Five Points Jazz Festival
This one-day jazz fest celebrates the historically African American neighborhood of Five Points, which was once home to several jazz clubs. Over 50 bands perform on stages set up on Welton St. Several kid-friendly activities – instrument making, drum circles, face painting – are offered, making it a fun event for all. Held the third Saturday of May.
Great American Beer Festival
Colorado has more microbreweries per capita than any other US state, and this hugely popular festival sells out in advance. More than 500 breweries are represented, from the big players to the home-brew enthusiasts. Only the Colorado Convention Center is big enough for these big brewers and their fat brews.
Denver Cruiser Ride
Held monthly from May to September, Denver’s Cruiser Ride is one of the biggest in the nation. Check the website for the starting point and the theme of the night – you’d hate to go dressed as ‘Bible Belt and Panties’ when it’s actually ‘Ski Bums & Bunnies’ night. Folks typically meet up around 6pm; the ride starts around 8pm.
PrideFest
Denver’s PrideFest is one of the nation’s largest gay pride events, drawing tens of thousands of people for a joyful two-day celebration. Held in June, the festivities include a parade from Cheeseman Park to Civic Center Park, plus events like the Dogs in Drag contest and the Big Gay 5K.
First Friday
On the first Friday of every month, Denverites come out for an art stroll, cruising galleries for free wine and fun conversations in the Santa Fe and RiNo Arts Districts. The event typically runs from 6pm to 10pm.
420 Rally
If 4:20pm is the best time to blaze a doobie, then 4/20 must be the best date to do it. That and rally for the legalization of cannabis nationwide. Denver’s Civic Center Park hosts Colorado’s original 420 Rally, which draws thousands of people and features music, vendors and an omnipresent blue haze (despite the fact that smoking pot in public is illegal).
Denver March Powwow
Since 1984, Denver has hosted an annual powwow, a time when tribes come together to celebrate and share their heritages through song and dance. This three-day event is one of the largest in the country, with almost 100 tribes represented in the festivities. Native American artwork and food are sold throughout. Open to the public, all are welcome.
Cinco de Mayo
Enjoy mariachis and margaritas at one of the country’s biggest Cinco de Mayo celebrations, held over two days on the first weekend in May in Civic Center Park. With three stages, over 350 exhibitors and food vendors, plus highlights like Chihuahua races and a parade, it’s huge fun.
Cherry Creek Arts Festival
During this sprawling celebration of visual, culinary and performing arts, Cherry Creek’s streets are closed off and over 350,000 visitors browse the giant block party. The three-day event takes place around July 4.
A Taste of Colorado
More than 50 restaurants cook up their specialties at food stalls; there’s also booze, live music, and arts-and-crafts vendors at this Labor Day festival. Food and beverage tickets start at $10.
