Top 5 holiday event venues in Colorado

GUEST POST by Libby Bryant of Venue Please

As I’m writing this it’s nearing the end of September, which means fall foliage, football and the holiday season right around the corner. Last night was the first really chilly night in our house and as a result, my husband Paul turned on the fireplace at 6am when he got up. I don’t know about you, but all of those things get me really excited for Thanksgiving, chai tea (I’m drinking one right now), holiday décor and parties. So if you’re planning any celebrating this winter, here are my top five picks for venues this holiday season. Cheers!

C Lazy U Ranch, Granby CO

My first selection is for those of you who get completely stressed out at the thought hosting a family holiday gathering. This Thanksgiving and Christmas, the owners of C Lazy U are opening their ranch to celebrate the holidays with their guests and I couldn’t imagine anything more ideal. This is one of the most beautiful dude ranches in Colorado, and it’s one of the few that stays open through the winter season. If you’re looking for the quintessential Colorado holiday experience that feels like a winter wonderland movie with horseback riding, ice-skating, sleigh rides, and private skiing, this is the place.

The Briarwood Inn, Golden CO

The Briarwood Inn in Golden is one of my favorite restaurant venues in Colorado. A lot has to do with the event director, Bri Pasko and her lovely story of the establishment. This is my top pick for small groups and organizations looking for an intimate and festive location that doesn’t require much planning. During the holidays cozy lounge and elegant dining room are transformed with traditional Christmas décor making this an idyllic spot for a low key cocktail or dinner party. As a bonus, if you book your event on a Monday in December your group will enjoy listening to Christmas carolers from “What the Dickens? Christmas Carolers!”

Wash Park Studio, Denver CO

My favorite thing is finding venues that organically evolved into being event spaces. Wash Park Studio is one of those venues. Todd Droy owns the space, and for years it was used exclusively as his photo studio, but for the past 18 months he’s been renting it for events – love that. Wash Park Studio is a cozy place that feels like a much hipper, cooler version of the loft studio you wish you owned. It’s clean and simple with warm materials and historic details, and even has a fireplace for those cooler months. The space is great as is, or it can be decorated to the nines. This is the perfect location to host a larger work holiday party or a group charity fundraiser.

FACTORY|made, Boulder CO

Holiday shopping parties are an emerging trend that seems to be phasing out the cookie exchange parties of the past. I love this idea because it’s an opportunity to get all your holiday shopping done and entertain your friends all at once. It also gives people a chance to support local business, and if there’s one shop in Boulder I would support, it’s FACTORY|made. The space has a lot of energy and they support local artists, sustainable practices and all things DIY. The showroom portion of the space is full of unique fashions, cosmetics, awesome vintage furnishings and artwork, and, if you’re not into hosting a party, they will be hosting a number of unique gift making classes this holiday season.

Clock Tower Events, Denver CO

I don’t think there has ever been a more magical venue than Clock Tower Events, located on the top five floors of the historic D&F Tower in downtown Denver. When I saw this space for the first time it took my breath away. It’s only been open a short time but it’s already getting rave reviews for an unparalleled experience. I can’t think of a better venue for New Year’s Eve; sip champagne and count down the minutes behind the biggest clock tower face in the city. Then, if that’s not enough, head up to the next level and take in Denver’s fireworks celebration from the upper floor balconies. It’s a once in a lifetime experience and the ideal venue for someone looking to host an unforgettable night.

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