WEEKEND HYPE — What’s Worth Doing in FoCo
Post-holiday Fort Collins doesn’t slow down — it shifts. Think glowing winter walks, easygoing nights out, and a few quiet surprises that reward locals who know where to look.
This weekend brings:
A can’t-miss seasonal experience families look forward to every year
A low-key outdoor moment that feels rare if you catch it right
A relaxed, after-Christmas night out that doesn’t require planning
One easy wildcard that’s better experienced than explained
More details below!
Which kind of post-holiday weekend do you prefer?
FoCo Konnx brought to you by
THE PULSE — Around Town & Outside
Garden of Lights continues Dec 26–28 at The Gardens on Spring Creek — perfect after-dinner walk under winter lights. Fort Collins
Eagle Watch programs at Horsetooth Reservoir on Dec 26 & 27, offering guided sightings and nature insights. Fort Collins
NoCo Winter Wonderland holiday light drive-thru experience continues through Dec 31 — great for families and casual cruisers. Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce
Downtown Fort Collins lights and post-holiday shopping create a festive Old Town stroll vibe all weekend long. DowntownFortCollins.com
RESTAURANT & BREWERY SPOTLIGHT
🍺 New Belgium Brewing
A winter-friendly Fort Collins staple with plenty of space to spread out, familiar beers, and a relaxed post-holiday feel.
Why it fits this week: Easy meet-up spot when routines are loose and everyone’s easing back into the week.
Website: https://www.newbelgium.com
🍺 Maxline Brewing
Comfortable taproom with a strong food truck rotation and a laid-back neighborhood vibe.
Why it fits this week: Great option for an uncomplicated dinner-and-beer night without the Old Town crowds.
Website: https://www.maxlinebrewing.com
SPOTLIGHT STORY — Winter Traditions That Keep Fort Collins Connected
Fort Collins residents know winter isn’t a season to hibernate — it’s a chance to embrace local lights, nature sightings, and community warmth. The annual Garden of Lights at The Gardens on Spring Creek transforms cold evenings into a glowing stroll, bringing families and friends together after holiday meals. Meanwhile, Eagle Watch programs at Horsetooth Reservoir connect locals with the region’s winter wildlife, offering a serene contrast to indoor festivities. Even the continuing NoCo Winter Wonderland drive-thru lets folks who missed earlier holiday lights enjoy a festive display with minimal planning. Downtown Fort Collins also stays lively, with twinkling lights inviting residents into shops and eateries for relaxed post-holiday browsing. These seasonal traditions reflect how Fort Collins keeps community and local celebration front-of-mind even after Christmas, blending outdoor experiences with supporting local businesses through the winter months.
REAL ESTATE CORNER — Fort Collins Market Snapshot
2014 Westview Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80524
6,338 sq ft | 5 Beds | 5 Baths
Highlight: This singular 6338 sqft home, only 8 minutes from Old Town Fort Collins, has 2.86 acres of property, a pole barn for 2 horses, and dozens of mature trees and shrubs. It is ideal for a large, or multi-generational, family who love the feel of a "country" home close to town.
🔗 View on ZillowIf interested, please contact Kellen Harmon 970-691-8429 from Home Savings Realty
4027 Celtic Lane, Fort Collins, CO 80524
1,446 sq ft | 4 Beds | 2 Baths
Highlight: Welcome to this inviting 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home offering generous space, a functional layout, and plenty of potential to make it truly your own. The semi-open first floor features a comfortable flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas—perfect for everyday living and easy entertaining.
🔗 View on ZillowIf interested, please contact Kiya Gerber 970-825-3152 [email protected] from Keller Williams Realty Downtown LLC
4904 Deer Trail Ct, Fort Collins, CO 80526
3,013 sq ft | 4 Beds | 3 Baths
Highlight: Panoramic scenery from your own hillside haven! Soak in more than two acres of Colorado living with panoramic views over Horsetooth Reservoir and the mountains. The impressive two-story home is crafted with quality finishes from top to bottom, featuring 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, plus plenty of room to relax, gather, and enjoy every corner.
🔗 View on ZillowIf interested, please contact Rob Kittle 970-218-9200 from Kittle Real Estate.
WEEKEND PLANNER — Full Event Details
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly
Garden of Lights
Fri–Sun, 5:00–9:00 PM — The Gardens on Spring Creek — Stroll illuminated displays and enjoy winter scenes. Fort CollinsNoCo Winter Wonderland Drive-Thru
Fri–Sun, various times — Colorado Youth Outdoors — Festive holiday lights from the comfort of your car. Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce
WEEKEND PLANNER — Full Event Details
🍸 Adults & Nightlife
🍷 Wine Night at The Emporium Sports Bar
A quieter Old Town option for drinks and conversation without the weekend rush. Solid post-holiday energy.
🎶 Live Music at The Lyric
Casual shows, relaxed crowd, and a local staple for nights that don’t feel forced. Check showtimes before heading out.
🥃 Craft Cocktails at Social
Comfortable, familiar setting for an easy nightcap after dinner or lights downtown.
WEEKEND PLANNER — Full Event Details
🆓 Free & Low-Cost Picks
Eagle Watch at Horsetooth Reservoir
Sat & Sun, 3:00–4:30 PM — Winter wildlife exploration with views and learning. Fort Collins
💛 FEEL-GOOD FOCO — Good News
Post-holiday spirits are running warm in Fort Collins as the community transitions from Christmas into a season of lights, nature engagement, and local connection. The Garden of Lights returns to The Gardens on Spring Creek Dec 26–28, bringing families, neighbors, and visitors together under glowing blooms and winter installations. Meanwhile, nature lovers can join Eagle Watch programs at Horsetooth Reservoir, where local volunteers and staff guide bird-watching sessions that often include bald eagle sightings. Even the car-friendly NoCo Winter Wonderland continues through Dec 31, giving households a relaxed way to soak in the festive lighting. Add in downtown’s winter lights and local shopping, and Fort Collins proves there’s plenty to do between the holidays — without leaving town.
That quiet week after Christmas is when small accidents happen — extra cars in the driveway, new electronics plugged in, kids home all day. A quick check now beats a headache later.
Brought to you by Summit Insurance — protecting your home, your weekend, and your peace of mind.
🐾PET CORNER — Adoptable Sweetheart (via NOCO Humane)
Looking to expand your crew? Check out NOCO Humane’s adoption roster — a great local resource for folks in Fort Collins and beyond. NOCO Humane+1
Meet Juno (and Nova)!
Very sweet and gentle guinea pigs looking for a home together. They love to explore, eat tasty treats and make friends! They have a good history with kids as well! Come grab these little cuties today!
😂 HUMOR BREAK — Meme / Video of the Week
The New Year will be here before you know it!
THE WRAP-UP
Post-holiday weekends can be cozy and community-rich in Fort Collins — plenty of lights, nature programs, and local spots to explore.
Reply with your favorite post-holiday tradition. Suggest a business to feature. Forward to FoCo friends for weekend ideas.
💬 Know someone making a difference in Fort Collins? Nominate them → Submit your nomination
