Winter Park Ski Train Express

Temperatures are cooling down and winter is finally here in the mountains. Did you know that there is a ski train that takes you from Union Station in downtown Denver directly to the slopes? Don’t stress driving up a congested I-70 and over Berthoud Pass, why not take the train instead? You can sit back and relax, enjoy stunning Colorado views from the comfort of the train cabin by taking the Amtrak Winter Park express train. Taking the train is one the most environmentally friendly ways of traveling. When compared to cars and airplanes, trains on average, emit between 66 and 75 percent less carbon. So, if you’re looking for an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint, then look no further. The trip itself takes about two hours. Which during peak ski season can mean the difference between hitting the slopes quicker versus sitting in standstill traffic. Tickets go on sale in late November or early December with rides starting in the beginning of the year.

The original Ski Train ran continuously from 1940 to 2009 and was brought back temporarily for a weekend in 2015 to celebrate Winter Park's 75th anniversary. Tickets sold out quickly, which sparked renewed interest in resurrecting the concept under a new partnership arrangement through Amtrak, Union Pacific and the resort. The Winter Park resort has a partnership with the Denver Parks and Recreation. Portions of the proceeds go towards projects such as park improvements, repairs, upgrades, and so much more! Over the years a substantial amount of revenue has been allocated to Denver parks. When you spend money at this resort you are helping the City of Denver fund your parks projects. For more information about the history and projects that the Winter Park Trust Fund has helped complete click here.

You can purchase tickets here

With Thanksgiving approaching fast, I want to to encourage you to help your neighbors and give if you can. Neighbors helping neighbors is one of the things that makes Denver great. I am including a link below to last months newsletter which is filled with various resources for those in need of food assistance, those wanting to donate, or if you would like to get involved and make a difference in your community this holiday season. Resources and ways to donate

Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving.

Sincerely,

Deborah "Debbie" Ortega

Councilwoman At-Large

Mayors Pedestrian Advisory Committee

The Office of the Mayor’s Boards and Commission is continually seeking Denver citizens to serve on a variety of boards and commission. The Mayor’s Pedestrian Advisory Committee (MPAC) is looking for new members to bring ideas and energy to this important committee. There are two representatives from each city council district and three at-large members for a total of 25 members. People serve three-year terms. Recent Committee activity includes recommendations to the City on shared streets, speed limits around schools and in neighborhoods, and sidewalk funding policy. The Committee meets monthly on the second Tuesday from 7:30-9:00 am. Meetings are currently held via Zoom and the deadline for applications is Wednesday, November 30, 2022. You can submit your application here.

Denver Botanic Gardens Blossoms of Light

Taking a stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. The Blossoms of Light extravaganza is a twinkling and breathtaking way to spend a winter evening. This event takes place from Friday, November 18 – Saturday, January 7, at the Denver Botanic Gardens located at 1007 York St, Denver, 80206. To purchase tickets click here.

The Denver Downtown Skating Rink

This event takes place from November 21 – February 19, from 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM at Skyline Park located at 1601 Arapahoe St., Denver, 80202. Click here for more information.

The Mile High Tree

Join in the free festivities at the Mile High Tree. It’s a 110-foot-tall immersive art installation that provides a dazzling lights-and-music show. America's tallest digital tree will be on display at Civic Center Park from November 18 - December 31,2022.

Light the Lights

Enjoy the annual Light the Lights Celebration at Denver’s City and County Building on Wednesday, Nov 23, from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

Winter Markets

Cherry Creek Holiday Market                           

The Cherry Creek Holiday Market is happening from November 17 – December 24 at the Fillmore Plaza just north of 1^st Ave and the Cherry Creek Shopping Center. For more information click here.

Christkindlmarket

This charming German Holiday Market returns to Civic Center Park for a third year, bringing artisan gifts, live music, and tasty treats to the center of downtown. Entrance is free and Colorado’s only authentic German market will be running from Friday, November 18 – Friday, December 23, with varying hours depending on the day. For more information click here.

Firefly Handmade Holiday Market

The Firefly Handmade Holiday Market is taking place on Saturday and Sunday November 19 - 20 from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Located at the 1000 Block of South Gaylord Street (between Tennessee & Mississippi) Washington Park, Denver. For more information click here.

Horseshoe Holiday Market

Celebrate Small Business Saturday and Sunday at the Horseshoe Holiday Market on November 26 – 27 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, at the Highlands Masonic Temple, located at 3550 Federal Boulevard. Denver, 80211. Over 120 Colorado vendors will be there, so there is something for everyone. This event is free; however, donations are welcome. Click here for more information.

Mi Casa Bazaar Navideño Artisanal                   

Mi Casa Resource Center is hosting a Bazaar Navideño Holiday Artisanal Market. Come celebrate the holidays and support local businesses. The market is located at 345 S Grove Street and will be open on the following Saturdays, November 26, December 3, December 10, and December 17 from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

RINO Holiday Bazaar                     

The free Rino Holiday Bazaar will be taking place on Saturday and Sunday November 26 - 27 from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, located at 35^th and Wazee Steet. Shop local for Small Business Saturday & Sunday with 80+ featured local markers, indoor food hall, market bar, and holiday sips. For more information click here.

What's On Your Mind?

Every week, starting at 5:00 PM, the Denver City Council hosts a 30-minute public comment session before the meeting of Council, inviting members of the public to address the full Council on any topic that is not scheduled for a public hearing. Each speaker gets a maximum of 3 minutes to speak on any topic of his/her choice. Sign up starts at 12:00 PM on the Friday before the next scheduled general public comment sign up here or by calling 720-337-2000.