National Monument marathon. The Rim Rock Marathon will take place on Saturday at 8 a.m. Both individuals and relay teams will run the course that takes place within the Colorado National Monument. Registration is open through today. or 970-274-1232
Take a train trip to visit Santa. The Santa Express Train, which runs along the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, takes families on a winter adventure as they journey to the “North Pole,” every weekend from Nov. 18-Nov. 27, and every evening starting Dec. 2-Dec. 26. Children are encouraged to wear pajamas and enjoy hot chocolate as they listen to holiday stories along the way. The train, bedecked in festive splendor, provides a great backdrop to the ride. Upon reaching the North Pole, Santa joins the ride, and children can share their wish list with him and receive a special Santa Train gift. or 888-724-5748
Festival of Trees. The fourth annual Festival of Trees will take place Nov. 19-20, in Colorado Springs. Families can shop for Christmas decor, enjoy fresh baked goods, listen to music from local groups and visit with Santa. Entry is $5 per person 13 and older, and children 12 and under are admitted free.
Holiday parade to light up Estes. The annual “Catch the Glow” holiday parade and celebration event will take place in Estes Park on Nov. 25. Visitors can enjoy holiday music that will be broadcast throughout downtown, interact with costumed characters, hop on a free hay ride and visit with Santa Claus throughout the day. Daytime activities begin at noon and the parade begins at 5:30 p.m. All activities are free. or 970-577-9900
Holiday Light Extravaganza on Riverwalk. The Holiday Light Extravaganza will take place Nov. 25, on the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk in Pueblo. Activities will begin at 5 p.m., and starting at 6 p.m., Santa will be visiting with children to hear their wish lists. A fireworks display will begin at 7:45 p.m. or 719-595-0242
Chocolate smackdown in Creede. The 22nd annual Creede Chocolate Festival will take place Nov. 25-26. Visitors can taste freshly made chocolate as businesses compete to make the best treat they can. Tastings will be available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Tickets for the festival are $8 each; it’s recommended visitors reserve their tickets ahead of time. or 719-658-2374
Compiled by Anya Semenoff
