Best Durango Christmas Activities for Families, Retirees & Visitors (2026 Guide)
If you’re spending the holidays in the San Juan Mountains, you’ll quickly see that Durango Christmas activities are about more than tourism—they’re about community. Our town embraces a warm, mountain-town holiday spirit with events for every age group and every lifestyle.
Whether you’re exploring the idea of moving to Durango or just visiting for the holiday week, here are the best Durango Christmas activities to experience in 2026.
1. The Christmas Torchlight Parade at Purgatory
If weather allows, this is one of the most magical holiday events in Southwest Colorado. Skiers come down the mountain in a winding line of synchronized torchlight, ending with fireworks.
2. Snowshoeing or Winter Hiking Near Durango
Some of the best Durango Christmas activities involve simply getting outside.
Great options include:
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Vallecito Creek Trail
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Spud Lake Trail
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Haviland Lake
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Horse Gulch (often walkable without snowshoes)
Colorado Parks & Wildlife:
👉 https://cpw.state.co.us
3. Holiday Shows at the Durango Arts Center
From Christmas concerts to holiday performances, the DAC always has seasonal programming.
4. Christmas Eve Dinner at a Local Restaurant
Popular options include:
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The Ore House
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Ken & Sue’s
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El Moro Tavern
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Mountain Belle
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Seasons Rotisserie
Reservations are essential.
5. Sledding with the Family
Durango locals love:
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Buckley Park
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Chapman Hill
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Purgatory tubing hill
Simple, fun, easy holiday tradition.
6. Drive Through Dalton Ranch, Songbird or Edgemont to See Christmas Lights
While not an official event, many Durango neighborhoods do incredible displays—especially along Florida Road, Edgemont, and the Dalton Ranch area.
7. Visit Cascade Village or Electra Lake Area for Snowy Scenery
These areas look like pure Colorado Christmas postcards.
Thinking About Spending Every Christmas Here?
I’d love to help you explore mountain homes where snowy outdoor adventures and cozy holiday living can become your new normal.
Search Durango homes:
👉 https://durangohomesearch.com
Contact me:
👉 https://durangohomesearch.com/contact
