Every November, the “too early for Christmas music” debate returns right on cue. A little tired. Still irresistible.
Before you settle into hibernation and a deeply principled position on Mariah Carey or Die Hard for that matter, I’ve found some things for you to do this month.
From the lead-up to Thanksgiving through the last of the leftovers, it’s always a good idea to get out and about.
November in South Denver
Show your company around South Denver, catch a few holiday lights, or give the couch a little time to miss you. That’s what this guide is here for.
Let’s get into it.
—Grace Hody
Editor, The Ranch Scoop
Go Toward the Glow
Let the holiday lights do the lifting.
Cherry Creek North: Holiday lights beginning Nov. 19.
Downtown Castle Rock: Season of the Star beginning Nov. 21.
Schweiger Ranch, Lone Tree: Holiday lights beginning Nov. 26, viewed from outside the ranch gates.
Catch a Live Show
Start here if you want seats, not screens.
Greg Warren: Comedy Works South, Nov. 12–14.
Ali Stroker: Lone Tree Arts Center, Nov. 14 at 7:30 p.m.
The Nutcracker: Colorado Ballet’s production, opening Nov. 28 in Denver.
Make Something
Leave perfectionism at home.
Pottery Brothers, Highlands Ranch: Try your hand at a pottery-wheel experience.
Uncorked Kitchen, Centennial: Take a chef-led cooking class and bring a little inspiration back to your own kitchen.
Painting with a Twist, Lone Tree: Follow a guided painting session, with drinks available for purchase.
Gather for Game Night
Swap the living room for a local game-show arena.
Game Show Battle Rooms, Centennial: Bring your group for hosted game-show competitions. Visiting family? Find out who gets competitive before the board games come out at home.
Sip Something Local
One winery, one brewery, and a reason to linger.
Carboy Winery, Littleton: A four-course harvest dinner with wine pairings; November 11 from 6–8:30 PM.
Breckenridge Brewery, Littleton: Free holiday photos, Nov. 14–15.
Get Outside for a Walk
Grab a layer and go with your people or just yourself.
Highlands Ranch Mansion: Explore the historic grounds for a little scenery close to home.
Hildebrand Ranch Park: Stretch your legs on open-space trails when you need a break from the house.
South Platte Park, Littleton: Take a riverside walk along the Mary Carter Greenway.
🎈 Keep the Kids Moving
For school breaks, visiting cousins, and energy that needs somewhere to go.
Kids Wonder, Centennial: Indoor pretend play and soft play for the younger crew.
Ninja Nation, Centennial: Ninja-style obstacles for kids who love climbing, balancing, and a challenge.
Make a Day of It
Take your November plans a little farther from home.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs: Make the zoo your destination for a day beyond South Denver, whether you’re showing visiting family around or taking your own crew somewhere different. Check admission and hours before heading out.
Georgetown: Explore historic downtown, take in the lake scenery, and stop for lunch. A Georgetown Loop Railroad ride could add a seasonal highlight if November departures fit your plans.
Here’s to a November with a little more spice, and a few plans that don’t involve the grocery store.
And if you’ve been waiting this whole time to weigh in on the Christmas music debate, shoot me and email at: [email protected].
I’ll hear you out. No promises I’ll change my tune. Oh, and don’t forget to share the Scoop with your South Denver crew.
—Grace