Four early December happenings in Breckenridge ... and a great place to stay

The historic mountain town of Breckenridge will soon be alive with events that celebrate winter and the holiday season. The first two weeks of December are an ideal time to go … see … and do! After you’ve played, you can stay at Beaver Run Resort, where you arrive as a guest, and check out as family.

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While Breckenridge, Colorado is a four-season destination, a visit in December puts you squarely in the center of some date-specific action! Where else could you find:

Lighting of Breckenridge and the Race of the Santas – Saturday, December 2

This family-friendly event welcomes two- and four-legged residents and visitors as the town is transformed into a winter wonderland to kick off the holiday season. Santa will be onsite to meet and greet … with hundreds of lookalikes participating in a .7 mile race. Attendees can participate in a snowman building contest and a delight in a Holiday Dog Parade that is open to all breeds who will “strut their stuff” on Main Street. (Remember to check out the Handmade Holiday Market at Old Masonic Hall!) A children’s Moose March, Tree Lighting Countdown, and holiday carolers round out the festivities. The light display, with 250,000 LED lights, covers an area in excess of 13,000 feet!

Winter Ice Skating Show – Saturday, December 2 – Saturday, December 9

Local youth and adult figure skaters will show off skills and routines, with performances by coaches at this week-long community event at the Stephen C. West Ice Arena.

The Hartford Ski Spectacular – Sunday, December 3 – Saturday, December 9

Hosted by Move United at the Beaver Run Resort, this winter sport festival for people with disabilities -- an integral part of the adaptive sports movement, attracts more than 800 registered participants each year. Many of the youth, wounded warriors, and others with disabilities who train at this event are working towards being a winter Paralympian.

Ullr Fest – Thursday, December 7 – Saturday, December 9

All things winter – especially a powder-filled ski season – is celebrated at this festival named for the Norse god of snow. This year marks Ullr Fest’s 60th anniversary, so there has never been a better time to take in the Main Street Parade (with floats!), Ullr Bonfire, and local legends than at this legendary party!

Location, Location, Location

Beaver Run Resort, at the Base of Peak 9, is one of the most popular slopeside resorts in Breckenridge, thanks to its conveniences and amenities. You can stay just steps away from the slopes (and ski rentals), snowboarding, lodging and dining in a hotel room, studio, suite, or condo. Comprehensive guest services include a front desk, business center, housekeeping, maintenance, and security. Enjoy an onsite spa, arcade with video games, interactive sports, and mini golf, pools, hot tubs, a sauna, and a steam room, too. Bring the kids and bring the dog; everyone is welcome at Beaver Run Resort!

Several resort-based options are available when you are hungry, including Spencer’s Steaks & Spirits a cozy restaurant next to the Beaver Run SuperChair, along with Base Nine Bar, Skywalk Market, and Coppertop Bar & Restaurant.

Parking is available for lodging guests with a courtesy shuttle to Breckenridge available for guests of Beaver Run.

Small town feel, big benefits

Visitors to the scenic mountain community of Breckenridge, a charming Old West mining town founded in 1859, will find art, culture, history, and hundreds of restaurants, shops, and saloons lining the streets of a highly walkable downtown area. The town also offers an abundance of recreational opportunities, from snowshoeing to sledding, along with skiing and snowboarding.

Check with the Beaver Run concierge about a scenic sleigh ride, dog sledding, ice fishing, ice skating, snowmobiling through the back country, or fat biking opportunities.

Beaver Run is located at 620 Village Road in Breckenridge. Call 970-453-6000, visit www.beaverrun.com or email stay@beaverrun.com for more information. Dial direct (toll free) to make a reservation: 800-525-2253.