Estes Park is a bit of an insider secret for Coloradan’s, and it’s especially lovely during the winter months with the snow-topped pine trees, herds of statuesque elk roaming the countryside, and the impressive view of the Stanley Hotel when you first approach Estes from Denver. Estes lies 90 minutes northwest of Denver and lies next to the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Estes Park’s snow-covered evergreens and the snow-capped Rocky Mountains provide the perfect location for adventure lovers to enjoy the activities a Colorado winter has to offer from snowshoeing and cross country skiing, to ice climbing, fly fishing, and more!

LONGS PEAK SCOTTISH IRISH HIGHLAND FESTIVAL

SEPTEMBER 10-12, 2021

For more than four decades, Estes Park has been the backdrop for one of the nation’s largest celebrations of the heritage, the sounds, the tastes, and the arts of the Scottish and Irish cultures. To buy tickets or find more information about this year’s event visit www.scotfest.com.

SEPTEMBER 10-12, 2021

Held annually the weekend after Labor Day, Estes Park’s Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival is the largest gathering of its kind between the Mississippi River and California, and traditionally hosts bands – from the marching kind to the rocking kind and everything in-between – hailing from Great Britain, Scotland, Ireland, Canada and, of course, the United States.

With jousting knights, dancing girls, hoisting athletes and calling bagpipes, groups and families of all ages will catch the Celtic spirit at this festival – surrounded by the scenic peaks of Estes Park!

One of the weekend highlights is the free hour-long parade on Elkhorn Avenue, Estes Park’s main street. Bagpipes, drummers, dancers, clans in tartan, Dogs of the British Isles, brass military bands and precision drill teams give a preview of what can be seen on the festival grounds.

2021 FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES:

Music & Entertainment

Scottish Irish Shopping Markets: Browse a variety of Scottish and Irish vendors in the shopping tents to find highland-inspired jewelry, clothing, kilts, accessories, home décor, and more.

Scottish Athletics: Strong Man Competition. On the Festival field, there will be hammer throws, putting the stone, and caber throwing contests. Come join us and see a mere man toss a 19’7″,  140 lb. caber end over end!

US/International Jousting Championships: Games, Light Armor & Heavy Armor

Dogs Of the British Isles: Dog Agility & Herding, Terrier Races & Dog Exhibit Booths

Looking for tickets?  Purchase here.

During the festival, many Estes Park business feature live Celtic music and whiskey tastings throughout the village! Check out the event calendar for additional events throughout the weekend.

More information and the full event schedule go to the Longs Peak Scottish Irish Festival Website.

ELK FEST

OCTOBER 2-3, 2021

Celebrate Estes Park’s resident elk at this family-friendly festival in Bond Park (170 MacGregor Ave). Enjoy vendors, live music, food, bugling contests, performances and more at this year’s Elk Fest! Check back for more detail.

CATCH THE GLOW PARADE & CELEBRATION

NOVEMBER 26, 2021

Check back for more information on this beloved local event.

ESTES PARK WINTER FESTIVAL

JANUARY 2022

​Celebrate the winter season in Estes Park at the Annual Winter Festival weekend!  Sample a variety of beers, browse retail vendors, enjoy live entertainment, and more at the Estes Park Event Center (1125 Rooftop Way)! Check back for more details and to buy tickets.

At Butterfly Pavilion, we transform the way people think about invertebrates. These small but mighty animals that surround us are so much more than people think. They are everywhere because everything depends on them. They are the hidden heroes of the animal kingdom, and we–you and us–stand on the backs of these tiny giants.

Virtual Classes

Aquatics 101 Virtual Class: How To Set Up a Successful Home Aquarium

Coming Soon in 2021!

Makes a great gift!

An ideal opportunity for beginners to the aquarium hobby, join Sara Stevens, Aquatics Manager at Butterfly Pavilion for an engaging and interactive tutorial on how to set up your home to have a successful and thriving tank. In this session, we will cover everything you need to know to get started with the right equipment, aquarium setup, and animal care strategies to allow your aquatic animals to thrive. Learn how to properly cycle your tank, how to pick animals that get along, and so much more. See how Butterfly Pavilion supports its aquaria, and get all of your questions answered with a live Q&A with our experts!

Arachnids Around Us Livestream

Join us for this virtual learning program to explore the arachnids that live around us!

Do you ever see spooky spiders or scary scorpions all around you? Join us for a virtual program as we explore the amazing arachnids that live among us. Figure out what makes an arachnid, unlearn some common misconceptions, and discover why having Arachnids Around Us is not as bad as it sounds!

Please note that registrants will be sent a link to join the class 30 minutes prior to start time. We understand technical difficulties may occur, please contact registrar@butterflies.org with your questions.

Teachers! Looking for exciting programs for your class? Check out our Distance Learning options by visiting www.butterflies.local/virtuallearning!

Buy Online for the Best Price on Admission

Adult $13.00
Child (2-12) $9.00
Senior (65+) $11.00
Child Under 2: Free
Members: Free & Unlimited*Event Day pricing may apply. Closed certain holidays.

The Butterfly Pavilion is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., year-round, except for Summer Thursdays (June 27 – August 22) when we’re open until 7 pm (last admission at 6:15 pm)

•     The last entrance is at 4:15 p.m.
•     We are open seven days a week
•     We are closed only on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day

Adults	$9.50
Adult–Westminster Resident*	$7.50
Seniors (65+)	$7.50
Children (2-12)	$6.50
Children (1-year-old and younger)**	FREE

*To receive the reduced admission rate, Westminster Residents must present a valid ID with a Westminster, CO address.
**Up to two per adult entry.

The Butterfly Pavilion is conveniently located just 15 minutes from downtown Denver off Hwy 36 at 104th Avenue. Map 

The Butterfly Pavilion
6252 W. 104th Avenue
Westminster, CO 80020

Butterflies at Chatfield Farms

Encounter native butterflies flying through a lush and colorful garden setting in a one-of-a-kind butterfly house at Chatfield Farms.

May 29 – Sept. 6
10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. daily, included with admission

Chatfield Farms Location

8500 W Deer Creek Canyon RoadLittleton, CO 80128 Map

720-865-3500

This seasonal habitat is home to hundreds of native butterflies such as swallowtails, monarchs, mourning cloaks and painted ladies. It is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

The plants in this house are used as a nectar source for butterfly food and designed to create a whimsical atmosphere for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Learn what types of plants you can add to your garden to attract butterflies and other pollinators.

Butterflies at Chatfield Farms is a joint venture between Butterfly Pavilion and Denver Botanic Gardens.

Butterflies at Chatfield Farms Gallery

Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Mind

Experience the rarely seen fanciful color lithographs on loan from The Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, FL.April 10 – Aug. 22, 2021

York Street Location

1007 York StreetDenver, CO 80206 Map 720-865-3500

Freyer – Newman Center

Mixing flora with the artist’s signature motifs two series of prints, FlorDalí and Surrealist Flowers, underscore Dalí’s ongoing infatuation with his native landscape of Catalonia and the intriguing images of his Surrealist works. The images of fruits and flowers unsettle what we think we know about reality by juxtaposing seemingly incongruent elements. The exhibition of nearly 40 works is organized by Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and The Dalí Museum.

Gallery admission included with York Street general admission tickets.
Gallery Hours: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily

Get Tickets and Member Reservations

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Evenings al Fresco

Savor the golden hours at the Gardens with socially distanced performances on select Mondays and Wednesdays this summer.Select Mondays/Wednesdays, June – Aug., 4:30-8:30 p.m.

York Street Location

1007 York StreetDenver, CO 80206 Map

720-865-3500

Awash in the golden light of the evening, this collaborative series enhances the beauty of the Gardens with musical performances, providing respite and renewal in nature. Unlike a traditional concert setting, visitors strolling through the Gardens encounter small, socially distanced ensembles or musicians performing works designed to underscore and bring delight to their evening visit.

Denver Botanic Gardens is proud to partner with Swallow Hill Music to produce this series. 

Dates to be announced. Tickets will go on sale Thursday, May 20.

Last entry 7:30 p.m. Timed tickets must be purchased in advance; tickets are limited in each 30-minute time slot.

Music throughout the Gardens 5:30-8:30 p.m.

$30 Non-member
$20 Member
Free for children 2 and under (no ticket required)

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DALE CHIHULY EXHIBIT

As the Chihuly exhibition comes to a close at Denver Botanic Gardens (on view through November 30), we are pleased to announce – through the generosity of private donors including Robert and Judi Newman and the RC Kemper Charitable Trust, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustee – a Chihuly work of art will be added to the Gardens’ permanent collection. The new work, part of the Tower series, will be installed in the Ellipse garden and called “Colorado.” It will be comprised of approximately 700 hand-blown glass elements and stand over 11 feet tall.

Brian Vogt, Denver Botanic Gardens CEO says, “We will never forget this extraordinary year and the outpouring of enthusiasm for the combination of Chihulyand the Gardens. Now, we will have the opportunity to relive this unique and dynamic fusion long into the future.”

I am so pleased that a significant work of art will be added to Denver BotanicGardens’ permanent collection,” says artist Dale Chihuly. “It is such a beautiful garden and such a great city – my thanks to Brian Vogt for helping make the exhibition such a success and to the donors for their generosity and the honor of this permanent installation.”

Dale Chihuly

Donors share enthusiasm for the gift. Robert and Judi Newman say, “We are thrilled and honored to provide the lead gift for the legacy piece which will commemorate theGardens’ monumental and stunning Chihuly exhibition. Dale Chihuly’s work easily transforms any space and engages viewers in unique ways that merge science and art. We love it!”

The Kemper family has a long history with the Gardens and Dale Chihuly. Mariner Kemper, Chairman and CEO, UMB Financial Corporation says, “It was only natural for us to help bring a permanent Chihuly artwork to the Gardens. Giving back to the community and supporting the arts has always been a focus for our family and we hope the citizens of Denver enjoy the piece for years to come.”

Chihuly used a red, orange and yellow color pallet as it reminded him of the beautiful skies and sunsets he has enjoyed during his visits to Denver. He drew inspiration for this new work from one of his most challenging outdoor installations, Icicle Creek Chandelier, a permanent outdoor installation he did in 1996 at Sleeping Lady Resort in Leavenworth, Washington. Installed on a granite rock, the chandelier is a permanent reminder of how a work of art can be framed in nature and find harmony within in it. Like Icicle Creek Chandelier, “Colorado” will be designed to sustain similar outdoor weather conditions.

ABOUT DALE CHIHULY

Born in 1941 in Tacoma, Washington, Dale Chihuly was introduced to glass while studying interior design at the University of Washington. After graduating in 1965, Chihuly enrolled in the first glass program in the country, at the University of Wisconsin. He continued studies at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), where he later established the glass program and taught for more than a decade.

In 1968, after receiving a Fulbright Fellowship, he went to work at the Venini glass factory in Venice, Italy. There he observed the team approach to blowing glass, which is critical to the way he works today. In 1971, Chihuly cofounded Pilchuck Glass School in Washington. With this international glass center, Chihuly has led the avant-garde in the development of glass as a fine art.

His work is included in more than 200 museum collections worldwide. He has been the recipient of many awards, including 12 honorary doctorates and two fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Photo credits: Dale Chihuly, Blue and Purple Boat (detail), 2006. New York Botanical Garden, The Bronx, New York.Dale Chihuly, Saffron Tower, 2006, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, 2008. Dale Chihuly, Red Reeds, 2008, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2010. Dale Chihuly, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Coral Gables, Florida, 2006

Many of these are TBA in 2022- Please click the links to see updated information.

List of Fireworks and 4th of July Celebrations

Englewood: Fourth of July

July 4, 2021

The City of Englewood is excited to announce an evening of fun, food and fireworks to celebrate this year’s Fourth of July on July 3, 2021.

The Annual Fourth of July Event brings together friends and families from four areas – Englewood, Littleton, Sheridan, Arapahoe County and the South Suburban Parks & Recreation. Celebrate our National Holiday with friends and family at Belleview Park and Cornerstone Park starting at 5 p.m. Enjoy local business vendors and food trucks. Bring a picnic dinner and blankets to watch the fireworks! The fireworks will start at 9:15 p.m. 

englewoodgov.org/englewood-happenings/4th-of-july-festivities

Adams County: Independence Day Celebration

July 4: Family-friendly activities and live music with Spinphony and the 6 Million Dollar Band, a Children’s Fun Zone, games, eating contests, food vendors and a beer garden are included. A “Stars and Stripes” opening ceremony honoring first responders and the military get things started at 4 p.m. Fireworks begin at approximately 9:45 p.m. A screening of the film “Top Gun” follows. Adams County Regional Park, 9755 Henderson Road, Brighton, 303-637-8000, adcogov.org

Arvada: Independence Day Celebration

July 4: Activities kick off at 4 p.m. with live music, food, bounce houses, games, human hamster balls, vendors and more followed by fireworks simulcast to KOOL 105 radio at dusk. New this year are Berg cars (similar to tricycles) and remote control cars. Lutz/Stenger Sports Complex, entrance at 58th Avenue and Oak Street, 720-898-7000, arvada.org

Aurora: Fourth of July Spectacular

July 4: Festivities are offered from 4 to 10 p.m. with food, a hot dog eating contest, a car show, and more. Emily West, country/pop singer, and finalist on “America’s Got Talent,” takes the stage at 8 p.m. Fireworks to begin around 9:30 p.m. with choreographed music on Studio 1430 KEZW. Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway, auroragov.org

Boulder: Ralphie’s Independence Day Blast

July 4: The celebration is presented by The City of Boulder and the University of Colorado Boulder. Gates open with free admission at 8 p.m. Activities begin at 8:30 p.m. with the Mad Hops jump rope team, The Mighty Twisters and Ralphie. Fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m.Folsom Field, 2400 Colorado Ave.,boulder4thofjuly.com

Brighton: Fourth of July

July 4: Entertainment, children’s activities, food vendors and music with DJ Tidal Wave, Romero Unplugged and Dotsero (includes a laser show). Activities begin at 2 p.m. Fireworks at dusk.Carmichael Park, 650 E. Southern St., 303-655-2000, brightonco.gov/4thofjuly

MAP: Denver metro area July Fourth celebrations

Broomfield: Great American Picnic Evening light put a warm glow on thousands of people packing Civic Center Park waiting for the show to start. The Civic Center Conservancy put on an Independence Eve show complete with food, live music, and fireworks Thursday night, July 3, 2014. (Denver Post file)

July 4: Festivities begin at 5 p.m. with a children’s carnival offering inflatables, pony rides and a petting zoo along with food vendors and live music with Princess and That Eighties Band. The ninth annual Bike Parade starts at 5:30 p.m. Fireworks begin around 9:15 p.m. Broomfield County Commons Park on Sheridan Boulevard, 303-464-5530, broomfield.org

Castle Rock: Rockin’ the Fourth

July 4: The Red, White & Boom! fireworks celebration begins between 9:30 and 9:45 p.m.Metzler Ranch Community Park, 4175 Trail Boss Road, 303-660-1364, crgov.com/july4

Commerce City: Dick’s Sporting Goods Park

July 4: Fireworks follow the Colorado Rapids vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC soccer game starting at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $31. Patio and field seating also available. 6000 Victory Way, Commerce City, coloradorapids.com

Denver: Coors Field

July 10: The Rockies are on the road so fireworks follow the Atlanta Braves game starting at 6:10 p.m. Tickets vary. 2001 Blake St., coloradorockies.com

Denver: Civic Center Park Independence Eve

July 3: The sixth annual free community celebration presented by the Civic Center Conservancy includes live music with Funkiphino and the 101st Army Concert Band from Buckley Air Force Base, 8-10 p.m. A light show and fireworks are included. Lawn seating is available. Blankets and low-rise chairs recommended. Food trucks will be on site, and picnics are welcome. Civic Center Park, Colfax and Broadway, 303-861-4633, civiccenterconservancy.org

Denver: Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park

July 4: Fireworks show begins at dusk. Included with admission. 2000 Elitch Circle,elitchgardens.com

Denver: Four Mile Historic Park

July 2: Annual celebration, “A modern take on our traditional 4th of July celebration,” includes historic demonstrations, children’s activities, horse-drawn wagon rides, games, live music, food and a beer garden, 5-10 p.m. Admission is free, some activities require a fee along with food and drinks. 715 S. Forest St., 720-865-0800, fourmilepark.org

Denver: Cranmer Park and Glendale Fireworks

July 2: Save Our Sundial, a project of The Park People, hosts a celebration with games, live music with Hank Troy and the Sundialers and others, food trucks and entertainment 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Cranmer Park, 4501 E. First Ave. Proceeds benefit the efforts to rehabilitate the historic sundial and Cranmer Park Plaza. Glendale fireworks begin at dusk with recommended viewing at Cherry Street, north of Virginia Avenue, south of Cherry Creek Drive and west of Colorado Blvd. Glendale’s Whole Foods Market at 870 S. Colorado Blvd. is hosting its eighth annual party with Colorado craft beer, a vendor village and specialty foods, 5:30-9 p.m. glendale.co.us,saveoursundial.com

Estes Park

July 3-5: The “4th of July Weekend Celebration” includes music, a car show, pancake breakfast, Historic Hoedown and more. Dates and locations vary. Fireworks begin at dusk over Lake Estes on July 4. 970-577-9900, visitestespark.com

Evergreen: Music Festival

July 4: Gates open at 9:45 a.m. for a day of festivities from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. with live music with the Evergreen Chamber Orchestra with Colorado Ballet Classical, Queen City Jazz Band, Frangelo Jazz Quintet, The Denver Brass, The Hazel Miller Band and others along with a circus performance, juggling and balloon show, pie and hot dog eating contests and children’s activities. Blankets and chairs welcome. $10, $5 ages 13-18, free age 12 and under, veterans and active military. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Mt. Evans Home Health & Hospice. Buchanan Park, corner of Highway 74, Evergreen Parkway and Squaw Pass Road,evergreenmusicfestival.org

Fort Collins: Independence Day 2015

July 4: Day-long festivities include the FireKracker 5K, a golf tournament, parade, 33rd annual Old Timer’s Game, live music and fireworks at approximately 9:35 p.m. over Sheldon Lake. Times and locations vary. fcgov.com/july4th/

Golden: Lions Park Festival

July 4: The Golden Lions Club presents its annual festival with children’s activities, food and drink, rides, live music and more, noon-11 p.m. The Johnny O. Band, Chuck Hughes and the New Classic Band perform. Picnics welcome. Fireworks at dusk. Lions Park, 1300 10th St.,visitgolden.com

Greenwood Village:  Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre 

July 4: The Colorado Symphony performs a family-friendly concert with music from Frozen, Harry Potter, Star Wars and more along with traditional patriotic favorites. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. with the concert at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15-$36.50. Fireworks follow. 6350 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village, fiddlersgreenamp.com/events/detail/277859

Lakewood / Morrison:  Bandimere Speedway 

July 4:  Gates open at 2 p.m. for the “Jet Car Nationals & Family Festival” offering games, food, live bands, contests and more along with “fire breathing jet dragsters racing down the quarter-mile track at more than 290 mph.” Admission is $28, $25 in advance; $16, $14 in advance for juniors; free for children age 5 and under. Fireworks, sponsored by the City of Lakewood, begin at approximately 9:45 p.m. Fireworks are viewable outside Bandimere without buying a ticket. 3051 S. Rooney Rd, Morrison, bandimere.com

La Junta: Bent’s Old Fort

July 4:  The “Frontier Fourth Celebration” is commemorated 1840’s-style with a parade, orations, games, storytelling and cannon firings from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Enter a contest for a replica 1845 flag that was flown over the fort. Included with regular admission of $3 for ages 13 and over, $2 ages 6-12, free age 5 and under. Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, located on Colorado Highway 194, eight miles east of La Junta or 15 miles west of Las Animas nps.gov/beol

Kiowa: Elbert County Museum

July 4:  Celebrating a “Pioneer Fourth” with live music, games, food, watermelon, and pie-eating contests and artisan demonstrations, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Museum admission is free. 515 Comanche St., Kiowa,  elbertcountymuseum.org

Littleton: Clement Park

July 3:  The Foothills Park & Recreation District presents “Red, White & You!,” a family fest offering children’s activities including a bounce house, live music with the Nacho Men, booths, food and a beer and wine garden, 5-10 p.m. Free admission. Fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m.7306 W. Bowles Ave., Littleton, foothills.org/rwy.asp

Morrison: BandiMere

Exhilarating fireworks show with live music and fire-breathing jet dragsters running down a quarter mile track at over 290 MPH. Also featuring 7-second racers, family festivals and games, contests, food, live bands, and much more! Gates open at 2pm for spectators.
Tickets:
Adults 25$ for advance and 28$ at the gate
Junior 14$ for advance and 16$ at the gate
5 and under are free!
Fireworks time:
At approximately 9:45 pm
For more information visit www.Bandimere.com or call 303-697-4870

Northglenn: Family Festival

July 4: The festival runs 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a pancake breakfast, Patriotic Pooch Parade, Firecracker and Flapjacks Run, Bike, Trike & Wheelchair Parade, booths, children’s activities, car show, Ducky Derby and more along with live music by Soul X. Fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m. over Webster Lake. E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park, 11801 Community Center Drive,northglenn.org/july4th

Parker: Salisbury Park

July 4: Stars & Stripes is the theme for a concert with Rocky Mountain Brassworks kicking off a celebration at 6 p.m. Bounce houses, games, slides, human hamster balls, food and more is also included. Fireworks begin at dusk. Salisbury Park, 11920 Motsenbocker Road, Parker, 303-805-3253,

Park Hill: Fourth of July

July 4: The sixth annual parade with more than 60 registered groups and 750 participants offers handcrafted floats, drum lines and pageant queens, 1:30-3 p.m. The route travels along 23rd Avenue from Dexter Street to Krameria Street where it ends at the Kearney Street Fair on the 2200 block of Kearney Street. Food trucks, live music and children’s activities are included.  303-918-6517 parkhillparade.org

Thornton: Fourth of July

July 4: Festivities begin at 4 p.m. with food vendors, a beer garden, live music including the Thornton Community Band and the Kory Brunson Band and more. A parachute jump at 9:30 p.m. is followed by fireworks. Carpenter Park Fields, 108th Avenue and Colorado Boulevard,cityofthornton.net

Westminster: Fourth of July

July 4: Festivities are offered 3 to 10 p.m. and include a Patriotic Bike Parade, Activity Zone, food vendors, a car show, live music with Daddy Blue and fireworks around 9:15 p.m. City Park, 10455 Sheridan Blvd., ci.westminster.co.us/ParksRec/SpecialEvents.aspx

Contributions from the Denver Post and 9News

300 Days of Sunshine and Blue Skies in Colorado predicted again.

There are lots of things to do in Denver so get out and enjoy our spectacular spring and summer weather. Hot days followed by cool crisp summer evenings (and perhaps a blizzard or two… the joys of Colorado weather)

Movies in the Park

BACKCOUNTRY OUTDOOR MOVIE SERIES IN LITTLETON

Movies are best watched from a camp chair or picnic blanket under the night sky! The Backcountry Outdoor Movie Series brings cinema favorites onto the giant screen in the Backcountry Base Camp’s dark, open-air theater in Littleton. Grab dinner from the food truck and bring your favorite movie snacks! Only 45 car tickets are available each evening. Tickets are $25 for general admission shows and $30 for 21+ shows (food truck dinner and two Living the Dream Brewing Co. beers) and all proceeds benefit the Backcountry Conservation and Education Fund. Gates open at 7:15 p.m. in June and July and 6:45 p.m. in August and September.

• June 4, 2021: Night at the Museum
• June 5, 2021: Mean Girls
• June 11, 2021: The Sandlot
• June 12, 2021: The Avengers
• June 18, 2021: Shrek
• June 19, 2021: Step Brothers (21+)
• June 25, 2021: The Lorax
• June 26, 2021: The Jungle Book
• July 2, 2021: The Croods – A New Age
• July 3, 2021: Men in Black
• July 9, 2021: Trolls World Tour
• July 10, 2021: The Empire Strikes Back
• July 16, 2021: School of Rock
• July 17, 2021: Meet the Parents
• July 23, 2021: Inside Out
• July 24, 2021: Jurassic Park
• July 30, 2021: Brave
• July 31, 2021: Bridesmaids (21+)
• Aug. 6, 2021: Up
• Aug. 7, 2021: Guardians of the Galaxy
• Aug. 13, 2021: Zootopia
• Aug. 14, 2021: The Princess Bride
• Aug. 20, 2021: Ice Age
• Aug. 21, 2021: Deadpool (21+)
• Aug. 27, 2021: Small Foot
• Aug. 28, 2021: E.T. 
• Sept. 3, 2021: Moana
• Sept. 4, 2021: The Goonies

MOVIES IN THE PARK IN WESTMINSTER

Watch your favorite, family-friendly films on a giant, outdoor screen for free! Activities and food concessions start at 7 p.m., and films start at dusk. Bring your chair or blanket and enjoy the show. Each night is hosted in a different Westminster park!

MOVIES ON THE SQUARE AT SOUTHLANDS

Southlands in Aurora includes a four-block Main Street and community plaza surrounded by shops and restaurants. During the summer, when the sun goes down, the big screen goes up, with Movies on the Square beginning at dusk. Dates are TBA

Summer on the Square: Larimer Square 2021 Summer Events

18^th annual Denver Chalk Art Festival and Dining Al Fresco evenings under the lights dates and details are TBA

 With the warm weather upon us, Larimer Square, Denver’s most beautiful and historic shopping, dining and entertainment district.

Signature events this summer include the beautiful Denver Chalk Art Festival in June, annual Dining Al Fresco evenings when the region’s most-celebrated chefs serve guests outdoors on the blocked-off street under Larimer Square’s canopy of lights and the highly-anticipated second Slow Food Nations will take place entirely on Larimer Square for the first time.

Denver Chalk Art Festival: (Cancelled 2021) Larimer Square will kick off summer with the annual Denver Chalk Art Festival, a free two-day street-painting festival. Perfect for the entire family, hundreds of artists spend hours turning the streets of Larimer Square into a museum of beautiful chalk art.

• Dates: TBA
• Time: Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.; Sunday 10:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Free and open to the public

Dining Al Fresco on Larimer Square: Join the award-winning chefs and restaurants of Larimer Square as they extend their dining rooms onto the street for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Larimer Square was named one of USA Today’s Top 10 Dining Al Fresco Neighborhoods in the United States with happy hour festivities, dinner, and an evening under the stars, Dining Al Fresco is one of the city’s best summer scenes. Reservations are required and are available through participating restaurants.

For more information about summer events on the square please visit: larimersquare.com

• Spring & Summer in Denver
  • Denver Cinco de Mayo Festival
  • Mother’s Day in Denver
  • Memorial Day Weekend In Denver
  • Denver Summer Getaways
  • Family-Friendly Summer Highlights
  • Denver Summer Events
  • Free Things To Do This Summer
  • Denver Summer Concert Season
  • Denver Spring and Summer Festivals
  • Denver Outdoor Summer Movies
  • A Jam Band Summer In Denver
  • Denver Chalk Art Festival
  • Denver Comic Con
  • Denver PrideFest
  • SeriesFest
  • 4th of July Weekend in Denver
  • Slow Food Nations
  • Colorado Dragon Boat Festival
  • Labor Day Weekend in Denver
  • Denver March Powwow
  • Rodeo All-Star Weekend
  • Free Things To Do This Spring
• Family Friendly Denver
  • Kid-Friendly Denver
  • Outdoor Adventures
  • Teen Activities
  • Wild Denver
• Sports & Recreation
  • City Parks
  • Denver Bike Trails
  • B-cycle Rides
  • Fly-Fishing in Denver
  • Pro Sports
  • Denver Extreme Sports Parks
  • The Colorado Classic
  • Coors Field – Home of the Colorado Rockies
  • Denver Golf Courses
  • Scenic Jogging Paths
  • Get Fit in Denver
  • National Western Stock Show & Rodeo
  • Winter Park Express Ski Train
• Shopping, Spas & Beauty
  • Denver Shopping Options
  • Boutique Shopping
  • Denver Spas
  • Shop For Art in Denver
  • Denver Tobacco Shops & Cigar Bars
• Itineraries
  • Denver Art In One Day
  • Denver Itinerary: 3 Days
  • Denver’s Beat Legacy
  • Denver’s Best Photo Opportunities
  • Dinosaurs in Denver
  • Free Activities
  • Free Denver Tours
  • Historical Downtown Walking Tour
  • Off-Beat Denver Tours
  • Public Art Walking Tour
  • Ten Romantic Mile High City Spots
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Botanic Gardens Events

Westword Denver Events Calendar

Parker Days Summer Festival

Denver.org Events Calendar

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts houses several different venues and sizes of performance space.

The largest is Buell Theater where the headline shows like “Wicked,” “The Book of Mormon,” “Hamlet,” and “Rock of Ages” and “Miss Saigon” are performed, The Helen Bonfils Theater normally houses smaller offerings with the Garner Galleria hosting small cast shows with an intimate dinner theater setting. The Ellie Caulkins is somewhere in between. Drinks and snacks are sold at the theater and are allowed inside.  For the best seating options, we suggest becoming a subscriber. You can pay in monthly installments so it’s affordable and you get first chances at shows that sell out immediately. You can explore the various packages here. We can truly say we’ve never had a bad time at any production put on by the DCPA. The onsite parking is reasonable at $15 and is right next to the theaters. For a fun weekend check out “The Curtis” hotel, our favorite and visit Sam’s #3 for a Comfort Food Breakfast, lunch and dinner and check out our list of favorite brunch spots for the morning after.

DCPA 2021/2022  Broadway Shows

The DCPA is currently closed due to Covid Restrictions but is working hard to raise funds and organize a schedule for as soon as possible to reopen.

As of Apr 7, the following upcoming shows have been postponed or canceled. Please check back regularly for new dates.

BROADWAY & CABARET

• 1776 (Postponed, dates pending)
• Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations (Postponed, dates pending)
• Come From Away (Postponed, dates pending)
• Dear Evan Hansen (Postponed, dates pending)
• Disney’s The Lion King (Rescheduled)
• Dixie’s Never Wear a Tube Top… (Postponed, dates pending)
• Hadestown (Postponed, dates pending)
• Hamilton (Rescheduled)
• Jersey Boys (Postponed, dates pending)
• Mean Girls (Added event – Postponed, dates pending)
• Moulin Rouge! The Musical (Postponed, dates pending)
• My Fair Lady (Postponed, dates pending)
• The Other Josh Cohen (Postponed, dates pending)
• Pretty Woman: The Musical (Postponed, dates pending)
• Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show (Postponed, dates pending)
• That Golden Girls Show (Postponed, dates pending)
• To Kill a Mockingbird (Postponed, dates pending)
• Tootsie (Postponed, dates pending)

OFF-CENTER

• Theater of the Mind (Postponed, dates pending)

THEATRE COMPANY

• Angry, Raucous & Shamelessly Gorgeous (Canceled)
• The Children (Canceled)
• A Christmas Carol (Canceled)
• Emma (Canceled)
• In the Upper Room (Canceled)
• Light Up the Sky (Canceled)
• Mojada (Canceled)
• Rattlesnake Kate (Canceled)
• Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (Canceled)

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Gerald Ramsey as Mufasa in ‘The Lion King.’ Photo by Matthew Murphy.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING

• Coming December 2021
• Buell Theatre

Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s The Lion King, making its triumphant return to Denver! More than 95 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular – one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage. Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, The Lion King brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award®-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. The Lion King also features the extraordinary work of Tony Award®-winning choreographer Garth Fagan and some of Broadway’s most recognizable music, crafted by Tony Award®-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice. There is simply nothing else like The Lion King.

Read more: For South Africans, Pride Lands are land of opportunity

HAMILTON – Returns in 2022

Chaundre Hall Broomfield, Ruben J. Carbajal, Bryson Bruce and Auston Scott in the national tour of ‘Hamilton.’ Photo by Joan Marcus.

HAMILTON

• Returning 2022
• Buell Theatre

Hamilton is the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and was the new nation’s first Treasury Secretary. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway, Hamilton is the story of America then, as told by America now. With book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and musical direction and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, Hamilton is based on Ron Chernow’s biography of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton.

Read more: For one day in Denver, Hamilton made students the stars

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To sign up for the Broadway subscription waiting list, please go to denvercenter.org/broadway. A single ticket on-sale will be announced at a later date.

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Erika Henningsen, Ashley Park, Taylor Louderman and Kate Rockwell. Photo by Joan Marcus.

MEAN GIRLS

• expected in 2022
• Buell Theatre

Direct from Broadway, Mean Girls is the hilarious hit musical from an award-winning creative team, including book writer Tina Fey (“30 Rock”), composer Jeff Richmond (“Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”), lyricist Nell Benjamin (Legally Blonde) and director Casey Nicholaw (The Book of Mormon). Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. Soon, this naïve newbie falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting stung. New York Magazine cheers,“Mean Girls delivers with immense energy, a wicked sense of humor and joyful inside-jokery.” USA Today says, “We’ll let you in on a little secret, because we’re such good friends: Get your tickets now!”

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The original Broadwaty cast of Lincoln Center Theater’s ‘My Fair Lady.’ Photo by Joan Marcus.

MY FAIR LADY

• 2022
• Buell Theatre

From Lincoln Center Theater that brought you The King & I and South Pacific, comes “a sumptuous new production of the most perfect musical of all time” (Entertainment Weekly), Lerner & Loewe’s My Fair Lady. Director Bartlett Sher’s glowing production is “thrilling, glorious and better than it ever was” (The New York Times). “Every so often a revival comes along that reminds you how indispensable great theater can be” (NY1). Boasting such classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in Spain,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly” and “On the Street Where You Live,” My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But who is really being transformed?

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About the Denver Center for the Performing Arts

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is one of the largest non-profit theatre organization’s in the nation, presenting Broadway tours and producing theatre, cabaret, musicals, and innovative, multimedia plays. Last season the DCPA engaged with more than 1 million visitors, generating a $193.4 million economic impact in ticket sales alone. Follow the DCPA on social media @DenverCenter and through the Denver Center for the Performing Arts NewsCenter. Denver Center for the Performing Arts is supported in part by the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD).

With the Culture Pass in hand, you’ll receive admission to some of the city’s most fascinating attractions.

3-Day Culture Pass

$32.50

• Visit 7 attractions for one low price
• Instant delivery
• Mobile pass available for easy access

The Mile High Culture Pass is temporarily unavailable for purchase. Check back soon! Until our return, please visit the individual attractions’ websites for information on ticketing and admission.

Participating Attractions

• Clyfford Still Museum
• Denver Art Museum
• Denver Botanic Gardens
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science
• Denver Zoo
• History Colorado Center
• Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Arts

When you buy the culture pass, you can also enjoy the following deals:

• Molly Brown House Museum: Discounted admission
• Byers-Evans House Museum: Discounted admission
• Denver Firefighters Museum: Children 12 and under receive free admission
• The Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (The CELL): 2 for 1 admission
• Butterfly Pavilion: Discounted admission

MILE HIGH CULTURE PASS

HOW IT WORKS

The Culture Pass is a printable ticket available for purchase online or at Denver’s Tourist Information Center located at 1575 California St. Just purchase and print it out. Over the course of five consecutive days, the $52.80 pass will admit visitors to all seven participating attractions. Or the $25 pass will admit visitors to three participating attractions of their choice over the course of three consecutive days. The pass is activated at the first attraction visited. All participating attractions are listed below.

RESTRICTIONS

• There is a limit of 8 passes to be purchased via the system at one time.
• Check each attraction for hours. Note that many museums are closed on Mondays.
• Restrictions may apply, the Mile High Culture Pass does not include admission for temporary surcharged exhibitions.
• This pass is activated the first time it is scanned and will remain active for the number of consecutive days purchased.
• One pass per person limited to one (1) visitation at each participating attraction.
• Must be redeemed in person. Not valid for online, phone reservations or on previous purchases.

ATTRACTIONS

CLYFFORD STILL MUSEUM

• Address: 1250 Bannock St., Denver, CO 80204
• Phone: (720) 354-4880
• Region: Golden Triangle Museum District

Clyfford Still is considered one of the most important American artists of the 20th century and an originator of the Abstract Expressionism movement

DENVER ART MUSEUM

• Address: 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy., Denver, CO 80204
• Phone: (720) 865-5000
• Region: Golden Triangle Museum District

The Denver Art Museum’s Hamilton Building is an architectural work of art. Designed by Daniel Libeskind, it will change the way you experience art and architecture.

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS

• Address: 1007 York St., Denver, CO 80206
• Phone: (720) 865-3501
• Region: Cherry Creek/Colorado Blvd

One of the top five botanic gardens in the nation, Denver Botanic Gardens is an oasis in the city, offering year-round events, Mordecai Children’s Garden, lifelong learning opportunities and research.

DENVER MUSEUM OF NATURE & SCIENCE

• Address: 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205
• Phone: (303) 370-6000
• Region: Capitol Hill/Uptown/East Colfax/City Park

For over 100 years, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science has been at the heart of cultural experience in Denver. Explore the cosmos, uncover dazzling gems and minerals, visit IMAX and the …

DENVER ZOO

• Address: 2300 Steele St., Denver, CO 80205
• Phone: (720) 337-1400
• Region: Capitol Hill/Uptown/East Colfax/City Park

Denver Zoo, located in City Park, spans over 75 acres and is home to over 4,000 animals including rare Amur leopards, okapi, black rhinoceros, elephants, orangutans, Komodo dragons and more!

HISTORY COLORADO CENTER

• Address: 1200 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
• Phone: (303) 447-8679
• Region: Golden Triangle Museum District

The History Colorado Center’s hands-on and high-tech exhibits take you back in time, connecting what was to what’s next. They’re unexpected, thought-provoking and relevant. And most of all, fun!

KIRKLAND MUSEUM OF FINE & DECORATIVE ART

• Address: 1311 Pearl St, Denver, CO 80203
• Phone: (303) 832-8576
• Region: Capitol Hill/Uptown/East Colfax/City Park

Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art displays over 3,500 examples of international decorative art from every major design period from Arts & Crafts to Postmodern

MORE SAVINGS WITH YOUR MILE HIGH CULTURE PASS

With your Mile High Culture Pass, you can also enjoy the following deals.

DENVER B-CYCLE

• Address: 2737 Larimer St., Ste. A, Denver, CO 80205
• Phone: (303) 825-3325

Denver B-cycle is an automated, bike sharing system designed for use by many people for short trips around Denver. You can check out one of our 700 bikes from any one of our 82 stations and return it …

1) Head to any of the 86 kiosks and use the promo code 55552015 to get the deal at the kiosk 2) Ride to your next culture pass destination and check the B-cycle into the closest station
3) Enjoy your cultural pass and take as many trips during your 24-hr membership as you’d like!

MOLLY BROWN HOUSE MUSEUM

• Address: 1340 Pennsylvania St., Denver, CO 80203
• Phone: (303) 832-4092
• Region: Capitol Hill/Uptown/East Colfax/City Park

Visit the home of Titanic heroine, the unsinkable Margret “Molly” Brown, a woman of extraordinary courage. All tours are guided and last 45 minutes. Group tours by reservation only; walk-ins welcome. …

Receive $3 off admission when you show your Mile High Culture Pass at the Molly Brown House Museum

BYERS-EVANS HOUSE MUSEUM

• Address: 1310 Bannock St., Denver, CO 80204
• Phone: (303) 620-4933
• Region: Golden Triangle Museum District

Italianate house built in 1883 and restored to the 1912-1924 period. This Denver landmark reflects the character of two early and important Colorado pioneer families. Closed Sundays.

With your pass, you may receive $2 off any adult or senior/student admission, and any active duty military personnel are admitted free of charge.

DENVER FIREFIGHTERS MUSEUM

• Address: 1326 Tremont Pl., Denver, CO 80204
• Phone: (303) 892-1436
• Region: Downtown/LoDo/Larimer Sq./Riverfront/RiNo/Five Points

The hottest place in town! Explore the history of the Denver Fire Department and learn about fire safety and prevention through a dynamic mix of exhibits, hands-on activity stations and educational.Children 12 and under receive free admission with the Culture Pass.

THE COUNTERTERRORISM EDUCATION LEARNING LAB (CELL)

• Address: 99 W. 12th Ave. (Across from the Denver Art Museum), Denver, CO 80204
• Phone: (303) 844-4000
• Region: Golden Triangle Museum District

The Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL) is dedicated to preventing terrorism through education, empowerment and engagement.

Receive 2 for 1 admission with your Culture Pass.

BUTTERFLY PAVILION

• Address: 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster, CO 80020
• Phone: (303) 469-5441
• Region: North Metro/Boulder

There are lots of fun family activities in Colorado, but few compare to the transforming experience you’ll have at the Butterfly Pavilion. Get up close and personal with over 5,000 animals!

Receive discounted admission with your Culture Pass.

Questions? Contact us at 303.892.1505 or culturepass@visitdenver.com

Tulip Fairy and Elf Festival

TBD| PEARL STREET MALL 

Spring officially arrives in Downtown Boulder when the vibrant Tulip Fairy, along with pint-sized fairies and elves, parade around the Pearl Street Mall ‘welcoming the tulips’. This beloved springtime tradition features special events and activities for girls and boys and celebrate the more than 15,000 tulips that adorn the world renowned Pearl Street Mall throughout the spring season. The event includes live stage performances, face painting, free activities for children and more!

Our thoughts are with all those who have been impacted in one way or another by COVID-19.  Of utmost importance is the health and safety of you, friends, family, co-workers, and the communities in which we live, work and visit.

As we look to our 2021 events season, we will be strictly following the guidelines of our partners at the City of Boulder and Boulder County Public Health to determine the safest course of action.  While we hope this will include limited in-person events for our community, we are prepared to continue postponing our events should it continue to be deemed unsafe for large groups to gather.

We plan to offer some virtual and socially distant activities for families and children for our Tulip Fairy & Elf celebration this year for the entire month of April.  Please check back for additional details!

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The Pearl Street Mall is always full of excitement but this last weekend in April is a particularly beautiful time to head to Boulder and enjoy. The banks of tulips are in full bloom with fairies of all shapes and sizes flitting through the tulips.

Don’t forget: On Saturdays and Sundays year round, parking is FREE in  City of Boulder garage! Click here for more info