The Holiday Season Is Upon Us

By: Lisa

Beginning on page 24, you can read about three of the hottest decorating trends for this holiday season. In my house, our style is 100% vintage eclectic. We’ve had the same colored lights, our daughters’ homemade ornaments, and the same bulbs on the same tree forever. But every year about this time, I contemplate decorating our house with a new modern theme. Maybe you’ll get some ideas of your own.

Have you tried truffle-marinated turkey? Butcher Nick Chase of Friendly Nick’s Butcher shares his (funny) recipe on page 46. Finding a great new beer or wine to complement the Thanksgiving feast is always fun. See a list of suggested pairings on page 48.

Looking for ways to contribute this holiday season? Volunteer opportunities and nonprofit donations are a great way to make a difference. This issue is chock-full of philanthropy and ways that NOCO businesses participate in giving back. Included in our Holiday Gift Guide are a few select NOCO nonprofits seeking donations as well as a slew of gift ideas for your special someone(s).

According to local meteorologists, Northern Colorado is expected to have a much colder and wetter winter than in recent years. If they are correct, those of you who prefer the great outdoors will be happy to note that some of the ski slopes are already open. A-Basin was the first to open on October 11 with one lift. NOCO writer Dan England fills you in on what is expected this epic ski season beginning on page 34. While there are plenty of day-trip skiing options, a weekend trip to Durango may be in order. Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer recently visited Durango and gives you the scoop on things to do in that winter wonderland, beginning on page 40.

Our annual Reader’s Choice Best Of NOCO contest has wrapped up with 78,148 votes. We had ten times more votes this year than last! We are putting together the finishing touches in preparation for the Winners announcement in the December print issue. Keep a lookout for the most sought-after issue of the year, Best Of NOCO.