Thanksgiving Weekend in Denver

Holiday Shopping Kicks Off

The holiday shopping season kicks off after Thanksgiving! There will be free parking on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday in the Denver Pavilions underground garage while Cherry Creek North celebrates Small Business Weekend. 

Cherry Creek Holiday Market 

WHEN: Nov. 21–Dec. 24, 2024
WHERE: Cherry Creek North
The Cherry Creek North Holiday Market at Fillmore Plaza features more than 50 local artisan vendors, live music, and festive drinks and decor. The market is free, open to the public and family- and dog-friendly.

Denver Christkindlmarket

WHEN: Nov. 22–Dec. 23, 2024
WHERE: Civic Center Park
This outdoor event brings the most beloved elements of an authentic German holiday experience to The Mile High City. Stroll through a European village decorated for the holiday season as you shop for finely crafted artisan gifts and treats at charming wooden huts. Fuel your shopping with authentic Glühwein (mulled spiced wine), German Biers and hot chocolate, and nosh on Bavarian-style pretzels, fresh smoked salmon, Knödel, Goulasch, Nürnberger Sausages, pastries, caramels and European chocolates. 

Urban Holiday Market

WHEN: Nov. 9, 10, 16, 29, 2024
WHERE: Denver Union Station
This highly attended annual curated marketplace features an awesome selection of one-of-a-kind seasonal items, high-quality handcrafted goods, fabulous holiday gift ideas, delicious specialty foods, home décor, and unique holiday gifts. 

11th Annual Tennyson Berkeley Small Business Passport Crawl 

WHEN: Nov. 30–Dec. 1, 2024
WHERE: Tennyson Street
Grab your passport and visit participating shops and restaurants to receive special deals and discounts. Support your community and discover hidden gems along Tennyson Street.

Mistletoe Market 

WHEN: Nov. 30–Dec. 22, 2024
WHERE: Dairy Block
Dairy Block is excited to celebrate the magic of the season with Holiday on the Block, an extensive line-up of festive events including a local makers market, Who-ligan entertainment, live music, winter art installations and more.

Graveyard Markets: The Lemur and Friends Bazaar

WHEN: Dec. 1, 2024
WHERE: The Learned Lemur
The Lemur and Friends Bazaar is a monthly artist market hosted right on The Learned Lemur's back patio. The bazaar hosts all kinds of artists from across Colorado, from bakers to jewelers. Pick up that perfect unique gift or something special for yourself!

Family-Friendly Events & Activities

Santa's Flight Academy

WHEN: Thru Dec. 24, 2024
WHERE: Cherry Creek Shopping Center 
There's lots to celebrate at Cherry Creek Shopping Center!

• Capture the magic of the season during a one-of-a-kind, immersive Santa photo experience Nov. 7–Dec. 24 that enables children to dance in Santa’s magic mirror and turn into elite cadets to help Santa power his sleigh and chart his course for delivering presents to children around the world. The experience ends with a magical snowfall dance party inside Santa’s 22-foot-tall sleigh! (Reservations are recommended for all Santa sessions.)
• Kick off the holiday season at the annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Celebration on Nov. 16, hosted by Denver Nuggets Announcer, Kyle Speller! Starting at 5 p.m., enjoy hot chocolate, sweet treats and live entertainment in Valet Plaza as you countdown to the lighting of the 60’ Christmas tree, then gather inside the mall for family-friendly entertainment by Spinphony, the Beverly Belles, cookie decorating and more after the tree lighting from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
• Bring your favorite furry friend to meet and have their photo taken with Santa "Paws" on Nov. 25 and Dec. 2 and 9 from 5–7 p.m. (Reservations are recommended for all Santa sessions.)
• Get into the holiday spirit with weekly live entertainment Nov. 29–Dec. 24 on Fridays (3–6 p.m.), Saturdays and Sundays (1–4 p.m.), plus Monday, Dec. 23 (3–6 p.m.) and Tuesday, Dec. 24 (1–4 p.m.). 
• Partake in a Sensory-Friendly Santa experience on Dec. 8 from 9–10:30 a.m. (Reservations are recommended for all Santa sessions.)

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The Polar Express^TM Train Ride

WHEN: Nov. 15–17; 22–26; daily Nov. 29–Dec. 23, 2024 (performances at 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.)
WHERE: Colorado Railroad Museum, Golden
The story of The Polar Express^TM is theatrically re-created and combined with a magical train ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum. Children get to meet Santa and experience all the sights and sounds of this classic tale as if happening all around them. This year, a whole host of carefully crafted updates have been made to ensure the health and safety of guests, cast and crew, so put on your pajamas and your most fashionable mask and bring the family to enjoy sharing hot cocoa and cookies together as the "Hot, Hot, Hot—Chocolate" song and dance unfolds before your eyes.

Christmas In Color 

WHEN: Thru Dec. 30, 2024
WHERE: Water World (Denver) , Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre (Morrison) , Arapahoe County Fairground (Aurora) 
With not one but three locations, Christmas In Color is a can't-miss holiday lights experience! Drive through millions of lights perfectly synchronized to holiday music you’ll hear right through your radio. Drive by giant candy canes, snowmen, arched pathways and more. Take your time enjoying this lighting extravaganza — we won’t judge you if you join the kids with your face pressed against the window! 

Downtown Denver Rink

WHEN: Nov. 21, 2024–Feb. 2, 2025
WHERE: Skyline Park
Bundle up for some free ice skating in the heart of downtown and enjoy special events. ​Skate rentals for adults are $12 (or $8 for military and first responders) and $9 for kids 12 and under (fourth graders skate for free!). Bring your own pair and skate for free! If you need a skatewalker for assistance, you can also rent one $6.

McGregor Skate

WHEN: Nov. 29, 2024–Jan. 26, 2025
WHERE: McGregor Square Plaza
The magic of winter has made its way to LoDo with McGregor Skate, an ice skating rink for all ages. McGregor Skate will be open daily from Nov. 29 to Jan. 5, then Friday through Sunday until Jan. 26. Skates are available on-site for rental, or bring your own. Skating starts at just $6, with kids under age 2 and seniors age 65+ always skating for free! An outside bar will be available serving hot chocolate and more. 

Candlelight Nights

WHEN: Nov. 30–Dec. 31, 2024
WHERE: City of Golden
Golden’s beloved Candlelight Nights returns with quaint holiday shops and festive decorations along historic Washington Avenue and thousands of twinkling lights lining the banks of Clear Creek. The annual Candlelight Walk occurs on Dec. 6, featuring revelers strolling Washington Avenue holding candles and singing carols. Golden’s Holiday Parade returns on Dec. 14, with marching bands, floats, horses, Victorian carolers, elves, fire trucks and, of course, Santa. Come back for a magical day in Golden meeting and mingling with family favorite holiday characters along Washington Avenue on December 21, during the Jingle On the Avenue.

Food & Drink

Ajax Downtown

Ajax is offering a three-course prix fixe (fixed price) menu on Thanksgiving Day. First course (choice of): Lobster bisque, chicory salad, sweet potato gnocchi, tuna carpaccio or grilled sweetbreads. Second course (choice of): Smoked turkey roulade, black cod, roasted celery root, Colorado lamb saddle, or 30-day dry-aged beef rib. Dessert (choice of): Butternut squash pie, carrot cake or white chocolate apple cheesecake. The price is $115 per person; $35 per child under 12. 

Make a reservation

Elway's Downtown

Elway's is offering Thanksgiving specials on their regular menu that's available from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The turkey plate with turkey breast, turkey ballotine, mash, green beans, gravy and cranberry salad is $60. The short rib "off the bone" entree includes Yukon Gold mashed potatoes for $58. The Colorado rack of lamb is $68 and the vegetarian option is a root vegetable pot pie for $34. 

Chez Maggy

Enjoy a feast prepared by Chef Ludo Lefebvre to celebrate Thanksgiving for $85 per person! Three courses with selections and shareable sides included. Wine and Champagne specials by Moet Chandon, Veuve Clicquot and Dom Perignon. First course (choice of): Kale salad with roasted peanuts and lime vinaigrette; butternut squash soup with brown butter and crispy sage. Main course (choice of): Roasted turkey with honey and thyme, grilled lamb chops, Parisian gnocchi and mushroom ragout; or roasted branzino with fennel and chives. Shareable sides included: Green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, Brussels sprouts with pistachio and lime, cranberry sauce, and fresh baguette. Dessert (choice of): pecan pie or pumpkin pie. *Menu Subject to change.

Make a reservation

The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa by Marriott 

An elevated, reception-style buffet will be filled with delicious delights to evoke the feeling of the season. Highlighted dishes include Philly cheesesteak soup, ravioli with spinach and butternut squash, and salmon with bok choy, roasted onions and a miso glaze, alongside side dishes like Brussels sprouts with herbs and browned butter, baked acorn squash with pecans and cheese, and whipped sweet potato. A seafood bar and carving station will also be available. (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

Corinne Denver 

The chefs have created a delicious family-style menu for the occasion, which includes three show-stopping entrees: carved roasted turkey, Brush Creek bourbon glazed ham and Tofurkey. (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

Local Jones 

Give thanks with a toast over a seasonal cocktail and be sure to leave room for a very special dessert: butterscotch pumpkin pie and pecan pie. (7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.)

Former Saint 

Have a no-fuss feast. Beginning at 11:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, they'll roll out the buffet featuring a chef hand-carving station, complete with prime rib and turkey, along with all of your favorite sides.

Kachina Cantina

Let Kachina Cantina do the cooking (and the dishes!) this year. On Thanksgiving Day, order off this modern Southwestern restaurant's regular all-day menu, plus some tasty Thanksgiving specials: a turkey plate with turkey, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, brown gravy, roasted carrots, stuffing, cranberry sauce, French roll, crispy onion ($31); and pumpkin pie with candied pepitas, vanilla whipped cream ($9).

Make a reservation

The Kitchen

The Denver and Boulder locations are offering a first course of harvest salad or squash bisque, a main course of roasted turkey or autumn pot pie and the following sides: Parker House rolls, herb-whipped mash potatoes, roasted leek and mushroom dressing, URFA carrots, roasted Brussels sprouts, and braised hominy. As for dessert, look for pumpkin verrine and apple galette. The price is $99.50 per person and $45.50 per child 12 and under. 

Make a reservation

Water Grill

In addition to their regular seafood-centric menu, Water Grill's chef has curated a special three-course Thanksgiving menu that highlights the holiday.

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Urban Farmer

Join Urban Farm on this Thanksgiving from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. for a memorable three-course prix fixe experience. Offerings include sweet potato gnocchi cooked with mushrooms, caponata and pumpkin oil to start; roast prime rib accompanied with wagyu butter and a variety of sides for your entrée; and the restaurant's beloved traditional pumpkin pie with house whip for dessert! $90 per adult, $45 per child (ages 3 to 12). 

Make a reservation

FIRE Restaurant & Lounge 

Savor seasonal fall salads, tempting starters, classic sides, and a carving station featuring bourbon-glazed ham and turkey. Enjoy their mac & cheese bar, seafood display with shrimp, oysters and smoked salmon rillette, plus a dessert spread featuring pumpkin pie, French silk pie and more. (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

Make a reservation

Table Mountain Grill & Cantina 

Bring loved ones together to enjoy a Southwestern Thanksgiving. They'll have limited menus available featuring holiday specials and classic Southwestern favorites. (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.)

The Nickel

A plated turkey dinner featuring all the classic sides and wine pairing for $100 per person and $50 for children under 13. (Seating times: noon, 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.)

Make a reservation

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille

For just $49/ person, chow down on Perry’s slicked smoked turkey breast along with your choice of honey crisp apple salad with dried cherries walnuts and maple syrup vinaigrette or butternut squash soup; pan gravy; mashed potatoes; green beans almondine; sausage and sage dressing; cranberry relish; and homemade bread. Children’s plate available for $19. Add an individual serving of Pumpkin Cheesecake for $9. 

Make a reservation

The Keg Steakhouse + Bar

Book your Thanksgiving table to enjoy The Keg's delicious three-course Thanksgiving dinner! Start with your choice of Caesar or Wedge salad, traditional turkey entrée served with all the trimmings (garlic mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, cranberry sauce and maple-glazed carrots), and finish off with pumpkin-drizzled cheesecake for $42 per person. Child's portion available with a kid's veggie plate and ice cream for $18. 

Make a reservation

Music, Film & Performing Arts

'Elephant & Piggie’s "We Are in a Play!"'

WHEN: Thru Dec. 22, 2024
WHERE: Weeks Conservatory Theatre
Get ready for a fun-filled musical experience, leaping from the pages of Mo Willems’ award-winning, best-selling children’s books that will leave audiences doing the “Flippy Floppy Floory” dance all night long! Watch as Gerald and Piggie take to the stage in a rollicking adventure that’s jam-packed with new toys, ice cream, trumpets, parties and wild-and-wacky costumes!

'MONOPOLY LIFESIZED: Travel Edtion'

WHEN: Thru March 9, 2025
WHERE: DCPA Off-Center at Broadway Park®
Rally your loved ones, your plus ones, and your very best ones. It’s game time, Denver! Direct from one of London’s most popular attractions, comes the highly anticipated international tour debut of "MONOPOLY LIFESIZED: Travel Edition" at a brand-new location: DCPA Off-Center at Broadway Park®! In this exhilarating, 60-minute experience, you will be guided by your very own personified MONOPOLY token as you and your team solve escape room-style challenges on a giant MONOPOLY board for a chance to buy property, charge rent and break out of jail.

'Blue Whales: Return of the Giants 3D'

WHEN: Thru March 3, 2025
WHERE: Infinity Theater
Take part in a breathtaking journey with “Blue Whales: Return of the Giants 3D.” In this giant screen film narrated by English actor Andy Serkis, you will explore the world of the magnificent blue whale, a species rebounding from the brink of extinction. Following two scientific expeditions — one to find a missing population of blue whales off the exotic Seychelles Islands, the other to chronicle whale families in Mexico’s stunning Gulf of California — this inspirational story transforms our understanding of the largest animal ever to have lived.

'Cities of the Future'

WHEN: Thru March 3, 2025
WHERE: Infinity Theater
“Cities of the Future” invites you to step into an exciting new world of innovation and exploration to address the challenges of a rapidly changing planet. Discover the thrilling technological breakthroughs — electric autonomous vehicles and aerial highways, solar energy beamed down from space to power entire cities and smart buildings and greener infrastructure to keep us cool — that engineers are working on right now and meet a team of middle school students competing in the Future City Competition. Narrated by actor John Krasinski, this film will energize kids and adults of all ages to think about engineering as a meaningful way to help others and leave a positive mark on the world.

'Gutenberg! The Musical!'

WHEN: Thru May 4, 2025
WHERE: Garner Galleria Theatre
In this two-person musical spoof, a pair of aspiring playwrights perform a backers’ audition for their new, ill-advised project: a big, splashy musical about printing press inventor Johann Gutenberg. With an unending supply of enthusiasm, Bud and Doug sing all the songs and play all the parts in their crass historical epic, with the hope that one of the producers in attendance will give them that elusive Broadway contract.

'A Christmas Carol'

WHEN: Nov. 22–Dec. 29, 2024
WHERE: Wolf Theatre
Celebrate 30 years of "A Christmas Carol" at the Denver Center! Essential to the holiday season in Denver, "A Christmas Carol" is a joyous and opulent musical adaptation for the whole family that traces money-hoarding curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge’s triumphant overnight journey to redemption. Based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, the DCPA Theatre Company’s production is “a splendidly festive tradition” (BroadwayWorld) that illuminates the meaning of the holiday season in a way that has resonated for generations.

'Once Upon A Mattress'

WHEN: Nov. 22–Dec. 29, 2024
WHERE: Arvada Center for the Arts & Humanities, Arvada
Prince Dauntless’s outspoken Queen mother and mute King father decree that no one in the kingdom may marry until their son finds someone sensitive enough to be a true princess. Will goofy, awkward Winnifred the Woebegone from the swamp finally be the one to pass the seemingly impossible test? In this laugh-out-loud musical version of "The Princess and the Pea," "Once Upon a Mattress" redefines what it takes to be a princess. Perfect for the whole family, this hilarious tale zany enough to launch the Broadway career of Carol Burnett celebrates the uniqueness in all of us.

Pipes & Horns of Plenty

WHEN: Nov. 23 & 24, 2024
WHERE: Bethany Lutheran Church, Cherry Hills Village
The smell of roasted turkey wafts through the house like a warm breeze; the sound of football and disappointed groans echo from the living room; and the banter of long-separated siblings and cousins catching up and trading old barbs over a glass of wine rings out from the kitchen. The feeling of Thanksgiving is one of overwhelming appreciation for friends and loved ones and the bounty of love and joy they provide. This year, Denver Brass and organist Joseph Galema are showing our Resounding Gratitude for our beloved family of fans with a cornucopia overflowing with organ pipes, tiny trumpets, and heralding horns. Join us before the show to break bread and reacquaint yourself with your friends and family here at Denver Brass!

'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' in Concert

WHEN: Nov. 29–30, 2024
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
Discover the Magic of the Mean One this holiday season. Dr. Seuss’ "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" is a celebration of the holiday spirit no home should be without! Why is the Grinch such a grouch? No one seems to know, until little Cindy Lou Who takes matters into her own hands and turns both Whoville and the Grinch’s world upside down, inside out and funny side up in her search for the true meaning of Christmas.

'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical'

WHEN: Nov. 29–Dec. 1, 2024
WHERE: Buell Theatre in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
The beloved TV classic "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. Come see all of your favorite characters from the special including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph, as they come to life in "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical." It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special. Don’t miss this wonderful holiday tradition that speaks to the misfit in all of us.

'Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet'

WHEN: Nov. 30–Dec. 1, 2024
WHERE: Paramount Theatre
Gather your loved ones for the warm nostalgia of America’s favorite Christmas celebration. Experience the extraordinary international cast and Ukrainian Principal Artists performing at the peak of classical European Ballet. Be transported by the magic of jaw-dropping acrobatics, larger-than-life puppets and stunning hand-crafted sets and costumes. Don’t miss this chance to experience the wonder of "Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet."

Colorado Ballet: 'The Nutcracker'

WHEN: Nov. 30–Dec. 29, 2024
WHERE: Ellie Caulkins Opera House
The beloved holiday favorite returns in a dazzling production like no one's ever seen, featuring all-new sets and costumes created especially for Colorado Ballet. A sellout every year, this magical tale of Clara, the Nutcracker and the Mouse King is going to be dreamier than ever.

Drums of the World

WHEN: Dec. 1, 2024
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
Marimba, bongos, bass drums, woodblocks, log drums, boo-bams, Chinese cymbals, metal trash cans, darbukas, talking drums, plastic pipe, acoustic guitar, toy trumpet, tablespoons, Burma gongs, water can, crow call, tambourine, gankogui and sleigh bells! These are just some of the percussion instruments that the virtuoso percussionists of your Colorado Symphony will be using in this dynamic concert that is fun for the entire family.

The Doo Wop Project Christmas

WHEN: Dec. 1–2, 2024
WHERE: Lone Tree Arts Center, Lone Tree
Back by popular demand, these charismatic, handsome, triple-threat Broadway stars—with their hot five-piece band—tear it up with musicality, dancing and showmanship. They “re-doo” classic Doo Wop songs from the ’50s and ’60s and make them sound fresh and new. In this holiday spectacular, the group adds their doo-wopified flare to our favorite Christmas classics. A perfect way to kick off your holiday season

Fitness, Outdoor & Sporting Events

Family Fun Turkey Trot UTV / Jeep Adventure

WHEN: Nov. 19 & 21–27, 2024
WHERE: Great Outdoors Adventures, Woodland Park
Join Great Outdoors Adventures (GOA) for a family fun off-roading Thanksgiving Turkey Trot Trail Ride. Take pictures with the GOA turkeys for an extra sweet time. Book your memorable, safe and easy experiences in the latest Polaris UTVs or Jeep Gladiators. Share the gift of adventure this holiday season and book your self-guided or guided tour with GOA. We look forward to giving thanks with you!

Downtown Denver Rink 

WHEN: Nov. 21, 2024–Feb. 2, 2025
WHERE: Skyline Park
Bundle up for some free ice skating in the heart of downtown and enjoy special events. ​Skate rentals for adults are $12 and $9 for kids 12 and under. Bring your own pair and skate for free! If you need a skatewalker for assistance, you can also rent one $6.

Colorado Avalanche vs. Vegas Golden Knights

WHEN: Nov. 27, 2024
WHERE: Ball Arena
Kick off the holiday by cheering on the Avalanche when they take on the Vegas Golden Knights! 

Mile High United Way Turkey Trot

WHEN: Nov. 28, 2024
WHERE: Washington Park
Lace up your sneakers and make the Mile High United Way Turkey Trot a part of your Thanksgiving celebration and help support families in our community! Join Mile High United Way on Thanksgiving morning for this annual 4-mile walk/run and community celebration. The event is one of the biggest Turkey Trots in the country and is for adults, families and furry friends alike, featuring a 1-mile Lil Gobbler Fun Run, Kids Zone, Great Divide Beer Garden and more! Your registration also includes a collectible 2024 Turkey Trot T-shirt, race bib and free digital photos.

Colorado Avalanche vs. Edmonton Oilers

WHEN: Nov. 30, 2024
WHERE: Ball Arena
Root for the Avalanche as they take on the Edmonton Oilers! 

University of Denver Women’s Basketball vs. UC Irvine

WHEN: Nov. 30, 2024
WHERE: Hamilton Gymnasium
Watch as the University of Denver Women’s Basketball team battles it out against UC Irvine.

Denver Broncos vs. Cleveland Browns

WHEN: Dec. 2, 2024
WHERE: Empower Field at Mile High
Wrap up the holiday weekend as the Denver Broncos challenge the Cleveland Browns!
 

Museum & Gallery Exhibitions

Get Involved: Civic Engagement in Lakewood

WHEN: Thru Dec. 1, 2024
WHERE: Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park, Lakewood
How do you interact with your community? Historic Lakewood residents got involved with their local schools, agricultural organizations, outdoor youth movements and many other special interest groups. Discover how making a difference in the quality of life in our city has evolved over the past century.

Lumonics Immersed

WHEN: Thru Dec. 28, 2024
WHERE: Lumonics Light & Sound Gallery
“Entering a performance at Lumonics Light & Sound Gallery is like stepping through a looking glass and into a sci-fi wonderland. The gallery’s Lumonics Immersed installation was originally created by the late Dorothy and Mel Tanner, pioneering light artists whose singular style fuses elements of light, music and sculptures to produce captivating experiences for the audience.” – Denver Westword

Weaving a Foundation: Cornerstones of the Textile Arts Collection

WHEN: Thru Dec. 31, 2024
WHERE: Denver Art Museum
This new exhibition features 60 objects from the museum’s permanent collection, two-thirds of which have never been shown. Throughout the museum’s history, textile arts have played a fundamental role in the development of its collecting philosophies and exhibition programs. The first textile entered the museum almost 100 years ago, and since that time, textile arts have been regular additions to the collection. 

Museum of Illusions

WHEN: Thru Dec. 31, 2024
WHERE: Museum of Illusions
Discover a brilliant collection of perspective-changing rooms, enthralling installations, and spellbinding images. The mesmerizing exhibits will teach you that nothing is ever quite as it seems, especially in the Museum of Illusions Denver.

By Design: Stories and Ideas Behind Objects

WHEN: Thru Jan. 1, 2025
WHERE: Denver Art Museum
Design is all around us. Whether it takes the form of objects and spaces, images and interactions, or systems and processes, design shapes our lives in fundamental ways. But what shapes design? A series of thematic installations drawn primarily from the architecture and design collection, By Design: Stories and Ideas Behind Objects illustrates the abundance and versatility of approaches to design. 

Dialogue and Defiance: Clyfford Still and the Abstract Expressionists

WHEN: Thru Jan. 12, 2025
WHERE: Clyfford Still Museum
Clyfford Still withdrew his paintings from the Betty Parsons Gallery in 1951, refusing to participate in a market prioritizing the fame of an artist and the price of their artworks. The following year, he surprised many by agreeing to participate in a group show at the Museum of Modern Art. His rationale for doing so was because the curator, Dorothy Miller, agreed to show Still’s works together in their own gallery. As Still saw it, his work could be viewed on its own terms and not in direct comparison to other artists—but visitors could still see the scope of American painting in the mid-century. Even with his turn away from the art world, Still saw himself participating in something larger and remained in dialogue with his contemporaries. This exhibition considers the nuanced ways in which Clyfford Still was part of an artists’ community in the late 1940s and early 1950s, despite his protestations to the contrary, and how his paintings, through their scale and composition, promote ideas of community.

Vanity & Vice: American Art Deco

WHEN: Thru Jan. 12, 2025
WHERE: Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art
Vanity & Vice: American Art Deco explores the dynamic designs that emerged during the rebellious years of 1920–1933. American women were enjoying more independence inside and outside the home. Cutting hair into a chic bob, wearing rouge on lips and cheeks, hosting cocktail parties, and publicly consuming alcohol and tobacco all reinforced what it meant to be a modern woman. American designers and manufacturers responded to these societal changes with fashionable perfume atomizers and vanity sets and drinking and smoking accessories in the latest styles. This exhibition invites visitors into two distinct spaces occupied by a progressive Prohibition-era woman: her boudoir and a speakeasy. Explore the Art Deco objects that filled these rooms and how they reflect a time of freedom and change. 

Flow: On the River with John Fielder

WHEN: Thru Jan. 27, 2025
WHERE: History Colorado Center
This exhibition focuses on the many uses and importance of the Colorado River, taking visitors inside majestic canyons and atop the most awe-inspiring vistas along the Yampa, Gunnison and Dolores Rivers as they flow toward their confluence with the Colorado. Flow: On the River with John Fielder features a number of iconic large-format Fielder prints, as well as quotes from the renowned landscape photographer gathered carefully from his publications and interviews over the years.

Rumors of Bloomers

WHEN: Thru March 30, 2025
WHERE: Center for Colorado Women's History
Rumors of Bloomers explores women’s experiences as expressed through undergarments. Using rarely displayed objects – such as corsets, bloomers, swimming costumes, petticoats and Mother Hubbard gowns – the exhibition highlights the ways “unmentionables” have given form and shape to bodies, while also expressing identity, autonomy, agency, and protest.

The Life and Art of Tokio Ueyama

WHEN: Thru June 1, 2025
WHERE: Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art
The Life and Art of Tokio Ueyama features more than 40 paintings loaned to the museum by the Japanese American National Museum and Ueyama’s family, whose combined efforts to preserve his work have allowed the story of this accomplished and cosmopolitan artist to be told at the DAM for the first time. Born in Japan, Tokio Ueyama moved to the United States in 1908 at age 18, where he made a home until his death in 1954. This exhibition tells the story of Ueyama’s life, including his early days as an art student in San Francisco, Southern California, and Philadelphia; his travels abroad in Europe and Mexico; his role as artist and community member in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles; and his unconstitutional incarceration during World War II at the Granada Relocation Center, now the Amache National Historic Site, in southeast Colorado.