Guide to Castle Rock's Starlighting

The Castle Rock Starlighting is the town's most-attended event; not just of the holiday season, but the whole year! This beloved tradition has been going on since 1962, and if you've never been, it's worth checking out to see why.

25,000+ people come out to the streets of Downtown Castle Rock to share holiday cheer with friends and neighbors and this annual tradition that kicks off The Season of the Star.

New to Starlighting? Simply need a refresher or a new way to view this event? Here's some ideas on how to approach the event!

WHEN TO ARRIVE:

The event starts officially at 2pm, which certainly doesn't mean you can't get downtown earlier than this. Vendors might still be setting up prior to 2pm, but visit a coffee shop, a retail shop, or grab a bite to eat before the fun!

WHERE TO GO:

Follow the crowd! Wilcox Square (the streets surrounding the government building) will be the main focal point, with the main stage at Fourth and Wilcox. The streets are fully open for walking and wandering. If you need a map, visit the Castle Rock Chamber's dedicated Starlighting page.

IS THIS GOOD FOR KIDS?

Definitely! Between the Kids Zone, live entertainment, photo ops, family-friendly vendors, freebies and visits with Santa, this event is a fun outing for the fam!

Just about all parts of downtown are stroller friendly, so bring the stroller...HOWEVER, this event gets busy and congested closer to the ceremony, so make sure you have an exit strategy if you need to roll out.

I DON'T WANT TO HANG OUT, I WANT TO FAST FORWARD TO THE STAR LIGHTING & FIREWORKS:

As long as you are there before the ceremony kicks off at 5pm, you'll get to see the big show. After a speech from the mayor, music and cameos from local VIPs, the star is lit at approximately 5:30pm, followed immediately by fireworks (pending conditions). The event officially wraps at 6pm.

WHAT TO DO:

• Visit the KIDS ZONE! You'll typically see face painting, a petting zoo, bounce houses, games and more!

• Visit with local businesses and organizations! The streets will be lined with tents sponsored by schools, churches, businesses, non profits and more. They will have games, handouts, freebies, photobooths, and holiday cheer! We always love visiting with our business friends and former teachers from local preschools.

• Shop downtown! Most retail spots like The Emporium, Sudden Fiction, Home Grown, and The Barn will be open for regular shopping. Other businesses like salons and agencies may have their doors open for open houses, hot chocolate bars, or other fun experiences.

• Watch live entertainment! Stages are located throughout the downtown and feature entertainment from local dance studios, choirs, and more! This Is a great way to support young entertainers as they take the stage In front of family and friends. The main stage will feature live musicians prior to the ceremony (kicking off at 5pm). Get the full schedule here.

• Enjoy local grub! Most restaurants will be open (and busy!), so grab a snack or beverage to go and wander the streets. You'll also find food trucks if your favorite taco shop is busy. And beverages? Beer tents and hot chocolate stands are located in the streets too, so you and your family won't get thirsty!

Need more info? Head to the Castle Rock Chamber's website, they do a standup job organization this event!