Every weekend, 7NEWS compiles a list of some family friendly events you might enjoy. Here are our picks for the 7 best things to do in Denver this weekend.
Thursday
National Western Stock Show Kick-Off Parade
What: A bucket list must do! See the annual spectacle of Texas Longhorn cattle being driven through the streets of downtown Denver. Beginning at Union Station and moseying down 17th Street, the parade will also feature marching bands, floats, horseback riders and performing cowboys and cowgirls.
Where: Along 17th Street, Downtown Denver, Colo.
When: Thursday: 12 noon
Admission: Free
More Information: nationalwestern.com
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Friday - Sunday
Denver Boat Show
What: The weather may be cold outside, but it’s never too early to start planning your summer fun. From speed boats to house boats, over 40 dealers will have the latest models and accessories on display, offering the best pricing of the year.
Where: Colorado Convention Center, 700 14th Street, Denver, Colo.
When: Friday: 12 noon-9 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; and Sunday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: $12 - Adults; Kids 16 and under are free. (Get $2 off admission with non-perishable food item donation)
More Information: denverboatshow.com
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Friday - Saturday
Free Day at Denver Zoo
What: Bundle up and enjoy all that the Denver Zoo has to offer, for free this Friday and Saturday.
Where: Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele Street, Denver, Colo.
When: Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission: Free
More Information: denverzoo.org
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Friday – Sunday
Celestial Seasonings Factory Tour
What: Did you know you can tour Colorado’s very own Celestial Seasonings Factory for free? Factory tours run every hour Monday through Sunday. And every tour includes a whiff of the Mint Room, guaranteed to clear any stuffy nose. Afterwards, be sure to visit the sampling bar with over 100 kinds of tea to taste. Note that kids must be at least 5 years old to tour the factory floor.
Where: Celestial Seasonings, 4600 Sleepytime Drive, Boulder, Colo.
When: Mondays – Saturdays: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; and Sundays: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Admission: Free
More Information: celestialseasonings.com
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Saturday - Sunday
National Western Stock Show & Rodeo
What: Rustle up them doggies, because the Stock Show is back in town. From bulls and broncs to cowboys and cowgirls, rodeo’s biggest superstars will perform amazing feats of athleticism during each performance of this professional rodeo. In the grand tradition of showcasing the elegance of the world’s top reining horses, the hard-hitting competition of Denver Professional Bull Riders Chute-Out, and the Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza, this year’s event will have something for everyone.
Where: National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt Street, Denver, Colo.
When: Saturday – Sunday; Various times/events daily through Jan. 24th. (Check website for details)
Admission: Adult Grounds Admission range $10-$19; $2-$3 Kids 3-11 years; Kids 2 and under are free. (Special pricing for some events.)
More Information: nationalwestern.com
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Saturday
Lafayette Quaker Oatmeal Festival
What: What can you do with more than 200 gallons of Oatmeal, 4000 oatmeal pancakes and 1200 oatmeal muffins? You can start the New Year off right at this unique family event that focuses on a healthy lifestyle. The 20th annual festival will also feature a 5K run/walk and health fair.
Where: Oatmeal Breakfast at Pioneer Elementary, 101 E. Baseline Road, Lafayette, Colo.; Health Fair at Bob L. Burger Rec Center, 111 W. Baseline Road, Lafayette, Colo.
When: Saturday: 7:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Admission: $8 - Adults; $6 - Kids 3-12 years; Kids 2 and under are free. (Additional fee for 5K race.)
More Information: lafayettecolorado.chambermaster.com
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Saturday
Living Lights: Frozen Princess
What: In case your family has not had their fill of holiday lights, you can still enjoy the indoor twinkling tropical rainforest at the Butterfly Pavilion through this weekend. And as a treat on Saturday night, Anna and Elsa will be on hand doing special performances throughout the nights. Bring your kiddos dressed in their favorite gowns and crowns for a photo opp with these Frozen beauties.
Where: Butterfly Pavilion, 6252 West 104th Avenue, Westminster, Colo.
When: Saturday: 6 p.m.-9 p.m. (Living Lights exhibit will also be open Thursday, Friday and Sunday from 6 p.m.-9 p.m.)
Admission: $10 – Adults; $8 – Seniors; $6 – Kids 2-12 years; Kids under 2 are free (Member discounts available.)
More Information: butterflies.org
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If you have a future event that you want featured in our 7 Best Things To Do This Weekend article, send an email to carrie.ripes@kmgh.com.