Kentucky Christian University's Young Library The 12 Towns of Christmas Virtual Vacation

Welcome to the second of three towns named after Santa's main Arctic headquarters: North Pole, Colorado. This one is located just west of Colorado Springs, near the entrance to Pike's Peak.

Santa's Workshop:

Santa has another workshop here, too! As many toys as he has to make, you can't expect him to have just one.

This workshop features some cool rides (including a train and a skylift), a sweet arcade, elves playing banjos, nifty crafts like glass blowing, and you can even visit Santa's house! The best thing is everything has a bit of Western flair. I wouldn't be surprised to see Santa wearing some snakeskin boots and a cowboy hat. I don't think any of us should expect a boa tie, however.

Watch the video below for a quick tour of Santa's Workshop.

Broadmoor and the Seven Falls:

Once you're finished at Santa's Workshop, you absolutely must drive over to the Broadmoor Resort and the Seven Falls for some more Christmas adventures.

The Seven Falls at Broadmoor is exactly how it sounds, a canyon-like area with seven waterfalls. For those wishing to experience some outdoors holiday magic, check out a couple images of Seven Falls below:

Don't forget that you're right beside the legendary Pike's Peak. If the weather allows, you absolutely must visit. Here's a picture of me at the summit, 14,115 feet above sea level:

Finally, you should try and have Christmas brunch or some holiday tea at Miramont Castle in Manitou Springs nearby. Click the image of the castle to learn more!

Ensalada de Manzana (Apple Salad)

Colorado is cowboy country, so how does a Spanish dish end up as a Christmas favorite? You may be surprised to learn Colorado has a strong Hispanic heritage, and about a quarter of the population share it. The great thing about this recipe is that it can be as healthy or not as you wish it to be, having an infinite number of variations. Try this one out, from food.com.

Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients:

• 5 apples, diced (pick your favorite variety - I like Gala apples)
• 16oz can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 1 cup of juice)
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
• 16oz sour cream

Directions:

• Combine all the ingredients except reserved syrup in a large bowl.
• Add syrup to taste if the salad looks too dry.
• Refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve.

Christmas at Colorado is extra! Few places truly do it better. However, our next town of Christmas City, Utah does a great job too. Let's go check them out.