Couple enjoying the ice sculptures

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The Gaylord Rockies Resort in Aurora, Colorado, is once again transforming into a dazzling winter wonderland this holiday season.

This year’s headline attraction, ICE! featuring The Polar Express™, invites guests to step aboard the beloved holiday classic in frozen splendor. Running now through January 1, 2025, the display is a celebration of the 20th anniversary of The Polar Express™, brought to life through over 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures.

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The Magic of ICE!

Passengers boarding the Polar Express train, capturing the festive and magical atmosphere.
All aboard the Polar Express! Photo courtesy of Gaylord Hotels

Visitors can immerse themselves in nine iconic scenes from The Polar Express™, including Hero Boy’s thrilling adventures on the train, the hot chocolate service, Glacier Gulch, and the North Pole’s grand arrival. The breathtaking sculptures—some towering over 30 feet—are illuminated with vibrant LED lights, creating a magical, frosty glow.

The conductor
The conductor. Photo by Janna Graber.

Crafted by 30 world-class artisans from Harbin, China, the 17,000-square-foot exhibit showcases their intricate artistry, from delicate coin-sized details to colossal icy structures. Guests will also enjoy two-story-tall ice slides and tunnels before ending their journey with a stunning crystal-clear Nativity scene.

Aboard the Polar Express
Aboard the Polar Express. Photo by Janna Graber

As always, Gaylord Rockies provides signature blue parkas to keep guests cozy while they explore the exhibit, which is maintained at a crisp 9°F.

ICE! Polar Express Hot Chocolate
Polar Express Hot Chocolate at the ICE! exhibit. Photo courtesy of Gaylord Hotels

Holiday Experiences

Beyond ICE!, Gaylord Rockies offers an array of festive experiences:

  • Cirque: Frost: A brand-new 50-minute Cirque-style show that follows Jack Frost’s magical transformation, featuring awe-inspiring aerial stunts and heartwarming storytelling.
  • Festival of Trees: Running until December 7, this festive event supports Lantern, a Colorado nonprofit, with beautifully decorated trees and interactive family activities.
  • Mistletoe Mile Scavenger Hunt: Help Santa recover missing toy blueprints hidden throughout the resort, earning a special souvenir.
  • Gingerbread Decorating Corner: Create edible masterpieces and meet Nutmeg, Gaylord Rockies’ very own gingerbread character.
ICE! Polar Express Tree
Polar Express-themed tree at the ICE! attraction. Photo courtesy of Gaylord Hotels

Returning Favorites

Popular traditions are back with even more holiday cheer:

  • Elf Training Academy: Learn the secrets of Santa’s workshop while crafting a personalized keepsake.
  • Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions: Enjoy cookies, milk, and a storytelling session featuring ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.
  • Build-A-Bear Workshop®: Personalize cuddly companions and partake in the festive Heart Ceremony.
  • Photos with Santa: Capture the magic with the jolly man in red himself.
Enter a winter wonderland
Winter wonderland scene. Photo courtesy of Gaylord Hotels

Indulge and Relax

For those looking for relaxation amid the excitement, the Relâche Spa offers Winter Wonderland treatments with warm scents and soothing body butters, and the Arapahoe Springs Waterpark offers exclusive access to heated pools and a lazy river.

Plan Your Visit

The Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center lights up at Christmas
The Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center lights up at Christmas. Photo courtesy of Gaylord Hotels

With millions of twinkling lights, over 200 Christmas trees, and immersive experiences, Christmas at Gaylord Rockies promises unforgettable memories. Overnight guests can enjoy exclusive perks like early access to events and front-of-line privileges for ICE! with the Chill Pass.

To secure your spot, book tickets and packages early by visiting https://christmasatgaylordrockies.marriott.com/

This holiday season, Gaylord Rockies continues its tradition of blending innovation, family fun, and festive magic, ensuring a spectacular experience for visitors of all ages.

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