Author: Joy Meadows

Spring is one of the most fun times to be in pretty Golden, Colorado, and even with COVID-19 restrictions in place, that is still true today. Many Golden attractions, museums, restaurants and trails offer fun and interactive ways to explore the first territorial capital of Colorado – either digitally or “to go.”

VIRTUAL GOLDEN — There are a number of fun ways to explore Golden without leaving your home, including:

COLORADO RAILROAD MUSEUM
All Aboard—online! While the Colorado Railroad Museum is closed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the museum is offering a new series of online content.  Planned regular features will include material for younger children, families—and of course, rail buffs! Here’s what the series will include:

• A weekly, themed Museum tour focusing on specific artifacts and rolling stock
• Children’s storytime readings accompanied by a related craft activity you can do at home!
• Updates from the Roundhouse crew on the projects they’re tackling
• Recipes for signature dishes straight out of dining car menus from railroading’s heyday!

Visit www.coloradorailroadmuseum.com or their Facebook, YouTube and Instagram pages.

Golden History Museum
In this time of closed museums, Golden History Museum & Park is offering virtual lectures, activities, and more to you engaged and entertained from the comfort and safety of your own home. New activities are happening each week, so check Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, as well as GoldenHistory.org see the latest offerings. Some activities will be live broadcasts while others will be available anytime. 

DINOSAUR RIDGE
Dinosaur Ridge where the world’s first dinosaur bones were discovered is opening up all sorts of great activities at a new online education portal.  This coloring sheet with "Tracker" is a good one to start with.  Learn all about the fantastic dinosaurs that once called Colorado home.

FOOTHILLS ART CENTER VIDEOS
Hang out with the Foothills Art Center and learn about the Members' Show which features artworks created by Colorado artists, or get to know the Foothills Art Center Executive Director in a series of chats. 

COLORADO ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL FILMS
Check out past CEFF films!  You can explore the collection of festival films now available for streaming. Most films are free to stream.  Titles with a $ indicate film is available to rent.  

GOLDEN BEER TALKS
Golden brews more beer than any other city in the world.  Golden Beer Talks is Golden’s own grassroots version of TED Talks focused on three favorite local things—Golden and Beer and Talking!   You can Listen  to past Golden Beer Talks and learn fascinating things about – beer!

MINERS ALLEY PLAYHOUSE (MAP)
While the theatre is closed, you can visit the Miners Alley Playhouse blog!  Watch for weekly blog posts that will bring you updates on what MAP and the MAP Staff are doing during this closure.  You’ll get behind the scenes looks at set and costume design, notes from directors and music directors on plays and musicals that they are producing, fun news on children and adult educational classes and Miners Alley Children’s Theatre performances, and information about the Denver theatre community.  There will also be some fun videos and links to theatre and Golden related things as well.

JEFFERSON COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY – ONLINE LIBRARY
Even though the physical buildings are closed, the Jefferson County Public Library website and its digital branch never closes!  The  Online Library gives you access to a wide variety of resources for research, education and just good old-fashioned fun!   Here are their top picks:

• E-books and Audiobooks
• Quality Films and Documentaries
• Newspapers and Magazines
• Educational Entertainment for Kids
• More Hoopla!
• DIY Arts and Crafts

JEFFCO MAKES – JEFFCO PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Introducing: Jeffco Makes. An online platform to get you and your family making, baking and shaking! They will be posting three different activities each week. Pick one (or all) that you and your family want to do. 
 

GOLDEN DINING

Some 60 restaurants in Golden are offering takeout lunches, dinners and deserts during this temporary COVID-19 shut down of all restaurants in Colorado.  You can still enjoy crusty pizza, tasty hamburgers, fine dining, international cuisine from Mexico, Nepal, Thailand, China, the Middle East, Italy and so much more, all with easy take-out and curbside pickup.  Please support your local restaurants during these challenging days, with all details here.

While restrictions are in place, Golden is here to help with digital cultural activities and dining to-go. And why not spend some of your at home time planning your next adventure in Golden. When restrictions lift, a staycation in Golden will be in order. Check out visitgolden.com for ideas and activities. 

 

Here are ways to help support your favorite Golden businesses and attractions during the COVID-19 crisis. We are all in this together and together we can be #GoldenStrong and show why #GoldenRules!

BUY GIFT CARDS — Why not pick up a few gift cards from your favorite Golden restaurant or shop? It will help Golden’s businesses now and give you something to look forward to. With Easter, Mother’s Day, and Graduation around the corner, get your shopping done early and support Golden when it needs it the most.

ORDER TAKEOUT — Just because you’re eating in doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy food from one of Golden’s fabulous restaurants. With a variety of cuisine, Golden offers delicious dining choices and many restaurants are offering curbside delivery, so you never even have to leave your car. Call your favorite Golden restaurant to see if they are open for delivery or take-out. If you can’t pick up yourself, see if the restaurant offers delivery service or use DoorDash, GrubHub or UberEats to have the food delivered to you.

SHOP ONLINE — Does your favorite Golden retailer offer online shopping? Many do, including Spinster Sisters, Vital Outdoors, State-38, and more. We’ve compiling a list of Golden shops offering online shopping, please email [email protected] to be added to the list. Also, don’t forget that many shops may not offer online shopping but are eager to take orders over the phone – just ask!

BECOME A MEMBER — Membership has its privileges and most Golden cultural attractions offer very affordable yearlong memberships, including Foothills Art Center, the Colorado Railroad Museum, Golden History Museum, the Golden Chamber of Commerce and more. Become a member now to support your favorite museum or cultural attraction and soon you’ll reap the benefits of member-only benefits and events.  

SOCIAL SUPPORT — Engage with your favorite Golden businesses by following, liking and commenting on their posts. Leave a positive Google, Yelp, or Facebook review and let these businesses know how much you appreciate them.

WE WELCOME MORE IDEAS ON HOW TO PRACTICE THE GOLDEN RULE WITH OUR GOLDEN MERCHANTS. 

LET US KNOW IF YOU HAVE OTHER IDEAS TO HELP SHOW WHY GOLDEN RULES!

Foothills Art Center Joins Growing List of Free Attractions in Golden

Throughout 2020, admission to Golden’s Foothills Art Center (FAC) has been waived thanks to the generosity of museum donor Betsy A. Thorpe. 

FAC is Golden’s third major cultural attraction to offer free admission, joining the Golden History Museum & Park and the Mines Museum. Additionally, the Golden Bike Library, which is open from May – October, allows visitors to check out a free bike. 

“Visitors have long gravitated to Golden to enjoy free mountain recreation, like hiking, biking, fly-fishing and kayaking,” said Megan Pinson, marketing manager for Visit Golden, “Now you can explore Golden’s arts and culture for free too. Browse the artwork at Foothills Art Center, step back in time at Golden’s History Museum and admire the precious gems and minerals at the Mines Museum. Visiting Golden is easy, entertaining and inexpensive.”

FAC Director Hassan Najjar noted, “Our ultimate goal is to have a substantial number of people call Foothills Art Center their cultural home. We don’t want our admission fee to serve as a barrier for entry and are excited to provide access to as many folks as possible to enjoy the arts in Golden.”

Located only 15 miles from Denver, Golden offers authentic, small town charm in a gorgeous setting. The city is home to nearly a dozen cultural attractions and museums, and offers world-class recreation, a revitalized dining scene and year-round activities and events. 

FAC is an acclaimed regional arts center, offering classes, exhibitions and events to inspire and engage the community. Although admission is free throughout 2020, FAC memberships are still the best way to experience and support the center and offer a variety of perks. Learn more by visiting www.foothillsartcenter.org.

For more ideas on what to do in Golden, a list of upcoming events and more ideas on free activities, check out visitgolden.com or stop into the Golden Visitors Center at 1010 Washington Avenue in the heart of downtown Golden. 

 

Who doesn’t love roses and chocolates on Valentine’s Day? But this year, why not score points for creativity and head to Golden to set the stage for romance with one of these adventures…

Give the Gift of Adventure – Add a little excitement to your relationship with a gift certificate for a rock climbing lesson or guided ice climbing adventure from Golden Mountain Guides. Or learn to fly fish or kayak together by checking out the lessons at Golden River Sports.

Romantic Walks – Golden’s downtown will be illuminated through Valentine’s Day. Bundle up for a romantic walk and then pop into a Golden restaurant, coffee house, brew pub or distillery for a delicious drink or meal. Reservations recommended.

Start the Day off Right – Beat the dinner crowd and instead surprise your Valentine with a morning hike and leisurely breakfast. Golden is home to several breakfast spots which offer a perfect start to the special day. Afterwards, get a latte to go and walk Clear Creek hand-in-hand.

Sunrise or Sunset Views – Take your romance to new heights with a romantic drive to catch the sunrise or sunset. Early birds or late night owls can enjoy the scenic views of Golden at a special spot like the Windy Saddle Overview. More ideas here.

Enjoy a Valentine’s Day Special in Golden – Several Golden shops and restaurants are offering Valentine’s specials and events.

No matter how you decide to celebrate Valentine’s Day, we hope you’ll visit Golden, a perfect romantic getaway for the adventurous couple! More info at visitgolden.com

Last year, Golden held a historic gathering of Golden Retrievers for a meet-up on National Golden Retriever Day, February 3^rd.  The event set an unofficial world record for the largest gathering of Golden Retrievers and was a doggone great time for all. 

Despite the four-legged fun of the 2019 event, there will be no official Golden Gathering on National Golden Retriever Day in 2020.  Instead, we encourage you to visit Golden anytime  – because really, what day isn’t a holiday when you are a Golden Retriever in Golden, Colorado. 

Golden prides itself on its friendly Western spirit of hospitality so your well-trained and leashed Golden Retrievers– and ALL dogs! – are always welcome in Golden. Many merchants along Washington Ave. put out water bowls, and Golden has miles of dog-friendly trails, especially our trails along Clear Creek where dogs on leashes are invited to take a drink or a rest their paws in the water. You may also want to visit a Golden dog park and afterward, a dog-friendly Golden beer garden or patio.

We hope to see you and your furry friend in Golden in 2020. Stay tuned as we ponder a possible pooch party for next year and follow us on social media @VisitGoldenCO for the latest news.

From Art to Adventure, Golden is the Place for Year-Round Fun!

Mark your calendar for year-round fun in Golden in 2020. No matter what brings you to Golden, you’re sure to find a friendly, small town atmosphere celebrating the season. Here’s an overview of major festivals and fun and you can find a full listing of all Golden events at visitgolden.com/events-all.

• Ullrgrass Music & Beer Festival, January 24-26, Named one of Colorado’s top ten outdoor festivals by Westword, UllrGrass Music & Beer Festival features bluegrass artists from Nashville to Colorado. Festival-goers dress in Viking regalia to celebrate the Norse God of Winter, bluegrass music and craft beer. This family-friendly event features games and activities for kids, an Ullr-egg hunt, Ullr costume parade and a variety of tasty treats from on-site food trucks. For tickets, information, and the music lineup, visit UllrGrass.com.
• Golden Restaurant Week, January 31 – February 9, Celebrate Golden's dining scene and magnificent holiday light display during this annual 10-day event. Go for a stroll through downtown or stop in to one of Golden's distilleries to try a fancy cocktail or special before enjoying a meal at one of Golden's fabulous restaurants. Participating restaurants, breweries, and distilleries will be offering specials each day.
• The Colorado Environmental Film Festival, February 20 – 23, (CEFF) is a celebration of the inspirational, educational, and motivational power of film. Both local and national, short and feature length films will be shown. Audiences have the opportunity to be more than passive viewers – they will leave inspired, surprised, motivated, entertained, and transformed through events that will involve both filmmakers and audience members in thought-provoking dialogues and filmmaker forums.   
• Taste of Golden, April 6. The Golden Chamber puts on a fun night of sampling local bites and sips from Golden restaurants, distilleries, breweries and sweet shops at the Buffalo Rose Event Center. Be sure to buy your ticket in advance – this event always sells out.  
• Colorado School of Mines E-Days, April 17-19. Since 1934, Mines students have put aside studying each spring to celebrate Engineering Days (E-Days) and honor CSM’s unique traditions with cardboard boat races on Clear Creek, a concert, a Tesla coil demonstration, fireworks and more.
• The Wright, April 29 – May 1. Inspired by hard working, independent-minded men and women of the Rocky Mountain Region, The Wright brings 3 days of discussions, workshops, keynotes and events all culminating in the high-energy, much-anticipated Award Night program. Throughout Golden.
• Golden Farmer’s Market , Saturdays, June 6 – October 3. Featuring farm-fresh produce, gourmet cuisine, refreshing beverages and local vendors and entertainment, the Golden Farmer’s Market is  held in the Golden Public Library’s West Parking Lot  at 10th & Illinois.
• ARTSWEEK GOLDEN, July 6-12. This a week-long celebration of the arts orchestrated by Foothills Art Center in partnership with Golden arts-oriented organizations provides 168 hours of art!  All week long, visit Golden for pop-up art installations, plein air sessions, kids activities and a juried weekend arts festival. 
• Buffalo Bill Days, July 23 – 26. Thousands of people fill the streets of Golden for Buffalo Bill Days. Catch Cody's Wild West, the popular parade, mutton busting, live music, an orphan car and a classic car show, a golf tournament, food and merchandise vendors and, of course, Buffalo Bill and Annie Oakley!  
• The Golden Fine Arts Festival, August 15 & 16. A Golden icon for nearly three decades, Golden Fine Arts Festival is a prestigious juried art show located in the heart of historic downtown Golden, Colorado. With free admission to the public, this premier event draws over 35,000 visitors over 2 days to enjoy art, live entertainment, beer and wine gardens, food vendors, and children’s activities. The event is limited to 136 artist booth spaces.  Artists are selected through a competitive jury and traditionally, over half of participating Artists travel to Golden from outside of Colorado.  
• Golden’s Sidewalk Sale, September 19. Golden is home to a variety of mostly locally owned shops and galleries. Merchants will set out deep discounts all throughout Golden, from local fashions to great deals on outdoor gear. Bargain hunters get ready to “strike gold” with the deals in Golden!
• Knock Your Boots Off Chili Cook-off & Beer Tasting – October 11. A Golden tradition, the Knock Your Boots Off Chili Cook-Off and Beer Tasting is presented by Golden Chamber of Commerce and Coors Distributing Company and includes free samples from over 30 chili competitors, 90 different beers and fun.
• Holiday Art Market at Foothills Art Center,  Nov. 21 – Dec, 31. Golden’s beloved annual Holiday Art Market (HART) at Foothills Art Center features the creations of over 100 local Colorado artists working in the highest standards of handcraft, including fine ceramics, fiber, glass work, jewelry, paintings, woodworking, photography, holiday items, and more. HART is a “cool” holiday art market and an ideal shopping destination for unique gifts.
• Small Business Saturday, November 28. Shop and dine in Golden on Small Business Saturday to support our incredible local merchants. With plenty of shops from all throughout Golden, holiday shopping will be finished in no time.
• Candlelight Walk & Holiday Fireworks – December 4. Experience the beauty of the season while walking down Washington Avenue, candle in hand, singing holiday carols during Golden’s Candlelight Walk, which offers an authentic way to open the season of lights and ends in a beautiful fireworks display illuminating Clear Creek and downtown Golden. The Walk is free and open to all. Gather at Foothills Art Center– the walk starts promptly at 6:30 p.m.
• Olde Golden Christmas Parades – December 5, 12 & 19. Olde Golden Christmas Parades are authentic and historic. Downtown Golden becomes a festive holiday center with traditional decorations and fun family events. The free Olde Golden Christmas Parades on three Saturdays in December start at 11 a.m. with cowboys on horses, floats, old cars, elves, the Grinch in his Corvette, and of course, Santa Claus.

 

For a complete list of events, activities, hikes, bike rides, restaurant and shopping opportunities, go to:  www.visitgolden.com

 

In November 2019, the Denver Post declared, “Golden’s restaurant scene is blowing up,” and that Golden “is now joining the ranks of Colorado’s food destinations.”

Golden Restaurant Week, Jan. 31-Feb. 9, 2020, is the perfect time to find out why everyone is talking about the dining scene in this historic town at the edge of the mountains. Here are the top 5 reasons to dine in Golden during this special event:

1. More than a dozen restaurants will offer specials such as two-for-one cocktails, discounted entrees; three course dinners; free bottles of wine; free appetizers, free deserts and more. It’s the perfect time to visit a new restaurant, or enjoy an old favorite. For a complete list of restaurants and specials being offered, visit www.VisitGolden.com.

2. The holiday lights in Golden are staying on until mid-Feb. 2020, making this quaint historic town more romantic than ever. Thousands of twinkling lights line the paved path that follows Clear Creek from the center of town up into the mountains. It’s been called by Westword, the “most beautiful urban trail in Denver,” and it’s lovely when illuminated.

3. Parking in Golden is free after 5 pm and on weekends.  As you walk along Washington Avenue, you’ll see galleries, clothing boutiques, candy stores, bars, breweries, distilleries, and outdoor cafes.

4. Golden has plenty of cool places for a pre-dinner drink. There are seven craft breweries in Golden, two distilleries and a handful of tap houses and cocktail bars. Downtown is easy and walkable to move from drink to dinner, or there are award-winning breweries with sunset and mountain views.

5. Did we mention specials? The participating restaurants are offering the following specials:

• Bella Colibri – Three course meal: antipasto (appetizer), entree, and dessert for $35 per person. Choose from two antipasti, three entrees, and cannoli for dessert.
• Bridgewater Grill – Receive a complimentary dessert with the purchase of an entrée.
• The Buffalo Rose – Purchase 1 entree, get a second entree for 50% off. Limit 1 special per party.
• Café 13 –Loaded nachos with 2 margaritas for $15 during Happy Hour from 3-6pm.
• El Dorado Mexican Restaurant – 2-for-1 house margaritas and 2-for-1 shots on all Exotico Tequilas.
• Tributary Food Hall & Drinkery – Enjoy 50% off select bottles of wine all week long and $4 craft cocktails from 3-6 pm. Mention "Golden Restaurant Week" to a server and receive a Tributary Passport, which features ongoing specials.
• Colorado Plus 49 Cidery & Pub – 50% off flights with any food purchase and $1 off all appetizers.
• Golden Sweets – Present your dinner receipt from that evening from a downtown Golden restaurant and receive 20% off the sweet dessert of your choice.
•  Cheese Ranch – 5 O’Clock flights – 3 cheese plate with 2 glasses of wine or beer for $18.00.
• Woody’s Wood-Fired Pizza – Italian Dinner for Two ($49.99): Parmesan garlic knot appetizer, two salads from the salad bar, two orders of homemade ricotta-stuffed manicotti and a bottle of wine.
• Bob’s Atomic Burgers – A burger with two toppings, small side, and drink for $10.
• Miners Saloon – Pick six charcuterie plus a bottle of wine (J Lohr Cabernet, Kendall Jackson Chardonnay or Benvolio Pinot Grigio) for $40.
• Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse – Two entrees and a bottle of wine for $59.95. Entrees: Salmon Steak w/celery root puree, broccoli rabe, sundried tomatoes, chili garlic; New York Strip (8-oz) w/garlic mashed potatoes and roasted carrots; and Roast Chicken w/ragu of baby carrots, potatoes, roasted mushrooms, English peas.
• Launch Espresso Food Spirits — Two glasses of wine and a charcuterie board for $20.
• Nomad Taqueria and Beer Garden – Kids eat free with the purchase of an entree.
• Jolynn's & the BC Underground – Enjoy a free Cracklin' Chicken Dip with the purchase of two entrees.
• Snarf's – Free cookie or cup of soup with purchase of a 7" or 12" sandwich
• Bono’s Italian Restaurant – Lasagna dinner for two for $39.99: BOLANO Appetizer, 2 Lasagna Entrees, and 2 Glasses of Wine.

You MUST mention “Golden Restaurant Week” to receive the specials. Full details at https://www.visitgolden.com/events/festivals-of-golden/golden-restaurant-week/

Reservations strongly encouraged. Contact individual restaurants for reservations.

NOTE: Holiday photo from Instagram's @traildogartisans

 

The iconic welcome arch spanning the main street in Golden, Colorado proclaims “Howdy Folks! Welcome to Golden – Where the West Lives!”  And no time is that more appropriate than when the National Western Stock Show & Rodeo comes rip-roaring into town and Golden shows off its Western heritage with Western-themed events, January 11 – 18, 2020.  

Just 15 miles west of the National Western Complex in Denver, Golden is a world away in atmosphere. Walking down Golden’s main street, Washington Avenue, is like taking a stroll back into the Old West with historic storefronts, colorful murals, and covered arcade sidewalks. The most famous character of the West, William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, is buried in Golden, and here you’ll also find Colorado’s largest collection of historic steam locomotives. Downtown’s Golden History Park features an authentic homestead with a barn, working blacksmith shop and a chicken coop where youngsters can feed a variety of heritage chickens. And of course, Golden is home to Coors Beer and the largest single-site brewery in the world.

Here are Western Week highlights and things to do in Golden during the Stock Show.

Listen to Authentic Cowboy Songs at the 2020 Colorado Cowboy Poetry Gathering – A Festival of Western Song, Poetry and Storytelling, Jan. 16-19, 2020 — This colorful, musical festival celebrates cowboy heritage and entertainment, which grew out of the traditions of cowboys sitting around the campfires at night during the great cattle drives of the American West. It’s an artistic link to the past, where a handshake was your word and the Code of the West meant living a life of integrity and respect. It’s also a lot of fun with music and laughs mixed with some authentic Western History. Staged at the American Mountaineering Center in downtown Golden.

Enjoy Western Week in Golden — There’s no place else on the Front Range of Colorado quite like downtown Golden, which offers lots of Western hospitality during the Stock Show with special events and discounts including: a guided Wild West Walking Tour, live Western music throughout Golden, a Wild West Brewery Crawl & History Tour, discounts at the miner-themed challenge at the Golden Puzzle Room, Old West photos sessions at Oh! Susanna Vintage Photo Parlor and more. You’ll also want to mosey down Clear Creek walking path, which will be illuminated with thousands of holiday lights lining the banks of the creek and reflecting in the water. Don’t forget to visit Golden’s “saloons” and craft breweries!  There are seven craft breweries in Golden, and a variety of great restaurants, from the Southwestern ambiance of Table Mountain Grill & Cantina to mouthwatering BBQ at the Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse (housed in the building that served as the first capitol of the Colorado Territory). The Golden Hotel’s acclaimed Bridgewater Grill offers Stock Show special drinks and dining deals. For a full list of Golden’s Western Week activities, visit: visitgolden.com.

Tour Coors — Coors is the official beer of the National Western Stock Show.  The brewery has a 30-minute, self-paced tour of the malting, brewing and packaging of Coors Beer. After your tour, enjoy beer samples in their Hospitality Lounge. Sample of their great beers are available in limited quantities to those 21 years and older with a valid government-issued ID. Call 866-812-2337 for tour information.

Meet Buffalo Bill – As a buffalo hunter, Pony Express rider, and scout for the U.S. Army, “Buffalo Bill” Cody was the most famous character in the history of the American West. Starting in 1883, his Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show was performed in more than a thousand cities in 12 different countries. Bill brought along 640 cowboys, Indians, Vaqueros, ropers, trick riders, and sharpshooters to the performances. A version of his show takes place at the National Western Stock Show & Rodeo every year.

Buffalo Bill was visiting his sister in Denver in 1917 when he died and his funeral on top of Lookout Mountain was the largest in Colorado history. Today, an interactive museum near the grave brings his incredible story back to life with costumes, guns, artifacts like Chief Sitting Bull’s headdress, posters, and pictures from the show.

The drive to the grave site on top of the mountain begins in historic downtown Golden on the Lariat Loop Trail. This is a white-knuckle thriller, with cliffs on every turn, and the panoramic view from the museum’s outdoor deck takes in everything from snowcapped peaks to the plains and downtown Denver.

Climb Aboard a Steam Locomotive — It was the railroads that won the West and the Colorado Railroad Museum has the largest collection of steam locomotives, private cars, and model trains in the state, all of which offer hands-on experiences. Climb up into the cab of a locomotive and ring the bell. On Saturdays, you can ride the famous Galloping Goose – a 1928 Pierce Arrow limousine put on train wheels with a bus welded on the back. The Galloping Goose once delivered mail over Colorado’s Lizard Head Pass, and it’s a fun ride as it circles the museum on a half mile of track. There’s a huge HO model railroad in the basement, and on weekends, there are large G-scale model trains running outdoors, blowing whistles and making chugging sounds as they circle around on a gigantic setup that operates even in snow.

For more information on Golden, check out visitgolden.com.

NOVEMBER 18TH – DECEMBER 29^TH

45TH HOLIDAY ART MARKET

Make it a “hip holiday” for those on your holiday shopping list by heading to Golden for Foothills Art Center’s beloved annual Holiday Art Market (HART). Featuring the creations of more than 100 local Colorado artists working in the highest standards of handcraft, including fine ceramics, fiber, glass work, jewelry, paintings, woodworking, photography, holiday items, and more, HART is a hip and cool holiday art market and an ideal shopping destination for unique gifts. HART hours are Mondays – Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sundays: noon – 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.foothillsartcenter.org.

 

NOVEMBER 30^TH – DECEMBER 21^ST

THE STORY OF THE NUTCRACKER

Come learn the Story of the Nutcracker in this perfect for ALL AGES show, recurring weekly on Saturday at Miners Alley Playhouse. https://www.minersalley.com

 

NOVEMBER 24^TH – DECEMBER 29^TH

TASPEN'S CBD HOLIDAY SALE

Come in for CBD hot chocolate, regular hot chocolate, or chocolates and enjoy the Taspen's Holiday Sale! 33% off of all Taspens & Dragonfly Products with code: Oldegolden,  Recurring every weekend. https://dragonflyhempcbd.com

 

NOVEMBER 25TH – FEBRUARY 15^TH

HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN GOLDEN

Plan to visit Golden during the holiday season for the thousands of lights that decorate the City! the lights will be up right around Nov. 25th and the official date for the lighting is during the Candlelight Walk on Dec. 6th. Visitors can enjoy the City lights through the end of the Stock Show (around Jan. 26th). Some of the lights will stay up until Valentine's Day. 

 

NOVEMBER 29TH – DECEMBER 22^ND

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

This hilarious, fast-paced adaptation uses only five actors to bring Dickens' most beloved characters to life. From Scrooge and Tiny Tim to Bob Cratchit and Mrs. Fezziwig, A Christmas Carol uses nothing more than simple props, fun physicality, and the power of imagination to convey this timeless story of redemption. Witness Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation from a stingy miser to a man who generously celebrates the spirit of the season all year long, in this brand new adaptation that is destined to become your favorite holiday celebration! Recurring weekly on Sunday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday at Miners Alley Playhouse, https://www.minersalley.com

 

NOVEMBER 30^TH – DECEMBER 18^TH

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE SALE

All profits from the annual Christmas Tree Sale fund the bicycle repair/recycle program, food banks, school supplies, and programs for youth. Special thanks to USBank for use of their lot! Sale will continue until trees run out at 1801 Jackson St, Golden, CO 80401,  http://Www.goldenoptimists.org

 

NOVEMBER 30^TH – DECEMBER 14^TH

LETTERS TO SANTA

US Postal Box for Santa's letter is located at the Golden Visitors Center. Drop your letters to Santa off M-F, 9-5, S, 10-4 at the Golden Visitors Center, 1010 Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401

 

DECEMBER 2^ND – DECEMBER 31^ST

HOLIDAY CARD HAPPY HOUR

What's one way to spread some cheer this holiday season? Send some snail mail and let your loved ones know you're thinking of them! Stop by Period Six between 3-6pm, Monday thru Saturday in the month of December and get 15% off all your holiday cards! Enjoy our letter writing station and even pop that snail mail goodwill into our mailbox to make sure it gets out the next day! (stamps complimentary for up to 3 cards mailed and purchased same day). Period Six Studio, 720 Golden Ridge Road, Unit B, Golden, CO 80401,  https://www.facebook.com/events/819452891802778/

 

DECEMBER 4^TH – DECEMBER 25^TH

TRIBUTARY FOOD HALL-I-DAYS

Join us for fun activities, food, drinks, and specials every Wednesday this holiday season! Tributary Food Hall and Drinkery,  701 12th Street, Golden, CO 80401

 

DECEMBER 7^th, 14^th, 21^st

HAYRIDES WITH SANTA

Picture yourself on a crisp winter day bundled up in blankets on a Hayride with Santa and his elves as you sing along to Christmas music in downtown Golden. After your hayride with Santa you can pop into Gold Mine Cupcakes and warm up!  Their cupcakes are delish! Coffee and cupcakes for purchase. Gold Mine Cupcakesm 700 12th Street #130, Golden, CO 80401 from 11:30 PM to 12:30 PM

 

DECEMBER 7^th, 14^th, 21^st

HOLIDAY DOG CART RIDES

For more than 20 years, Newfoundland dogs and their owners have shared the magic of the holidays by providing cart rides for children after the Olde Golden Christmas Parades.  Again this year, these gentle giants will be offering rides from 12-2 (after the parades).  Rides are free but donations to help support Golden's fire department are gratefully received.  Come join the fun at the Golden Visitors & Information Center, 1010 Washington Ave, 1010 10th Street, Golden, CO 80401

 

DECEMBER 7^th, 14^th, 21^st

HOLIDAY PARADES

Head into Golden for the parades on several Saturdays before Christmas at 11 a.m.. Be a part of this festive holiday time as you watch floats, holiday characters, Newfoundland Dogs, and Santa Claus on the firetruck  parade down Washington Avenue.,  https://www.visitgolden.com/olde-golden-christmas/holiday-parades/

 

DECEMBER 7^th, 14^th, 21^st

SANTA AT THE STATION

This December Santa is making a special stop at the Colorado Railroad Museum to pose for photos with visitors during the day from 9:00AM-1:00PM!* Take a fun & unique family holiday photo this special season! Admission: $10 adults, $5 kids (2-17), $8 seniors. Museum Members, active military personnel and Children under 2 are free. Tickets are available for purchase at the door, no reservations required. *Santa will take a short lunch break around noon. https://coloradorailroadmuseum.org/event/santa-at-the-station-2/

 

DECEMBER 13^th

HEALTHY SKIN CLUB – HOLIDAY PARTY!

Our annual Healthy Skin Club part with fun give-aways, holiday food, drinks, prizes, and more! If you haven't attended a FREE Healthy Skin Club meeting, you won't want to miss this fun party as our way of saying THANK YOU for a fabulous year! The event is free, however, registration is required, 1224 Arapahoe St, Golden, CO 80401, Golden, CO 80401, Website: https://www.earthsweetbotanicals.com, Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

 

DECEMBER 13^th

PAINT AND SIP IN THE SADDLE

Gather in the Saddle to sip hot toddies and learn how to paint. Presented by Art on the Brix. All ages welcome (N/A beverages will be available) Theme: Winter. Please make arrangements through Art on the Brix. Check back for detais. All supplies, and initial beverage, are included in the cost of the event. https://www.facebook.com/windysaddlecafe,  6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

 

DECEMBER 15^th

THE GOLDEN ELF ACADEMY

Visit with Santa then decorate a cupcake with Mrs. Claus, Make a reindeer craft, Learn the Elves Christmas dance, Take a selfie with an Elf and learn how to play the Kazoo in Santa's Elf band. Time slots: 9:30 – 10:30, 11:00 – 12:00, Tickets $18.00 per child. Purchase tickets at eventbrite.com search key words Golden Elf Academy (tickets available after November 1, 2019), Location: Marquez Hall, 1600 Arapahoe St., Golden, CO 80401

 

DECEMBER 15^th

ORNAMENT MAKING IN THE SADDLE

Supplies and instruction included. All ages welcome. Hot cocoa and hot toddy happy hour. Food and beverage are sold separately for the ornament making event. Windy Saddle Cafe, 1110 Washington Avenue, Golden, CO 80401, Website: http://windysaddle.com/, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, Price: $10 per person

 

DECEMBER 16^th

MAKE SOMETHING: LIGHT-UP HOLIDAY CARDS

Create a light-up LED holiday card and dazzle your friends and family with a fun, festive gift! Supplies provided. Golden Public Library, 1019 10th Street, Golden, CO 80401, Website: https://jeffcolibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/5cbf49ba2c24ad3a00c7c0c6,  4:30 PM to 5:30 PM

 

DECEMBER 19^th

CIDER & COCOLLECTIBLE BOOK SALE

The American Alpine Club Library will be having a book sale for 11th hour gift buyers and mountaineering bibliophiles. The sale will be taking place in the Bradford Washburn American Mountaineering Museum. Hot cider and cocoa will be available to warm up visitors. The selection of books will include everything from rare collectible books to reading copies you can bring along on your next adventure. American Mountaineering Center, 710 10th Street, Golden, CO 80401, (303) 384-0112, Website: https://www.facebook.com/events/488773908375084/, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

 

DECEMBER 19^th

ON THE ROAD AT THE TOAD

The Cheese Ranch is packing up cheese and heading to Mountain Toad Brewery for a pairing of fine cheeses and beers. Plan for the third Thursday of the month! $10 cheese boards. Mountain Toad Brewing, 900 Washington Avenue, Golden, CO 80401, https://cheeseranch.com/events,  6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

 

DECEMBER 20^th – 23^rd

ONCE UPON A COLORADO CHRISTMAS

Golden is the perfect setting for an evening out and The Buffalo Rose has the classic Holiday Dinner Theater experience that will leave you with all your Yuletide yearnings satisfied! Guests will enjoy a festive meal while being entertained with 'Once Upon A Colorado Christmas,' a live theater production that promises to be the most fun family event you’ll have this Holiday! You will be transported back in time to Golden in the late 1800’s on Christmas Eve where a night of elegant entertainment has been promised at The New Haas Saloon. With a winter storm raging, the night does not go as expected, but with a little Christmas magic, the show will go on with an eclectic mix of Holiday music, dance and colorful characters from Colorado’s past. Perhaps even a visit from Father Christmas! This one-of-a-kind Holiday Dinner Theater experience is for the whole family complete with a Christmas feast and an atmosphere that is undeniably merry! Performances run December 20-23. Doors open at 6 PM. Show ends aprrox. 9:30 PM In the Spirit of the Season, a percentage of your ticket sales supports local participating Arts Organizations. BuffaloRose1209 Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401,  http://www.coloradochristmastheater.com, 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM

 

DECEMBER 21^st

JERRY BARLOW HOLIDAY CONCERT AT MEYER HARDWARE

Annual Holiday Celtic Guitar Concert Featuring Jerry Barlow at Meyer Hardware, 1103 Arapahoe Street, Golden, CO 80401, Website: https://www.doitbest.com/, Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

 

DECEMBER 21^st

COOKIE DECORATING DAYS

Learn how to decorate Christmas cookies and leave the mess to us. All ages welcome. Hot cocoa and hot toddy!  All supplies are included in the cost of the event. Food and beverage are sold separately for the cookie making. Windy Saddle Cafe, 1110 Washington Avenue, Golden, CO 80401,  https://www.facebook.com/windysaddlecafe, : 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, $6.00 per person

 

DECEMBER 23^rd

DECORATE A CUPCAKE FOR SANTA

Adults and kids alike can come decorate a cupcake to leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve night, or just have fun making their own creation with Christmas sprinkles and Holiday fun. Hot Chocolate and Coffee free with purchase. Price includes 1 Regular Size cupcake (Chocolate or Vanilla) with decorating station and choice of chocolate or vanilla frosting. Gold Mine Cupcakes, 700 12th Street #130, Golden, CO 80401

Website: http://www.goldminecupcakes.com

Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Fall is the perfect time to relax and restore after a busy summer. For some people a Pumpkin Spice Latte might fit the bill, but if you take your relaxation more seriously, head to Golden for some pampering at one of the town’s spas or massage studios. And if it just doesn’t seem like an autumn indulgence without some pumpkin spice, you can treat yourself to a latte afterwards at one of Golden’s great coffee houses.

Here’s a run down of Golden spas & massage studios:

Urban Escape Day Spa has been a Golden favorite for many years. Located in the heart of downtown Golden, this upscale full-service day spa offers only the highest quality relaxing, yet result-oriented treatments available. Services include facials, massages, pedicures, manicures, body treatments, waxing, tinting, acupuncture and much more. A locals’ favorite is the “Wine Country Escape Massage Treatment” which includes a cabernet themed body treatment, hydrating mask on the back, hands and feet, a scalp massage, an aromatherapy shower and a 50 minute Signature Massage. Located adjacent to Indulge Bistro & Wine Bar, why not pair your massage with lunch and a glass of vino?

The Woodhouse Day Spa is housed in a charming Victorian home and offers a tranquil, transformative environment. Upon entering you’re treated to a plush robe, reflexology sandals and the Quiet Room where you can sip on a selection of loose-leaf teas. The relaxation continues with a wide variety of treatment options, including body, foot, and hand treatments, massage therapy, skin care, sleep treatments and more. The signature “Four-Handed Massage” is award-winning and involves two therapists performing seamlessly choreographed, rhythmic movements that induce deep relaxation. Ahh!

The Golden Bodyworker offers massage that physically and spiritually aligns your body by improving circulation of blood and increasing the flexibility of muscles, ligaments and other soft tissue. A goal oriented Massage Therapy clinic offering a quiet and serene atmosphere, Golden Bodyworker is not a spa nor are they part of the medical community. Their mission is to get the aches, pains and misuse out of your body to get you feeling great and functioning again.

Vaia Salon & Spa can help you achieve your perfect style with services for hair, nails or make-up. A professional hair salon, Vaia strives to provide more than just an average salon experience. Whether you need a simple haircut and styling or a mani/pedi, their fun, friendly personal atmosphere is sure to make your visit a great one.

Symmetry Massage offers all types of massages, from Hot Stone to Reflexology. Located in downtown Golden in the historic Foss Building, their well-versed staff will customize each massage to your needs and preferences.

Health at Hand is Golden’s premiere Ashiatsu barefoot massage practice offering  the highest quality, advanced bodywork and skincare treatments, at a fantastic value. With more than 20 years of experience, Health at Hand offers a friendly nurturing environment, a unique mix of services, and top quality products to deliver exquisite service to our clients.

Another excellent post-massage activity? A relaxing walk along Clear Creek where the Golden views are sure to make you feel even more serene!