CATALYST
DENVER MUSEUM OF NATURE & SCIENCE ONLINE MAGAZINE
Things to Do at the Museum Over the 2025 Holiday Season
Discover Denver’s Newest Holiday Tradition with Magical Winter Nights
Exterior view of the west side of Denver Museum of Nature & Science in the wintertime dusk. (Photo/ Rick Wicker)
The holiday season is an especially magical time at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. The Museum is rolling out a suite of festive experiences for all ages – from stepping into a whimsical winter wonderland to enjoying beloved holiday films on the giant screen and even an out-of-this-world, kid-friendly New Year’s celebration.
Here are some highlights to add to your holiday to-do list at the Museum this year:
Magical Winter Nights
Denver's newest holiday tradition Magical Winter Nights opens at the Museum on Nov. 20. (Photo/ DMNS)
Step into a whimsical winter wonderland where a dazzling holiday adventure comes alive. On select evenings from Nov. 20 through Jan. 4, the Museum’s west entrance and third floor diorama halls will become a dazzling winter wonderland filled with lights, sounds and surprises. This special after-hours experience lets visitors of all ages explore immersive seasonal scenes after dark.
Highlights of the Magical Winter Nights experience include:
- The Lodge: Cozy fireside vibes with hot cocoa and cocktails – to warm up.
- A Wild Winterland: A moonlit savannah scene alive with wildlife ambiance.
- The Frosted Path: An “ice-less” indoor skating experience (no skates or ice required!).
- Evergreen Hideaway: A Colorado-inspired forest filled with twinkling evergreens.
- Celestial Canopy: Marvel at an indoor Northern Lights display overhead.
- Glacier Groove: An Arctic dance party with some unexpected hosts (keep your eyes peeled for surprises!).
- Village Shoppe: Holiday shopping stops with curated gifts and souvenirs to commemorate your night.
Insider tip: On adults-only nights – Dec. 4, 11 and 18 – grown-ups (21+) can enjoy Magical Winter Nights with a more laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re bringing the family or enjoying a date night, Magical Winter Nights is Denver's newest must-try holiday experience!
Holiday Films on the Giant Screen
Get into the spirit with holiday movie magic on the Museum’s giant screen Infinity Theater. (Photo/ Polar Express)
Get into the spirit with holiday movie magic on the Museum’s giant screen Infinity Theater. This larger-than-life experience makes for an unforgettable way to watch your favorite festive films.
This season, "The Polar Express 3D" returns to the big screen – a cherished holiday tradition for many families. All aboard for a thrilling journey to the North Pole with Tom Hanks in stunning 3D, where you can almost feel the rumble of the train and the snowflakes falling around you in the theater.
We will also hold 2D showings of "The Polar Express," designed for all ages and to be sensory friendly. House lighting will be increased and sound levels reduced to create a comfortable experience for all. Guests are welcome to move, dance, clap, talk and laugh during the film. All experiences are welcomed!
Also get ready to embrace your inner Grinch with an evening featuring the holiday classic Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” on the giant screen. Come dressed in your best grinchy green and settle in for a night of holiday cheer.
Cosmic Countdown: A Family New Year’s Celebration
Join us for an out-of-this-world Cosmic Countdown! (Photo/ DMNS)
For an out-of-this-world New Year’s Eve (without keeping the little ones up until midnight!), join the Museum’s Cosmic Countdown – a family-friendly celebration on the morning of December 31. This event is perfect for young space explorers who want to welcome the New Year with science, fun and a big noon-ish countdown.
Activities at the Cosmic Countdown include:
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Seeing and touching objects from outer space up close (real meteorites or maybe moon rocks!).
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Blasting off mini rockets and watching them zoom, demonstrating the physics of propulsion.
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Creating your own space-themed jewelry – design a bracelet or keychain of the solar system, perhaps.
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Dancing to cosmic beats among glowing stars and planets, and enjoying live science demonstrations that are truly out of this world.
As the finale approaches, gather with everyone for an exciting countdown to “midnight” – complete with noise-makers and cheer – so the kiddos get the thrill of a New Year celebration without the late bedtime. Be sure to join us at your ticket time for our big New Year countdown and we invite you to come early and stay after to explore the Museum!
