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A midst the arrival of snow and the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, the Arkansas River Valley is filled with entertaining family-friendly events. From tubing and skiing by day and live music or arts and crafts by night there is a variety of fun to be had for all. While it is hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner, here is a taste of some of the holiday affairs happening that are sure to put even the biggest Scrooge in a festive spirit:

Dec. 14-15 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Mini-Lights of BV at Mini-blessings-Buena Vista

The non-profit organization and farm, Mini-blessings which offers therapy and healing through equine training and guidance, is inviting the public for a free event each Friday and Saturday in December at its facility at 15732 CR 306. Buena Vista. The evening will feature festive light displays and holiday music, kids’ crafts, keepsake photos with Cory the miniature horse, and a campfire and s’mores. Bundle up and bring the whole family for an evening of memorable fun.

Dec. 15 4:00 to 10:00 p.m. The 3rd Annual Ugly Sweater Christmas Party at The Jailhouse Craft Beer Bar- Buena Vista

For its third year in a row, the Jailhouse, located at 412 E Main St, Buena Vista, is offering a chance to win a Jailhouse gift card for the “ugliest” and most festive Christmas sweater. They are featuring a special line-up of holiday-themed beer on their taps and as always, a unique selection of wines and craft beers for the valley. Airing of Grievances will be playing free live music for the evening.

Opening Dec.15  Huck Finn Ice Rink and Dutch Henry Tubing Hill- Leadville

As another option to hitting the slopes during your white Christmas, the Leadville ice rink and tubing hill,, located at US-24 & McWethy Dr, Leadville are open at last on December 15 through February; weather permitting. They offer skate rentals, a snack bar, warming hut and of course lively tunes to keep the air filled with fun. For those that have their own skates or tubes the hill is open anytime, even during closed hours. There is a local’s discount for all Lake and Chaffee county residents. For more information and a current schedule of the facility please visit www.lakecountyco.com.

Dec. 16 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Cork Ornament Decorating at Vino Salida- Poncha Springs

As a unique way to get everyone involved with some Christmas Cheer Vino Salida located at 10495 Co Rd 120, Poncha Springs, is offering an afternoon of wine tasting, live music and caroling, plus all the supplies needed to create your own ornament out of corks. This event provides entertainment for all ages so if you are looking for something to do on Sunday afternoon Vino Salida is sure to provide delight.

Dec. 17 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. Holiday Market at The Crest Academy- Salida

The middle school students of Crest Academy, located at 220 W 12th St, in Salida, are having their annual Christmas-gift event which offers a variety of hand-made gift ideas all designed and crafted by the students. They will be selling hot burritos and flavored steamers for concession, and some of their products feature candles, jewelry, cards, fudge, paper wreaths and more! If you are looking for last-minute gift ideas and love a one-stop shop this market is a unique choice which supports local students and provides unique gifts not found anywhere else.

Dec. 20 6:00 to7:30 p.m. Winter Solstice Celebration at JalaBlu Yoga- Buena Vista

For those who are looking for relaxation and de-stressing during this busy time of year, the women of JalaBlu Yoga, located at 301 E Main St #270/4626 in Buena Vista, are offering an evening of restorative yoga and acupuncture as a journey to welcome the winter solstice. Space is limited so it is recommended to call and reserve a spot early. This event welcomes all levels and abilities to join in the therapeutic evening.

Dec. 20 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Salida Holiday Festival in Downtown Salida

For a night of community support and family-fun, the Salida Chamber of Commerce and Salida Business Alliance along with other sponsors have a schedule of events filled with food and refreshments, arts and crafts, photo time with Santa, sleigh rides, and extended business hours for all the last-minute shoppers. For a complete lineup of events and a map of locations please visit their event page on Facebook or Instagram. There is even a chance to win multiple vacation packages for the entire family.