we know Breckenridge, Frisco, and Keystone like the back of our hands, and our blog is packed with insider tips for your next mountain getaway. Visiting our region for the first time? Planning a ski trip? Into summer mountain thrills? We've got you covered!
In this blog post, I've selected the best things to do to make your Christmas and New Year's Eve in Breckenridge and Keystone some of the most special holidays for you and your loved ones.
Ready? Time to dig into the good stuff!
1. Hit the Slopes
Non-stop fun, epic ski runs, and cozy après-ski moments.
There's nothing more exciting than ending the year in Colorado with some world-class skiing and snowboarding. Expect non-stop fun, epic ski runs, and cozy après-ski moments. Breckenridge and Keystone are the stars of the season, each offering wide-open slopes, incredible views, and plenty to do off the mountain, too.
- Breckenridge Ski Resort: Spanning over 2,900 acres, this winter heaven features 187 trails across five peaks, catering to all skill levels, from beginner-friendly groomers to challenging alpine bowls and expert terrain. The resort is also home to the Imperial Express SuperChair, the highest lift in North America, providing access to stunning views and high-alpine skiing at over 12,800 feet.
- Keystone Resort: With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and home to A51 Terrain Park, one of the top-rated parks in the U.S., Keystone Resort also caters to all skill levels, making it an exceptionally family-friendly option, especially if you're traveling with kids. A standout feature of the resort is night skiing, allowing guests to enjoy the slopes under the stars for a unique and thrilling experience.
What you'll love
- Breckenridge Ski Resort: 2,900 acres and 187 trails spread across five peaks for all skill levels.
- Imperial Express SuperChair: The highest lift in North America, reaching over 12,800 feet.
- Après-Ski: Great spots in historic downtown Breckenridge for food, drinks, and live music.
- Beyond Skiing: Try snowshoeing, cross-country trails, or gondola rides for laid-back fun.
- Keystone Resort: 3,000+ acres of terrain and A51 Terrain Park, great for families and freestyle riders.
- Night Skiing: Hit the slopes under the stars, a Keystone signature experience.
2. Explore Winter Trails
Immerse yourself in pristine nature.
Take advantage of Colorado's stunning winter scenery and immerse yourself in pristine nature by exploring some of the best trails in Summit County. Here are some of our favorite winter trails in the region:
- Sapphire Point Overlook Trail: A short, easy trail with breathtaking views of Lake Dillon and the surrounding mountains. This is an ideal option for families and beginners.
- Breckenridge Nordic Center: It offers groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing through serene forests and open meadows with mountain vistas.
- Frisco Nordic Center: Features a network of trails for all skill levels, with access to both wooded terrain and panoramic lake views.
- Boreas Pass Trail: A peaceful trail with gentle inclines, offering incredible views of the Tenmile Range and the chance to explore an old railroad route.
- Mayflower Gulch: A scenic trail leading to an abandoned mining cabin surrounded by dramatic peaks. Great for snowshoeing and backcountry exploration.
3. Experience the Magic of the Holiday Festivities
Twinkling streets, Santa suits, colorful parades, sports competitions, and snowy spectacles.
Breckenridge lights up in winter with one festive celebration after another. The season kicks off with twinkling streets, Santa suits, and plenty of cheer, then rolls into parades, sports competitions, and snowy spectacles that make the mountains even more magical. Keystone joins in too, glowing with lights and music that make every visit feel like a holiday card come to life.
What you'll love
- The Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas on Main Street: Pure mountain holiday magic.
- Ullr Fest: A lively tribute to the Norse god of snow, complete with a parade and local mischief.
- Dew Tour: World-class snowboarding and skiing action that amps up the winter buzz.
- International Snow Sculpture Championships: Jaw-dropping artistry carved from ice.
- Keystone's River Run Village Lighting: A dazzling start to the season surrounded by alpine charm.
4. Enjoy Cozy Dining and Indulge in Superb Cuisine
Cozy restaurants and festive menus set the mood for the holidays.
Indulge in a festive meal and hot drinks at a cozy local spot. Breckenridge and Keystone are home to amazing restaurants, perfect for a Christmas lunch, dinner, or New Year's celebration with the ones you love.
What you'll love
- Rootstalk Breckenridge: A refined five-course tasting menu with optional wine pairings.
- Hearthstone Restaurant: Classic Rocky Mountain dishes and panoramic views in a restored Victorian home.
- Keystone Ranch Restaurant: A rustic setting with a four-course dinner perfect for intimate gatherings.
- Ski Tip Lodge: One of Colorado's most beloved fine dining spots, known for its elegant four-course experience in a historic lodge.
5. Relax, Celebrate, and Enjoy the Holidays in a Beautiful Vacation Rental
Warm up by the fire, soak in a hot tub with mountain views, and cook a fantastic Christmas dinner.
What about staying in a place that feels like home for an extraordinary Christmas and end-of-year festivities with your loved ones? Vacation rentals are the perfect way to create a one-of-a-kind experience for you and your vacation crew, no matter what time of year you're visiting.
Warm up by the fire in a private cabin, soak in a hot tub with mountain views, cook a fantastic Christmas dinner in a well-equipped kitchen, and explore the wintry scenery just steps from your door. You can bring along Christmas lights, ornaments, and stockings to create a festive atmosphere (though some rentals even provide holiday decorations). Spend quality time playing board games, baking holiday treats, or exchanging gifts in the comfort of your cabin.
What you'll love
- Curling up by the fireplace after a day in the snow.
- Soaking in a hot tub with a view of the peaks.
- Cooking a full Christmas dinner in a proper kitchen.
- Decorating your cabin with twinkling lights and ornaments.
- Sharing games, treats, and late-night laughs with loved ones.
6. Ring in the New Year
Feast at a standout restaurant, then head out for a show of lights against the snowy peaks.
Kick off your New Year's Eve in Breckenridge with a feast at one of its standout restaurants, then head out for a show of lights against the snowy peaks. The night begins with the famous Torchlight Parade on Breckenridge Mountain, where skilled skiers glide down with glowing torches. Once the slopes dim, fireworks light up the sky, wrapping the evening in alpine sparkle.
Over in Keystone, night skiing leads right into the celebration at River Run Gondola Plaza, where locals and visitors gather to count down under a brilliant burst of color.
What you'll love
- Torchlight Parade at 6 PM; glowing skiers lighting up Breckenridge Mountain.
- Fireworks over the Rockies around 9:30 PM.
- Early celebration perfect for families.
- Night skiing and live energy at Keystone's River Run Gondola Plaza.
- Fireworks finale to close out the year in mountain style.
Extra Tips to Make the Most of Your End-of-Year Visit to Breckenridge and Keystone
Here are some valuable tips on how to make your time in Summit County a one to remember for years to come:
Plan Ahead
Accommodation, ski passes, and event reservations fill up quickly during the holiday season, so make sure to secure your plans well in advance and book in advance. Confirm dates and times for events like the Torchlight Parade, fireworks, and festive dinners to avoid missing out.
Dress for the Weather
Layer up with thermal clothing, waterproof gear, and warm accessories like gloves and hats. Temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings.
Stay Hydrated
Altitude sickness can be an issue in high-elevation destinations like Breckenridge and Keystone. Drink plenty of water and avoid overexerting yourself on the first day.
Take a Lesson
If you're new to skiing or snowboarding, book a lesson early in your trip to build confidence and make the most of the slopes.
Capture the Magic
Unleash your inner photographer and capture the festive decorations, snow-covered mountains, and holiday events. Breckenridge's downtown and Keystone's River Run Village are especially photogenic during the holidays.
Indulge in Après-Ski Delights
Don't miss out on après-ski activities like warming up with a craft cocktail or sharing fondue with friends at a cozy mountain spot.
Extend the Fun
Plan a day trip to nearby destinations like Frisco, Copper Mountain, or Dillon for more holiday charm and activities.
Shop Local
Pick up unique gifts or souvenirs at local boutiques, artisan shops, or holiday markets. Items like handmade ornaments or locally crafted goods make thoughtful mementos.
Travel Smart
Arrive early for parking or use free shuttles to avoid congestion at ski areas and event locations. Allow extra time for travel, as snow can impact driving conditions.
How can you make your trip to Breckenridge and Keystone even better?
At Great Western Lodging, we offer a superior selection of luxury properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodgings, some of which are pet-friendly, in Breckenridge, Frisco, and Keystone.
Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience during your trip to Colorado.