Aurora is the biggest city in the metro after Denver, home to about 386,000 people, and between now and mid-December it has something festive almost every weekend. Whether you live in the Southlands area, near Stanley in north Aurora, or are house hunting along the E-470 corridor, here's what's coming up.

What's happening

  • Festival of Wreaths, Nov 10 to Dec 11: Local wreath designs on display in the Aurora History Museum's Community Gallery. It's free and a nice midweek stop.
  • Santa's Grand Arrival and Tree Lighting, Fri, Nov 20, 5 to 7 p.m.: Town Center at Aurora starts the season off. Santa photos run there through Dec 24 (reservations required).
  • Christmas at Gaylord Rockies, starting Nov 20: ICE! and the resort's holiday attractions run into early January near DIA.
  • Southlands Holiday Market, Nov 27 and 28, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Shop local after Thanksgiving, then skate at The Pond, Southlands' outdoor rink.
  • Small Business Saturday, Nov 28: Stanley Marketplace hosts Santa from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. It's a good day to support Aurora-owned shops.
  • DeLaney Historic District open days, Dec 5 and Dec 13, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: See the historic round barn and farmhouse at 170 S. Chambers Road.
  • Aurora Symphony's "A Trans-Siberian Christmas," Dec 5 and 6: At Gateway High School Auditorium.
  • Merry Makers Market and Holiday Tree Lighting, Tue, Dec 8: The market runs 4 to 8 p.m. at the Central Library. The tree lighting is 5 to 7 p.m. on the Municipal Center Great Lawn.

Why people are moving to Aurora

Aurora covers a lot of ground: established neighborhoods near Fitzsimons and the Anschutz Medical Campus, newer master-planned communities out east, and quick access to DIA and the Southlands area. For many buyers it's one of the best places in the metro to find more space for the money, with options from starter townhomes to large single-family homes.

Thinking about buying or selling in Aurora this winter? Reach out anytime. I'm happy to share what homes are selling for in your neighborhood.

Event details from Visit Aurora; confirm times before you go.