It’s hard to choose a favorite season in Colorado when each one offers up its own unique splendor, and nowhere else does winter come with such an abundance of sunshine and activities to help us enjoy this snow-filled time of year.
National Western Stock Show & Rodeo, Denver
January 11 – 26
In its 108th year, this is truly a Colorado tradition, featuring more than 15,000 head of livestock, 350 vendors, and close to 50 performances that showcase bulls and broncs, and cowboys and cowgirls, alike. See some of the world’s top reining horses, the hard-hitting competition of professional bull riders and the Mexican rodeo extravaganza, just to name a few. www.nationalwestern.com
Ullr Fest, Breckenridge
January 7 – 12
This annual week-long celebration of Ullr, the mythical Norse god of snow, allows Coloradoans to give homage to all things snow. The merriment includes a Main Street parade, town bonfire, fireworks, ice skating, showshoeing, an Ullympics, pond hockey tournament and to finish things off at the end of the week, a Viking-themed fashion show. http://www.gobreck.com/events/ullr-fest
Ouray Ice Festival, Ouray
January 9 – 12
An eclectic gathering of ice climbers and winter enthusiasts gather at this International festival billed as the biggest ice festival in North America. Watch some of the top ice climbers from all over the world try their hand at ascending sheer walls of ice, hear inspiring speakers and even let the kids give it a go with the kids climbing college. www.ourayicepark.com
Fruitcake Toss, Manitou Springs
January 11
Call it a quirky post-Christmas tradition or just a really fun thing to do with all that leftover fruitcake. Watch contestants compete for bragging rights in distance, accuracy, launch and target categories as well as other cake-related challenges. manitousprings.org
Polar Bear 5K, Denver
January 19
A little winter weather shouldn’t stop all you runners from hitting one of Denver’s favorite racing locales, Washington Park. This race is for the whole family with a Kids Fun Race starting things out. This event is one in the RunDenver Series of races. Run one or run them all! www.bkbltd.com/RunDenver
Martin Luther King Marade (March and Parade), Denver
January 20
Celebrate the largest Martin Luther King, Jr. march and rally in the United States, right here in Colorado! Gather at City Park and march to Civic Center Park where a large rally will commemorate the life of Martin Luther King ,Jr. www.drmartinlkingjrchc.org
Budweiser International Snow Sculpture Championships, Breckenridge
January 13 – February 2
Whether you stop by at the beginning of the carving or swing by to view the finished masterpieces, these snow sculptures carved by highly talented artists from all over the world are a sight to see. Vote for your favorites, learn about the process of snow sculpting and take in this one-of-a-kind event. www.gobreck.com
Winter X-Games, Aspen
January 23 – 26
This completely free event is a great way to witness ski and snowboard legends as they thrill spectators over the course of four action-packed days of competition. More than 200 of the world’s best skiers and snowboarders will make your visit to Aspen’s Buttermilk and Snowmass mountains a treat. Enjoy the free Bud Light concert at the base of Aspen Mountain on January 25th as well. www.gosnowmass.com
