Think of an idyllic mountain town during the holidays and that’s what you get strolling down Frisco’s Main Street – strings of lights crisscrossing the street, shops with wreaths on their doors, a gazebo sheltering a Christmas tree and red sleigh, and snow falling gently all around. The only thing that makes it even better is Wassail Days, running through December 11, 2016. Wassail is a warm, spiced cider (sometimes spiked with alcohol for the grown-ups). During Wassail Days, pick up a wassail card at any of the Frisco shops offering the drink and make your way around, sampling (kids can sample too). It’s a great way to make the acquaintance of the people working in (and owning) restaurants, shops, and other businesses in Frisco. Everyone has their own recipe and they are very secretive about them.
Get a stamp on your card for every cup of wassail you drink (don’t worry, they are small cups). If you complete 12 stops, you get a commemorative Wassail mug to take home. Even if you haven’t completed your 12 stops, you can still vote for your favorite wassail. The merchants take this competition very seriously and appreciate every vote.
While you’re in Frisco, be sure to visit the Frisco Adventure Park where you can go tubing. The guides will give your tube a little spin at the top if you really want to go down the 1200-foot hill with a thrill, laughing and shrieking all the way. The Adventure Park also offers sleigh rides, snowshoeing, a sledding hill, Nordic ski center, and lessons. Frosted Lake Dillon in the background makes for a beautiful setting for all activities.
It’s an easy 90-minute drive to Frisco from Denver, so you could make a full day of it. But there are also many lodging options. Condos are great for a family. Although they welcome children, the Frisco Inn on Galena, is a cozy option for adults with a European feeling that includes happy hour and a full breakfast.
It’s not too late to enjoy Wassail Days for 2016, but if you do miss it, there’s a whole season of fun awaiting you in Frisco. And there’s always next year for Wassail Days 2017.
