Warm cocoa, fresh snow, sparkling lights – it’s that time of year again, and Xcel Energy is proud to power community traditions across the city of Denver this holiday season.
This year’s celebration kicked off at the 25th Denver Christkindlmarket launch event on Nov. 21. Each year, thousands of Coloradoans gather here to shop local food and craft vendors, enjoy live entertainment and take part in the rich heritage of this authentic German-style holiday market. Standing at the center of it all is the city’s iconic Mile High Tree.
“The reason that we can light something this monumental downtown is because of Xcel [Energy],” said Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, turning to admire the impressive 110-foot structure strung with 60,000 energy efficient LED bulbs.
Since it was installed in 2019, this tree has become a staple of the Denver holiday season, serving as a landmark for the yearly festival and creating dazzling nightly shows with advanced pixel mapping technology.
Just across town, there was another celebration in bloom as Denver Botanic Gardens unveiled their 40th annual Blossoms of Light display. This long-standing tradition transforms their extensive gardens into a radiant wonderland, offering a mile-long path for visitors to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors in a twinkling winter landscape.
In line with the Denver Botanic Gardens’ ongoing sustainability partnership with Xcel Energy, each string of lights carefully laced through the greenery uses 100% LED bulbs – providing a nostalgic warmth while using modern, efficient technology that ensures the beloved local tradition can brighten the community for generations to come.
In the heart of the city, neighbors also gathered for the 92nd Light the Lights event, where Mayor Mike Johnston flipped the switch to illuminate the City and County Building for the season. He was joined by Xcel Energy’s Colorado Operating Company President, Robert Kenney.
“It’s a privilege for Xcel [Energy] to be able to support our customers and our communities in a variety of different ways, to kick off the holidays and to support these types of traditions,” said Kenney.
Denver’s Parade of Lights on Dec. 6 kept the party going at the City and County Building, where more than 40 floats and festive groups set out to spread holiday cheer throughout the neighborhood.
Xcel Energy employees take part in this tradition each year, and this time around, they were joined by the newest RED Truck added to the company’s fleet. The RED (Resources. Education. Delivered.) Trucks are mobile resource centers designed to meet customers where they are, including community celebrations like this one.
And nearby, in the tree-lined streets of Cherry Creek’s Winter Wanderland, a million lights danced, creating a glimmering path of events and activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From a complimentary hot chocolate tent and photobooth to a stunning tunnel of lights, Xcel Energy is honored to sponsor holiday festivities that spark joy and create cherished memories.
“Whether it’s lighting trees, whether it’s providing natural gas to cook a turkey, we are critically important to our customers and our communities’ ability to celebrate their family traditions,” said Kenney. “It’s a privilege to be a part of that.”
From our crew to yours: Happy Holidays. However you plan to celebrate, you can count on us to power it.
Photo courtesy of Visit Denver
