Parker, just 20 miles southeast of Denver, in Douglas County, has a cozy, small-town feel. Known for its pretty Western-Victorian downtown and O”Brien Park, with its old-timey gazebo and many events, Parker and its 50,000+ residents offer a wealth of family-friendly holiday events and activities this year.

Saturday, December 10, the Christmas Carriage Parade on Mainstreet will be held at 12 noon. This all-equestrian parade is made up of dozens of horse-drawn carriages, wagons, surreys, and stagecoaches from across Colorado, all dressed up for the occasion, with a different theme each year. Event-goers also enjoy a holiday farmer’s market, a petting zoo, pony rides, and ice sculpting in O’Brien Park. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the Douglas County Library at Parker after the parade from 1 to 3 p.m., happy to take pictures with your children for $5, cash only.

Visitors can also jump on free holiday wagon and carriage rides, starting at O”Brien Park and leading blanket-bedecked passengers through the twinkling holiday lights of downtown Parker, December 10 and 17, from 4:30 to 8:30. Although the rides are free, participants need to reserve tickets on ride day beginning at 2 p.m. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Joshua Rivero, Parker town councilman and owner of the FIKA Coffeehouse, recommends recommends setting up a Sign Up Genius account ahead of time (on

FIKA Coffeehouse (fun children’s play and artwork area)

19559 E. Mainstreet

Parker Garage (creative children’s menu)

19420 E. Mainstreet

Elev. 5900 (childen’s menu)

19751 Mainstreet

Vines Wine Bar (also non-alcoholic drinks and great burgers and fries)

19501 Mainstreet

Nomélie Cupcakes (who doesn’t love cupcakes?)

19751 Mainstreet

Irene Middleman Thomas is a mother of three living in Aurora.