Wind, Weather, and Christmas Week in Estes Park

Howdy, neighbors. Buck Timber here.

Last week the wind rolled through hard enough to knock out power across most of town and shut down school on Wednesday and again on Friday. It rattled windows, leaned trees sideways, and reminded everyone who actually runs the place around here.

This week has been calmer. Warmer too. And I will be honest, that part feels a little wrong.

The days have crept into the 50s and even the low 60s, the wind has eased into more of a steady breeze, and Christmas is lining up without much snow to speak of. It is pleasant, sure. Easy to get around. But around here, a quiet white blanket feels more appropriate this time of year.

I prefer cold fingers, crunch under my boots, and the kind of snow that sticks around long enough to matter. Still, downtown is lit up, the mountains are keeping watch, and Christmas is coming whether the snow shows up on time or not. We take what the weather gives us, keep an eye on the sky, and carry on.

Here is what is happening around Estes Park this Christmas week.

Mary’s Lake: Wind, Water, and Winter Color

If you were near Mary’s Lake or Lake Estes during last week’s wind, you saw it.

Waves stacked up, spray lifted off the surface, and the lakes looked more ocean than mountain. Then the light hit just right. Rainbows arced across the water like they were testing out a soft launch for Christmas.

The ducks seemed unfazed. The Mary’s Lake Surf Club was unofficially in session again, paddling into waves they did not ask for but handled anyway.

What popular Christmas plant was introduced to the U.S. from Mexico in the 1820s?

This week’s weather was a masterclass in what mountain winters do best. Cold air, strong wind, and low humidity all working together to pull moisture fast.

Alpenglow Beauty was built for exactly these conditions. Their products are designed for high altitude living, where wind exposure and dry air are daily realities, not seasonal surprises.

If your skin feels tight, dry, or irritated after days like these, Alpenglow’s clean, nourishing formulas help restore balance without overcomplicating your routine.

Built for mountain weather. Made for real life. Explore the collection at
AlpenglowBeauty.com especially the Whipped Tallow Balm

Intense high winds are causing widespread power outages in Estes Park, with Estes Park Power & Communications crews working through hazardous conditions to restore electricity.

Crews are inspecting lines and making repairs, but extreme gusts are slowing recovery efforts, especially in areas where bucket trucks can't be used safely.

Outages have been reported from the southwest and south sides of town along Colorado Highway 7 to Allenspark, as well as neighborhoods on U.S. Highways 34 and 36 east of Estes Park.

Residents should call 911 if they see downed power lines and follow safety warnings—no need to report outages already shown on the outage map.

The wildfire risk is especially high, and the town strongly advises against outdoor burning or any spark-producing activities.

Locals are urged to charge medical devices, stock batteries, set refrigerators cold, and unplug electronics to stay safe during the outages.

Christmas is here and the lights downtown are glowing and the tree is singing. Whether you are chasing a little holiday cheer, looking for a quiet service to sit through, or just searching for a reason to get out of the house that does not involve another cookie, here is what is happening around Estes Park this week.

🎄 Christmas Tree Drop Off

From December 29 through January 16, residents can drop off Christmas trees at the Estes Park Fairgrounds.

Trees must be stripped of all decorations. No wreaths, garland, artificial trees, or stands accepted. Drop offs are available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Closed on New Year’s Day.

After hours dumping may result in fines, so plan accordingly.

🎅 Santa’s Reindeer Games

The Barrel
251 Moraine Ave, Estes Park
📅 Wednesday, December 25, 2025
🕛 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
💲 Free

If Santa ever decided to outsource his training program, this might be it.
The Barrel is hosting Santa’s Reindeer Games with kid-friendly challenges, holiday trivia, and enough festive energy to keep everyone moving even after a big Christmas breakfast.

Think lighthearted competitions, holiday laughs, and a solid excuse to leave the house in something other than pajama pants. Hot chocolate will be nearby, dignity optional.

Buck’s note: Mo Pass asked if the reindeer were union. I told him they work for snacks.

✨ Holiday Lights Driving Tour

Best viewed nightly from 5 to 9 p.m.

If the wind is winning the argument this week, the holiday lights driving tour is a solid alternative.

Highlights include:

• Downtown Estes Park around Bond Park, George Hix Riverside Plaza, and Elkhorn Avenue

• YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center

• Fall River corridor featuring Castle Mountain Lodge

• Lake Estes area and the Estes Park Resort, home of the Festival of Trees

An interactive Google Map helps guide the route, but honestly, following the glow works just fine.

Buck tip: Hot chocolate improves visibility. Probably.

Upcoming Christmas Eve Services

For those planning ahead for Christmas Eve or looking for quieter moments during Advent, here are several local options.

⛪ Christian Church of Estes Park

4655 US Highway 36

• Advent Sundays: Dec. 7, 14, and 21 at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

• Christmas Eve Candlelight Services: Dec. 24 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
  Nursery and Children’s Church available.

•  

⛪ Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies

1700 Brodie Ave

• Sunday Advent Services: Dec. 7, 14, and 21 at 10 a.m.

• Blue Christmas Service: Dec. 21 at 5 p.m.

• Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: Dec. 24 at 5 p.m.

This service is especially meaningful for anyone feeling the weight of the season.

⛪ Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church

920 Big Thompson Ave

Multiple Masses throughout December including Advent observances, Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrations, and Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services in both English and Spanish.

⛪ Summit Church

156 1st Street

Christmas Eve Service at 5 p.m.
Carols, cookies, and the Christmas story.

🥂 New Year’s Eve Party at the American Legion

American Legion Post 119
850 N St. Vrain Ave, Estes Park
📅 Tuesday, December 31, 2025
🕕 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
💲 Free admission
🍾 Free champagne toast

If you are looking to send the year out properly, this one checks the boxes.
Live music from the Blue Sky Mountain Band, dancing, food, drinks, and a prime rib buffet starting at 5 p.m. for those who believe celebrations should begin with dinner.

It is family friendly, welcoming, and comes with a countdown that does not require standing outside in the cold wondering why you made those life choices.

Buck’s note: I like a New Year’s Eve when nobody expects me to stay up past my bedtime.

DID YOU KNOW? – December Edition

• Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States.
• RMNP has over 300 miles of hiking trails.
• Winter winds in Estes Park can exceed 100 mph at higher elevations.
• The Big Thompson River flows year-round through the Estes Valley.

Buck's Joke Of The Day

Why did Santa go to music school? 

Because he wanted to improve his wrapping skills. 

Mo Pass stared at me for a full five seconds, sighed, and said, “Well. Christmas is about forgiveness.”

🎄 Enjoy the holidays and see you next week.

The poinsettia.