Every weekend, Denver7 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 - Sunday
Parker Days Festival
What: A parade, carnival rides, zip line, vendors, buskers, free music and more. It’s one of the best festivals of the summer. Plus, a beer garden, food and sweet treats. Get the weekend started with a bit of nostalgia Thursday night at the 38 Special concert. (Note this concert is a ticketed event.) It will be a weekend full of fun for the whole family.
Where: Mainstreet, Downtown Parker, Parker, Colo.
When: Thursday: 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Friday: 5 p.m.-12 a.m.; Saturday: 9 a.m.-12 a.m.; and Sunday: 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
Admission: Free (Carnival rides, food and drink will require tickets, which can be purchased on-site. Full-day passes and 38 Special tickets available online.)
More Information: parkerdaysfestival.com
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Friday - Sunday
Golden Music Festival
What: This annual event has grown to become one of the region’s top bluegrass festivals. Bring a blanket and kick back with some live bluegrass, Americana and folk music in the rustic hillside setting of the Clear Creek History Park amphitheater. Beer and food will be available to purchase.
Where: Clear Creek History Park, 1020 11th Street, Golden, Colo.
When: Friday and Saturday: 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; and Sunday: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Admission: $20 – Single Day Ticket; Kids 12 years and under are free. (Discounts available if purchased in advance online.)
More Information: goldenmusicfestival.org
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Saturday - Sunday
Colorado Renaissance Festival Opening Weekend
What: Hear ye, hear ye! The Renaissance Festival opens for another summer of music, magic and merriment. Journey back to medieval times, as you wonder through the village streets being entertained by costumed characters from jugglers to maidens, full-armor jousting, turkey legs, music and more. The festival also features a marketplace of more than 200 artisans.
Where: 650 W. Perry Park Ave., Larkspur, Colo.
When: Saturday-Sunday: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. (Weekends through Aug. 7th)
Admission: $22 – Adults; $10 – Kids 5-12 years; Kids under 5 years are free. (Discount tickets available online.)
More Information: coloradorenaissance.com
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Saturday - Sunday
Summer Art Market
What: Under the shady trees of the Wash Park neighborhood is where you’ll find this quintessential summer art festival. Featuring original works from over 250 local artists, this family-friendly festival will also include live music, artist demonstrations, food, and kids’ art activities.
Where: West Wash Park neighborhood, near 2nd and Grant, Denver, Colo.
When: Saturday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: Free
More Information: asld.org
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Saturday
KidSpree
What: It’s a zany and fun outdoor festival just for kids! Pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, games and crafts, and inflatables are just a handful of the activities that are sure to entertain and exhaust kids of all ages. Kids (and parents) will also enjoy live performances by The Top Hogs, School of Rock, and more. Vendors and food will also be on hand.
Where: Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway, Aurora, Colo.
When: Saturday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Admission: Free
More Information: auroragov.org
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Saturday
National Get Outdoors Day
What: Come climb, paddle, fish, bike, jump, garden, build, paint, dance, learn, explore and play! It’s a fun, free day of outdoor activities for people of all ages and abilities.
Where: Sloan’s Lake Park (north shore), 2500 North Sheridan Blvd., Denver, Colo.
When: Saturday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Admission: Free
More Information: getoutdoorscolorado.org
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Saturday
Rockin’ Block Party
What: The Block Party kicks off with free museum tours and lawn games for kids of all ages. Bring a blanket and picnic, or grab dinner from a food truck, and enjoy an evening of live music, featuring Chris Daniels and The Kings. Then grab some free popcorn and settle in for an outdoor screening of The Sandlot. Beer and wine will also be available for purchase.
Where: Lakewood Heritage Center, 801 S. Yarrow Street, Lakewood, Colo.
When: Saturday: 5 p.m.-11 p.m.
Admission: Free
More Information: lakewood.org
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Bonus Things To Do: Watch Raiders of the Lost Ark under the stars as part of the Historic Elitch Theatre Summer Film Series Friday night; or kick back some cold ones while listening to tunes at the South Pearl Street BrewGrass Festival in Denver on Saturday; or spend your Sunday at the Annual Taste of Puerto Rico Festival from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. in Civic Center Park.
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.