How to Make the Most of Noel Night in Durango: A Local’s Guide

Noel Night in Durango is one of the most anticipated holiday events of the year, and it’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season while supporting local businesses and the local circular economy. On Friday, December 6, 2024, Downtown Durango will come alive with holiday cheer, late-night shopping, festive activities, and much more! Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, this guide will help you navigate all the exciting things happening at Noel Night.

What is Noel Night in Durango?

Noel Night is an annual holiday tradition in Downtown Durango hosted by Local First and presented by First Southwest Bank, where local businesses stay open late to offer exclusive deals, holiday promotions, and unique gifts. The streets come alive with lights, music, and holiday festivities, creating a magical atmosphere for the whole family. It’s the perfect way to shop locally, experience the warmth of the season, and discover the charm of Durango’s historic downtown shopping district (see map here).

Event Details

Date
Friday, December 6, 2024

Time
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (note times vary by business)

Location: Downtown Durango
Main Avenue, 2nd Avenue, and surrounding streets including the Smiley Building at 1309 E 3rd Avenue

Cost
Free to attend! (Some activities or purchases may require payment.)

Parking
Parking is available throughout Downtown Durango. Street parking is free after 6pm. Look for free parking after 5pm at marked City of Durango lots on 2nd Avenue and at the Durango Transit Center (see map here). The Durango Trolley is also a great option for easy access to the event.

Local First at Noel Night

As part of Noel Night, Local First will be hosting several exciting activities and features that celebrate the spirit of supporting local businesses in Durango:

Local First Makers Markets

The Makers Markets at Noel Night will feature handcrafted goods from local artisans. Shop for unique gifts, from jewelry and artwork to home decor and holiday ornaments, all made by talented Durango makers. When you shop local, you’re supporting small businesses and helping build a stronger community.

Locations and Makers

After you’ve found the perfect gifts at the Makers Market, swing by the Local First Gift Wrapping Station in the lobby of The Bank of Colorado (1199 Main Avenue)! For a small donation, our volunteers will wrap your purchases in eco-friendly gift bags or wrapping paper. It’s the perfect way to save time and add a personal touch to your presents, all while supporting the Local First mission.

Love Local Tables

Be sure to stop by the Love Local Tables located inside businesses around downtown. Volunteers at these tables will be selling festive drinks (ID required for alcohol), reusable commemorative mugs and Be Local Coupon Books as well as offering special promotions and ways you can continue supporting the Durango community well beyond the holiday season.

Locations of Love Local Tables (5pm to 9pm except as indicated):

Frequently Asked Questions about Noel Night

1. Is Noel Night Free to Attend?
Yes! Noel Night is free to attend. Enjoy strolling through downtown, browsing local stores, eating in local restaurants, and taking in the festive atmosphere. Some activities or purchases (like food, drinks, or special gifts) may have an associated cost, but the event itself is open to all.

2. How Should I Dress for Noel Night?
Since Noel Night takes place in December, be sure to dress warmly! It’s a winter celebration, so we recommend layering up to stay cozy as you explore Durango’s downtown. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and boots for the chilly evening weather.

3. Is Noel Night Family-Friendly?
Absolutely! Noel Night is fun for all ages. There will be kid-friendly activities like marshmallow roasting, live music, and plenty of opportunities for family photos with Santa and in front of the beautiful holiday lights and decorations. It’s a great way to create lasting holiday memories.

4. What About Parking?
There is ample parking available in Downtown Durango (see map here). You’ll find free parking after 5pm in marked City of Durango lots on 2nd Avenue and at the Durango Transit Center, as well as street parking (free after 6pm) near the event. Consider taking the Durango Trolley to make getting to and from the event even easier. ADA-accessible parking spaces are located throughout downtown (see map here).

5. How Can I Reduce Waste at Noel Night?
Bring your own reusable cup or purchase a reusable commemorative mug at a Love Local Table. Please dispose of waste responsibly!

Want to Know More?

Pick up a Durango Herald newspaper with the Noel Night publication copies will be available in many local businesses and at Love Local Tables. You can also visit Local First’s Noel Night webpage for details or check out the Noel Night publications digitally below.

Noel Night in the Durango Herald

Noel Night is featured in the Durango Herald‘s special holiday publication, highlighting the event’s vibrant celebration of local businesses and community spirit. The publication provides an in-depth look at the variety of activities, from exclusive discounts at local shops to live performances and family-friendly fun.

Why Support Local at Noel Night?

When you shop and eat at Noel Night in Downtown Durango, you’re doing more than just buying gifts and dining out. You’re supporting the local circular economy, helping small businesses thrive, and making a positive impact on preserving the unique character of the community. Local First is proud to host this event, encouraging people to shop and eat local and invest in the small businesses that make Durango special. Every purchase you make at Noel Night helps keep the spirit of localism alive, both during the holidays and throughout the year.

Noel Night Supporters

A big thank you to all of our incredible sponsors for making Noel Night such a special event! Your generous support helps bring our community together, celebrate the season, and support local businesses. We are truly grateful for your contributions and couldn’t have done it without you.

Shining Star Sponsor:
First Southwest Bank

Twinkling Lights Sponsors:
American Heritage Railways DSNGRR
Ballatine Communications
Visit Durango/City of Durango

Snowfall Sponsors:
Colorado Housing & Finance Authority (CHFA)
Durango Sustainable Goods & Laura’s Artisans

Good Cheer Sponsors:
April’s Garden
Durango Business Improvement District
Tafoya Barrett
Tailwind Nutrition

Festive Friends:
Arete Mortgage
Durango Chamber of Commerce
Legacy Financial Advisors
The Reynolds Law Group

Holiday Helpers (In-Kind Contributions):
Animas Trading Company
Allison Ragsdale Photography
Artesanos Design
Bank of Colorado
Blues Mtn & Soul
Carver’s Brewing Co.
EsoTerra Ciderworks
Honey House Distillery
Primi Pasta & Wine Bar
Rose Duds
Ska Brewing Co.
Sutcliffe Vineyards
Sun Sapphires
The Sparrow Mercantile
There’s No Place Like Home
Wagon Wheel Liquors

 

More About Our Sponsors