Merriment and Wonder in Leadville

Merriment and Wonder Ring in Season

Tonight’s Annual Parade of Lights officially kicks off the holiday season in Leadville Today. So be sure to join the fun in downtown Leadville as the merriment and wonder of the season shine brightly at 10,200 feet! Reports from the event’s sponsor – the Leadville/Lake County Chamber of Commerce – indicate there could be some more than 15 entries in tonight’s showcase. Expectations are high; come cheer on the contenders! The parade starts at 6 p.m.

Of course, the most popular parade passengers are Santa and Mrs. Claus who usually arrive in style to the Lake County Courthouse. Children and families are invited to enjoy hot cocoa and cookies as they wait to share their special Christmas wishes and take pictures with the jolly couple in the lobby of the courthouse.

Holiday Happenings Heating Up The Cloud City

This Saturday, Dec. 2 if you’re looking for a place to warm up from the predicted wintry weather after you’re done playing in it, head over to  Leadville’s Historic Pastime Bar & Cafe for their Third Annual Chili Cook-off. It’s the only culinary contest of its kind in The Cloud City, so the competition can get pretty fierce.

Entry this year is $10 per pot. Any kind of chili is welcome. There will have a panel of judges. Cash prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd. Do you have the best chili in town!? For Chili lovers, you can pay $8 to taste, which includes small cups for tasting and a bowl after the judging. The Pastime will provide cheese, onions, crackers, and cornbread. The Pastime Bar & Cafe is the last existing business on Old State Street, formerly known as Leadville’ Red Light District, so there’ sure to be an extra kick in the competition. Check out this historic gem and warmup with some chili. Event runs from 2 – 5:30 p.m.

Give the Gift of Scenic Wonder This Christmas!

The Leadville, Colorado and Southern Railroad is having a Christmas sale that could be just the gift you need for that hard-to-buy-for train and history lover on your holiday list.

From now until December 24 the train is offering discounted tickets for next summer’s train-riding season. So if you’ve got a relative or friend that comes to visit and always looking for something fun to do during the summer months, take advantage of this special. Regular train tickets are being offered at a 14% discount. #AllAboard for savings

The Parade of Lights in downtown Leadville officially kicks off the holiday season. Photo: Leadville Today/Diana Lange