Cheap Checklist
HOME, SWEET, HOME
The stately Governor’s Residence at Boettcher Mansion (400 E. Eighth Ave.) in Denver is open for free tours from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Dec. 9-10 and Dec. 14-17. Decorated inside and out for the holidays, this year’s theme highlights Colorado’s cultural institutions and their take on holiday classics, such as “The Nutcracker,” “A Christmas Carol” and more. The tour of the entire main floor includes a peek at the great hall and state dining room, among others. Tours begin at the main gate. Guests are admitted first-come, first-served. Expect to spend 20 to 45 minutes taking in all of the decorations, as the tour is self-guided. For more information, call 303-866-3682.
REINDEER GAMES
Santa is all over the place this time of year, but when his reindeer make an appearance, it’s extra special. They’re flying into Murdoch’s Home & Ranch Supply this weekend and next. On Dec. 9, from 3-6 p.m., see them in Fort Morgan (1207 W. Platte Ave.) Then, on Dec. 10, they share their magic in Westminster (9150 Wadsworth Parkway) from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and in Longmont (2255 N. Main St.) from 3-6 p.m. Next weekend, they make two appearances on Dec. 17. From 10 a.m.-1 p.m., they will be in Littleton (12154 N. Dumont Way) and will fly over to Parker (9853 S. Parker Road) from 3-6 p.m. The photo opportunity will make for lots of great social media updates. After their visit, Santa’s steeds will head back to the North Pole to rest up for their big trip on Christmas Eve. murdochs.com
WINTER WONDERLAND
Experience the joy of the holiday season in Cherry Creek North on Dec. 9 from 10 a.m-2 p.m. with its Winter Fest on Fillmore. The free family-friendly celebration transforms the plaza (between First and Second Avenues on Fillmore Street) into a winter wonderland with live ice sculpting, music, fire pits, giveaways and more, as well as complimentary hot beverages and treats. In addition, many of the shopping district’s businesses will host activities, including ornament decorating, games, entertainment and more for added holiday cheer. cherrycreeknorth.com
NIGHT LIFE
Here’s a shiny gift-card bonus for families looking to light up their night life. Ace Hardware is offering two free tickets (a $34 value) to the Denver Zoo’s annual nighttime holiday tradition Zoo Lights with the purchase of an Ace gift card of $30. It’s rare the value of a bonus offer that exceeds the minimum purchase requirement, so the deal is extra bright. The offer is valid through Dec. 31, while tickets last. The tickets would make a great present for any zoo fan on your list, and the gift card would make be a perfect gift for the fixer-upper pro in your life. acehardware.com
CHRISTMAS SPIRITS
It’s the perfect time for an inexpensive date night. Here’s one suggestion. Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar is serving Long Island Ice Teas for just $1 each. Known as the Dollar L.I.T., the discounted adult beverage is available every day this month. Through Dec. 31, famished frugal diners can pair the bargain beverage with the chain’s popular two-for-$20 meal deal for maximum savings. Combine the deals for an appetizer, two entrees and two drinks for under $25.