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There’s something beautifully distinct about the holidays in Denver. Maybe it’s the way our neighborhoods — from Sunnyside and Berkeley to Park Hill and Central Park — seem to slow down just enough to let the magic in. The air turns crisp, lights go up on porch railings and storefronts, and suddenly, Denver feels a little smaller, a little cozier, a little more like home.

Here, December isn’t about glitz or grandeur — it’s about connection. It’s the aroma of roasted green chile mingling with pine sap. It’s neighbors trading tamales across fences, families walking dogs around Sloan’s Lake at sunset, and shopkeepers along Tennyson Street wrapping up local gifts with care and conversation. It’s that familiar hum of community that reminds us that even in a city that’s always changing, the heart of the Mile High city beats steady and strong.
This Holiday Issue celebrates that heartbeat. Inside, you’ll meet local makers turning creativity into kindness — from ceramicists shaping gifts that last a lifetime to bakers sharing recipes that warm more than just the oven. You’ll read stories of small businesses giving back, families preserving long-held traditions, and residents finding new ways to gather, celebrate, and uplift one another.
And amid all the lights, the parties, and the long to-do lists, I hope you find a few moments of stillness this season. Step outside on a snowy evening and listen — to the crunch underfoot, the laughter from a nearby porch, the quiet pulse of a community wrapped in gratitude.
Because that’s the real magic of this time of year: the reminder that the holidays aren’t about things — they’re about people. The ones who live next door, the ones we meet by chance, the ones who make this corner of Denver feel so wonderfully alive.
Here is to wishing you warmth, wonder, and a truly heartfelt holiday season.
NATE
THOMAS, PUBLISHER
@MILEHIGHCITYLIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Nate Thomas | nate.thomas@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anne Hebert, Irene Middleman Thomas
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Laura Sheets, Steve Hebert, MAG Events
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle


Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
















1-10: The annual Tennyson Street Fair took over the sidewalks and storefronts with more than 100 local artisans offering everything from handmade jewelry and scented candles to colorful rugs and bespoke skincare, while food trucks and neighborhood favorites served up everything from wood-fired pizza to craft brews. Live music floated through the air as families spread blankets and kids chased bubbles between the booths, giving the day a true block-party energy. Between bites, beats and browsing, it felt like the entire neighborhood paused to celebrate itself — and reminded everyone just how much charm lives within this corridor of Denver.









Now open in Central Park, Lady Nomada by Gastamo Group—the team behind Denver favorites Park Burger and Birdcall—offers a Baja-inspired coastal escape with Margaritas, tacos, and house-made churros. The full menu includes lunch, dinner, and family meals. Happy hour runs 2–5 p.m. Monday–Friday. Reservations and private event arrangements are available online or by contacting the restaurant directly.
Find everything for kids at Little Bird Denver in Park Hill! Shop unique children’s clothing (preemie–14 years) with shipping available. Discover toys sure to delight any child. Need a haircut? Little Bird’s hair studio offers fun, safe services where kids can sit in a child-sized or standard chair and watch their favorite show on an iPad for comfort and entertainment.
A sustainable, eco-conscious floral design house and micro farm located in Denver’s RiNo shopping area offering responsibly sourced and sustainably grown materials that highlight the seasonal connection to the land. Featuring original and avant garde designs, the shop offers services for weddings and events, businesses and restaurants, design classes, and flower subscriptions.





We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Blue Ruby Boutique https://bluerubyboutique.com
Sarah O. Jewelry https://www.sarahojewelry.com
Vintage Label https://thevintagelabel.com
Coco + Grace https://cocoandgrace.shop/
Strut Boutique https://strutdenver.com/
2025 COLORADO Holiday Art and Craft Fair https://www.denverunionstation.com/events/urban-holiday-market/
Cherry Creek Holiday Market https://www.cherrycreekholidaymarket.com/
Denver Christkindlmarket https://www.christkindlmarketdenver.com/
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Golden's Candlelight Walk https://www.visitgolden.com/olde-golden-holidays/candlelightwalk/
Womens Caucus for Art Colorado - Holiday Art Market https://www.wcaco.org/


May your holiday season be filled with beauty.

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Tips from an event pro will make your party memorable.

With the holidays rapidly approaching, it helps to know what to expect when planning a celebration. While intimate gatherings usually come together without a hitch, larger events include more moving parts to think about. We asked Meghan, owner and lead planner of Denver’s 5-star MAG Events, to provide some party planning pointers.
To start, Meghan recommends nailing down the basics. “Think about the atmosphere you want to create, your guest list, where you plan to host your party, and your budget.” She suggests a simple spreadsheet to create an event timeline that includes set-up, cocktail hour, dinner, and clean-up. When complete, this can be shared with key vendors to keep everyone on the same page.
Next, take some time to consider the aesthetic you want. Websites like Pinterest are great for offering inspiration. How you want your event to look is more effectively conveyed if you’re able to provide some examples of what you have in mind. “Often, an event planner or vendor can suggest some options within your budget.” Meghan recommends looking for vendors that can provide more than a single service. “Selecting a reputable planner or vendor that will manage multiple details can help achieve a cohesive design and eliminate some of the hassle of multiple vendors and deliveries.”
Give some specific thought to how long your party or event should last. A cocktail party is bound to last less time than a dinner party. For a simple cocktail gathering,
Meghan suggests three hours. “It is such a busy time of year,” she explains. “A threehour timeframe lets people enjoy themselves without feeling overcommitted.”
For a dinner party, four to five hours is ample. “Nobody wants to feel hurried through a meal,” notes Meghan. “A buffet line takes time. If dancing after the meal is part of the agenda, it should also be a consideration.”
Meghan says this recommendation will be helpful for anything other than an intimate dinner or event. “Hiring staff for food and beverage service allows hosts to be present for their guests,” she explains. “Bartending staff can professionally oversee a tailored cocktail menu.” Professional staff also prevent the stress created by trying to mingle and making trips back and forth to the kitchen.

Parties are for greeting old friends and meeting new ones. evening. A cocktail hour with passed hors d’oeuvres facilitates mingling and lively conversation. Beverages and appetizers, followed by dinner and desert can be served buffet-style or plated. For a more casual, “open house” approach, heavy appetizers and a signature cocktail will make an enduring impression.
“THINK ABOUT THE ATMOSPHERE YOU WANT TO CREATE, YOUR GUEST LIST, WHERE YOU PLAN TO HOST YOUR PARTY, AND YOUR BUDGET.”
Little details are all-important in the creation of the evening’s ambiance and mood. Holidays are a great time to infuse some sparkle into your event. While confetti and glitter are usually not desirable based on their reputation for difficult clean-up, sparkle can be incorporated into the centerpieces, décor, and even the drinks.
Beautiful lighting goes a long way toward enhancing a festive aesthetic. Consider custom lighting for the tables, the venue perimeter, and even projection on the walls for a warm, welcoming touch.
Choose décor with an eye for texture and layers. Natural elements such as florals, evergreen, leaves, berries, and dried fruit offer sustainable décor options that won’t create inorganic waste at the end of the event.
Hosting an event—no matter the size— should be fun for everyone. Take time beforehand to cover the details so that you can enjoy the party with your guests.


















MAKING IT ACCESSIBLE, AFFORDABLE AND FOR ALL AGES
ARTICLE BY IRENE MIDDLEMAN THOMAS

Michele Zohn changed her life some 15 years ago to follow her passion. “I distinctly remember sitting in my work cubicle one day, and asking myself, if you could be doing any job right now, what would that be? Without hesitation I said, ‘Teach dance!”
That became the launch of Dance Institute Denver. Zohn, who moved to Denver in 2004 from Saint Paul, Minnesota, had previously taught dance classes in the evenings, but had a corporate day job. Her dance institute’s mission is teaching dance in a “friendly, positive and encouraging environment.” Most of the students are children over 8 years old, but teens and adults also attend classes.
Dance Institute welcomes parents to view classes. “We want you to see what your child is learning and growing from the instruction provided from our teachers,” says Zohn. The school offers combination classes so that students receive a well-rounded dance education without the expense of attending multiple classes. The classes include hip hop, tap, ballet and more.
Dance Institute donates show proceeds to local schools, as well as raises funds and donations for local charities such as Food Bank of the Rockies. The beloved Nutcracker Ballet is the big event of the year for many ballet companies, including Dance Institute, which performs it each year.The company owns the sets, costumes and props for the Ballet. “It is fun, as the director, to see how we evolve over the years,” Zohn notes.
Michele stresses that her staff is made up of dedicated, passionate dance educators eager to work with dancers of all ages. “Each one of our teachers have put in countless hours learning and growing in the world of dance from very young ages. Our teachers have performed in the industry and have taught many students. “We strive for our dance studio to make every student feel at home,” she adds.” We treat all our students like family. With so many activities and sports for children becoming intense, life consuming and serious, II feel it is important to remember we are teaching children. We want to love and nurture their development so they feel successful and confident.”

“We strive for our dance studio to make every student feel at home”
The Nutcracker will be performed December 19 at 6:00PM and December 20th at 1:00PM at Adam City High School Theater, 7200 Quebec St. DanceInstituteDenver.com MICHELEZOHN@msn.com

The holidays are here and entertaining is in full swing. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

• Fig Jelly
• Honey
• Variety of Cheeses
• Salami or meat of choice
• Olives (provide a variety)
• Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios and any favorite nut
• Grapes, berries, persimmon
• Crackers
Place the jars of sauces and olives on the board first. Next place the cheeses on opposing sides. Add meats and fruits next. Layer in crackers, nuts and seeds and fill in any spots with extra nuts. Use fresh Rosemary or fresh greenery to add wreath accent in the center of the charcuterie board. Garnish with fresh cranberries. CONTINUED >
• A variety of fresh berries or desired fruit
• Marshmallows
• Hot Cocoa Mix
• Chocolate Covered Pretzels
• Chocolate Covered Cherries
• Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers
• Chocolate Covered Biscotti
• Hot Cocoa Bomb
• Holiday Cookie Cutter
Place your favorite holiday cookie cutter on the board first. Fill the cookie cutter with mini marshmallows. Next, layer the large items first. Begin with the chocolate covered Biscotti and build around that using berries. Pile the berries high. Next add a variety of chocolate covered treats on opposite sides of each other between the mounds of berries. Be sure to add touches of berries around the edges. If space allows, place hot cocoa on board. Otherwise, set bowl full of hot cocoa mix and any additional hot cocoa fixings adjacent to the board.


• Donuts
• Cinnamon Rolls
• French Beignets
• Rosemary sprigs for garnish
Layer board with larger pastries first and layer in with smaller pastry next. Garnish board with holiday sprigs or fresh herbs.


Live greenery and plants add festive scent and holiday beauty.
Most of us have cherished memories of the sights and sounds of the holidays. The fragrant tree and the preparation of mouthwatering delicacies highlight festive holiday traditions. Consider decorating with live plants and greenery to add a special touch.
Colorado native evergreens offer a traditional holiday look. You can choose Colorado blue spruce, or Noble or Fraser fir for wreaths and garland. Scotch, white, and ponderosa pine are also great choices and provide a heady scent. Experts suggest choosing a long-lasting white fir tree grown in the mountains of Colorado and New Mexico called Con Color.
American wintergreen can be planted in pots and thrive outdoors year-round in Colorado. Other container-friendly plants include boxwood and juniper.
Organic materials including pinecones, dried oranges, pomegranates, and unshelled nuts work beautifully in centerpieces. According to the experts at Denver’s City Floral, a few initial tricks will extend
the life of your greenery to last beautifully throughout the season.
• Start with the freshest greenery possible. Check to make sure it feels pliable and soft.
• Deeply soak greenery in water overnight before arranging. Mist with water or a wilt-proof, anti-desiccant spray every couple of days to maintain hydration. Keep trees and other live décor away from heat vents and fireplaces, as these speed up drying. For outdoor décor, use species native to Colorado to last longer in the cold.
• Water your Christmas tree regularly. Depending on the type you choose, the seller can saw the bottom of the trunk for a fresh cut and advise about maintenance.
Denver’s City Floral carries a tree preservative. Added to the tree stand, gel polymers expand to ensure the tree will never get completely dry in between waterings. Add lights, ornaments, and candles to achieve a soft glow. Your home will embody the joy and spirit of the holiday season.

Consider decorating with live plants and greenery to add a special touch.





ARTICLE BY ANNE HEBERT
TREAT ANYONE TO A SPECTACULAR LOCALLY CRAFTED GIFT

A woman-owned, small business in Pueblo, CO, Formulary 55 offers a line of self-care products for women and men. Every product is produced in carefully crafted small batches with exceptional attention to detail. Beautiful packaging creates a luxurious gift. formulary55.com



Give the gift of the Wild West of American Winemaking with a membership to the Carboy Wine Club. Since 2016, Carboy Winery has been proving that Colorado can produce world-class wines. carboywinery.com
Colorado-made, Hammond’s Candies has over a century of experience making yummy treats and snacks. For stocking stuffers, or stand-alone items, their array of chocolates, caramels, and candy canes make sweet gifts. hammondscandies.com

Brothers Distillery
Third generation Denverites, Paul and Danny Tighe, enjoyed a special relationship with their grandfather that ignited their interest in fine spirits. Great for gifting, Tighe Brothers Distillery handcrafts their products in Denver. tighedistillery.com

Denver
Kyndred, located is Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood, is a great place to shop for gift items for the home. Emphasizing the palette of personal connection, Kyndred offers seasonal items alongside classic, modern décor including kitchen items, entertaining pieces, textiles, and art. kyndredshop.com







PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.
Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon.
Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.


An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.

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• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2 oz bourbon
Topping: 4 large marshmallows
Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate. Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth
Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.
INSTRUCTIONS: CONTINUED >


A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
• 2 oz gin
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.
For the latte:
• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup
• Whipped cream
For the gingerbread syrup:
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
• Marshmallow
• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top
Make the gingerbread syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink: Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.










DECEMBER 1ST - 24TH
The Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas Street, Aurora, CO 80010 | 5:30 PM
Created by local artist Lonnie Hanzon in partnership with DCPA Off-Center, this reimagined, walk-through experience is designed to take folks from “meh” to “merry” in six dazzling cycles, from “Pre-Soak’ to “Fluff & Buff.” Interactive installations and playful prompts will encourage visitors to literally check their emotional baggage before emerging renewed, glittering, and ready to take on the season.
DECEMBER 1ST - 28TH


Wolf Theatre, Speer Blvd. and Arapahoe Street, Denver, CO 80204 | 7:00 PM
“A Christmas Carol” is a joyous and opulent musical adaptation for the whole family that traces money-hoarding curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge’s triumphant overnight journey to redemption. Based upon the Charles Dickens’ classic novel, this festive tradition illuminates the meaning of the holiday season in a way that has resonated for generations.
DECEMBER 1ST - JANUARY 12TH
Denver Botanic Gardens 1007 York St, Denver CO, 80206 | 4:30 PM
Blossoms of Light is a spectacular celebration that illuminates the Denver Botanic Gardens’ York Street location. Wander a mile-long path through immersive, luminous displays that accentuate and highlight the plant collections. A cherished holiday tradition, Blossoms of Light is constantly evolving to surprise and delight visitors.
DECEMBER 1ST - JANUARY 21ST
The Brown Palace Hotel, 321 17 th Street, Denver, CO 80202 | 11:00 AM
Enjoy Holiday Tea at The Brown Palace. Guests can enjoy seasonal teas, treats and festive cheer amidst the hotel’s sparkling décor and the centerpiece Denver Debutante Chandelier. Holiday Afternoon Tea at The Brown Palace is served Monday–Friday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and Saturday–Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the last seating at 4:00 PM.
DECEMBER 5TH - 7TH & 12TH - 14TH
Denver Sports Castle, 1000 N. Broadway, Denver, CO 80203 | 10:00 AM
The Denver Winter Market transforms the historic Sports Castle into a multi-level holiday experience with 85+ curated vendors, two full bars, and vintage-inspired charm. This market invites guests to discover one-of-a-kind gifts, seasonal ambiance, and a bold new tradition in the heart of Denver.
DECEMBER 6TH
Downtown Denver, free viewing along Tremont, 17th, Arapahoe, or 15th Streets | 6:00 PM
One of Denver’s most cherished traditions, this free holiday spectacular features extravagantly illuminated floats, giant helium-filled character balloons, magnificent marching bands, traditional equestrian units, and vibrant cultural displays. Special appearances by Major Waddles and Santa top off the evening.

The San Luis Valley is a place that showcases some of the most extraordinary beauty Colorado has to offer. The mountain views and natural geography are breathtaking, belying the fact that the winter weather is forbiddingly cold and windy.
Author Ted Conover explores this dichotomy in his book, Cheap Land Colorado. The book’s title comes from a Google search term used by people looking to relocate inexpensively. It’s a tempting prospect, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the area.
The book examines the society and culture of off-gridders living in the “flats” or “prairie” in the San Luis Valley. Conover immerses himself by living and working there, introducing the reader to a rich cast of characters. “I like to shed light on a culture that people drive by without ever really seeing,” he says.
No stranger to immersive journalism, Conover wrote his first book, Rolling Nowhere, straight out of college. “I was taking an anthropology class, and I began to make the connection that this type of research might be a way to explore a childhood fantasy of hopping a freight train.”
That led to a deep dive into who else hopped trains. His curiosity about the people and their stories led to understanding the reasons people choose a certain way of living. The adage, learn by doing, became his way of approaching work.
Arguably one of the most notable, contemporary narrative writers, Conover was raised in Denver. He graduated from Manual High School. Though Conover now lives and teaches in New York, Colorado is home. In the meantime, Conover says the San Luis Valley is not a subject he’s ready to be done with. “I can really see myself living more life there.”
ARTICLE BY ANNE HEBERT

In 2025 I helped 28 people with a total of 13 dogs and 4 cats buy and sell 21 properties–all those yellow pins on the map–totalling over $23M of inventory. (The orange pins were last year’s sales.)
16 of these sales were on Denver's Northside. 6 of them were duplexes, 4 of them were in a condo or had an HOA, 2 of them were new construction custom homes that I had a hand in designing, 6 of them were first time buyers in Colorado!
For a slower market, I've been pretty busy! What moves can I help you make in 2026? SCAN TO SET UP A CHAT
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