Are you looking for things to do this weekend around Denver? Check out these exciting options! Whether you’re in search of family-friendly fun or an adult night out on the town, there’s something for everyone around The Mile High City.
Activities, Events, Shows, and More in Denver This Weekend
Spend your weekend sampling food and drinks at the annual Food + Wine Festival or check out the cool artifacts at the Denver Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show. Soak in some artwork in Denver’s RiNo district or adopt some new plants at the Reptile & Plant Expo.
Denver Food + Wine Festival
Where? 1000 Larimer Street
When? September 4th – 7th
Whether you consider yourself a “foodie” or you just want to enjoy a social event with friends, the Denver Food + Wine Festival is your chance to experience Colorado’s restaurant scene in a centralized setting. There will be a wine-tasting seminar, as well as a cocktail competition and an all-you-can-eat-and-drink extravaganza. Attendees can sample delicious dishes from over 40 restaurants across the state, all while sipping on wine, cocktails, and N/A options at The Grand Tasting. Wednesday kicks off the festivities from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM with the Riedel Wine Glass Seminar and Thursday hosts the Shake + Brake Showdown in the evening. Friday and Saturday feature the Dine Out Culinary auction series events and the Grand Tasting finale.
PRO Tip: This festival is a 21 and up event, so leave the kiddos at home. No pets are allowed either. You can purchase general admission tickets, VIP experiences, or the Party Platter Package depending on which events and days you wish to attend.
First Friday in RiNo
Where? RiNo Art District
When? September 6th
If you’re looking for a “choose your own adventure” experience, First Fridays in the River North Arts District can provide just that! Plan your own route throughout the district and make a customized itinerary. From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, choose from events such as The Blossom Party at The Block Distilling Company or attend some of the gallery showcases, such as Sueña — A Vibrant Showcase of Latina Artists at the Alto Gallery. Party until the early morning hours at the Larimer Lounge with music or keep things more laid back with a comedy show at The Infinite Monkey Theorem.
PRO Tip: When you’re building your itinerary, you can see the hours for each event as well as if there are any associated fees! This helps make planning a breeze.
First Friday Art Walk
Where? 858 Santa Fe Drive
When? September 6th
First Friday Art Walks are a signature event of Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe. The walks are hosted year-round, rain or shine. The district is brimming with excitement on these Fridays as thousands of people visit the area from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. You’ll be able to view art from hundreds of artists across galleries, studios, co-ops, and even on the streets and in alleys! The art district spans from 13th Avenue to Alameda Avenue and Kalamath Street to Inca Street. The bulk of the galleries are located between 5th and 11th Avenues.
PRO Tip: Visitors can find free parking throughout the art district, as well as on side streets. Due to the increased traffic on First Fridays, it’s recommended to find a rideshare or utilize public transportation whenever possible.
All American Reptile & Plant Expo
Where? 500 Fairgrounds Road
When? September 6th – 8th
The All-American Reptile & Plant Expo will be held at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Castle Rock this weekend. This is the largest indoor show of its kind in Colorado and will be open for VIPs only on Friday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. On Saturday, general admission kicks off at 10:00 AM. Tickets are available both online and at the door, with general admission, VIP, and combo day ticket options available. Attendees will be able to explore a variety of amazing reptiles and stunning plants. This is the perfect opportunity to discover new species, talk to experts, and maybe even bring home a couple of new additions!
PRO Tip: The Denver vendor list includes Rosch Exotics, The Plant Vault, New Light Reptiles, Eller Exotics, Gecko Harmony, Rocky Mountain Axolotls, and many more!
Denver Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show
Where? 4655 North Humboldt Street
When? September 6th – 15th
Head over to the National Western Complex and Denver Coliseum this weekend for the kick-off of the Denver Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show. Hosted from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, you’ll have the chance to experience this annual event across several venues and 100 tents that will be set up adjacent to the buildings. Peruse a massive array of mineral specimens, fossils, gemstones, antique jewelry, crystals, Native American items, and more! Expect to spend between 3-6 hours or spread your time across multiple days so you can truly see everything. This is the largest show of its kind in the USA, with 12 miles of tables and 600,000 square feet of selling space!
PRO Tip: Free parking will be available and admission is completely free, including access to the entire 100-acre grounds.
Yoga on the Lawn
Where? 1380 West Florida Avenue
When? September 7th
Take advantage of the second to last Free Yoga on the Lawn class this weekend. From 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM on Saturday, head over to the Levitt Pavilion in Denver’s Ruby Hill Park. In the spirit of promoting free mental and physical wellness to the community, Hope Christensen will lead these last two classes at the pavilion. Classes are open and welcoming of individuals of all skill levels and ages. There’s no need to feel intimidated if you’ve never practiced yoga before — this is the perfect time to try it out! Attendees are encouraged to bring their own yoga mat if they need one.
PRO Tip: You’ll have one more chance to practice free vinyasa yoga in Denver on September 14th. The class will be held at the same place and time.
Flock Party
Where? 2300 Steele Street
When? September 7th
The 5th annual Flock Party at the Denver Zoo will feature live music, unforgettable animal experiences, craft cocktails, and artisan eats. Proceeds go towards benefiting the beloved animals at the zoo and wildlife conservation work across Colorado and the world. From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Saturday, shake a tail feather with the true party animals. This event is designated for ages 21 and up, so hire a babysitter and enjoy a parent’s night out!
PRO Tip: General admission tickets are priced at $150 and include all-inclusive food and beverages. VIP tickets are priced at $300 and include early entry, complimentary valet parking, a VIP guest gift, and access to two exclusive lounges.
Taste of the Middle East Festival
Where? 15151 East Alameda Parkway
When? September 7th
Experience new cultures this weekend by partaking in this one-day event that is set to feature 50+ vendors and approximately 10,000 attendees! The festival will include a food court, entertainment, and even kids’ activities! Enjoy a performance by Bella Diva World Dance and music from Amina, Carla Sleiman, Tweak, and more! Vendors at this year’s celebration will include categories such as “Souq,” which offers vendors the chance to showcase and sell Middle Eastern-inspired products, handcrafted goods, and merchandise such as clothing, home decor, jewelry, and art. Food options will tantalize your taste buds with kebabs, shawarmas, and indulgent desserts.
PRO Tip: Partake in arts and crafts, face painting, henna tattooing, and storytelling sessions to engage the whole family!
2024 ScubaCon
Where? 637-V South Broadway
When? September 7th & 8th
Make the trip up to Boulder this weekend to check out the 41st anniversary of the ScubaCon event! The in-person event will be held on Saturday and Sunday and there will be a virtual event from September 2nd through the 5th. This is Colorado’s largest scuba event and attendees are invited to learn about some of the world’s top dive destinations. The Boulder event will showcase nearly 40 exhibitors at Dream Weaver Travel and in-person visitors will have opportunities to gain entries into the daily prize drawings.
PRO Tip: Event hours are scheduled from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturday and 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday. There will be door prize drawings throughout the day. Winners must be present to collect!
Denver Rocks Run
Where? 2001 Colorado Boulevard
When? September 8th
The Denver Rocks Run 5K/10K is a great chance to enjoy the fresh autumn air this weekend. If you’re racing the 5K, registration costs $49 for adults and $29 for 12 and under. The 10K is priced at $59 and $39, respectively. Both races begin at 8:00 AM, so get up early, grab your sneakers and head out the door! There are also virtual 5K and 10K options that include shipping of event swag, like a medal and a t-shirt. The virtual options are open to registrants with a U.S. shipping address.
PRO Tip: Packet pickup is available on Saturday from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Runners Roost. Have your bib number ready when you arrive.
Family-Friendly Activities in Denver This Weekend
Get the kiddos ready for a weekend of fun in Longmont at Big Dig Colorado or enjoy a relaxed afternoon at the Denver Art Museum.
Big Dig Colorado
Where? 4444 Ritchie Drive
When? September 7th
This family-friendly festival benefits the American Cancer Society and pediatric cancer research. Big Dig Colorado gives both adults and kids the opportunity to operate large digging equipment, such as boom lifts and other tools. Not only does this introduce the next generation to the construction and agriculture industries, but it’s also a fun way to bond with the family and even expand business by networking with potential new clients and vendors. There will be an equipment rodeo competition from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM for experienced equipment operators! The event includes an obstacle course and registration is available on the day of the event.
PRO Tip: If your child is a cancer survivor, contact the event organizers for complimentary tickets.
Free Day at the Denver Art Museum
Where? 100 West 14th Avenue Parkway
When? September 7th
If you’ve been wanting to pay a visit to the Denver Art Museum, take advantage of this Saturday’s free admission day! This is a great opportunity to introduce the whole family to the beautiful artwork found within this Denver landmark. The museum hosts free days throughout the year, with upcoming dates also including September 10th, November 2nd, November 12th, and December 10th.
PRO Tip: General admission does not include entry into ticketed exhibitions or entry into the Kirkland Museum.
Downtown Denver Public Art Bicycle Tour
Where? 1345 Champa Street
When? September 8th
Hop on two wheels and take in some of Denver’s highlights. Whether you’ve been a longtime resident of the Mile High City or you’re new in town, this is a great way to get active this weekend and discover some new spots. The tour will include artwork at the Denver Skate Park, Commons Park, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Colorado Convention Center. There will also be additional unique pieces that may not be known to the general public. The tour will begin at the City of Cuernavaca Park, which is located at 20th and Platte streets. Tickets are priced at $5 per person and all children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. There is no fee for kiddos 10 and under, making this a great family-friendly activity!
PRO Tip: Make sure to arrive on time, as the tour can’t wait for latecomers! The tours head off 15 minutes after meeting time and will last approximately 2.5 hours, covering a distance of nearly 3 miles.
Have Fun This Weekend in Denver!
With so many options to choose from, it may be difficult to decide what sounds like the most fun! Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of Denver this weekend with an array of festivals, shows, expos, and more. Take the kids on a bicycle tour or enjoy the free day at The Denver Art Museum!