The weekend is just around the corner now, so get started on those Friday night plans! Whether you’re into live music, carnival vibes, or admiring local art, these are the can’t-miss weekend events for you.
Activities, Events, Shows, and More in Denver This Weekend
This weekend, make plans to check out some of the shows at the inaugural Blucifer’s First Rodeo or engage with the community at the Summer Artline Block Party in Lakewood.
Blucifer’s First Rodeo
Where? Various Venues
When? July 23rd-26th
Blucifer’s First Rodeo is a new festival coming to Denver this summer, designed to spotlight DIY culture and South Broadway. This four-day, multi-venue showcase is organized by artists for everybody. The big goal is to throw a party that invites the larger Denver community to experience the diverse and talented scenes of live, local music. The festival is set to feature your favorite South Broadway and DIY venues, alongside neighborhood porch and backyard shows. This first iteration of Blucifer’s First Rodeo is set to welcome 260 incredible local bands!
PRO Tip: There will be shows for all ages on Thursday and Saturday. House shows on Sunday may also be all ages, depending on the discretion of the individual hosts. Learn more here and check out the lineup.
Summer Music Series: Onestraw Presents
Where? 1250 Bannock Street
When? July 24th
Pack a picnic with your favorite sandwiches and snacks and enjoy a free live performance by Onestraw Presents in the Museum’s outdoor forecourt from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. On the final Fridays of the month through August, guests will be treated to a diverse showcase of musical talent. There will be a limited number of chairs available, so come early and snag a spot. Onestraw is a collective that creates event programming, gatherings and happenings up and down the Front Range corridor. Events span genres, from largely experimental, avant-garde, jazz and electronic adjacent interests. Artists performing this Friday are Matt Robidoux and Ritger & Sage.
PRO Tip: This program is free and registration is not required! The museum is open until 7:00 PM on Fridays during the summer, so be sure to step inside and explore what’s on display.
The 23rd Annual Evergreen Jazz Festival
Where? Various Venues
When? July 24th-26th
The Annual Evergreen Jazz Festival is known for hosting big talent in small, intimate venues. For over 20 years, the festival has been bringing the best in international, world class bands to the mountains of Colorado. Each of the five festival venues offers a unique, intimate listening environment which creates an atmosphere unlike any other for festival-goers. Every year features an all-new mix of musicians, styles, techniques and even improvisation that keeps fans coming back for more. Make the short trek 30 minutes southeast of Denver for this idyllic 3-day event.
PRO Tip: Hours range daily, so stay updated on which performances are happening when. Friday will kick off the fun from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, followed by 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Saturday and wrapping up from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Sunday.
Summer Artline Block Party
Where? Lamar Street between 13th & 14th Avenue
When? July 25th
This Saturday, make plans to check out the Summer Artline Block Party on Lamar Street between 13th and 14th Avenue. There will be live music, food trucks, art vendors and so much more to discover and enjoy. WestFax Brewing, Nickel City Provisions, and Kona Ice will be onsite for a range of refreshments, treats and bites. The City of Lakewood has received a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to bring brand new public art installations to Lamar Street and the whole community is invited to celebrate at the block party! There will be original art installations, sculptures, street performances, community painting projects and a chance to shape what gets built.
PRO Tip: The party is free, open to all and built by the community and for the community. Don’t miss out on this special opportunity to be part of something permanent.
2026 Denver Summer Tequila Tasting Festival
Where? 2046 Larimer Street
When? July 25th
Are you ready to take your tastebuds on the adventure of a lifetime? The 2026 Denver Summer Tequila Tasting Festival invites you to enjoy 1-3.5 hours of curated tasting that will transport you to the agave paradise of your dreams at Zanzibar Billiards. Sample 20+ craft, small-batch and renowned tequilas and mezcals. You’ll have the chance to learn from brand ambassadors who will guide you through the spirited world of agave. There will be live DJ music and special pricing on food and drinks. VIP tickets are available, which include top shelf bottles valued at $80+, as well as a VIP small bites buffet, additional tasting cups and early access to avoid the lines.
PRO Tip: This event maxes out at 199 people, so buy early before it sells out! Use the code “COMMZ20” here for 20% off at checkout!
Christmas in July & White Stout Release
Where? 7101 East Colfax Avenue
When? July 25th
Santa is on vacation this summer and it’s time to celebrate at Fiction Beer Company with a series of white stout releases. This Saturday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the patio will be filled with summer vibes, including all things fun like bubbles, games and kiddie pools. Retreat inside for the cool AC and limited beer releases that are bringing holiday excitement during the sunniest part of the year. On the tap list you’ll find Lunas (green chile white stout), White Steep (coffee stout), Steep Whiteout (extra-limited release with Wagon Roasters coffee), and Cherry Cobbler Sour.
PRO Tip: Make sure to stick around for Audacious Immersive’s Drunk Christmas in the evening.
Flame Fest: Colorado’s Grilling Championship
Where? 3800 Denargo Street
When? July 25th
Flame Fest is ready to bring the heat with an ultimate live-fire food festival featuring the state’s top chefs, postmasters and flame-slingers. Come together for what’s sure to be a sizzling celebration of all things grilled. Burgers, brisket, hibachi, hot links, veggies, and even flame-charred dessert! Every ticket to Flame Fest includes unlimited food samples, craft beer tastings, whiskey pours and live entertainment all day long. No extra tokens are needed, so just follow the smoke and feast your way through the day as you taste the fire-kissed creations of Colorado’s best of the best. You’ll also have the opportunity to watch live grilling demos from culinary pros and learn next-level techniques to take back home and impress your guests at your next cookout!
PRO Tip: Make sure to cast your vote for your favorites to help crown the People’s Choice Champion at this year’s Flame Fest!
Dana Day: A Tribute to Dana Crawford
Where? 1530 16th Street
When? July 25th
Dana Day at Larimer Square is a community celebration that honors the legacy of Dana Crawford, a visionary behind the preservation and revival of the block. She’s known for saving Larimer Street from demolition in the ‘60s and transforming it into Denver’s first historic district. 2026 marks the second Dana Day, bringing with it a spirit for life with live music and neighborhood energy. Come on out and celebrate history, creativity and the community that Dana championed. Archival photos and materials will be on display, offering attendees a glimpse into the rich history of the Square. Live sets will be performed throughout the afternoon from the Annie Booth Quartet and the Keith Oxman Quartet.
PRO Tip: Guests who RSVP here will receive a complimentary glass of champagne (or a non-alcoholic option).
The 13th Cheesman Park Art Fest
Where? 1599 East 8th Avenue
When? July 25th & 26th
It’s time for the 13th annual Cheesman Park Art Fest! Admission to the event is free on Saturday and Sunday and 175 fine artists and craftsmen from across the country will be showcasing their work. This is a juried event and the curated selection of handmade, American-made work will be sold directly by the artists across an array of mediums and price points. There will be a range of entertainment at the fest, including a dynamic lineup of local musicians on both days. Arrive hungry so you can explore some of Denver’s finest local food trucks, with options including savory, sweet and everything in between!
PRO Tip: The fest will take place on the south side of Cheesman Park. Enter from 8th Avenue or 9th Avenue on the east or west side. Street parking is available along the north lane of 8th Avenue.
Colorado Renaissance Festival
Where? 650 Perry Park Avenue
When? Through August 2nd
The Colorado Renaissance Festival is celebrating 49 years! The King and Queen are proud to invite you to another glorious season in the village of Larkspurshire. Get in on the merriment, along with the feasting and revelry as you take in the sights and sounds of medieval life. Explore the village, which is complete with artisans creating original works, the tantalizing aromas of turkey legs, steak and freshly baked goods and so much more. Arrive hungry because you won’t be able to resist Royal Delights, such as truffles, caramel apples, chocolate covered strawberries and more. On the savory side, you’ll find sausage on a stick, cheese bread, sandwiches, crab cakes and so much more. Entertainment ranges from Renaissance rock and roll shows, live jousting and combat, comedy shows and more.
PRO Tip: Return to the past and grab your tickets here.
Family-Friendly Activities in Denver This Weekend
Whether your family loves all kinds of carnival games, ProRodeo action, or lounging on the lawn with a good movie — there’s something for every family in the Mile High City this weekend. Grab your tickets, pack a picnic and get the party started!
Arapahoe County Fair
Where? 25690 East Quincy Avenue
When? July 23rd-26th
The Arapahoe County Fair is opening its gates this Thursday, so grab your tickets now! You won’t want to miss all the classics, such as axe throwing, carnival games, the petting farm, mutton bustin’ and so much more! Soak in the sweeping views of Colorado’s Front Range while you take in the sights and sounds of this popular fair. Stay up to date on all of the County Fair events here, which include line dancing lessons, water slides, the Raptor Events Avian Show, potato peeling contests, and so much more. There’s something for everyone!
PRO Tip: Hours range daily, kicking off from 4:00 PM to midnight on Thursday, followed by 11:00 AM to midnight on Friday and Saturday and 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM on Sunday.
Movies on the Green
Where? 29th Avenue & Roslyn
When? July 24th
Grab the kids, grab your neighbors, grab your blankets and bring the cooler! You can even bring lawn chairs, so long as they do not obstruct the view of others. This Friday, don’t skip out on Movies on the Green screening National Treasure. There are only two more dates for this season, so circle August 14th (Shrek) and September 4th (Wicked: For Good) on your calendar! This is an exciting way to take in some fan-favorite movies. After all, what better way to enjoy your favorite characters than with your favorite people on the lawn? Showtimes generally begin at dusk, so arrive early to grab snacks, get settled and enjoy!
PRO Tip: Each movie features a concession stand to benefit a local nonprofit organization. Grab freshly popped popcorn, candy, sodas and bottled water and help support these important community organizations!
Douglas County Fair & Rodeo
Where? 500 Fairgrounds Drive
When? July 24th-August 2nd
The award winning Douglas County Fair & Rodeo is back in town, kicking off with Trace Adkins and his 30th Anniversary Tour this Friday. Make this weekend one for the books with an amazing night of music and memories under the summer sky. The fun doesn’t stop there, either. Saturday continues the excitement with a concert from AWOLNATION, known for pushing the limits of what rock can be! Catch all of the heart-pounding ProRodeo action, delicious food, thrilling carnival rides and so much more. The Douglas County Fair & Rodeo has something for all ages, so bring the whole family out and make this weekend one that they’ll be talking about for months!
PRO Tip: Grab your tickets here, with options ranging from grounds admission, concert tickets, ProRodeo access and more.
Have Fun This Weekend in Denver
Make the weekend count and enjoy your time off with the exciting and diverse range of weekend activities and performances that the Mile High City has in store for you! Take the family to the rodeo or enjoy an afternoon at the Jazz Festival in Evergreen. However you spend the weekend, we hope to see you again next week for an all-new curated selection of weekend plans.