Denver, also known as the Mile High City, is a vibrant destination that offers a wide range of events and activities for visitors. From cultural festivals to outdoor adventures, the city has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore the various events and festivals that take place in Denver throughout the year. Whether you’re a foodie, sports fan, or music lover, Denver has plenty to offer.
Key Takeaways:
- Denver is a must-visit destination for those looking for exciting events and activities.
- The city offers a wide range of festivals and events, including cultural, outdoor, and family-friendly activities.
- Visitors can immerse themselves in Denver’s vibrant event scene and experience the city’s authentic charm.
Denver Festivals: A Celebration of Culture and Entertainment
Denver is a city that loves to celebrate its vibrant culture and diverse entertainment options. Throughout the year, the Mile High City hosts a wide range of festivals that attract both locals and tourists. From cultural events to music festivals, Denver has something for everyone.
Popular Festivals in Denver
One of Denver’s most popular festivals is the Cherry Creek Arts Festival, held annually over the Fourth of July weekend. This festival brings together more than 250 artists from around the world to showcase their work in a variety of mediums. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food and drink vendors, and interactive art experiences.
The Denver Film Festival is another must-attend event for film enthusiasts. This festival screens more than 250 films from over 40 countries, including feature-length narratives, documentaries, and shorts. Guests can also attend panels and workshops with industry professionals.
Cultural Events in Denver
Denver also boasts a rich cultural scene, with events like the Denver Greek Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival celebrating the city’s diversity. The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival features dragon boat races, traditional Asian food and performances, and activities for the whole family.
The Denver Black Arts Festival is another noteworthy event, showcasing African-American arts and culture through music, dance, and visual arts. Visitors can enjoy performances from local and national artists and participate in workshops and discussions on topics related to the black experience.
Entertainment in Denver
For those who love to rock out, the Underground Music Showcase is a must-visit festival. This three-day event features more than 400 local and national bands performing across multiple venues in Denver’s South Broadway neighborhood. Genres range from indie rock to electronic and hip hop, making it a mecca for music lovers.
The Denver PrideFest is another popular event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. The festival includes a parade, live music, and vendors offering food, drinks, and merchandise. Visitors can also attend workshops and events focused on LGBTQ+ issues and community building.
Outdoor Adventures: Exploring Denver’s Natural Beauty
Denver’s natural beauty is a sight to behold. From majestic mountain ranges to lush greenery and sparkling rivers, outdoor enthusiasts have a plethora of recreational opportunities to explore.
| Nature Parks | Description |
|---|---|
| Rocky Mountain National Park | A scenic drive from Denver, this park offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, hiking trails, and campsites for visitors. |
| Mt. Evans Scenic Byway | Take a drive on the highest paved road in North America to reach the summit of Mt. Evans, offering stunning panoramic views of the Colorado wilderness. |
| Cheyenne Mountain State Park | Located in nearby Colorado Springs, this park offers trails for hiking and biking, plus camping and picnicking areas. |
In addition to nature parks, Denver boasts a diverse range of hiking trails, suitable for all levels of experience and fitness. Some popular hiking spots include:
- Bear Creek Trail
- Chautauqua Park
- Red Rocks Park
- Lost Creek Wilderness
For those seeking more adrenaline-pumping activities, Denver offers options like zip-lining, rock-climbing, and whitewater rafting. Clear Creek, just outside of Denver, is a popular spot for whitewater rafting and kayaking.
Whatever your outdoor adventure of choice may be, Denver provides an extensive array of options to choose from, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s natural beauty.
Arts and Culture: Immersion in Denver’s Creative Scene
Denver’s arts and culture scene is a sight to behold. From world-class museums to a vibrant performing arts scene, the city has something for everyone. Art enthusiasts can explore a variety of disciplines and media, from painting and sculpture to photography and mixed media.
Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers. With over 70,000 works of art, the museum features an extensive collection of American Indian, African, Asian, European, and American art. Visitors can explore the museum’s permanent exhibits or check out one of the many temporary exhibitions.
| Address | Hours | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204 | Open 7 days a week, 10am-5pm | $10-13 for adults, free for youth under 18 |
Performing Arts Venues
Denver is home to a variety of performing arts venues, showcasing everything from ballet and opera to theater and music. The Denver Center for the Performing Arts is a hub of activity, featuring a variety of Broadway shows, plays, and musical performances.
“The talent in Denver is unmatched. I’m always impressed by the caliber of shows and performers that come through here.” – John S., avid theater-goer
Other notable venues include the Ellie Caulkins Opera House and the historic Paramount Theatre. During the summer months, visitors can also enjoy free outdoor concerts at Levitt Pavilion.
Other Artistic Experiences
If you’re looking for more artistic experiences, be sure to check out the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver and the Clyfford Still Museum. For a hands-on experience, visitors can also take art classes at the Art Students League of Denver.
The creativity and passion of Denver’s art scene is not to be missed. With so many opportunities to explore and engage with the artistic community, you’re sure to find something that speaks to you.
Sporting Events: Join the Denver Sports Fever
If you’re a sports enthusiast, Denver is the perfect place for you. The Mile High City boasts a passionate sports culture, and you can immerse yourself in it by catching a game of your favorite sport. From the Denver Broncos to the Colorado Rockies, the city has a lot to offer when it comes to sporting events. Here are a few that you should definitely check out:
| Sport | Team | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Football | Denver Broncos | Sports Authority Field at Mile High |
| Basketball | Denver Nuggets | Pepsi Center |
| Hockey | Colorado Avalanche | Pepsi Center |
| Baseball | Colorado Rockies | Coors Field |
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply love the energy of a live game, catching a sporting event in Denver is a must-do activity.
Food and Drink Festivals: Delight Your Taste Buds in Denver
If you’re a foodie, then Denver is the place to be! The city boasts an impressive food and craft beer scene, with a range of festivals dedicated to satisfying your taste buds. From culinary delights to craft brews, these festivals will offer you a gastronomic experience like no other.
Taste of Colorado
With over 50 food booths and six entertainment stages, Taste of Colorado is one of Denver’s biggest food events. This three-day festival offers a wide range of food options, from street tacos to Italian ice-cream. The festival also includes other fun activities, like carnival rides and games.
Great American Beer Festival
Denver is famous for its craft beer scene, and the Great American Beer Festival is a must-attend event for any beer lover. The festival showcases a range of breweries from across the country, offering over 4,000 different beers to sample. With live music and food trucks, this festival is a great way to enjoy a beer-filled weekend.
Denver Food + Wine Festival
The Denver Food + Wine Festival is a five-day event that brings together some of the city’s best chefs, restaurants, and sommeliers. The festival includes a range of events, like tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings. These events offer a unique opportunity to learn from Denver’s culinary masters and immerse yourself in the city’s food scene.
“Denver’s food and drink festivals are a celebration of the city’s diverse culinary offerings and craft beer scene.”
Denver Burger Battle
The Denver Burger Battle is an annual event that pits Denver’s best burger restaurants against each other. Attendees get to sample burgers from each restaurant and vote for their favorite. With live music and a beer garden, this event is a fun way to enjoy delicious burgers and support local restaurants.
Whether you’re a foodie, a beer lover, or just looking for a fun weekend activity, Denver’s food and drink festivals offer something for everyone. With so many options, you’re sure to find something that will delight your taste buds.
Music Events: Groove and Dance in Denver
Denver’s music scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re into jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, or electronic dance music, you’re bound to find a festival or concert that suits your taste. With numerous live music venues scattered throughout the city, there’s always a place to catch an up-and-coming artist or a seasoned headliner.
Jazz Festivals
If jazz is your thing, be sure to check out the Denver Jazz Festival, which takes place each summer in the city’s historic Five Points neighborhood. The festival features local and national acts across multiple stages, as well as food and drink vendors and a lively street fair atmosphere.
Rock and Pop Concerts
For those who prefer rock and pop music, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a must-visit venue. The outdoor amphitheater is situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and boasts stunning natural acoustics. It has hosted world-renowned bands and musicians, including The Beatles, U2, and Mumford & Sons.
Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Festivals
If you’re a fan of electronic dance music, don’t miss the Global Dance Festival, which takes place each summer at Broncos Stadium at Mile High. The festival features multiple stages of top EDM acts, as well as art installations, carnival rides, and food vendors.
“Denver’s music scene has something for everyone.”
Live Music Venues
If you’re looking for a more intimate setting to catch a live performance, there are plenty of smaller venues throughout the city that host local and touring bands. The Bluebird Theater and Ogden Theater are both popular spots for indie and alternative acts, while the Fillmore Auditorium draws bigger names in the rock and electronic music scenes.
Whatever your musical preferences, Denver has plenty to offer. Be sure to check out the city’s event calendar to stay up-to-date on upcoming shows and festivals.
Family-Friendly Activities: Fun for All Ages in Denver
Denver is not just an adult playground, but an ideal destination for family adventures too. The Mile High City offers a wide range of family-friendly activities that suit all ages and interests. Here are some events and attractions that you shouldn’t miss:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Denver Zoo | The Denver Zoo boasts over 4,000 animals, including endangered and rare species from around the world. The zoo offers interactive exhibits and activities, including a playground, animal demonstrations, and a train ride. |
| Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center | The Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center features interactive exhibits and experiences with over 1,600 free-flying butterflies and other insects from around the world. The pavilion offers educational programs, a butterfly garden, and a gift shop. |
| Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park | The Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park is a perfect destination for families seeking thrill and excitement. The park offers a combination of water slides, roller coasters, and other rides for all ages. Food, games, and entertainment options are available too. |
Besides these attractions, Denver has many other options for family fun, including the Children’s Museum of Denver, the Downtown Aquarium, and the Denver Art Museum, which offers a family backpack program. You can also explore the city’s parks and trails, have a picnic, or rent bikes and ride along the Cherry Creek Trail.
Denver understands the value of family, so it goes all out to provide a memorable family vacation experience for visitors.
Festivals for the Adventurous: Unique Experiences in Denver
If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual festivals and events, Denver has plenty of options to satisfy the adventurous spirit within you. From offbeat celebrations to unconventional activities, these unique experiences are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
The Underground Music Showcase
If you’re into indie music, then the Underground Music Showcase (UMS) is a must-visit festival for you. The festival transforms South Broadway into a massive block party, featuring over 400 local and national acts across 20 venues. With a focus on emerging talent and experimental genres, UMS is the perfect festival for discovering your new favorite band.
The Big Wonderful
The Big Wonderful is a quirky outdoor market and festival that combines food, drinks, music, and shopping for a one-of-a-kind experience. With over 100 vendors, including local artisans and food trucks, and live music performances, this festival is an excellent way to spend a weekend day in the Mile High City.
The Great American Beer Festival
Beer enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Great American Beer Festival, the largest beer festival in the country. With over 800 breweries showcasing their best brews, this event is a beer lover’s dream come true. The festival also features food vendors, educational seminars, and live music to keep visitors entertained.
The Denver County Fair
The Denver County Fair bills itself as the “most unusual” fair in the country, with a focus on showcasing the city’s unique culture and creativity. The fair features traditional attractions like carnival rides and livestock exhibitions, as well as offbeat competitions like unicorn racing and a pie-eating contest.
No matter what your interests are, Denver has plenty of exciting festivals and events to explore. Venture beyond the usual suspects and discover the city’s unconventional side with these adventurous experiences.
Community Events: Engaging with Denver’s Local Culture
Denver is a city with a strong sense of community, and its array of neighborhood festivals and events showcases this spirit perfectly. Whether you’re a visitor or a long-time resident, these events offer a chance to connect with the local culture and enjoy all that the city has to offer.
Cherry Creek Arts Festival
One of Denver’s most popular community events, the Cherry Creek Arts Festival celebrates the works of more than 200 artists from around the world. This three-day event also features live music, hands-on activities, and gourmet food vendors.
Denver PrideFest
Denver’s annual PrideFest is a celebration of the city’s LGBTQ+ community. This two-day event includes a parade, live music, and educational activities, and attracts thousands of visitors from across the country.
Highlands Street Fair
The Highlands neighborhood’s annual street fair is a family-friendly event that features live music, food vendors, and a beer garden. A highlight of the event is the local merchants’ sidewalk sale, where visitors can find unique deals and treasures.
Taste of Colorado
Denver’s Labor Day weekend tradition, the Taste of Colorado, is a foodie’s paradise. This event features over 50 local food vendors, live music, carnival rides, and games.
Westwood Chile Fest
The Westwood Chile Fest is a celebration of the neighborhood’s Latino culture and cuisine. This one-day event features live music, dance performances, and of course, plenty of delicious chili dishes to try.
Make sure to check out Denver’s many community events during your visit or take part in them as a local resident. Engage with the local culture and experience Denver’s vibrant sense of community.
Conclusion
Denver boasts a dynamic event scene that offers something for everyone. From cultural festivals to outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and sporting events, this Mile High City does not disappoint. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or solo, you’ll find plenty of exciting activities to do and sights to see.
Make sure to plan your itinerary carefully as there are too many events to attend in just one trip. Be sure to book your accommodation early to avoid missing out on the fun. Don’t forget to savor Denver’s local cuisine, try its craft beer, and engage with locals to fully experience the city’s vibrant culture.
Ready to Explore?
With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and lively event scene, Denver is a top destination for travelers who want to have a great time. Don’t hesitate to experience this amazing city for yourself. Visit Denver and discover the treasures it has in store.
FAQ
Q: What are some popular festivals in Denver?
A: Denver hosts a variety of popular festivals throughout the year, including the Denver PrideFest, the Great American Beer Festival, and the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival.
Q: What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Denver?
A: Denver offers a range of outdoor adventures, such as hiking in the Rocky Mountains, exploring the Denver Botanic Gardens, and biking along the Cherry Creek Trail.
Q: Are there any notable art events in Denver?
A: Yes, Denver is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Some notable art events include the Denver Art Museum’s exhibitions, the First Friday Art Walks in the Art District on Santa Fe, and the Denver Chalk Art Festival.
Q: Can I attend sporting events in Denver?
A: Absolutely! Denver is home to professional sports teams like the Denver Broncos, Colorado Rockies, and Denver Nuggets. You can catch exciting games and tournaments throughout the year.
Q: Are there any food and drink festivals in Denver?
A: Yes, food enthusiasts will delight in the variety of food and drink festivals in Denver. From the Denver Taco Festival to the Great American Beer Festival, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Q: What music events can I attend in Denver?
A: Denver’s music scene is thriving, with music festivals like the Underground Music Showcase and the Five Points Jazz Festival, as well as live music venues such as the Fillmore Auditorium and Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Q: Are there family-friendly activities in Denver?
A: Absolutely! Denver offers a range of family-friendly activities, including visits to the Denver Zoo, the Children’s Museum of Denver, and the Downtown Aquarium.
Q: Are there any unique festivals or activities in Denver?
A: Yes, Denver is known for its offbeat and unconventional festivals and activities. You can experience unique events like the Frozen Dead Guy Days and the Denver International Wine Festival.
Q: Are there any community events in Denver?
A: Denver has a vibrant local culture, and there are plenty of community events to engage with. Some examples include the Denver Greek Festival, the Highland Street Fair, and the RiNo Music Festival.
