3 Minute Read
Grand Junction, Colorado, shines all season long with holiday magic. Downtown’s display of lights fills your holiday shopping with festive charm while ovation-worthy performances sparkle on stage, including Broadway! The fun doesn’t stop as we welcome 2026. Grab your coat, sip on a hot cocoa, and celebrate the winter season with an affordable Grand Junction getaway.
Start the new year off in style
The festivities continue into 2026 with an event lineup full of adventure and discovery. Whether you're chasing adrenaline or seeking inspiration, Grand Junction is the place to be in the new year.
Spider Woman & Trading Posts Exhibit
January 17 - March 21
Stop in to the Museum of the West to see a special collaborative exhibition that explores the evolution of the Diné (Navajo) weaving traditions, tracing their origins through cultural teachings of Spider Woman to the development of regional styles shaped by historic trading posts. Featuring works from the permanent collections between The Museums of Western Colorado and The Art Center of Western Colorado, you can see history come together in early trade textiles to contemporary expressions.
Broadway continues
Various dates
There are more Broadway performances coming to Grand Junction in 2026. Including the "Tina Turner Musical" and "Mark Twain Tonight". “Chicago”, “The Book of Mormon”, and "Hadestown" are already sold out – so get your tickets for the remaining shows now!
For more events, check out the Grand Junction events calendar.
Don't worry if you missed these events; they'll be back in winter 2026!
Warren Miller’s “Sno-ciety” Film
Early December 2026
It’s every skiers tradition to jump start the season with a Warren Miller film. Step into the Avalon Theater for Warren Miller’s “Sno-ciety” — an immersive ski and snow adventure captured on film. You’ll go from ski jumps in the Alps to powder chases through snowy peaks, all without leaving your seat. Let the visuals, music, and stories carry you through epic winter moments. Experience the adrenaline-pumping activities on the screen and heartfelt moments intricately blended together.
Candy Cane Hunt
Early December 2026
The Candy Cane Hunt brings the spirit of the North Pole to life at Lincoln Park! Families gather to celebrate with festive crafts, cheerful music, and the excitement of the search. Sip on hot cocoa, share a cookie, and make new memories that sparkle long after the holidays.
Parade of Lights
Early December 2026
The Parade of Lights is a classic holiday experience. Locals and guests gather around Main Street to watch as decorated floats make Main Street larger than life. The twinkling lights make this a Hallmark movie experience! Grab a famous Polar Express hot cocoa from Main Street Bagels.
Chocolate Walk
Mid-December 2026
Wrap your hands around a steaming mug of hot cocoa and stroll Downtown during the annual Chocolate Walk. Window displays sparkle, local shops offer sweet treats, and the twinkling lights make each step feel like walking through a holiday dream. On top of the displays, there are 115 sculptures on display around the area, sparking creativity throughout the winter season.
Nutcracker
Mid-Late December, 2026
The Nutcracker will transport you to a world of wonder at the Asteria Theatre. A talented cast of dancers from around the world glides across the stage in shimmering costumes, bringing the classic story to life. Let your heart swell and feel the season’s enchantment come alive in Grand Junction.
New Year's Eve Events
For New Year's Eve Events, check out these top 5 ways to ring in 2026.
Rocky Mountain Sled Dog Races
Late January, 2027
Feel the thrill as powerful pups dash through the snow, pulling their humans toward the finish line in this exhilarating two-day race! Experience the excitement of wagging tails, cheering crowds, and winter magic on the Grand Mesa. Best of all, the event is free for spectators to enjoy.
For more things to do in the area this winter, check out pages 32-33 of the Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide.