Holiday Food and Gift Festival, Denver
November 1-3
The 27th annual event at the Colorado Convention Center is considered the largest holiday celebration in the Midwest, drawing some 30,000 attendees who get a jump on their holiday shopping. Over 500 exhibitors feature one-of-a-kind gifts, art, jewelry, clothing, music, toys, décor, gourmet food and more. Santa even makes an appearance. www.hfgf.com
Home for the Holidays 5K, Denver City Park
November2
Run, jog or walk across the finish line all to help Colorado’s homeless. With prices or individual race times, best costumes and more – this is one the whole family can enjoy- even fido! www.coloradocoalition.org
Taste of Arvada, Arvada
November 14
Foodies celebrate! Head to the Apex Community Center and sample epicurean delights from dozens of fine Arvada restaurants, enjoy live music and discover local business booths. Presented by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce
The 9th Annual Denver International Wine Festival, Denver
November 6 – 10
Wine Country Network’s signature event and Denver/Boulder’s Premier Foodie event showcases 10 chefs, 20 dishes and more than 30 award-winning wines from the 2013 Denver International Wine competition. And that’s just on day one. Pick any day during this 3-day extravaganza to enjoy a wine-lover’s paradise. www.denverwinefest.com
The Great Candy Run, Denver
November 10
Squarely aimed at those with a sweet tooth, this 5K event offers a Gumdrop Kids Fun Run and a Family Festival/Expo following the course. Proceeds benefit the Fetal Health Foundation, which supports families battling a fetal syndrome during pregnancy. www.runningguru.com
Denver Botanic Gardens Holiday Sale, Denver
November 15 – 16
Start your holiday shopping with this unique compilation of handcrafted items, specialty foods, clothing, rare collectibles, beautiful antiques and homemade herbal vinegars straight from herbs from the Gardens! www.botanicgardens.org
Silver Bell Ball, Denver
November 22
This much anticipated black tie event at the Grand Hyatt in downtown Denver marks the unofficial kickoff to the holiday season. Hazel Miller and her band keep everyone’s toes tapping and silent and live auctions keep everyone bidding for a slew of luxurious items. Tickets are $250 each, but all proceeds go to Mount Saint Vincent charity. Msvhome.org
Loveland Turkey Trot, Loveland
November 28
This 12th annual event benefits the Heart Watchers Rehabilitation Program at McKee Medical Center. This year, they’ve partnered with BSX Athletics in the Guinness Gobbler, an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for most runners in a multi-venue event on the same day. Come be a part of history and earn your pumpkin pie later. www.bannerhealth.com