Santa’s backstock
Santa’s Back Room at the Thrift Mart is now open with a large holiday inventory of wreaths ornaments, Santas, angels, wrapping paper, cards, tinsel and lights. There’s also gifts, toys, aprons, hats, scarves and more. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday, through Dec. 22. Proceeds benefit the Assistance League of Denver. 1331 E. Colfax Ave.,
At flea level
Heads up, Mile High Flea Market fans — there’s a December special on 2013 annual passes. The regular price is $69 each but you can snag one for $49 through Dec. 31. Passes include free admission, discounts on food and various exclusive offers. The Flea Market covers 80,000 acres and offers shops with new and used merchandise, food, rides, events and a four-season farmers market. Call or visit the website for details. 7007 E. 88th Ave., 303-289-4656,
Shopping sparks
Indie-craft gifts from more than 70 artisans are featured in the three-day Firefly Handmade Holiday Market opening Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. “Think gifts: buy green, buy handmade, buy local” is the theme of the annual market offering pottery, candles, jewelry, art, textiles and more. The show continues 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $2, free for children 12 and under. Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, 1750 13th St., Boulder,
Outdoor fest
Bundle up and shop 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Highlands Ranch Community Association’s (HRCA) Winter Market. Colorado farmers and crafters offer wines, meats, fudge, pastries, vinegars, breads and more along with various arts and crafts. Town Center North, 1100 Sgt. Jon Stiles Drive, Highlands Ranch, 303-791-2500,
A+ art
Art students attending Colorado Mesa University are sharing their talents and hosting their semi-annual Student Art Sale at the University Center Art Gallery. Stop by and check out the selection of ceramics and art from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday. Admission is free. Proceeds benefit participating artists and the Student Art Club. Colorado Mesa University campus, Grand Junction, 970-248-1833
See Santa more clearly
ReplaceALens Optical continues its December special of a pair of eyeglasses with single-vision lenses for $29. There is no minimum, and if you need to upgrade to progressive, bifocal or Polythin material, it is just an additional $20. There are hundreds of frames to choose from. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. 7800 E. Iliff Ave., Suite I, 303-752-1234,
Reserve some holiday fun
The Hyatt Hotels of Denver Downtown are offering a “Holiday Shoppers’ Package” at both hotels through Dec. 30. Rooms start at $109 and include a $10 gift certificate to the Tattered Cover book stores, a $10 gift certificate to the Denver Pavilions, and a $10 hotel credit (not applicable to room rate). The offer code is SHOPR. Additional package details are available by clicking on the Special Offers link. Call 800-233-1234 or visit or for details.
Free days this week
Saturday: Money Museum, Colorado Springs,
Each Monday, “Sale Insider” gives shoppers the inside scoop on store discounts and bargain events. Preference is given to retailers and events that have not been listed recently. To include a sale, e-mail living@denverpost.com 10-14 days in advance.
