Small town life conjures up images from a Norman Rockwell painting – family, friends, community gathering in scenic little villages. Everyone knows each other. It’s safe and quaint. In Gunnison, Colorado, we’re lucky to be living this scene and no event exemplifies this better than “The Night of Lights.”

In early December (or very late November), the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce coordinates this event and it seems the entire town is there.

Main Street closes for street vendors selling foods, displaying lights, or promoting their fundraisers. There are bake sales, hot chocolate, portable fire rings and often music performed by local kids or caroling at the Gunnison Arts Center. The shops stay open later than usual and the restaurants will be packed.

These days, most of us grow up and move away from home. Many people move to bigger cities or suburbs where they don’t know their neighbors well. In our communities from Crested Butte on the north end of the valley to Gunnison on the south end, we really have close connections with our neighbors, the postmaster, the bus drivers, business owners and even the friendly DMV staff (yes, I said friendly!).

If you’re in the neighborhood, experience the warmth and friendliness of our little town. As we gather around the tree to count down to the lighting, we might as well be the Whos down in Whoville, joining hands and celebrating the spirit of the holidays!

Where to Stay

For lodging in the area, Three Rivers Resort makes the perfect basecamp for activities in Gunnison or Crested Butte. Choose from cozy riverfront cabins to lodge rooms or larger vacation homes. All cabins and homes feature full kitchens, some have private hot tubs and fireplaces too. Leave the car at the cabin and walk to the free shuttle bus going to Gunnison or Crested Butte.