December in Summit County is one of the most magical times of the year. The towns glow with holiday lights, the ski resorts are in full swing, and festive events fill every week of the month. Whether you’re visiting or you call the mountains home, here’s everything happening around Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne, Keystone, and Copper Mountain.
🎄 December 1–7: Holiday Kickoff Week
Wassail Days – Frisco
November 29 – December 7, 2025
Frisco’s beloved winter tradition fills downtown with more than 50 shops serving their own version of warm spiced cider. Pick up a “12 Sips of Wassail” card, explore local businesses, and redeem your completed card for the annual collectible mug. The week includes holiday shopping specials, Santa visits, festive decorations, and activities throughout town.
ExploriumFest – Breckenridge
December 3–6, 2025
A family-friendly winter festival hosted by the local children’s museum. Expect hands-on crafts, themed activities, scavenger hunts, a kids’ night out option, and a visit from Santa. It’s a perfect cozy indoor event for little ones as December begins.
🎅 Saturday, December 6: Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas
One of Breckenridge’s most iconic holiday traditions takes over Main Street each year.
Highlights include:
- Holiday Dog Parade
- Kids’ Moose March
- Race of the Santas (yes, hundreds of Santas running down Main Street!)
- The official Lighting of Breckenridge, when the entire downtown comes alive with more than 250,000 twinkling lights
- Santa meet-and-greet after the ceremony
Bundle up and enjoy this festive small-town celebration.
🛍️ December 13: Holiday Markets & Local Shopping
Goods in the Woods – Keystone
Saturday, December 13, 2025
Held at Warren Station in River Run Village, this local artisan market features handmade gifts, live music, holiday drinks, and plenty of mountain charm. It’s a great spot for unique, locally crafted holiday shopping.
Throughout the county, you’ll also find smaller markets, holiday craft nights, and themed workshops during mid-December. Many are posted closer to the date, so check local calendars as the month approaches.
⛷️ December 18–20: Ullr Fest – Breckenridge
December 18–20, 2025
The 62nd annual Ullr Fest returns with its legendary celebration of winter. This long-time Breckenridge favorite honors Ullr, the Norse god of snow — and the festival lives up to the theme. You’ll find:
- The famous Ullr Parade down Main Street
- A huge bonfire
- Live music and community celebrations
- Costume-friendly festivities
- And possibly the return of the iconic shotski world-record attempt
It’s an energetic, quirky, and very Breckenridge way to welcome snow season.
🏔️ Resort Happenings at Keystone, Copper Mountain & Breckenridge
Keystone Resort – December Activities
December usually brings the full opening of winter operations with skiing, snowboarding, ice skating at Lakeside Village, and family-friendly holiday programming. Expect:
- Kidtopia-style activities
- Snow forts and family play zones
- Fireside cocoa and holiday music
- Village-wide decorations and photo spots
Copper Mountain – Holiday Celebrations
Copper typically hosts festive events throughout December, including:
- Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parades
- Fireworks in Center Village
- Après-ski parties and live music
- Holiday-themed kid activities
These events run annually and are confirmed as dates get closer, but December is always full of mountain-village celebrations.
Breckenridge Ski Resort – Seasonal Fun
While December is peak ski season, you’ll also find:
- Holiday lights throughout town and at the base areas
- Special ski-school programs
- Festive après at the mountain lodges
- Photo ops and seasonal décor around the resort
✨ Tips for Enjoying December in Summit County
- Book early — lodging, restaurants, and rentals fill up quickly this month.
- Dress warmly — many events take place after dark when temperatures dip.
- Take the bus — Summit Stage and town shuttles make parking easier during busy weekends.
- Check for updated event details — especially for resort-run or weather-dependent events.
December in Summit County is truly something special. From festive small-town traditions and sparkling holiday lights to ski-resort celebrations and cozy winter markets, there’s no shortage of magic in the mountains this time of year. Whether you’re planning a visit or enjoying the season as a local, I hope this guide helps you make the most of the holidays in Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne, Keystone, and Copper Mountain. Wishing you a joyful, snowy, and adventure-filled December in the heart of the Rockies!
Posted by Jan Leopold November 30, 2025