The Lighting of Breckenridge
Come one, come all, Christmas is on its way to Breckenridge, Colorado! The first weekend in December is always a festive occasion. As we can all imagine, being Santa Clause is a full-time job that takes quite a bit of commitment and cheer. In order to help welcome Mr. Claus to 10,000 feet, the town of Breckenridge will host its annual Race of the Santas, followed closely by the Lighting of Breckenridge, on Saturday, December 5, 2015. Race day attracts more than 500 joyful participants and merry spectators; all holiday lovers are invited to spend the day dressed up as Santa, Mrs. Clause, or their little reindeer. Proceeds for this family-fun event all go towards helping Summit County residents have the best Christmas possible. Traditionally, the event generates about $8,000 for Adopt and Angel Summit County.
Daytime Events
Although the race itself only stretches for 7 blocks – a mere stroll compared to the glorious trek the real Santa makes – runners beware, this event is not to be under-estimated. Many participants choose to jog or walk the course while the sprinters often report the event as the “toughest 7 blocks” they have ever run. But, don’t worry; no part of the event is timed. And, of course, no race would truly be complete without a little extra incentive: participants and spectators alike are welcome to enjoy cookies and milk by the Blue River Plaza. In case you don’t get your fill of goodies after the race, more cookies and hot chocolate will accompany classical evening carols starting at 4:30. Carolers will spread their merriment for most of the evening and will also help to welcome a massive parade of friendly, fluffy Bernese Mountain Dogs. This parade of dogs is a holiday tradition here in Breckenridge and is one of the happiest events of the year. In fact, rumor has it that the real Santa Clause will lead the parade towards the famous Breckenridge Christmas tree.
Once Santa Clause arrives in town the real holiday magic will begin. Around 5:15 PM, town officials will formally welcome the holiday season with the annual tree lighting. Each year, the Blue River Plaza is decorated with festive holiday lights and numerous Christmas trees that are guaranteed to wow the audience. After a big group countdown, the main tree will be turned on for the season and will be immediately followed by the remaining plaza lights. In order to help keep holiday cheer in the air, there will be fire pits placed throughout the plaza and that will be open for use as hand-warming stations. Last year we got a little chilly, so we certainly recommend securing a spot around the fire! Families with small children should note that after the tree is light and Santa has had his cookies, there will be time to visit and take pictures with Mr. Clause from 530 – 700 at the Barney Ford Museum.
For details on loading specials for the event, visit Ski Colorado to secure your special holiday lodging.
Lighting of Breckenridge Schedule
Order of Events for December 5, 2015:
- 4:15 p.m.– Race of the Santas: Register online or at the Breckenridge Welcome Center.
- 4:30 p.m.– In case you didn’t get enough at the cookie station during the race, take in some free cocoa, cookies and caroling in the Blue River Plaza.
- 5 p.m. – The real Santa arrives at the Blue River Plaza for the lighting of the town tree. Don’t miss the Bernese Mountain Dog Parade following Santa toward the tree.
- 5:30-7 p.m.– Visit with the real Santa and at the Barney Ford House Museum, across from the Blue River Plaza.
