Denver Holiday Concert Preview

Denver is one the nation's most vibrant and eclectic music scenes. The bustle of the holidays and all things festive are no exception. Whether you are looking for something classic like Handel's "Messiah," a raucous symphony of guitars or maybe just a little alternative/folk music to ring in the new year, the Mile High City's holiday concert calendar showcases it all. Get ready because it is time to deck the halls and tune up your 'Fa, la, la, la, las.'

Colorado Christmas
Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver Performing Arts Complex
1000 14th St.
Denver, CO 80202
(720) 865-4220
www.coloradosymphany.org

Dates: December 7 to 9, 2012
Price: $25-$88

Join the Colorado Symphony Chorus under the expert direction of Duain Wolfe and Deborah deSantis for a magical evening at the Boettcher Concert Hall. This thematic chorale performance features the vocals of both a children's and adult choir. Centering around our favorite holiday traditions celebrated among family and friends, from Christmas cards to caroling and Santa Claus himself, this symphonic production has the nostalgia of Christmas wrapped up and tied with a bow.

Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2012
Paramount Theater
1621 Glenarm Place
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 623-0106
www.tickethorse.com

Date: December 10, 2012
Price: $39.50-$69.50 in advance (price subject to additional fees)

Grammy-nominated saxophonist Dave Koz takes his star-laden cast of artists and musicians on the road once again for the 15th straight year. Joining the Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour this holiday season is another celebrated Grammy-nominated pianist/composer David Benoit as well as season one winner of NBC's "The Voice," Javier Colon. Additionally, Sheila E., the drummer/percussionist/vocalist extraordinaire will also join the cast, boasting a tour resume that includes the likes of Prince, Cyndi Lauper and Ringo Starr. The energetic, family-oriented musical showcase is a performance that your family can enjoy together as a highlight to your seasonal festivities.

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Not So Silent Night
1stBank Center
11450 Broomfield Lane
Broomfield, CO 80021
(303) 410-8497
www.1stbankcenter.com

Date: December 13, 2012
Price: $33.50-$38.50 (Sold Out)

For those whose wish list includes something a bit edgier than "O, Holy Night" this holiday season, you're in luck. This wildly successful concert event will sonically illuminate your merriment on December 13, 2012. The 1stBank Center will play host, setting the stage for some of pop/rock's biggest names including Of Monsters and Men, Churchill as well as headliners, fun., perhaps 2012's most virally successful group. This colossal concert event has brought the heat to our frosty city for years and promises no less this year.

Messiah By Candlelight
Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church
1980 Dahlia St.
Denver, CO 80220
(303) 623-7876
www.coloradosymphony.org

Dates: December 11, 12 and 16, 2012
Price: $25-$88

Handel's "Messiah" is perhaps the crowning jewel of all holiday music. With the ambiance and respect one of the world's most revered choral masterpieces demands, the Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church hosts "Messiah By Candlelight." Lit by the warm glow of candlelight, Handel's oratorio is presented by the Colorado Symphony Chorus. On its third year, this romantic performance is guaranteed to be a memorable holiday tradition not only for you and your family but for the Mile High City. These performances will sell out, so get your tickets now.

Crowne Plaza NYE Block Party
Crowne Plaza Denver International Airport Convention Center
15500 E. 40th Ave.
Denver, CO 80239
(303) 371-9494
www.newyearseveblockparty.com

Date: December 31, 2012
Price: $49-$79

When all the gifts have been opened and the eggnog carton is dry, there's still time for one last celebration. And there is no better way to ring in the New Year than with music from some of Denver's finest DJs and cover bands. The Collective 360 will be hosting one of this year's biggest New Year's celebrations with an evening of unforgettable entertainment. The Crowne Plaza Hotel will be hosting up to 6,000 guests for a multi-room event that features elevated VIP decks and cabanas and one of Colorado's largest countdowns and ball drops at midnight. Get ready to raise your glass and toast 2013 with your friends set to the soundtrack of the 80s, Top 40 and even a little bass for EDM lovers.

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