Spice up your weekend plans in the Mile High City this weekend and invite some friends to cheer on the Pacific Nationals Cup Semifinals or to participate in The Denver 5K at Sloan Lake. With so many things to do in so little time, make sure to hit the ground running on Friday!
Activities, Events, Shows, and More in Denver This Weekend
The activities and events are endless in Denver, so take your pick from this stacked weekend lineup. Whether you want to catch a soccer match or you’re more into silent films, there’s something for every interest.
Spirit of Japan Denver 2025
Where? 1255 19th Street
When? September 12th-14th
Spirit of Japan Denver will be one of this weekend’s coolest cultural events! This three-day fest will kick off from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Friday in Sakura Square in downtown Denver, followed by 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Saturday and 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday. The food vendor lineup is as impressive as it is delicious, so arrive hungry because you’ll want to try a little bit of everything from nigiri, octopus, udon noodles, and classic Japanese treats that seamlessly blend sweet and savory. In addition to delicious bites, the festival will also showcase a variety of sake and spirit options for those ages 21 and up. Spirit of Japan will be held rain or shine and tickets are limited, so grab yours now!
PRO Tip: Grab your tickets for Spirit of Japan here! All admission packages include tickets that can be redeemed for food and beverages.
Lindy on the Rocks 2025
Where? 980 14th Street
When? September 12th-14th
Lindy on the Rocks is a full weekend swing dance festival in Denver, featuring something for everyone from live music, classes, competitions and all things social dancing. The focus this weekend will be on Lindy Hop, though there will be an array of vintage swing dances such as tap, Charleston, shag, Balboa and more. Lindy on the Rocks will offer high-quality instruction from some of the most talented swing dancers in the world, so even if this is your first time, don’t be shy!
PRO Tip: Lindy on the Rocks will be running concurrently with the Denver Jazz Festival and Hot Night Fusion Weekend, so nab your All Access Pass to get into any class or dance at all three of these events. Shop ticket options here.
Denver Silent Film Festival
Where? 2510 East Colfax Avenue
When? September 12th-14th
Take a big step back into the bygone era of film magic at the annual Denver Silent Film Festival. Audiences will have the chance to discover masterpieces from the silent-era, as well as newly restored discoveries. The best news? The films will be presented as they were intended to be experienced: on the big screen with live musical performances! If you love a good laugh, don’t miss the Silent Comedy Shorts Program, featuring Charley Chase in “His Wooden Wedding” and Chaplin’s great “The Immigrant.”
PRO Tip: Peruse the screening schedule for the 2025 Denver Silent Film Festival here so you don’t miss out on any of your favorites! The Festival Pass gets you one ticket to every screening at the festival for $85 (non members) or $75 (Denver Film members).
The Denver 5K
Where? Utica Street & West 17th Avenue
When? September 13th
The Denver 5K is held in the iconic setting of Sloan Lake, which is located in the shadow of the city’s skyline. Hailed as the perfect “cool down” to racing season, this is a great way to get outside with the community this weekend. Live music will be back this year, with a performance by The Topiaries. Adult registration is priced at $54.85, with discounted tier pricing for ages 0 to 12, ages 13 to 18 and seniors ages 55 to 99. The 5K will start at 9:00 AM.
PRO Tip: There is a free untimed kids fun run option, which starts at 8:50 AM on Saturday. The fun run is open to ages 7 and under.
Colorado Rapids vs. Houston Dynamo
Where? 6000 Victory Way
When? September 13th
The Colorado Rapids will face down the Houston Dynamo this Saturday at DICK’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City. For all Rapids games, guests ages 3 years and older are required to have a ticket. There is a bag policy in effect, with acceptable dimensions posted here. There are also a range of concessions throughout the venue, with gluten-friendly and vegetarian options available as well. Arrive early to find your seat, grab a snack and a drink and get ready to cheer for the home team!
PRO Tip: Tickets start at $30.94 for the general admission supporters section. Get closer to the action with designated row seating so you can cheer extra loud when the team takes the field.
Colorado Wine Walk
Where? 1800 Wazee Street
When? September 13th
The Colorado Wine Walk will be held this Saturday in Denver’s Dairy Block. The event will run from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with VIP access kicking off at 6:00 PM. The walk is hosted by Blanchard Family Wines and general admission is priced at $55 plus a ticket service fee. Tickets will grant you access to the historic Dairy Block alleyway, as well as an endless array of wine samples, a commemorative glass, a wine tote and abundant opportunities for wine purchases, engaging conversations and new friends. Colorado winemaking is a force that’s been capturing national acclaim and reshaping the landscape of the industry, so don’t miss out!
PRO Tip: Grab your tickets here. Guests must be 21+ to attend the Colorado Wine Walk. Bring a valid ID with you.
Highlands Oktoberfest & Market
Where? 32nd Avenue (Julian to Perry)
When? September 13th
This Saturday, the party is at the 2nd annual Highlands Oktoberfest celebration! From 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, enjoy a range of activities and festivities. Catch the opening ceremonies on the Osceola Stage and don your finest lederhosen for the costume contest from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM on the Lowell Stage. Other can’t-miss activities include keg bowling, the Dachshund Dash, stein hoisting, and live music throughout the day. Kids can even enjoy Kidtoberfest, which will feature face painting, balloon animals, pretzel necklaces and much more. Endless food options will be available, so satisfy your tastebuds with bratwurst, Bavarian pretzels, American classics and international cuisine from around the globe. Guests ages 21 and up can imbibe with traditional Munich beer!
PRO Tip: Shop local vendors as you stroll along West 32nd Avenue. Oktoberfest is completely free to attend, so get a crew together and have fun!
Pacific Nations Cup Semifinals
Where? 6000 Victory Way
When? September 14th
World Rugby, USA Rugby and TEG Rugby Live are bringing the best in Pacific rugby to the United States. Watch as six teams collide in Denver for the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup Semifinals this weekend, culminating in the grand finale that’s taking place in Salt Lake City. Sunday will feature three matches at DICK’S Sporting Goods Park in nearby Commerce City, starting at 12:30 PM. Participating countries include Canada, Fiji, Japan, Samoa, Tonga and the USA. Fans will enjoy a triple-header in what will inevitably be a crucial qualifying path for the Men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027 in Australia.
PRO Tip: Tickets are still available, so grab yours now for the North Boundary Patio or buy seats in a designated row starting at $50.50.
11th Annual Taste of Ethiopia Festival
Where? 2001 Steele Street
When? September 14th
This Saturday, enjoy a dynamic day of cultural celebration and unforgettable experiences at Denver’s City Park Pavilion and Bandshell. This is the first year that the festival has not been held on the first weekend in August, which was a change made to secure a premier location that reflects the event’s growth and popularity amongst the local community! Attendees can soak in great views of Ferril Lake, Sopris Garden and the Mile High City’s iconic skyline as they dive into authentic Ethiopian cuisine. The festival will offer live performances, marketplace vendors and rich cultural showcases taking place across the expansive lawn. Admission is free
PRO Tip: The annual Taste of Ethiopia festival is a year-round movement, powered by the Taste of Ethiopia Heritage Foundation. Learn more about the nonprofit’s mission here.
Five Points Brass Fest
Where? 1345 Champa Street
When? September 14th
The Five Points Brass Fest is a celebration of Denver’s brass band heritage. The fest will be held at the Five Points Plaza from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM this Sunday, featuring the Guerrilla Fanfare Brass Band. In total, the festival will host performances from eight local brass bands — so round up your crew and get ready for a day packed with live music and exciting performances. Whether you consider yourself an avid brass fan or you’re new to the genre, this is a prime opportunity to see what the local scene is all about!
PRO Tip: This will be a free celebration, so swing by for a set or two or stay for the whole evening.
13th Floor Haunted House
Where? 3400 East 52nd Avenue
When? Select nights through November 9th
While it’s not quite October yet, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a head start on the spooky season! The 13th Floor Haunted House in Denver has been ranked as one of the Top 5 Most Terrifying Haunted Houses in the USA by USA Today. If you’re feeling brave, definitely add it to your weekend itinerary! Open on select nights through November 9th, visitors can grab their tickets now to take advantage of dynamic pricing. There will be ample free street parking in the vicinity of the haunted house, as well as paid parking options.
PRO Tip: Check out the ticketing calendar here. Remember, buy early and save! Tickets will increase in price for dates in October, making September a prime time to visit.
Family-Friendly Activities in Denver This Weekend
Explore the Mile High City this weekend through a child’s eyes! From Lakewood’s annual ChickenFest celebration to Central Library’s Zine Fest, there’s plenty to do around town with the family this weekend. Bright Nights at Four Mile is another can’t-miss family-friendly excursion!
3rd Annual Colfax ChickenFest
Where? 6501 West Colfax Avenue
When? September 13th
This Saturday, join in on the fun at the 3rd Annual Colfax ChickenFest in nearby Lakewood. Join 40 West Arts at The HUB Building for this festival celebrating all things chicken. From chicken artwork, to chicken sculptures, a chicken egg scavenger hunt and of course, chicken food trucks, it’s sure to be a clucking good time for all ages. The festival is free to attend, so grab the family and show off your best chicken struts at the cluck n’ strut contest! ChickenFest will also feature live bluegrass music all day long. There will be an array of family-friendly activities and games, such as face painting and a dedicated kids’ zone. Festival hours are scheduled from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
PRO Tip: If you want to go all out, show off your best moves at the dance competition and make sure to don your most iconic chicken-themed attire for a chance to win prizes!
Denver Zine Fest
Where? 10 West 14th Avenue Parkway
When? September 14th
This Sunday, check out the Denver Zine Fest at the Central Library from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Since 2007, the fest has been a vibrant platform for Colorado zine creators to collaborate, share their creativity and build community. This year’s fest will feature 85+ independent creators from across the Mile High City and beyond. This is a free event, so swing by on Sunday afternoon for all things zine-y goodness. Participating exhibitors at this year’s fest include Backdoor Printing, BB Andersson, Chel’s Artistry, Fickle Bean Comics, Midnite Library and many, many more.
PRO Tip: Can’t make Sunday’s event? Check out the Denver Zine Library inside of the Bob Ragland branch of the Denver Public Library at ArtPark that’s open Saturdays between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Bright Nights at Four Mile
Where? 715 South Forest Street
When? Through October 5th
Prepare to be amazed as Four Mile Historic Park is transformed into a luminous wonderland. Bright Nights runs through October 5th, so you still have time to catch the magic! The nightly occurrence runs from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with tickets ranging in price from $19 to $48. Discounted prices are available for seniors, kids, members and visitors with a military ID. Bright Nights is Denver’s original lantern festival experience, with each year debuting a brand-new theme, fresh experiences and new sculptures. This year, visitors will have the opportunity to wander through the whimsical Farmhouse Flora and Fauna. There will even be an expanded interactive zone full of surprises that are sure to delight whether you’re 8 or 88!
PRO Tip: Brush up on guest policies and Know Before You Go tips for Bright Nights here. Remember, share your photos and videos on social media with hashtag #BrightNights2025!
Have Fun This Weekend in Denver
Now that you have all the deets on what’s happening around Denver this weekend, it’s time to start planning! Invite some friends out or get the family’s schedule finalized for a weekend jam-packed with exciting entertainment. Come on back next week for an updated weekend event lineup!