No shopping center has the kind of outdoor space for holiday fun that The Orchard Town Center in Westminster has, which is why it’s going big this year. There will be a big winter celebration, two-story Christmas tree, Hanukkah menorah lighting, carriage rides and more. Here’s a look at what’s planned starting November 16, 2024.
Santa’s Workshop at The Orchard Town Center / Photo by Gretchen TeBockhorst
Winterfest
Saturday, November 16 — 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The Orchard’s annual tree lighting celebration is on Town Center Drive. Explore more than 20 winter and holiday-themed market vendors offering one-of-a-kind gifts. Warm up with seasonal beverages, including adult-friendly options, like spiked hot chocolate, available for purchase.
Santa lights the two-story tree at dusk. He’ll be bringing all the fun with caroling, live reindeer, ice carving and more. After Santa lights the tree, he will be in his house to take photos.
Photos with Santa
November 23 to December 22
Families can take their own photos with Santa in his house. He will be in residence on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from November 23 to December 22 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Go here to confirm dates and times.
Visits with Santa are free and guests are welcome to take a photo on their own phones. There will be an elf helper who can take group shots.
Bring letters, wish lists and photos to share with Santa. Please be advised that the waiting area is outside so visitors are encouraged to prepare for cold weather. Note: If the temperature drops below 20 degrees the event will be canceled for the day.
Horse-drawn carriage rides at Orchard Town Center / photo by Gretchen TeBockhorst
Grinchmas
November 30
The Grinch is making a mischief-filled appearance. According to the Grinch, Santa is on “strike” this year, so The Orchard is inviting kids to show him that Santa’s holiday spirit is alive and well. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Grinch will be taking over Santa’s house for memorable photo ops and grumpy encounters. All ages are welcome, and the event is free to attend.
Carriage Rides
December 1 to 15
For a magical experience this holiday season with kiddos or a romantic date for two, enjoy a free horse-drawn carriage rides. Tour the glimmering lights and holiday decorations at the center. Carriage rides are first come first served. Pick-up and drop-off location will be at the Macy’s courtyard on W. 146th Ave.
Dates:
- Sunday, December 1 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, December 8 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, December 15 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Sensory Friendly Photos with Santa
December 7
The Orchard Town Center, in partnership with Autism Colorado, is hosting a free sensory-friendly event on Saturday, December 7, from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., offering children and young adults with ASD a private, comfortable visit with Santa.
Each family will have a dedicated 7-minute time slot for photos and a chat in a calm, low-sensory environment prior to the center opening. Parents and caretakers are required to reserve their spot through on Autism Colorado website’s events page.
Santa Paws at Orchard Town Center / Photo by Gretchen TeBockhorst
Santa Paws
December 7
For the pet parents out there, The Orchard Town Center invites well-behaved pups to come visit Santa for a free photo opportunity from noon to 2 p.m. Photos can be taken with a cell phone or personal camera.
Hanukkah Celebration
Date to be announced
Come and celebrate Hanukkah with The Orchard’s Grand Menorah Lighting Celebration. Enjoy live music, latkahs, donuts, hot beverages and a variety of performances. Hosted by The Chabad of NW Metro Denver in loving memory of Jessica Ridgeway on The Orchard entertainment stage.