Denver Life Magazine December 2021

As we welcome December into our hectic lives, it’s hard not to embrace the feeling of warmth and togetherness. As the holidays approach, it’s a great time to remember those who are close to us and those who help bring love, happiness, and support into our lives. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a Colorado native who is blessed to have a bunch of relatives and childhood chums around the corner, or if you’re an enthusiastic transplant from either coast who loves Denver’s small town “big city” vibe—everyone deserves a little cheer right now as we gear up for the new year. With that top of mind, we are pleased to present our annual Holiday Gift Guide issue, which our dedicated creative director Tom Visocchi personally poured hours upon hours into so he…

RISE: MY STORY By Lindsey Vonn on sale: January 11, 2022 Check out the first-ever memoir from the most decorated female skier of all time, revealing never-before-told stories of her life in the fast lane, her struggle with depression, and the bold decisions that helped her break down barriers on and off the slopes. NOTE: Also find out about Lindsey Vonn’s exclusive new winter clothing collection just in time for gift-giving season. See page 61. GIFT GUIDE ESTELLE COLORED DECANTER HERITAGE, Amber Smoke, $150; ESTELLE COLORED ROCKS GLASSES, Amber Smoke, set of six $195. Available at Lulu’s Furniture & Décor, 5910 S. University Blvd., E3, Greenwood Village, lulusfurnitureco.com. *For more amazing gifts for everyone on your list, turn to page 47. KERRIE LEE BROWN PHOTO BY PAUL SEWITT; GIFT GUIDE, CASSANDRA STILTNER…

Arts Colorado Symphony: A Colorado Christmas DEC. 10-12 ● Celebrate the holiday festivities at the Boettcher Concert Hall as Chorus Assistant Conductor Taylor Martin leads her team in the joyful sounds of Christmas melodies, including crowd favorite ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. coloradosymphony.org Arts Cortez Holiday Makers Market DEC. 3 ● Swing by the Cortez Cultural Center to browse through a wide array of unique winter season art, accessories, home goods, beauty supplies, and much more. Shop from local vendors and pick out the perfect holiday gift. fairsandfestivals.net First Friday ArtWalk DEC. 3 ● Located in Denver’s Art District, this is a monthly self-guided walk through one of the biggest artistic events of the year. Come explore the unique galleries, studios, museums, and delicious food along with live music. denver.org Events Gaylord Rockies Resort DEC. 1-31 ● With over 23 events, like classic holiday…

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After an unprecedented 2-year hiatus, A Hudson Christmas is back and ready to dazzle families with even more towering trees draped in thousands of colorful lights than ever before. This year’s spectacle features a grove of dancing Christmas trees, a multi-colored forest inhabited by giant snowmen, a holiday light tunnel, and glowing reindeer that light up Hudson Gardens into an extravaganza of holiday cheer. “We typically start planning this event as early as the summer, and we begin installing the lights in October,” explains Rich Meredith, CEO. “But since we weren’t able to host this event last year due to the pandemic, we wanted to make [sure] this holiday season was extra special.” Some people have waited years to attend an event that’s not on a screen, so the team…

Since 1986, The Original Dickens Carolers have performed traditional holiday carols across the Denver metro area while bedecked in lush Victorian costumes. These professionals also perform individually in Front Range theaters, choirs, and singing groups. Owner and performer Michelle Paul oversees all aspects of the spectacle—from recruiting singers to confirming venues—therefore, it’s not surprising that this holiday enthusiast’s personality always shines through. How did you become a caroler and get involved with The Original Dickens Carolers? “A close friend referred me while I was performing in musicals in the area; I was cast as a Pip, due to my size but I was so excited! Twenty years ago, our repertoire consisted of forty carols and a few stories. Now, I admire our new performers who learn fifty-five songs, character improv, and short…