Step into a Norman Rockwell scene at the Castle Rock Starlighting Event. The star was first lit on the Saturday before Thanksgiving in 1936, and the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce created the beloved community event in 1962.
This year’s celebration will again include caroling, dancing, visiting Santa Claus, kids' activities, nonprofit booths, food vendors, hot chocolate, and the iconic chili supper at the Firehouse.
Limited parking is available at parking garages in downtown Castle Rock. Free Shuttle Rides are available from 1:30–8:30 PM from Castle Rock Adventist Hospital, Douglas County High School, and Douglas County Fairgrounds.
2023 Starlighting Activities & Schedule:
- 2:00–6:00 PM
- The Castle Rock Professional Firefighters will host the 87th Annual Chili Supper at Castle Rock Fire Station 151. They will be serving beef chili, nachos, hot dogs, drinks, and desserts.
- Live music from Biff Gore, the "Ambassador of Soul."
- Ongoing festivities throughout the day include strolling carolers, dance groups, and other live entertainment on every corner.
- Enjoy a kids' zone, hot chocolate, and games to entertain the kiddos, plus adult beverages and plenty of food trucks!
- Nonprofit and sponsor booths will line the streets offering holiday goodies and trinkets.
- 2:00–4:15 PM ~ Ho Ho Ho! Santa Claus arrives.
- 5:00 PM ~ 9news anchors Corey Rose & Gary Shapiro will begin the 2023 Starlighting Ceremony, which includes a reading of the "Castle Rock Poem" written in 1966 by Castle Rock resident Helen Lowrie Marshall.
- 5:30 PM ~ The lighting of the star will take place at approximately 5:30 PM, followed immediately by fireworks.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! If you would like to volunteer at this fun community event, please click here to view volunteer positions and sign up.
