Durango, Colorado is a picturesque destination that shines even brighter during the Christmas season. Nestled in the stunning San Juan Mountains, this charming town offers a blend of festive spirit, breathtaking scenery, and delightful dining options. When it comes to Christmas dinner in Durango, the area has a range of restaurants that cater to every taste, making it easy for families and friends to gather and celebrate this special time of year.
Dining Out: Festive Restaurant Experiences
One of the best ways to embrace the holiday spirit is to enjoy a festive meal at one of Durango’s local restaurants. The Kennebec Cafe, a beloved dining spot in the area, will be open on December 24th and 25th from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. They offer a special holiday menu designed to help you celebrate the season in style. With a variety of entrees, salads, soups, and appetizers to choose from, there’s something for everyone. It’s advisable to make reservations ahead of time to ensure you secure your spot for this delightful experience.
For those looking for a truly iconic dining experience, The Ore House is a must-visit. Established in 1972, this restaurant is one of Colorado’s oldest and finest, known for its commitment to quality and excellence. Chef-owned and operated, The Ore House serves hand-cut steaks, sustainable wild-caught seafood, and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Open on Christmas Eve, it provides a refined dining atmosphere that’s perfect for a holiday celebration. Guests can enjoy a memorable meal while appreciating the restaurant’s longstanding tradition of culinary excellence.
If you’re in the mood for a more casual yet festive setting, consider Diamond Belle Saloon for a Christmas lunch. With a menu featuring creative appetizers, salads, burgers, and entrees, this lively spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The famous Belle Girls, dressed in period costume, serve up the dishes, adding a fun and unique twist to your dining experience. The Diamond Belle Saloon will be open on Christmas Day from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, so be sure to make reservations to enjoy this festive dining adventure.
For a more upscale dining experience on Christmas Day, The Mahogany Grille offers an extraordinary steak and seafood menu that showcases the best of local flavors. With its awe-inspiring Victorian interior, this restaurant creates an immersive dining atmosphere that enhances every bite. The special holiday dinner menu will be available from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, providing a perfect setting for a memorable Christmas celebration.
If you’re looking for something unique to kick off your Christmas Eve, Gazpacho’s invites you to indulge in imaginative Southwest dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Known for its creative menu and warm ambiance, Gazpacho’s is the perfect spot to gather with friends and family before the big day. Enjoy a delightful dining experience that captures the essence of the season while savoring the rich flavors of the Southwest.
Cooking Dinner in Your Vacation Rental
While dining out can be a wonderful way to celebrate, cooking your own Christmas dinner in a vacation rental can be an equally rewarding experience. Many travelers find joy in creating their own holiday traditions, and preparing a meal together can be a fun and meaningful way to connect with loved ones.
If you choose to cook in your rental, start by planning your menu. Think about what dishes your family enjoys during the holidays or consider trying new recipes that excite you. With a fully equipped kitchen at your disposal, you’ll have everything you need to create a delicious feast. Local grocery stores in Durango provide a wealth of fresh ingredients, from seasonal produce to high-quality meats and pantry staples.
Gathering everyone in the kitchen can turn meal preparation into a bonding activity. Involve family members in the cooking process—assign tasks like chopping vegetables, stirring sauces, or setting the table. Playing holiday music in the background can help create a festive atmosphere as you work together to prepare a special meal.
Book Your Stay with Durango Colorado Vacations
No matter how you choose to celebrate Christmas dinner in Durango—whether dining out at charming establishments like The Kennebec Cafe, The Ore House, Diamond Belle Saloon, The Mahogany Grille, or Gazpacho’s, or preparing your own festive feast in your vacation rental—this beautiful town offers endless possibilities for creating cherished holiday memories.
To fully enjoy your experience, consider booking your stay with Durango Colorado Vacations. Our range of comfortable and fully equipped vacation rentals near Durango CO provides the perfect home base for your holiday celebrations. With the convenience of a kitchen and ample space for family gatherings, you’ll have everything you need to create a memorable Christmas in Durango. Let us help you make this holiday season one to remember, filled with joy, laughter, and great food!
As winter blankets Durango, Colorado, the town transforms into a magical wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. This picturesque mountain town, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, offers a unique blend of holiday charm and vibrant local culture. If you’re planning a visit during the holiday season, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a guide to experiencing the best Christmas lights and displays in Durango.
A Stroll Through Historic Downtown
One of the most delightful ways to experience Durango’s holiday spirit is by taking a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area. As you wander along the streets, you’ll be greeted by charming shops and restaurants, each beautifully adorned with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations. The ambiance is filled with warmth and cheer, making it a perfect spot for families, couples, and friends to enjoy the festive atmosphere. This enchanting setting is ideal for capturing memorable photos or simply soaking in the holiday cheer.
Scenic Drives
For those who prefer to enjoy the holiday displays from the comfort of their vehicles, Durango offers picturesque scenic drives. Imagine cruising along the winding roads, surrounded by snow-dusted mountains, as you pass homes and businesses aglow with colorful lights. The combination of the stunning winter landscape and festive decorations creates a breathtaking backdrop for an evening drive. This leisurely experience allows you to explore the town at your own pace while enjoying the festive spirit.
Community Celebrations
Durango is known for its strong sense of community, especially during the holiday season. Throughout December, various events and celebrations bring residents and visitors together to celebrate. From festive parades to holiday markets, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the local culture and community spirit. These events often feature spectacular light displays that illuminate the town, adding to the festive atmosphere. Participating in these gatherings allows you to connect with the locals while enjoying the magic of the season.
Iconic Light Displays
As winter sets in, Durango hosts some truly iconic light displays that captivate the imagination. Many areas of the town feature elaborate decorations that transform the landscape into a winter wonderland. These displays often include thousands of lights that twinkle in synchronization, creating a mesmerizing experience for everyone. The joy and wonder of these light shows are perfect for creating cherished memories with family and friends, making them a highlight of the holiday season.
Outdoor Experiences
For those who love the outdoors, Durango provides unique opportunities to enjoy Christmas lights in a natural setting. Parks and open spaces often host special light displays that illuminate the area, creating a beautiful ambiance against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Picture walking through a serene landscape, surrounded by nature and twinkling lights—an experience that combines the beauty of the outdoors with the joy of the holiday season. This enchanting environment is perfect for a romantic evening or a family outing.
Holiday Shopping
Durango’s local shops embrace the holiday spirit with festive decorations and unique gift offerings. As you explore the town, take advantage of the opportunity to shop for handcrafted items, local goods, and thoughtful gifts. Many shops create inviting displays adorned with twinkling lights, enhancing the shopping experience and making it even more enjoyable. While you shop, don’t forget to soak in the festive atmosphere, as the cheerful decor and seasonal music fill the air with holiday joy.
Local Art and Craft Fairs
During the holiday season, Durango often hosts art and craft fairs showcasing the talents of local artisans. These fairs are a wonderful opportunity to discover unique gifts while supporting the local creative community. Many booths are beautifully decorated with holiday lights, creating a festive atmosphere for browsing. From handmade ornaments to locally crafted goods, you’re sure to find something special that embodies the spirit of the season.
The Perfect Home Base
After a day of exploring Durango’s holiday offerings, it’s essential to have a cozy place to unwind. Booking with Durango Colorado Vacations provides you with the ideal home base for your holiday getaway. With a range of accommodations available, from charming cabins to spacious condos, you can find the perfect space to relax after a day of festivities. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of having a welcoming retreat, allowing you to recharge for another day of holiday adventures.
Book Your Stay with Durango Colorado Vacations Today
As you plan your visit to Durango this winter, make sure to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Christmas lights and displays. With festive streets, community celebrations, and iconic light shows, Durango offers countless ways to experience the magic of the season. Don’t forget to book your stay with Durango Colorado Vacations to ensure a comfortable and memorable experience. Embrace the holiday spirit in Durango, where the lights shine bright and the joy of the season fills the air!
Are you searching for that perfect Christmas destination? One that provides family-friendly fun, beautiful frosty weather, and plenty of Christmas cheer? Then look to Durango, CO, for your winter vacation. Every year, our beautiful town turns into a winter wonderland with glittering white snow, beautiful decorations, and enough fun events to keep the kids busy until Santa comes. While plenty of visitors come to Durango for the great snow sports, be sure to take some time to attend one of these great Durango Christmas events!
Are you looking for more fun Durango Christmas festivals?
Start Planning Your Durango Christmas
Take a look at these fantastic Durango Christmas events!
Singing with Santa
Welcome the start of the holiday season with Singing with Santa, an annual event which takes place the day after Thanksgiving. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and march on Main Avenue while singing Christmas carols at this fun meet-up. At the end of the walk, you’ll help light the Community Christmas Tree at Buckley Park and enjoy some free hot chocolate and cookies. Make sure to bring your camera to get a photo taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus! The festivities begin at 5:45 p.m., so make sure your vocal cords are warmed up and you’re ready to sing.
The Polar Express
Your kids are not going to want to miss riding on The Polar Express in Durango! Every year, one of the trains from the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum is transformed into the famous train from the award-winning book by Chris van Allsburg. During the 1 ½ hour train ride, you’ll be treated to a reading of The Polar Express while sipping on hot chocolate. When you approach the North Pole, you’ll be greeted by the Big Man himself: Santa Claus! Book your tickets for this great event quickly as it tends to sell out every year.
Holiday Arts and Craft Fair
The first day of December brings the annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair at LaPlata County Fairgrounds. There’s no better place to grab a unique gift for your loved ones. The fair runs from December 1 through 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Make sure to arrive early so you have plenty of time to browse through the incredible local artists and craftsmen. Before you know it, you’ll have found gifts for everyone on your list.
Noel Night
Are you hoping to fit in some more shopping after the Arts and Crafts Fair? Then make sure to attend Noel Night! Also taking place on December 1, this annual event features shopping specials all day long. Local independent businesses offer amazing sales on local products in an effort to encourage everyone to shop local!
Stay with Durango Colorado Vacations
No matter how to decide to celebrate your Durango Christmas, make sure you’re staying in a beautiful home from Durango Colorado Vacations! Our wide selection of rentals means you will be able to find the perfect home for your family trip. Whether you’re having a Thanksgiving celebration with extended family or a quiet December getaway to relax before the crazy holiday season, Durango is the perfect destination. Check our rentals and book today! See our Durango cabins with hot tubs here!