x
Breaking News
More () »

9NEWS Light the Lights: Coloradans kick off 2019 holiday season

9NEWS helped downtown Denver kick off the holiday season Friday with Light the Lights, a free and fun tradition that began in 1931.

DENVER — For the better part of a century, Coloradans have gathered outside Denver’s City and County building for a celebration kicking off the holiday season.

The annual 9NEWS Presents Light the Lights featured bright lights, music and hot chocolate.

Coloradans gathered for free festivities and enjoyed the official light ceremony led by Denver Mayor Michael Hancock.

Free activities included a crafts corner, selfie booth, Bookmobile, photo opportunities with Elsa and the Grinch, and activities with the Denver Police and Denver Fire Departments. There were also roaming carolers, food trucks, and warm beverages for purchase. Don't miss out on a special performance by DIME Denver. 

Big thanks to our sponsors, Kelly Foster Cosmetics and Colorado Rooted, Spectrum Retirement, CAM Solar, Retro Dental, Alamo Draft House, Pickens Technical College, Mellivora Clothing Company, All Around Roofing, and Adams State University. 

HOLIDAY GUIDE: Everything you need to know about celebrating the holidays in Colorado

Credit: Thinkstock

The Denver City and County Building's light display includes more than 585 energy-efficient LED lights and 2,000 feet of LED rope, making it one of the most popular holiday lighting displays in the region.

The tradition of lighting a building in Denver began way back in 1926. At the time, Mayor Ben Stapleton set aside $400 to purchase decorations to light City Hall. In 1931, the City and County Building was built and has been lit up for the holidays ever since.

The Denver City and County Building will remain lit through Sunday, Jan. 26 and the 2020 National Western Stock Show. 

And be sure to mark your calendars for the 9NEWS Parade of Lights, which returns to downtown Denver on Friday, Dec. 6 and Saturday, Dec.7.

RELATED: 9NEWS Parade of Lights returns Dec. 6, Dec. 7

Credit: KUSA
Denver City & County Building holiday lighting display in 1938.

RELATED: Here's how you can volunteer at the 9NEWS Parade of Lights

SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Feature stories from 9NEWS

Before You Leave, Check This Out