From “hot” summer entertainment to “cool” winter wonderland festivities – and everything in between – Denver has something for everyone
Denver is filled with adventure day and night, offering everything from arts and culture, world class opera and ballet to challenging fitness races, “Wild West” rodeos and the action of eight professional sports teams. With more than 300 days of annual sunshine, there is fun to be had year-round. No matter what you enjoy – let the Mile High City take your entertainment to new heights.
Check out what’s happening in 2009!
JANUARY 2009
National Western Stock Show & Rodeo, Jan. 10-25, 2009
Yee-haw! Grab your cowboy boots and head over to the world’s premier stock show and one of the nation’s largest rodeos. Features include more than 15,000 animals, rodeo performances, Mexican rodeos, bull riders, horse shows, livestock competitions, auctions and booths selling everything from cowboy boots to Native American jewelry. 303-297-1166; http://www.nationalwestern.com/
Martin Luther King Marade (March & Parade), Jan. 19, 2009
Celebrate the largest Martin Luther King Jr. march and rally in the United States. Participants gather at City Park and march to Civic Center Park, where a large rally commemorates the life of Martin Luther King, Jr.
28th Annual Colorado Indian Market and Southwest Showcase, January 23-25, 2009
Enjoy a weekend of culture featuring Aztec dancers and traditional music, Navajo rugs and works by Native American artists from throughout the nation. 972-398-0052; http://indianmarket.net/
Denver International Sportsmen's Expo, Jan. 22-25, 2009
The largest fishing, hunting and outdoor-travel show in the Rocky Mountains returns for another year of seminars, events, contests and exhibits of the latest and greatest outdoor sports equipment. 360-693-3700; http://www.sportsexpos.com/
Denver Nuggets NBA Basketball, Through April, 2009
All-Star Carmelo Anthony leads the Mile High City’s tallest members in their quest to win The Finals and the Larry O'Brien Trophy. 303-405-1100; http://www.nba.com/nuggets/
Colorado Avalanche NHL Hockey, Through April, 2009
After more than a decade thrilling Denver’s hockey fans, the Avalanche are still leading the on-ice excitement at the Pepsi Center. 303-405-1100; http://avalanche.nhl.com/
Colorado Mammoth Lacrosse, Through April, 2009
Since their arrival in 2002, Denver’s Pro Lacrosse team has become a crowd favorite; a great introduction to the NLL. 303-405-1100; http://www.coloradomammoth.com/
FEBRUARY 2009
51st Annual Colorado Garden and Home Show, Feb. 7-15, 2009
Dig up some fun as the Colorado Convention Center fills more than 40,000 square feet with flowering gardens and 1,300 booths from over 600 companies. The expo preps visitors on landscaping, patio and outdoor projects for the spring. 303-932-8100; http://www.gardeningcolorado.com/
Denver Restaurant Week, Feb. 21-27, 2009
Denver is 5,280 feet above sea level – exactly one mile high. In honor of that, treat your taste buds when more than 100 top Denver restaurants offer multi-course meals for the “mile high” price of $52.80 for two (tax and tip not included). 303-892-1112; www.visitdenver.com
MARCH 2009
Colorado Crush Arena Football Opening Game, March 2009
Opening game of John Elway's Colorado Crush at the Pepsi Center. Season runs through June. (720) 258-3400; http://www.coloradocrush.com/
Buffalo Bill's Birthday Celebration, March 1, 2009
You’re invited to celebrate Buffalo Bill’s 163rd birthday at the Buffalo Bill Grave & Museum! Festivities include Pin-the-Tail on the Buffalo, designing custom birthday cards, a Buffalo-Chip Tossing Contest, a slice of cake – and a slice of Western history too! 303-526-0744; http://www.buffalobill.org/
52nd Annual Colorado RV, Sports, Boat, and Travel Show, March 5-8, 2009
The Colorado RV, Sports, Boat & Travel Show is the largest outdoor recreation show in the region and includes Colorado's largest display of RVs, boats, outdoor products, vacation spots, travel tips and expert presentations on fishing, hunting, boating, four-wheeling, camping, hiking and dozens of other outdoor activities. The show will take place at the National Western Complex in Denver. http://www.agievents.com/shows/display.cfm?showID=76
Rocky Mountain Horse Expo, March 13-15, 2009
Horse experts cover a range of equine-related topics at the National Western Complex. This year will also feature the Extreme Cowboy Race® hosted by Craig Cameron. 303-292-4981; http://www.rockymountainhorseexpo.com/
St. Patrick's Day Parade, March 14, 2009
The city's largest annual parade features horses and stagecoaches, marching bands, floats and fun with a Western flair. Various Irish-themed events follow the parade through downtown Denver. The parade is set to be at 10 a.m. with more than 200 entries and 10,000 marchers. (Begins at 27th & Blake Street) http://www.denverstpatricksdayparade.org/
Jazzfest Denver, March 20-22, 2009
Two nights of straight-up jazz in historic downtown Denver to benefit the Griffith Centers for children. 303-674-9313 http://www.jazzfestdenver.com/
Denver March Powwow, March 20-22, 2009
Experience culture at one of the nation's largest annual Native American gatherings. The Powwow features more than 700 dancers and musicians from 70 tribes. Authentic arts and crafts, drumming competitions, dance contests and Native American food highlight the event. 303-934-8045; http://denvermarchpowwow.org/
APRIL 2009
Denver International Auto Show, April 1-5, 2009
Rev up your engines for exhibits and demonstrations from the latest in automobile manufacturers and technological developments. 781-237-5533 http://www.paragonexpo.com/399.html?flash=1
Colorado Rockies Home Opener, April 10 2009
Watch the 2007 National League Champions take on the Philadelphia Phillies at Coors Field. Season runs through September. http://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/
Conference on World Affairs April 6-10, 2009
Everyone from filmmakers to lifetime politicians descend on University of Colorado for panel discussions that break down everything from global warming to the state of jazz. 303-492-2525; http://www.colorado.edu/cwa/information.html
Annual Denver Home Show, March 19-22, 2009
Be inspired by the home and horticultural decorating ideas at this expo, where gardening enthusiasts can find everything from awnings to trowels. Location: National Western Complex. 303-892-6800; http://www.bigasalloutdoors.com/
11th Annual Ballpark Market, April-October, 2009
Visitors will discover hidden treasures at Denver’s urban, open-air flea market featuring more than 100 vendors selling antiques, furniture, art, clothing and fresh flowers and a local farmers’ market. (@ Larimer between 21st & 22nd streets) (second Saturday of each month, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.) Free admission. 303-589-2800; http://ballparkmarket.com/
Doors Open Denver 2009, April 18-19, 2009
Mayor John Hickenlooper and the Denver Office of Cultural Affairs invite you to explore Denver from the inside out at the 5th annual Doors Open Denver – a free community event providing public access to many of the city’s prominent architectural gems and lesser-known treasures. Visitors may tour more than 70 sites and buildings on their own, or participate in expert-led walking tours. Awaken your senses to the impact that architecture and design have on us all! (303) 282-5073 http://www.denvergov.org/doorsopendenver
Denver Botanic Gardens Signature Exhibit, April 18 – Sept. 30, 2009
Not to be publicized yet - Jurassic Gardens (working title) is an exhibit of enormous proportions. The Denver Botanic Gardens presents over 15 gigantic dinosaurs on-site. The exhibit will discuss dinosaurs and their related plant environments, evolution and extinction of plants and dinosaurs and endangered and rare plants. 720-865-3500; http://denverbotanicgardens.org/
8th Annual DAM Uncorked, April 17-18, 2009
The Denver Art Museum celebrates the art of the vine with this annual event. Friday features a wine tasting; Saturday includes fine dining, superb wine, and live and silent auctions. 720-913-0098; http://denverartmuseum.org/
Cherry Creek Sneak, TBD
Lace up your sneakers and run over to the Cherry Creek Sneak. Participants can walk, sprint or race competitively through a five-mile course on the streets near Cherry Creek. 303-394-7223; http://www.cherrycreeksneak.com/
MAY 2009
60th Annual Denver Botanic Gardens Plant Sale, May 8-9, 2009
Stock up on everything you need to get your garden blooming this spring. Just in time for Mother’s Day, The Denver Botanic Gardens’ annual sale features perennials, annuals and heirloom plants; more than 65,000 plants especially suited for Denver’s climate are on sale. 720-865-3500; http://www.botanicgardens.org/
Cinco de Mayo, May 9-10, 2009
Spice up your weekend and head to Civic Center Park for the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration in the United States! Mexican culture fills the park with arts and crafts, strolling Mariachi bands, colorfully costumed Aztec dancers, several stages featuring traditional and contemporary Latino entertainment and a variety of Mexican culinary delights! 303-534-8342, ext. 110; http://www.newsed.org/cinco.htm
Tesoro 7th Annual Indian Market and Powwow, May 16-17, 2009
Colorado’s largest Indian Market Powwow features Native American artists from across the country displaying arts, pottery, jewelry, paintings and sculptures. More than 60 tribes in vibrantly colored costumes fill the grounds with sacred songs and dancing during the Powwow competition. Get a true taste of culture and enjoy authentic Native American and early West food and drinks. 303-839-1671; http://www.tesorofoundation.org/
Denver Outlaws MLL Lacrosse Opening Game, May 2009
Opening game Denver Outlaws v. Los Angeles Riptide at Invesco Field at Mile High Stadium. Starting time is 7:00 p.m. 720-258-3606; http://www.denveroutlaws.com/
Post-News Colorado Colfax Marathon, May 17, 2009
Lace up your sneakers and run the 26.2-mile marathon (you can go solo, as part of a five person relay team, or tackle the 13.1-mile half-marathon). Families love the 1 mile run/walk for kids. The relay invites you to try out the new runner-friendly course: no steep hills, more shade and great neighborhoods! http://www.coloradocolfaxmarathon.org/
12th Annual Downtown Denver Festival of the Arts, May 22-25, 2009
Nothing paints a better picture of fun than a festival filled with more than 150 of Colorado’s most esteemed artists. This popular art event formally known as the Colorado Arts Festival will showcase paintings, sculpture, photography, glasswork, woodwork and more. Because each artist will be on-site, visitors also have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with the creators of the works on display. http://www.downtowndenverartsfestival.com/
Bolder Boulder, May 25, 2009
Tens of thousands of runners will race to – and through – Boulder for this Memorial Day 10K road race. 303-444-7223; http://www.bolderboulder.com/
JUNE 2009
Audio Picnic: Skyline Park Summer Concert Series, June-August, 2009
Relax over lunch hour to cool sounds in Downtown’s central park. Noon-1:15 p.m. 303-534-6161; http://www.downtowndenver.com/
Botanic Gardens' Summer Concert Series, June-August, 2009
Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine and head to the Denver Botanic Gardens’ summer concert series featuring an intimate outdoor amphitheater set amidst lush gardens. Concerts include top jazz, pop, folk and blues musicians. 720-865-3500; http://denverbotanicgardens.org/
City Park Jazz Summer Concert Series, June 1-August 10, 2009
Every Sunday evening Denverites prepare for the work week by relaxing and listening to jazz in at the historic City Park Pavilion. Sunday evenings, June 1-August 10. 303-744-1004; http://cityparkjazz.org/
Civic Center Café & Outdoor Market, June-September, 2009
Downtown employees gather at lunchtime to enjoy homemade rootbeer, gourmet fare and to pick up fresh food for dinner. 303-312-4286; http://www.civiccenterconservancy.org/
Film in the Parks Summer Series, June-August, 2009
Parks aren’t just for concerts. Families picnic under the stars while they catch fun films like Raiders of the Lost Ark, Casablanca and Toy Story. June-August, dates & locations vary. 720-913-0677. http://denvergov.org/
Film on the Rocks, June-August 2009
Denver rocks! Local bands perform before blockbuster films, from Braveheart to The Matrix, shown on a giant outdoor screen at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
303-893-4100; http://www.redrocksonline.com/
Hot Sounds at the Pavilions, June-August, 2009
Hot sounds fill the air as local musicians perform free concerts at the Denver Pavilions.
(Thursday nights 5-9 p.m.) 303-260-6000; http://www.denverpavilions.com/
Venice on the Creek, June-August 2009
Take a candlelit journey on a boat ride down Cherry Creek. Visitors float under a ceiling of stars while guides recount interesting details of Denver’s history along the route. Boats can accommodate up to six adults or children and offer both one-way and roundtrip rides. 303-358-6696; http://www.veniceonthecreek.com/
Capitol Hill People's Fair, June 6-7, 2009
Experience Denver’s most eclectic neighborhood festival in Civic Center Park. Features include live entertainment on multiple stages, hundreds of arts and crafts booths and a food bazaar. 303-830-1651; http://www.peoplesfair.com/
Central City Opera Summer Festival, June-August, 2009
Take in the opera in the restored jewel box theater that provides a rich and intimate opera experience. 303-292-6700; http://www.centralcityopera.org/
La Piazza dell’Arte, June 6-7, 2009
The streets of Larimer Square are transformed into a giant canvas by hundreds of artists, professional, amateur and students alike, who recreate masterpieces and original works with vivid pastel chalk. Italian music and food complement this visual feast! 303-685-8143; http://larimerarts.org/
Summer Art Market, Summer 2009
Artwork by the Art Student League of Denver’s faculty, students and members will be exhibited and offered for sale with a price to fit every budget. 303-778-6990; http://www.asld.org/
Juneteenth, June 2009
Celebrate and share in the vibrant African American culture with food, music and a parade in the Five Points neighborhood. 303-832-3770; http://denverjuneteenth.org/
Colorado Renaissance Festival, June 13-August 2, 2009
Flash back to the 16th Century and journey through a medieval city. Enjoy full-armor jousting, tasty turkey legs, music and a marketplace featuring more than 200 artisans. (Weekends) 303-688-6010; http://www.coloradorenaissance.com/
Highlands Street Festival, TBD
Over 35,000 visitors attend this free event annually to listen to live music, taste local cuisine and sip micro-brews. Live music on 3 stages and over 125 vendors. http://www.highlands-square.com/Fair/
Ride the Rockies, June 14-20, 2009
Take a spin on this annual bicycle tour and pedal through challenging mountain passes. This year’s 435 mile course winds through southwestern Colorado. 303-820-1338; http://www.ridetherockies.com/
Colorado Shakespeare Festival, June-August, 2009
Enjoy theater entertainment under the stars at the University of Colorado. 303-492-2783; http://www.coloradoshakes.org/
Greek Festival, June 19-21, 2009
Indulge in Greek culture featuring traditional Greek dishes, an art exhibit and sale, live music and dancing, and a children's carnival. 303-388-9314; http://www.assumptioncathedral.org/
Greeley Stampede, June 24-July 5, 2009
Round up the family for some “Wild West” fun. Entertainment includes a carnival, concerts, a demolition derby and the country’s largest July 4th rodeo and western celebration at Island Grove Regional Park in Greeley, CO. 1-800-982-2855; http://www.greeleystampede.org/
Cherry Blossom Festival, June 2009
Celebrate Japanese culture with exhibits and demonstrations, live entertainment, contemporary and traditional art, and delicious Japanese delicacies at Sakura Square. 303-295-1844; http://www.tsdbt.org/cherryblossom
PrideFest, June 27-28, 2009
A morning parade leads to a festival in Civic Center Park filled with food, live music and information highlighting the local gay and lesbian community. 303-733-7743; http://denverpridefest.org
JULY 2009
Confluence Concerts, July 2009
Relax by the riverfront and enjoy a free summer concert series featuring the best in local entertainment, from jazz and blues to classical performances. (Every Thursday in July) 303-637-2645; http://greenwayfoundation.org/
19th Annual Cherry Creek Arts Festival, July 3-5, 2009
Ranked as the No.1 fine arts and crafts exhibition in the nation, this festival draws more than 250,000 people. Participating artisans represent every type of media from photography and watercolor, to jewelry and glass. Entertaining music and dance performances are held on several stages and booths featuring Denver's premier restaurants offer a variety of signature dishes. 303-355-2787; http://cherryarts.org/
Denver Black Arts Festival, July 8-12, 2009
For over 24 years the Black Arts Festival has enriched and entertained Denver with its heritage celebration. http://www.denbaf.org/
Colorado Gay Rodeo, July 10-12, 2009
Hang on to your cowboy hats – this traditional rodeo comes with a few twists including a goat dressing and a Wild Drag Race at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. http://www.cgra.us/
Mopar Mile-High National Hot Rod Association Nationals, July 10-12, 2009
Speed over to Morrison’s drag strip to watch high-speed hot rods at Bandimere Speedway. 303-697-6001; http://bandimere.com/
Colorado Irish Festival, July 10-12, 2009
Experience the largest Irish celebration in the Rocky Mountains with traditional Irish music performances and dancing, Irish drama and storytelling, crafts, games and food and drinks at Clement Park. 303-561-4007; http://www.coloradoirishfestival.org/
The Denver Polo Classic (presented by Avanade), July 10-12, 2009
The largest professional polo spectator event in the Rocky Mountain Region combines the thrill of competition with the beauty of horsemanship at the Columbine Polo Club. Enjoy gourmet food, wine tasting and live entertainment. 303-832-8390; http://denverpolo.org/
Films on Fillmore, July-August, 2009
Enjoy free family films Thursday evenings, shown outdoors in Cherry Creek North. http://www.denverfilm.org/
Cheyenne Frontier Days, July 17-26, 2009
Ride over to the “Daddy of ‘em All” and experience one of the West’s largest rip-roaring rodeos. (Cheyenne, Wyo.) 1-800-227-6336; http://www.cfdrodeo.com/
Kaiser Permanente Moonlight Classic, July 18, 2009
There’s something wild about cruising on your bike in the middle of the night. Imagine the exhilaration of pedaling through the deserted streets of Denver with the strange light of the moon defining the course for you and thousands of other cyclists. The start for the 15-mile and 8-mile courses is at the Colorado State Capitol. Join us for this lunar lunacy to benefit Seniors Inc.! 303-282-9020;
http://www.moonlight-classic.com/contact.html
Mile High Music Festival Presented by SanDisk, July 18 & 19, 2009
The second annual Mile-High Music Festival will be held on the outer fields at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. For more info visit: http://www.milehighmusicfestival.com/
Boulder Art Fair, TBD
Enjoy a weekend of family fun with arts and crafts, musicians and children’s activities in downtown Boulder. 303-449-3774; http://www.boulderdowntown.com/
Buffalo Bill Days, July 22-26, 2009
The legacy of Buffalo Bill is celebrated in the city of Golden with a Wild West Show, burro race, games, food and a Western parade. 303-384-0003; http://www.buffalobilldays.com/
Evergreen Jazz Festival, July 24-26, 2009
Jazz takes center stage as 10 outstanding groups perform amidst a picturesque venue. The festival will offer free dance lessons on Friday afternoon. 303-697-5467; http://www.evergreenjazz.org/
37th Annual RockyGrass Festival – July 24-26, 2009
The Annual RockyGrass is always an unforgettable weekend on the Bluegrass Ranch in Lyons. It includes three days of the greatest bluegrass musicians on the Planet along the banks of the St. Vrain River. 800-624-2422; http://www.bluegrass.com/rockygrass/
9th Annual Dragon Boat Festival, July 25-26, 2009
Set sail for summer fun at Sloan’s Lake Park where vibrantly decorated dragon boats race in an exciting pan-Asian sport. The weekend is filled with cultural entertainment including an Asian marketplace with great food and gifts, stage performances featuring Japanese Taiko drum groups, martial arts and other cross-cultural collaborations. 303-722-6852; http://cdbf.org/
Adams County Fair and Rodeo, August 5-9, 2009
Head to Henderson for family entertainment including Crabtree Amusements Carnival, Children's pavilion, free live entertainment each day, over 30 food vendors, over 100 commercial vendors, petting zoo, Rodeo, Monster Truck Show, Truck Pull and Demo Derby. 303-637-8007; http://www.adamscountyfair.com/
AUGUST 2009
River Flicks, August 2009
Enjoy the sights and sounds of the South Platte at dusk as you take in a film. This event is free and open to the public and showcases family films at Confluence Park every Wednesday in August. 303-637-2645; http://greenwayfoundation.org/
Fun at the Firehouse: A Community Open House, August 1, 2009
Check out this “hot” event and explore the history of the Denver Fire Department. Firefighters serve up their favorite meals and kids can ride on a fire truck through downtown. 303-455-7109; http://www.denverfirefightersmuseum.org/
Colorado Scottish Festival & Rocky Mountain Highland Games, August 8-9, 2009
Join this Celtic celebration featuring pipe bands, drumming, Scottish athletic competitions, highland dancing and folk music. 303-238-6524; http://www.scottishgames.org/
19th Annual Rocky Mountain Folks Festival, August 14-16, 2009
Spend a weekend with singer-songwriters at this celebration of acoustic music in Lyons, CO; 45 minutes from Denver. 1-800-626-2422; http://www.planetbluegrass.com/
Rocky Mountain Balloon Festival, August 21-23, 2009
Fun takes flight at Chatfield State Park where hundreds of vibrant hot air balloons will fill the sky. Enjoy various activities and exhibits, live music and dazzle your eyes during Lites in the Nite Balloon Illumination. 303-697-1039; http://www.rockymountainballoonfestival.com/
Colorado State Fair, August 8-September 7, 2009
Get ready for nonstop entertainment during one of the largest pro rodeos in the country. Highlights include a livestock and horse show, parades, country concerts, an arts exhibition, a fiesta weekend and an electrifying carnival at the Pueblo Fairgrounds. 1-800-876-4567; http://www.coloradostatefair.com/
11th Annual NedFest Nederland Music & Arts Microbrew Festival, TBD
An outdoor music festival with headlining and local acts. http://www.nedfest.com/
SEPTEMBER 2009
5th Annual Festival Italiano: Food & Wine Festival, September 2009
This celebration of Italian culture at Lakewood's new “downtown neighborhood” features food, wine and product vendors, bocce games, flag throwers, lectures and kid-friendly activities including story time and an introduction to opera. There will also be a free screening of Italian film classics. 303-742-1501; http://belmarcolorado.com/
Festival of Mountain & Plain: A Taste of Colorado, September 4-September 7, 2009
Give your taste buds a treat this Labor Day weekend. Enjoy great food from 75 of Colorado's premier restaurants, live entertainment, artisans and carnival rides.
303-295-6330; http://www.atasteofcolorado.com/
Colorado Balloon Classic, September 5-7, 2009
More than 100 balloons will be launched at the largest and oldest hot air balloon festival in Colorado, held in Colorado Springs. Entertainment and concessions will be available at the free event. 719-471-4833; http://www.balloonclassic.com/
Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival, September 10-13, 2009
Come celebrate at one of the largest Celtic festivals in the nation. Entertainment includes bagpipe bands, Irish dancing, folk music, merchant tents and professional Scottish athletes competing in stone-put, hammer toss and caber toss. Held in Estes Park, CO, a one-hour drive from Denver. 1-800-90-ESTES; http://scotfest.com/
Glory Days, September 12-13, 2009
Before Lowry was an upscale neighborhood, it was home to an Air Force Base. Celebrate Lowry's history with this festival. 303-331-1516; http://lowry.org/
Chatfield Corn Maze Opening, September 4, 2009
Test your skills and get lost in family fun as you journey through an intricately designed five-acre corn maze. Other features include a mini-maze adventure for children and great food. (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays) 720-865-3500; http://botanicgardens.org/
Oktoberfest September 18-20& 25-27, 2009
Take part in a seasonal German tradition held in the ballpark neighborhood (on Larimer between 20 & 22nd Streets, six blocks from Larimer Square). As always, this event will feature dancing, oompah bands, colorful costumes, a Kinderplatz, beer and bratwursts. http://oktoberfestdenver.com/
Great American Beer Festival, September 24-26, 2009
Cheers! The largest gathering of beer enthusiasts boasts more than 1,500 different beers from 300 American breweries. (@ Colorado Convention Center) 303-447-0816; http://www.beertown.org/
Colorado Ballet Season Opening, September 2009
303-893-4100; http://www.coloradoballet.org/
Colorado Symphony Orchestra Season Opening, September 2009
303-292-5566; http://www.coloradosymphony.org/
OCTOBER 2009
Race for the Cure Denver, TBD (Fall 2009)
Bring your friends to run or walk in America’s largest Race for the Cure as it winds through LoDo. http://www.komendenver.org/
Fright Fest, October 3-November 1, 2009
Get ready for a “scream” of a time as Elitch Gardens Amusement Park, Denver’s downtown amusement park, transforms from theme park to “scream” park Saturdays and Sundays all month long! 303-595-4386; www.elitchgardens.com
Jack-O-Launch at PumpkinFest, October 10, 2009
Watch pumpkins hurtled hundreds of feet through the air as ingenious architects of gourd-launching devices compete for prizes at the City of Aurora’s annual Jack-O-Launch at PumpkinFest. In addition, enjoy a fall festival featuring hay rides, scarecrow making, a pumpkin patch, music and more. Benefits Denver Urban Gardens and hosted at Historic Delaney Farm in Aurora. http://www.auroragov.org/ or, http://dug.org/
2009 Annual Pumpkin Festival, October 10-11, 2009
Take a stroll through a five-acre pumpkin patch at the Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield on a search for the perfect pumpkin. Enjoy crafts, great food and events especially for the kids. http://botanicgardens.org/
Denver Marathon, October 18, 2009
On your mark, get set, go! The Denver Marathon begins in downtown and aims to bring a world-class running experience as well as economic and social vitality to the Denver metro area. Participants can run in the marathon, half-marathon, or four-person relay. 1-888-RUN-5280; http://www.denvermarathon.com/
Boo at the Zoo, October 25-26, 2009
Discover “spooktacular” Halloween fun at the Denver Zoo. Costumed kids get a real treat as the zoo fills with mysterious creatures and lots of sweets! 303-376-4800; http://denverzoo.org/
NOVEMBER 2009
Opera Colorado Season Opening, November, 2009
Opera Colorado starts off its season with Pucinni’s “Madama Butterfly” and continues in 2009 with Bizet’s “The Pearl Fishers” and Mozart’s “Cosi fan tutti.” 303-893-4100; www.operacolorado.org
The Starz Denver Film Festival, November, 2009
Grab the popcorn and check out this four-star event! Dozens of filmmakers introduce a slate of new movies at the Starz Film Center on the Auraria Campus. 303-595-3456; http://denverfilm.org/
Denver International Wine Festival, Nov. 4-7, 2009
A four-day celebration of wine and cuisine with 400 wines presented by winemakers from around the world. 303-664-5700; http://denverwinefest.com/
3rd Annual Denver Arts Week, November 13-21, 2009
Denver celebrates all of the arts from performing to visual. Explore Denver’s neighborhood studios and galleries, as well as its world-class museums. http://denverartsweek.org/
45th Annual Holiday Sale, November 2009 (date tbd)
The annual Denver Botanic Gardens’ holiday shopping market features horticultural and hand-made gifts, as well as great food and beverages. 720-865-3500; http://botanicgardens.org/
Light Up Larimer! November 2009 (date tbd)
Organizers flip the switch on the “decked halls” of Larimer Square to kick off the holiday season downtown. 303-685-8143; http://www.larimersquare.com/
Downtown Denver’s Grand Illumination, Nov. 27, 2009
Dazzling lights illuminate downtown Denver to kick off the holiday season. 303-534-6161; www.downtowndenver.com
DECEMBER 2009
Georgetown Christmas Market, December 2009
The magic of an old-fashioned Christmas is recaptured in Victorian Georgetown. This holiday celebration features international shopping markets, carriage rides, a Santa Lucia parade, crafts, homemade foods and chestnuts roasting on an open fire!
303-569-2840; http://historicgeorgetown.org/
Blossoms of Light, December 2009 – January 2010
Journey through the brilliantly lit Denver Botanic Gardens, featuring artistically highlighted silhouettes of plants throughout 17 acres. Enjoy festive carolers, dancers and hot beverages. 720-865-3500; http://botanicgardens.org/
9News Parade of Lights, December 4-5, 2009
The streets of downtown burst with color as spectators enjoy sparkling lights, ornamented floats, marching bands, giant balloons and festive costumed performers.
303-534-6161; http://www.denverparadeoflights.com/
32nd Annual Tuba Christmas, TBD
More than 400 tuba players will converge on Skyline Park to give a concert that has become an annual holiday tradition. http://tubachristmas.com/
Jingle Bell Run, TBD (December 2009)
Get in the holiday spirit and run to this national 5K run/walk in Washington Park benefiting the Arthritis Foundation. 303-756-8622; http://jinglebellrundenver.kintera.org/
Zoo Lights, December 12, 2009-Jan. 4, 2010
Specific December dates to be announced. Luminous animated animal sculptures, traditional Christmas tunes and roaming wildlife make this event among the brightest and most beautiful in the state. http://denverzoo.org/ or 303-376-4800
Annual New Year’s Eve Fireworks Downtown, December 31, 2009
Toast to 2010 under an umbrella of spectacular fireworks on the 16th Street Mall. (9 p.m. & Midnight) Admission is free.
About VISIT DENVER The Convention & Visitors Bureau
Founded in 1909, VISIT DENVER is a nonprofit trade association that contracts with the City of Denver to market Denver as a convention and leisure destination, increasing