Castle Rock, CO December 2025

Holidays & Giving

Holidays & Giving: Connecting with Friends and Loved Ones

Dear Readers,

December has arrived—a month wrapped in warmth, nostalgia, and the spirit of giving. It’s the season when our town sparkles just a little brighter, when familiar streets glow with holiday lights, and when we gather with friends and family to celebrate the joys and traditions that make this time of year so special.

Our Holidays & Giving Issue is one of our favorites because it captures the essence of what truly matters. The holidays are about connection—cherishing those who share our lives and remembering those we hold close in our hearts but can’t be with this season. Whether we’re surrounded by laughter or reflecting quietly on memories of loved ones, December invites us to pause and appreciate the beauty of both presence and remembrance.

This month, we celebrate the gift of giving in all its forms. From thoughtful gestures to grand surprises, giving has a unique way of deepening our relationships and brightening our community. Our local shops and markets are filled with treasures waiting to be discovered—each one a chance to find that perfect gift for someone special. Supporting local businesses during the holidays not only makes your gifts more meaningful but also helps sustain the small-town charm that makes Castle Rock such a wonderful place to call home.

As you turn the pages of this issue, I hope you feel inspired—by the stories of generosity, the spirit of community, and the reminders that joy often comes from the simplest acts of kindness. May your season be filled with warmth, gratitude, and the magic of giving from the heart.

Wishing you peace, love, and connection this holiday season.

With heartfelt cheer,

HILL, PUBLISHER & DEBBIE HILL, CO-PUBLISHER

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Steve Hill | steve.hill@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Debbie Hill | debbie.hill@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kristen Gonzales

kristen.gonzales@kcrcopywriting.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Kristen Gonzales

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Castle Rock Headshots

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Feel whole this holiday season

Step into the new year feeling your best.

As we celebrate the season of gratitude and renewal, take time this holiday to care for yourself, because feeling whole begins with staying well. Schedule your visit today.

OCULOFACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY

At Colorado Eye Consultants, we are proud to offer oculofacial plastic surgery by ASOPRS fellowship trained & board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Carl Rebhun. With years of advanced training and dedication to his patients, Dr. Rebhun combines the latest surgical innovations with artistic precision to achieve natural, rejuvenating results.

WHY CHOOSE DR. CARL REBHUN?

EXTENSIVE TRAINING:

ASOPRS fellowship trained and board-certified.

INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUES:

Utilizes the latest and most innovative techniques.

EXCEPTIONAL CARE: Personalized consultation to meet your goals.

DUAL EXPERTISE: Specializes in both cosmetic & medical procedures.

Crystal Cleaning

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN DECEMBER

scene

Holiday Dinners at Dream Dinners Castle Rock!

Make the holidays effortless with  Dream Dinners Castle Rock! From festive breakfasts to elegant Christmas and New Year dinners, we’ve got everything you need to celebrate without the stress. Enjoy chef-crafted meals you can simply heat, serve, and savor with family and friends. Visit  www. CastleRockMealPrep.com to reserve your holiday favorites today!

Perfect Marketing Starts Here

Post Perfect now offers web design, social media campaigns, and custom marketing strategies crafted to help your brand thrive online. From sleek, high-performing websites to scroll-stopping content and cohesive campaigns, our team blends creativity and strategy to make your business impossible to ignore. Whether you’re launching something new or refining your brand, get started at Post-Perfect.com — because your business deserves perfection.

Homegrown Tap & Dough Opening in December

Homegrown Tap & Dough offers an approachable Italian restaurant experience that celebrates Colorado’s landscapes and ingredients. What began with hand-tossed pizza has grown to include Italian favorites. like Pepperoni Rolls, Chicken Parmesan and Coloradoinspired sandwiches. Each location feels “quintessentially Colorado,” with gondolas from ski resorts, stone fireplaces, and artifacts honoring local history. With Homegrown Tap & Dough Castle Rock opening December 2025.

Avoid Colorado’s mandatory plan and fines. Join other businesses in the smart, all-in-one 401(k): Castle Rock PEP.

Michele Suriano, Founder Michele@CastleRockPEP.com

Evelyn Lilo Castle View High School Student of the Month

Education: Castle View High School Freshman

Activities: FCA (Fellowship of Student Athletes) Student Government Olympic Weightlifting Wrestling

Future Goals: East Tennessee State University (ETSU) ETSU Olympic Weightlifting Program ETSU Research Corporation

Favorite Places:

Castle Rock 200 Stair Incline

The M.A.C. Park

Downtown Castle Rock Red Rocks Amphitheater

Personal Growth and Values Purpose, Perseverance, and Community Support Become the best version of herself Faith, Friendship, and Family Guidance

Favorite Quote: “Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe

HOLIDAY

GIFT GUIDE

Castle Rocks & Jewelry - Amazing Gifts for Your Loved Ones

Discover stunning brilliance at an exceptional value. Available in 14kt gold and platinum— crafted to perfection at a fraction of the price of natural diamonds.   In-stock designs starting at just $590

Sterling silver with 14kt yellow gold vermeil and dazzling cubic zirconia accents. Chic, timeless, and effortlessly affordable.  Starting at $50

Crafted in the USA from premium Tantalum and Gold. Built for strength. Backed for life.

Minimalist watches inspired by Danish design—modern, refined, and effortlessly affordable. Prices start at $75

From classic staples to unique statement pieces, layering is the key to a bold, fashion-forward look.

Based in  Castle Rock, crafts unique sterling silver jewelry, custom engravings, and permanent jewelry. Discover personalized gifts perfect for completing your holiday shopping

Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community.

Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.

Markets available nationwide

Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com

EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS AND TRICKS.

Good Holiday PARTY VIBES

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS

Just like that, it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. And while you may still be stuffed from all the turkey, it’s time to start planning the ultimate holiday party. I’ve included some tips and tricks to make sure it is the absolute best time for your guests.

01

SETTING THE ATMOSPHERE IS CRUCIAL.

The mood is subjective to the type of party you’re having, though. This could include a tree in the corner, an advent wreath on the table, a menorah on the counter, or other decor aligning with your celebration. Either way, I personally recommend lighting a fire in the fireplace or playing a looping video of one on your television to create a festive and cozy ambiance.

02

HOLIDAY GAMES ACT AS ENGAGING ENTERTAINMENT.

I once played a game where little trinkets from the Dollar Tree were wrapped in a massive ball of plastic wrap, and guests had 30 seconds to unwrap as much as possible before passing it to the next guest, claiming the unwrapped trinkets as their prize. It definitely gets the adrenaline up and provokes quite a few laughs at the random items wrapped inside.

03

Whether a simple apple dip (8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup toffee bits served with apple slices) or a festive drink, such as a cranberry Moscow Mule (2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries with a sprig of rosemary for garnish), serving holiday-themed food and drinks amplifies the atmosphere.

THE PLAYLIST IS, IN MY OPINION, THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF ANY HOLIDAY PARTY.

04 FOOD AND DRINKS PLAY A MASSIVE ROLE IN THE HOLIDAY PARTY SCENE.

While everyone is mingling, it is crucial to have some festive background noise. And, while the classics are well, classic, here are my go-to, more modern song choices for some great holiday fun!

• “Christmas Isn’t Cancelled (Just You)” - by Kelly Clarkson

• “Drummer Boy” - by Justin Bieber

• “Fancy Like Christmas” - by Walker Hayes

• “Hot Chocolate” - by Tom Hanks  (From the Polar Express soundtrack)

• “It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries” - by Carly Rae Jepsen

• “Naughty List” - Liam Payne featuring Dixie

• “Redneck 12 Days of Christmas” - by Jeff Foxworthy

• “Stretchy Pants” - by Carrie Underwood

• “Text Me Merry Christmas” - by Straight No Chaser featuring Kristen Bell

• “The Chanukah Song” - by Adam Sandler

Now go create your own, special playlist, pour yourself a mug of eggnog, and dance the night away!

CASTLE ROCK AUTO STORAGE

GIVING THE GIFT OF AN EXTRA PARKING SPACE

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN GONZALES

When garage space is limited, owners of Castle Rock Auto Storage, Jay and Mandie Simpson, have the remedy.

“I came up with this idea because I raced with the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America),” Jay explains. “I always had the guys I raced with asking me what I did with my car in the winter. I told them I stored it in my garage. They kept asking, ‘Well, can I rent a bay of your garage?’”

It was then that Jay realized there was a need for racers and everyday car owners to have a space where they could keep their cars.

After exploring warehouse space, Jay decided to purchase land in Castle Rock and design a building from scratch.

“It’s basically for people who have too many cars for their garage,” Jay says. “I have luxury cars in there, but I also store for a lot of the Fort Carson soldiers when

they deploy. They don’t want to leave their car on the base…I give them free battery trickle.”

The battery trickle option Jay offers is $25 for non-veterans. This process allows the battery to remain full, as cars that don’t run for extended periods often result in a dead battery. This process protects individuals, such as veterans, who need to leave their vehicles for extended periods, often for months or years.

“THE MOST INTERESTING THING FOR ME IS GETTING TO TALK CARS WITH PEOPLE EVERY TIME THEY COME IN.”

“The average customer we have is a person who has either a third or fourth car, and they have either a two or threecar garage. And this is either a sports car or a luxury car that they’ll store in the winter and then typically drive like an SUV or some type of car that does better in the winter,” Jay says. “Then during the summer, they’ll take the sports car home and store the sedan or SUV.”

There’s no limit to the number of times customers want to exchange their car, and the lease is on the parking space, not the car. Customers show up, hand over the keys, and have their car delivered to them valet-style.

Castle Rock Auto Storage offers a two-month minimum term, after which customers can continue with monthto-month billing, with the option to opt out at any point. With winter coming, this is perfect for those who need storage during the heavy snow months of January and February.

“I have done it at least four times where I stored a car for hiding it for a birthday or something,” Jay says. “I just had a gentleman come in, just retired out of Fort Carson, that’s got a car he just bought for his daughter.”

The idea of being in on surprises for people is part of the magic of owning his

garage. Between that, helping veterans, and discussing cars, Jay has found his sweet spot.

“The most interesting thing for me is getting to talk cars with people every time they come in,” Jay explains. “It is a fascinating thing because cars are an emotional thing for a lot of people.”

“I’ve always had a station wagon,” Jay says happily. “Everybody gets the same service, it doesn’t matter what car it is.”

Jay reminisces, saying, “At one time I had [a car] from every decade from the teens to 2025, except the 1940s. The oldest vehicle in the building is a 1911 Hudson.”

With over 100 spaces available, being local to the community and passionate about discussing cars adds to the success of Castle Rock Auto Storage.

“We love the community,” Jay says. “We’ve been here for almost 18 years and raised our kids here and launched them all from here, so it’s definitely our home.”

ARTICLE BY JERRY VAN LEUVEN

Invest in a Legacy of Healing

Nestled in the rolling landscapes of Douglas County, The Aspen Effect is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit changing the trajectory of youth and family mental health through one powerful approach— connection. Using equine-guided and nature-based mentorship, The Aspen Effect surrounds youth and families with supportive relationships that cultivate trust, resilience, and emotional growth. Their model has been especially impactful for youth navigating anxiety, substance use disorder, and social isolation.

As part of the Colorado Gives Campaign Nov 1 – Dec 9, The Aspen Effect invites community members and philanthropists alike to be part of something transformative. With 100% of parents endorsing the programming and families never charged a fee, your donation directly supports preventative care that meets youth where they are—often outside the walls of a traditional clinic.

In a time when mental health challenges continue to rise, The Aspen Effect stands as a grounded, innovative solution. This Colorado Gives Day, help them expand their reach and deepen their roots. Go to www.ColoradoGives.org and search for The Aspen Effect.

Support The Aspen Effect

events

DECEMBER 1ST-JANUARY 4TH

Forest of Stories

Douglas County Libraries

Step into the magic of the season! Visit every DCL location for a free, wonder-filled experience for the whole family: more than 175 bookthemed, decorated trees on display, sparkling with all your favorite stories. No tickets or registration required. Plus, find the Featured Tree of the Week for a chance to win prizes! Forest of Stories is presented by Douglas County Libraries Foundation.

DECEMBER 4TH-12TH

Dream Dinners & Titan Auto Donations to Hope & Help Center

Titan Auto and Dream Dinners Castle Rock

Titan Auto Tech and Dream Dinners have partnered on a food and gift drive benefitting Hope & Help Center. Help fill the Hope & Help Holiday Store with gifts for kids in need. Gifts and donations for holiday meals can by dropped off at either Titan Auto Tech, 1375 Caprice Dr. Unit D or Dream Dinners, 333 Perry St. STE A, Castle Rock.

DECEMBER 5TH

Festival Park Starlight Market

Festival Park, 300 Second St. Castle Rock, CO 80104 | 3:00 PM

Kick off your holiday shopping with Castle Rock's premier craft and food market. Shop from more than 40 vendors including unique crafts, art, specialty items, roasted chestnuts, salsa, tamales and more. Get that impossible-to-shop-for person a gift while enjoying the 40-foot decorated tree, hot cocoa, food trucks and holiday music. 12/5/25 3:00 - 8:00 12/6/25 11:00 - 7:00

DECEMBER 5TH

Castle Pines Tree Lighting

The Ridge Golf Course 1414 Castle Pines Pkwy, Castle Pines, CO 80108 | 5:00 PM

Help us, and the man in red, kick off our Winter Wonderland series with a tree lighting, drone show, and other family-friendly activities!

• Meet Santa and his reindeer, take photos, and share your holiday wishes

• Treat your taste buds to delicious meals

• Enjoy carolers and immerse yourself in the joyous sounds of the season

• Hop on an enchanting train ride

DECEMBER 6TH

Holiday Magic Happens!

Larkspur Community Park, 8850 Spruce Mountain Rd, Larkspur, CO | 4:00 PM

The annual  lighting of over 50 trees at dusk! Kids can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, while enjoying hot drinks, s’mores, caroling, a bonfire and more! Hosted by the Larkspur Area Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Larkspur

DECEMBER 6TH

Reindeer Games

Philip S. Miller Park, 1375 W. Plum Creek Parkway Castle Rock, CO 80109 | 1:00 PM

It’s holiday fun for the whole family! Enjoy kid-friendly activities in a winter-themed wonderland, including Santa visits (parents, bring your cameras!), hot chocolate, train and hay rides, outdoor games and an obstacle course. Kids will receive a prize at the end of the obstacle course, while supplies last.

GIFT WELLNESS

Gift Card Sale | Pay $80 Get $100

Great for Holidays Gifts or gift to yourself to store on your account. It gives you 20% off ANY services including NAD+.

Starts Black Friday thru January 1, 2026. Never Expires.

hydrateivbar.com/locations/castle-rock

720.952.1015

333 Perry St. Castle Rock Colorado 80104

The first freeze in Castle Rock is said to occur sometime in September or October. Protect your system from costly damages and make the Clever choicebook with us now to ensure a smooth activation in the spring! Make the Clever choice, book online, or call us today!

DECEMBER 6TH

Holiday Movie Night Featuring Elf the Movie

The Ridge Golf Course 1414 Castle Pines Pkwy Castle Pines, CO 80108 | 5:00 PM

Wear your PJs and bring the whole family!  Sit back and enjoy Elf the Movie with your favorite snacks! *registration is required for this event

DECEMBER 7TH

Vocal Arts Winter Concert

Cantril School, 312 Cantril St., Castle Rock, CO | 3:30 PM

Join us for the Vocal Arts of Castle Rock Holiday Concert at Cantril School. Presented by TriArts Project and Vocal Arts of Castle Rock, this festive community celebration promises an unforgettable afternoon filled with live holiday music. Under the direction of Corrine Christian and Cathy Griffin accompanied by Rhoda Kues. TIckets available at https://triartsproject.org/events/ or for purchase at the door.

DECEMBER 7TH

Gingerbread House Decorating Event

The Ridge Golf Course 1414 Castle Pines Pkwy Castle Pines, CO 80108 | 10:00 AM

Step into a magical world of sugary delight at our Gingerbread House Decorating event, perfect for kids and families! Participants will receive a pre-baked gingerbread house for their creativity, along with extra candy to make their house come to life. A limited number of reservations are available, so get your reservation soon. One ticket is required for each house.

DECEMBER 13TH-14TH

Climb Aboard at the Carriage Ride

The Ridge Golf Course 1414 Castle Pines Pkwy Castle Pines, CO 80108 | 4:00 PM

Bundle up and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa on a holiday carriage ride through Castle Pines. Advanced ticket purchase is required for this event, and carriages will fill up quickly. Be sure to register all members of your party to ensure there is enough space on the carriage for everyone. Tickets are only $15 per person.

DECEMBER 13TH

Storytellers & S'Mores

Festival Park, 300 Second St. Castle Rock, CO 80104 | 5:00 PM

Santa and some of his friends are stopping by Festival Park to read holiday favorites from our giant Storyteller Chair. Enjoy roasting marshmallows, making s'mores, hot chocolate and other family-friendly fun at this free community event.

DECEMBER 14TH

Holly Jolly Brunch

The Ridge Golf Course 1414 Castle Pines Pkwy Castle Pines, CO 80108 | 9:00 AM

This annual event is a favorite in the Castle Pines community! Bring your family to enjoy a magical morning filled with holiday cheer and a gourmet brunch. Spend time with Santa, listen to a special reading of  The Night Before Christmas, and, of course, sit on Santa’s lap to share your Christmas wishes!

Want to be featured?

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Castle Rock Realty Report

A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN CASTLE ROCK

ORIGINAL PRICE

$2,700,000.00

$2,151,187.00

$1,650,000.00

$1,067,999.00

$999,950.00

$1,063,990.00

$895,000.00

$899,080.00

$829,000.00

$750,000.00

$720,000.00

$722,000.00

$695,000.00

$650,000.00

$695,000.00

$679,000.00

$650,000.00

$564,900.00

$574,900.00

$564,900.00

$550,000.00

$525,000.00

$419,900.00

$383,900.00

$369,000.00

$2,500,000.00

$2,082,117.00

$1,575,000.00

$938,990.00

$905,709.00

$898,990.00

$812,500.00

$810,000.00

$799,999.00

$740,000.00

$700,000.00

$664,990.00

$660,000.00

$659,000.00

$640,000.00

$639,900.00

$630,000.00

$553,500.00

$550,000.00

$545,000.00

$525,000.00

$515,000.00

$415,500.00

$360,000.00

$355,000.00

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz vanilla vodka (or regular vodka as a substitute)

• 1 oz gingerbread syrup (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa) or Irish cream (e.g., Baileys) – optional

• 1 oz heavy cream, half-and-half, or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or oat milk

• Ice (enough to fill a cocktail shaker)

GARNISH:

• Crushed gingerbread cookies (for rimming the glass)

• Whipped cream (optional)

• Ground cinnamon, cinnamon sticks, or star anise (for decoration)

METHOD:

1. A martini glass is traditional and offers an elegant presentation.

2. Moisten the rim of the glass by dipping it lightly into a shallow dish of water, simple syrup, or even gingerbread syrup for added flavor. Avoid over-saturating to prevent drips.

3. Crush gingerbread cookies finely on a plate. You can also mix spiced sugar by combining granulated sugar with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a subtler option.

4. Dip the moistened glass rim into the crushed cookie or sugar mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coverage. Set the glass aside.

5. Place the rimmed glass in the freezer or refrigerator while you prepare the cocktail. A chilled glass enhances the drinking experience by keeping the martini colder for longer and ensuring the flavors are crisp and well-balanced.

6. Add a generous amount of ice to a cocktail shaker. Ice is essential not only for chilling the drink but also for creating a smooth, slightly frothy texture when shaken vigorously.

7. Pour the vanilla vodka, gingerbread syrup, coffee liqueur (if using), and cream into the shaker. Use precise measurements to ensure a balanced flavor profile.

8. Secure the lid on your shaker and shake for at least 15–20 seconds. This vigorous motion ensures the ingredients are wellcombined and creates a creamy, cohesive texture. The outside of the shaker should feel icy cold to the touch when it’s ready.

9. Using a cocktail strainer, pour the chilled mixture into the prepared martini glass. The strainer ensures that ice shards or unwanted bits don’t end up in the glass, maintaining a smooth finish.

10. Garnishes

• Whipped Cream (Optional)

• Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg over the whipped cream or drink surface for an aromatic boost.

• Place one cinnamon stick or a piece of star anise across the top for added elegance and seasonal flair.

Gingerbread Martini

The Gingerbread Martini is a decadent, dessert-inspired cocktail that perfectly encapsulates the festive spirit of the holiday season.

ARTICLE BY TIANA THOMPSON