Sweet times
Smell peppermint in the air? The sweetest place in town is the Candy Cane Festival at the (5735 Washington St. ) on Dec. 12 and 13. The event is free and runs on Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sample candy made fresh before your eyes, during mini-tours of the candy factory. Kids of all ages can have their picture taken with Santa Claus, sip hot cocoa, sing along with carolers and listen to storytellers. Families can also enjoy cookie decorating, face painting, a bounce house and games. On Dec. 13, trolley rides and a horse-drawn carriage are also part of the sweet celebration. hammondscandies.com/candycanefestival
Reindeer games
Santa is all over the place this time of year, but his reindeer make far fewer appearances. That makes their stops at locations this week even more magical. On Dec. 13, Santa’s hooved helpers will be in Longmont from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and fly over to Westminster from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. The next day, Dec. 14, they’ll touch ground in Parker from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and show up in Littleton from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Then, they’re heading back to the North Pole to rest up for their big night. murdochs.com/stores
Hick’s holiday home
We all love to decorate our homes for the holidays, even governors. The stately (400 E. Eighth Ave.) is open for free tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily, from Dec. 13 to 19. It has been fully decorated inside and out for the holidays, with the theme “Vintage Colorado.” The tour of the entire main floor includes a peek at the Great Hall and the State Dining Room among others. No reservations are required for the 45-minute jaunt. Groups of 12 to 14 people are led through the building every 15 minutes. coloradoshome.org
Director’s cut
Looking to spot the next Martin Scorsese or Steven Spielberg? The presents its semi-annual screening of student films at the 600-seat Cine Capri at Harkins Theatres (8300 E. Northfield Blvd. ) on Dec. 11. Overflow crowds will be accommodated by simulcast in an adjacent theater. Awards are given for the best in art direction, editing, cinematography, sound, acting, writing, directing and more. After a brief awards ceremony, the audience moves to an after-party at La Sandia, a short stroll from the theater. Admission is free. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. coloradofilmschool.net/my/student_shows.html
Each Monday, Laura Daily and Bryan K. Chavez of compile “Cheap Checklist” to help you find deals, discounts and freebies. Know of a deal? E-mail info@milehighonthecheap.com 10 to 14 days in advance.
