events

Things to do in Colorado this weekend: Aug. 16-18

 
 

This weekend is all about peaches. 

The Palisade peach is in full harvest and all of Colorado is enjoying the bounty grown on the Western Slope. Fort Collins and Lafayette will honor Palisade with peach festivals of their own this weekend.

The summer isn't over yet as there are still plenty of outdoor fairs, block parties, and concerts to keep you entertained all weekend long. Festivals take place this weekend in Aurora, Lakewood, Greeley, Rocky Ford, Hayden, Denver, and Littleton.

Palisade Peach Festival

PALISADE — One of the country's most renowned peaches will be celebrated at the 56th annual Palisade Peach Festival this weekend. This year's Palisade Peach Festival celebrates 132 years of peaches in the western Colorado town. The festival offers food, live music, peach-eating contests, kids’ activities and recreation opportunities. Events planned for Friday and Saturday include food trucks, vendors, BBQ contest, peach-eating contest and live music.

Fort Collins Peach Festival

FORT COLLINS — You'll be able to wash down a peach pie or peach cobbler with a peach beer or peach margarita at Saturday's Fort Collins Peach Festival. The festival will also feature live music, food trucks and craft brewers. The free festival runs from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday at Civic Center Park.

Lafayette Peach Festival

LAFAYETTE — The 25th annual Lafayette Peach Festival honors the Palisade peach with peach pies, peach cobbler and peach smoothies. The festival runs Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Old Town Lafayette on Public Road. Food vendors, crafters, antique dealers and artists from Colorado and the western region will be on hand as well. Palisade Organic Peach Ranch, Morton's Orchards, Green Barn Fruit Co., and Tate Orchards will be providing 30,000 of pounds of peaches at the festival. More than 650 peach pies and pans of cobbler will be served while supplies last.

Global Fest

AURORA — Aurora's 11th annual Global Fest returns to the Aurora Municipal Center on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. This multicultural event brings together the sights, sounds and flavors of nations from around the world to celebrate the diverse people and communities that call Aurora home. The festival will have two stages of musical and dance performances, food trucks, an international marketplace, parade of nations, fashion show, art displays and activities for children.

Green Bay Packers vs. Denver Broncos

DENVER — The Broncos return home for their second preseason game on Sunday, hosting the Green Bay Packers at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver.

This Week 2 preseason game will air on 9NEWS, 9NEWS.com and on the 9NEWS+ streaming app, for those in 9NEWS' viewing area. Coverage begins at 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

Longtime ESPN anchor Steve Levy will return as play-by-play commentator alongside returning color analyst Ryan Harris, a former Broncos offensive lineman and Super Bowl 50 champion. 9NEWS Sports anchor Scotty Gange and NFL Network analyst Cynthia Frelund will report from the sidelines.

Pikes Peak Regional Air Show

COLORADO SPRINGS — The U.S. Navy Blue Angels will headline the Pikes Peak Regional Air Show on Saturday and Sunday at the Colorado Springs Airport. Organizers said gates will open at 8:30 a.m. each day with flying beginning at 11 a.m. The Blue Angel are scheduled to fly at 2 p.m. each day. Tickets are available online at PPAirShow.org. Organizers said general admission tickets are sold out on Saturday.

Monster Day

GREELEY — Monster Day is back. Monster Day is family friendly celebration of all things "monster" in downtown Greeley. Monster Day is Saturday and features roaming costumed monsters, music, entertainment, face painting, costume contests, demonstrations, vendor booths and more. Come dressed up in your favorite monster costumes or just enjoy everyone else's. Greeley’s famous monster makers Distortions Unlimited will be on hand with some of their monstrous creations on display.

Routt County Fair

HAYDEN — The community of Routt County and visitors will come together this August weekend for the 111th annual Routt County Fair in Hayden. The exhibition hall at midway at the Routt County Fairgrounds opens Thursday at 8 a.m. with rabbit, goat, lamb and sheep shows, horse races, and bonfire. A demolition derby and beer garden are set for Friday and a concert by Eric Paslay begins Saturday at 8:30 p.m. The Lion’s Club Parade steps off at 10 a.m. Saturday in downtown Hayden. See the full fair schedule and entertainment lineup at RouttCountyFair.org.

Arkansas Valley Fair

ROCKY FORD — The 147th annual Arkansas Valley Fair opens Wednesday, and runs through Saturday at the Rocky Ford Fairgrounds. Friday is Parade Day with the Arkansas Valley Fair Grand Parade set to step off at 10 a.m. on downtown Main Street. A rodeo is planned for 7 p.m. Friday and the crunching of the demolition derby begins Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Front gate admission is free.

South by Southeast

DENVER  — The 7th annual South by Southeast community festival in Bible Park is Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Games and activities include cornhole, bubble tower, giant cup pong, kids' play area, a Denver fire truck, Denver Mounted Patrol, Shelby the Denver Police Therapy dog and photo booth.

Western Welcome Week

LITTLETON — Littleton residents have been holding this community celebration for 96 years. This year’s 10-day Western Welcome Week runs through Sunday. Saturday is Festival Day with a Grand Parade set to begin at 10 a.m. in downtown Littleton. There will also be an arts and crafts fair, kid's zone and carnival games.

Pueblo Pride 

PUEBLO — Mineral Palace Park is the site of the annual Pueblo Pride event. This weekend’s festival takes place from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. The Pueblo Pride Parade steps off at 10:30 a.m. with a route through the park. There will be vendors, live entertainment, food and more.

National Aviation Day 

DENVER — Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is ready to celebrate National Aviation Day with "pay as you wish" admission on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be special Aviation Day activities including open cockpits, science demos, talks from the curator and volunteers, and scavenger hunts.

Denver Open Water Swim

LITTLETON — The Swim Across America charity event will take place at Chatfield Reservoir on Sunday. Proceeds support cancer research projects at Children's Hospital Colorado. A rolling start will begin at 8:10 a.m. There are .5 mile, 1 mile and 2 mile swim options.

Denver Parade of Homes

DENVER — The Denver Parade of Homes runs through Sunday, Aug. 25. The largest showcase of the latest in architecture and home design along the Front Range features newly designed model, custom homes by area residential builders located in neighborhoods throughout the Denver area. Attendees can see unique homes and floor plans, beautiful communities, the latest in interior design trends and home technology, exterior finishes and outdoor living, and landscaping that will inspire. Denver Parade of Homes is free and open to the public.

Tour when and where you want with options for on-demand virtual tours or in-person tours Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. during the Parade. Download directions to participating homes at ParadeOfHomesDenver.com or download a print map here.

Gears & Beers Festival

MESA — The 8th annual Gears & Beers Festival at Powderhorn Mountain Resort is Saturday. Take a lift ride, drop into the bike park, join a downhill race or weekend youth program, and enjoy live music with local craft beverages.

Front Range Wine Festival

WINDSOR — The 12th annual Front Range Wine Festival runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at Main Park in Windsor. The festival will feature wines from over 35 Colorado wineries, live music, food and retail vendors. General admission tickets include a commemorative wine glass, wine tote and unlimited tastings.

Tri-State Hot Rod Revival

JULESBURG — Julesburg’s 9th annual Tri-State Hot Rod Revival runs Friday to Sunday at the Julesburg Drag Strip. The strip holds the title of the oldest drag racing track in the country sanctioned by the NHRA. The weekend begins with a Friday night cruise along Main Street in Julesburg. Festivities planned for Saturday and Sunday include food vendors, live music and more.

Fort Collins Comic Con

FORT COLLINS — Fort Collins Comic Con is happening this weekend with two days of panels, classes, hands-on demos, open forums, lectures and screenings about movies, television, comics and books. Artists, writers, creators and vendors will be on hand. Fort Collins Comic Con will be held Friday to Sunday at the Fort Collins Senior Center. Tickets are on sale at FocoComicCon.com.

Silverthorne Sunday Art Stroll

SILVERTHORNE — The last Silverthorne Art Stroll of the season will be held Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Attendees can enjoy free performances from musicians and local artists selling their fares in downtown Silverthorne between Bluebird Market and the Art Spot Silverthorne Makerspace.

Wicked

DENVER — The stage musical adaption of "Wicked" is in Colorado for two more weekends. "Wicked" has performances planned through Sunday, Aug. 25, at the Buell Theatre in Denver. Currently the 4th longest-running show in Broadway history, "Wicked" celebrated its 20th anniversary on Broadway in 2023.

Twenty One Pilots

DENVER — Twenty One Pilots are launching their world tour in Colorado this weekend. The Grammy Award-winning duo will begin "The Clancy World Tour" at Ball Arena in Denver on Thursday and Friday. Comprised of Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun, Twenty One Pilots have amassed more than 33 billion streams worldwide and over three million tickets sold across several tours.

Jhené Aiko

DENVER — R&B star Jhené Aiko is performing her first headlining tour in five years. "The Magic Hour Tour" features a stop at Ball Arena in Denver this Saturday at 7 p.m. In 2020, Aiko received three Grammy Award nominations for her album "Chilombo." In 2022, Aiko performed “America the Beautiful” at Super Bowl LVI.

Phil Wickham & Brandon Lake Summer Worship Nights Tour

DENVER — Phil Wickham and Brandon Lake are in the second year of the "Summer Worship Nights Tour." The tour will be at Ball Arena in Denver at 7 p.m. Sunday. The show features special guest Hulvey. Tickets are on sale at Ticketmaster.com.

Race for Research 5K 

DENVER — Cancer League of Colorado presents the 28th annual Race for Research, a 5K run/walk, on Sunday at Denver’s Washington Park. Cancer League of Colorado is an all-volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to funding cancer research in Colorado. Runners and walkers will enjoy a 5K loop around Washington Park, a post-race expo, kids’ zone with games, craft beer garden, goodie bags and more. Register today at Race4Research.com.

Dog Day 5K

GLENWOOD SPRINGS — Colorado Animal Rescue is hosting the 12th annual Dog Day 5K in Glenwood Springs on Saturday. The 5K is a run/walk to support the animal rescue organization. Day-of race registration begins at 8 a.m. and the race begins at 9 a.m. at Two Rivers Park. Online race registration can be completed at ColoradoAnimalRescue.org.

Mt. Sneffels Half Marathon

OURAY — This weekend’s Mt. Sneffels Half Marathon, 10K and Kids Fun Run will be run in the “Switzerland of America” - Ouray, Colorado. The races support the Mount Sneffels Education Foundation. The event takes place Saturday with race amenities and finish line activities. Registration can be completed at MtSneffelsMarathon.com.

Water World

FEDERAL HEIGHTS — There are just three weekends left to visit the largest water park in Colorado. Water World is open daily through Sunday before the park moves to a weekend-only schedule through Labor Day weekend. Water World opens at 10 a.m. each day this weekend.

San Diego Padres vs. Colorado Rockies

DENVER — Coors Field will host three baseball games this weekend. The San Diego Padres and Colorado Rockies play Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the downtown Denver ballpark. Friday's game has a post-game Todd Helton-themed drone show. Those who arrive early to Saturday's 6:10 p.m. game can get a Todd Helton bobblehead.

Cody Johnson

GREENWOOD VILLAGE — Cody Johnson brings "The Leather Tour" at Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre on Friday and Saturday. The country music star will be joined by Tracy Bryd and Ty Myers at Friday's concert, with support from Ned LeDoux and Jesse Raub on Saturday. With a capacity of 18,000, Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre is the largest outdoor amphitheater in the Denver area. Located near Interstate 25 and East Orchard Road in the Denver Tech Center, the amphitheater offers chair-back and lawn seating.

Red Rocks

DENVER — There is no better venue for live music in the country than Colorado's Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The Red Rocks 2024 concert schedule is actually still growing with new concerts being added in October and November.

The Power of Poison

DENVER — The temporary exhibition at Denver Museum of Nature and Science "The Power of Poison" explores the captivating and often paradoxical world of nature's toxic arsenal. Through live performances and interactive dioramas, this exhibition will take you into familiar and novel tales of illness, enchantment and death by poison. Whether used as a defense against predators, a source of magical strength or a lifesaving medical treatment, "The Power of Poison" is sure to surprise.

The North Pole: Santa's Workshop

CASCADE — Colorado's favorite Christmas-themed amusement park is open for the season. Home to Santa's village and the jolly old elf himself, The North Pole: Santa’s Workshop, located at 7,500 feet at the foot of Pikes Peak west of Colorado Springs, traditionally opens the weekend before Memorial Day and remains open through Christmas. With vintage rides and sweet treats, the park as been spreading Christmas cheer since 1956.

Bright Nights at Four Mile Historic Park

DENVER — Four Mile Historic Park has transformed into a glowing landscape that immerses visitors with larger-than-life lantern installations that include a mythical dragon that blows smoke, Colorado wildlife and flowers, a crystal forest with unicorns, and creatures from Chinese mythology. The Bright Nights series will be open until Sept. 29. Proceeds from the installation go to help pay for animal care at the park, as well as maintain the historic museum, the oldest standing structure in Denver.

Read more at 9News.com

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August in OKC

 
 

It doesn't get much better than summertime in the Modern Frontier!

Explore the coolest ways to beat the heat, new attractions and fun experiences you won't find anywhere else. Here are a few of our recommendations of ways to discover OKC this month! 

Heating Up 

With local attractions adding new events and exhibitions, there's always something exciting to explore in Oklahoma City! 

Cooling Off 

  • Scissortail Park offers everything you need to make a day of it, including a skating rink, paddle boats on the lake, a splash pad and more. 

  • Cool off at Riversport's indoor alpine skiing and snowboarding! Hit the water with them in the Boathouse District for whitewater rafting and surfing. A fan of calmer waters? Rent a paddleboard or kayak at Lake Hefner or Lake Overholser

  • OKC's only water park, Hurricane Harbor, is fun for the whole family! Grab your swimsuits and make a day of it on the water slides, lazy river and family-friendly play areas. 

  • Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Oklahoma River.

  • Splash your way into more fun with our guide to the best ways to beat the heat in OKC

Shop 'til You Drop

Oklahoma's annual sales tax holiday runs Aug. 2-4 and is the best time to shop for back-to-school clothes! No matter your shopping style, you’ll find retailers of all shapes and sizes across the OKC metro. Venture out to the city’s major shopping centers to find the well-known brands you love. The OKC Outlets features more than 80 stores ranging from luxury brands to family friendly favorites. For the traditional, indoor shopping mall experience, centrally located Penn Square Mall and north OKC's Quail Spring Mall are sure to fit the bill with a selection of national department stores. 

Mark Your Calendars

Oklahoma City is filled with entertaining events this month! ​

Summer fun abounds in the Modern Frontier! Check out our guide to everything happening in OKC this season.

Read more at VisitOKC.com

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2024 What To Do in August in Minnesota

 
 

Summers in Minnesota are all-too short, these warm and golden days that are to be savored and treasured after a long, cold winter.

Residents here know not to squander them; we know that we have to fill them with as much fun and activity as we can, and local communities are more than happy to help out by providing a multitude of festivals, fairs, and celebrations to fill these long, sun-soaked days. We’ve compiled a list of some of the events you can find around the area in these hazy, lazy days of summer to enjoy when you’re not up at the cabin or lake!

31st Annual Minnesota Fringe Festival
August 1 – 11 • Various venues
There’s something for everyone at the Fringe!
www.minnesotafringe.org

33rd Annual Powderhorn Art Fair
August 3 – 4 • 10 AM – 5 PM both days • Powderhorn Park, Minneapolis
Come on out for the 32nd annual fine art and fine crafts event featuring over 150 artists, immersive art installations, food vendors and more!
www.powderhornartfair.com

The 34th Annual Polo Classic
August 4 • Rain or Shine!
Elegant hats, summer fashion, champagne, tasty appetizers, tail gaiting, divot stomping and sleek horses thundering across the field as their riders wield mallets to knock balls though the goal—what more could you ask for in regards to a great way to spend a summer day? How about the proceeds going to This Old Horse to give retired and rescued horses green pastures for their golden years! It’s a win/win!
www.thepoloclassic.com

35th Annual Bayfront Blues Festival
August 9 – 11 • Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, MN
One of the largest annual outdoor music events in the upper Midwest hosts nearly 20,000 fans to more than 30 different acts on two stages.
www.bayfrontblues.com

Minnesota Zoo ”Wild Nights” – Hip Hop & Funk at the Zoo
August 9 • 5 – 10 PM • Individual Tickets $30 for MN Zoo members/$40 for non-members, Season Pass $150 for members/$175 for non-members • Amphitheater hosts Nur-D and Upper South Plaza hosts Chase & Ovation
This magical 18+ musical and community event celebrates and supports the Minnesota Zoo and its dedication to conservation both in Minnesota and around the globe.
www.mnzoo.org/WildNights

Lakewood 2024 Music In The Chapel – Red Thread
August 11 • $15/Advance, $20/Door • 3 – 4 PM • Historic Memorial Chapel, Lakewood Cemetery, 3600 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis
Folk ensemble Red Thread blends its original music rooted in Eastern European, Yiddish and Americana sounds with harmonic sensibility.
www.lakewoodcemetery.org/events-calendar/music-in-the-chapel

LGBTQ+ Boundary Waters Trip
August 21 – 25 • $845 per person, with possible financial assistance based on need • Maximum of 8 in group, minimum group size is 4 • Ely, MN
Ely Outfitting Company & Boundary Waters Guide Service is a gay-owned business that supports diversity and inclusion in outdoor spaces, so this is a great opportunity to make new friends and meet interesting people in a beautiful locale! This trip is queer-guided & open exclusively to those who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community.
www.elyoutfittingcompany.com/lgbtq-boundary-waters-trip/

Minnesota State Fair
Aug 22 – Sept 2 • Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul
Pronto Pups, cheese curds, deep-fried everything on a stick, music, animals and hanging out with tens of thousands of people? It can only be The Great Minnesota Get-Together!
www.mnstatefair.org

Read more at LavenderMagazine.com

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The Best Things To Do In Bend For August

 
 

Sunscreen? Check. Float tube? Check. Bend hotel reservations? Check.

Appetite for sun-soaked days capped off by a farm-fresh dinner and a snuggly blanket of stars? Check, check, and helllllooo, friend! Welcome to August in Bend.

Bend’s warmest month brings a unique blend of magic. It’s scorching outside, but does anything feel as refreshing as a post-hike dip in a mountain lake? Yes, there’s wildfire smoke, but the dramatic lightning storms that sparked it are a wonder to behold, plus holy cow, the sunsets this time of year! And don’t get me started on the Perseid Meteor Shower, which Mother Nature plans each year for my mid-August birthday.

Wondering what to see, do, and experience in Bend this August? Here’s a roundup!

Head for the hills and hike

Most able-bodied Bend visitors have hiking on their bucket list, and August is when it’s wise to watch outside factors like heat and smoke.

High desert thunderstorms are a thing of wonder, but lightning wreaks havoc on our forests. When planning August hikes, start with a skim through Central Oregon fire info website to gauge what’s ablaze nearby. Downloading an air quality app like the EPA’s AirNow can help you determine whether smoke and wind conditions have turned your favorite trail into a Traeger grill. 

All clear for fires? Try the high-altitude trails off the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, which are at their best now that most of the snow has vanished. Now’s an excellent time to tackle Tumalo Mountain, or pick a scenic loop trail like Lucky Lake or Blow Lake
Want to try one of our most popular trails in the Central Cascades? Preserving those spots for generations to come means you’ll need a special permit for trails like Green Lakes and Tam McArthur. Read up on the rules and plan ahead.

The Deschutes River Trail includes endless options for trekkers of all levels, and its proximity to town lets you squeeze in a post-breakfast hike and be back to your hotel in time for lunch.

Before setting out, pack plenty of sunscreen and water, and plan trailside stops in the shade. Bend’s high desert heat can be intense if you’re not used to it, so give yourself tons of extra time—especially when it’s hot out.

When hiking with four-legged friends, check out these tips for keeping your pup safe and happy, especially in warm August temps. And as always, practice Leave No Trace principles when hiking in Bend’s great outdoors.

Discover your chill in rivers and lakes

A swimming pool feels fab when temps get toasty, and you’ll find plenty of Bend hotels with pools. But nothing beats the combo of a cooling soak and an adventure in Bend’s great outdoors.

Bend rivers and lakes offer ample opportunity to try standup paddleboarding and kayaking. Add an adrenaline rush to your adventure with a whitewater rafting adventure with Sun Country Tours, or try the Paulina Plunge for a truly unique high desert activity featuring natural waterslides.

For a more serene river experience, try floating the Deschutes River as it ambles through the Old Mill District and Downtown Bend. The river shuttle runs daily in August to keep floaters circulating between the put-in and takeout. How do you float the river in Bend? Check out this post for everything you need to know.

For other forms of water play, including canoeing, swimming, and surfing (yep, really!) follow the links on this page.

Toes in the grass, tunes in the air

August tends to be Bend’s biggest month for concerts at Hayden Homes Amphitheater. August 2024 boasts an especially huge lineup, including one epic week featuring St. Vincent and Spoon (August 8), Trampled by Turtles (August 9), Walker Hayes (August 12), Megadeath (August 13), Michael Franti and Spearhead (August 14), and Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats (August 15). I’ll personally be shakin’ my groove thang at the Gipsy Kings show August 4, and my folks are journeying from the other side of the mountains to catch the Beach Boys August 24. Check out the full August lineup here.

Craving free music in Bend? Catch a show on Thursdays in Drake Park with the Munch and Music series that’s been going strong since the early ‘90s (which I’m just now realizing was my first concert in Bend…see also “Tawna turns 50 this month.”). You’ll also find lots of live music at local hotspots like Flights Wine Bar and Silver Moon Brewing.

While Faith Hope and Charity vineyards may be on your radar for wine, they also have a robust roster of live music throughout August. Bring a blanket or a low-backed chair, but leave food and drinks at home––there’s plenty to purchase on site. 

If live theater is your jam, act early to snag seats for plays staged on the banks of the sparkling Deschutes in Drake Park. Shows typically take place in late August and tickets go fast.

For more ideas on getting your art fix outside, check Visit Bend’s event calendar for things happening in August.

It’s smoky in Bend…now what?

Whether it’s thunderstorms, high temps, or wildfire smoke chasing you indoors, there may come a time you’ll want to seek respite in Bend’s indoor spaces. Lucky for you, there’s lots to choose from.

Make dinner reservations at one of Bend’s award-winning restaurants. Plan a fun family outing at the High Desert Museum and enjoy both indoor and outdoor spaces with native wildlife, indigenous art, interactive exhibits, and natural history.

To get the kids’ wiggles out, bounce around at Trampoline Zone or Mountain Air. If vintage video games are your jam, Vector Volcano is the spot to be.

Want to unleash your inner artist? Book a class at Freak’n Art and pick from options like So Sketchy (charcoal and conte crayon drawing), Just Add Water (watercolor pencil drawing/painting), Shades of Gray (India ink painting) and more. Best of all, you’ll take-home a Bend souvenir that you made yourself.

Missing your feline friends back home? Stop by Playful Paws Cat Cafe for a vacation kitty fix, and who knows? You might just find an adoptable buddy.

From bowling alleys to bumper cars to indoor kart racing to indoor climbing gyms there’s tons of fun stuff to do inside when you’ve had your fill of Bend’s great outdoors. For more ideas on making backup plans in Bend when weather won’t cooperate, check out this article.

Speaking of making plans…

As my birthday nears in mid-August, I know time’s running out. Not in a grim “you’re getting old” sense, but that there’s so little time to do ALL THE THINGS before summer’s end.

My annual birthday meteor shower (which apparently has a real name and isn’t held only for my birthday?) peaks each year around August 11-13. For prime viewing, head out to Pine Mountain Observatory or the Oregon Observatory in Sunriver, or stick closer to Bend with the Hopservatory at Worthy Brewing.

Want to enjoy Mt. Bachelor’s summer offerings like disc golf, ziplining, scenic chairlift rides, the downhill bike park, and the ultimate sunset dinner at 7,800 feet? Scope out their summer activities page, then book your plans before the season runs out. 

Looking forward to fall staples like Little Woody (slated each year for Labor Day Weekend) or the epic Oregon Whiskey Festival happening Sept. 20-21 at Oregon Spirit Distillery? Make sure you snag tickets now, since events like these fill up fast. Pro tip: If you swing by the Bend Visitor Center and ask nicely, we’ll hook you up with a coupon for a free tasting at Oregon Spirit Distillery.

Camping near Bend gets colder as August fades and fall grabs nighttime temps with chilly hands. Get those last August camping trips on the books pronto! While some spots have first-come, first-served sites, many require reservations through recreation.gov or the Oregon State Parks reservation system.

Feeling ready to rock August in Bend? I’ll see you out on the trails (or river, or brewery, or…just get out and enjoy, okay?!)

Read more at VisitBend.com

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Free Things to Do in Denver (and Beyond) This Week

 
 

Happy birthday, Colorado!

This state turns 148 today, and Celebrate Colorado runs through August 4, with hundreds of free and discounted activities (find Celebrate Colorado details here). Meanwhile, Denver Days continues through August 3, with plenty of neighborhood festivities on the calendar. And there's a big First Friday coming up!

For more entertainment options, check our roster of events worth the price of admission and our concert calendar. For events running into September, see our Summer Guide. Now keep reading for free things to do in Denver this weekend:

Free things to do in Denver...ongoing

Most museums charge admission, but there are exceptions on SCFD free days. (The next free night at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, for example, is August 21.)

In the meantime, Civic Center Park is a great place to visit for free, with Civic Center EATS on Wednesdays and Thursdays (although the McNichols Building won't have exhibits again until fall). And the Denver Public Library wrote the book on useful free services and other amenities.

In Boulder, you can visit "Ascent: A Boulder Soundwalk" in Scott Carpenter Park and check out the free public art installation by Ars Nova Singers that celebrates nature, music and Boulder with the Echoes app.

If you're stuck between planes, or waiting for someone who's stuck in summer travel glitches, head to DEN’s Park on the Plaza at Denver International Airport. The 82,000-square-foot open-air plaza, located pre-security between Jeppesen Terminal and the Westin Hotel, will offer free entertainment options now through September 30, including a Sunday concert series.
Free things to do in Denver (and beyond) this week

Governor's Residence Tours
Thursday, August 1, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
400 East Eighth Avenue
On Colorado Day, you can tour the Governor's Residence at Boettcher Mansion! Get the detailshere.

Adams County Fair

Thursday, August 1, through Sunday, August 4
Riverdale Regional Park, 9755 Henderson, Brighton
This year's Adams County Fair has a special attraction: the Mustang Summit. Learn about wild horses and meet representatives from the Wild Animal Refuge and Wild Horse Refuge, including founder Pat Craig; get details on the Mustang Summithere. And yes, you'll find all the other usual county fair attractions. Admission to the fair is free, with add-ons for concerts and other events; find more infohere.

Lincoln County Free Fair and Rodeo
Thursday, August 1; and Saturday, August 3, through Saturday, August 10
Lincoln County Fairgrounds, 33747 County Road 2W, Hugo
Yee-haw! “Country On” is the theme of this year's Lincoln County Fair, which runs for ten days at the start of August. Activities range from a parade to 4H displays to county fair contests to mutton bustin'. And don't miss the traditional Ranch Rodeo on August 6! Admission to everything is free; find complete details here.

Breckenridge Art Festival
Thursday, August 1, through Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Main Street Station, 535 South Park Avenue, Breckenridge
The 23rd annual art festival will feature over 100 artists, as well as live acoustic music. Admission is free; learn more here.

This Ordinary Stardust: A Scientist's Path From Grief to Wonder

Thursday, August 1, 7 p.m.
Boulder Book Store, 1107 Pearl Street, Boulder
Dr. Alan Townsend's memoir is an exploration of scientific wonder that offers “a fresh perspective on life, death and the bittersweet consequences of impermanence,” according to Jon Krakauer, illuminated through the tragic dual cancer diagnoses of the author's wife and daughter. Registration to the program is $5, but nets you a $5 discount on a book purchase that day. Learn more here.

Silverthorne First Friday Block Party
Friday, August 2, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Fourth Street Crossing and the Outlets at Silverthorne, Silverthorne
Heading for the hills to beat the heat? Silverthorne will host a two-location block party on First Friday, with local bands on five stages, forty artist booths and free activities at the Family Fun Zone. Get the details here.

Visible Planets: World-Renowned Rappers and Their Visual Art
Friday, August 2, 6 to 9 p.m.
Bitfactory Gallery, 851 Santa Fe Drive
After a big inaugural year, Visible Planets returns with an art show opening on First Friday and a free outdoor jam session Sunday with creatives who carry messages of social justice, peace, respect, self-worth and community. The show includes artwork by Georgia Anne Muldrow, Del the Funky Homosapien, Quelle Chris, Deca, Fresh Daily, Oddisee, Lily Fangz, Kristina Johnson and Mick Burson and Natalie del Villar (Homeboy Sandman’s sister). Admission is free; learn more here.

Celebrate Colorado's 148th Birthday With History Colorado
Saturday, August 3
Around Colorado
While Colorado's birthday is August 1, History Colorado will be celebrating on August 3, when more than fifteen attractions across the state combine to create a free celebration. Visitors can go to the Center for Colorado Women’s History in Denver, El Pueblo History Museum, Healy House Museum & Dexter Cabin in Leadville, Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center, Trinidad History Museum, or the Ute Indian Museum in Montrose and explore Colorado's history for free. At the History Colorado Center, festivities will include a performance by the Colorado Inter-Tribal Dancers and the Colorado Youth Mariachi Program, as well as a traditional Chinese Lion Dance from Shaolin Hung Mei Kung Fu,face painting and sidewalk chalk stations, gold panning with the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a Colorado Proud produce booth and green chile roaster, a Max Fund pet adoption event, artifact tables displaying objects from History Colorado’s collection, and information and activity booths from partnering organizations such as Pop Culture Classroom and Tesoro Cultural Center. The museum's exhibits will also be open for free. Learn more here.

Horseshoe Summer Market
Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Breckenridge Brewery!, 2920 Brewery Lane, Littleton
The Horseshoe will be on the Breckenridge Brewery campus with over 65 local makers and vendors. Family-friendly activities include tarot readings, face painting and live music starting at noon. There will be plenty of food and drink, and admission is free. Learn more here.

Air N Space-A-Palooza
Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Wings Over the Rockies, Exploration of Flight, 13005 Wings Way, Englewood
Arapahoe/Douglas Works!, Colorado Space Business Roundtable, City of Centennial and the South Metro Denver Chamber host this family-friendly aerospace and aviation fair, an immersive day of discovery with interactive exhibits, speakers and a chance to try a flight simulator. There will be food trucks on site, and you can also catch the Breakfast Fly In hosted by Wings over the Rockies. Admission is free, but you must register here.

Visionary Village
Saturday, August 3, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Denver Central Market, 2669 Larimer Street
Join Made By Us at Denver Central Market for Visionary Village, a  curated lineup of creative community vendors. Admission is free; learn more here.

Castle Marne Grand Reopening
Saturday, August 3, 2 to 6 p.m.
1572 Race Street
Castle Marne, a landmark 1889 mansion built by renowned architect Wiliam Lang, is reopening as an exclusive Airbnb experience under new owners Nate Jones and Jessica Abegg. It's hosting a grand-reopening event on August 3, complete with tours of the mansions and grounds. Admission is free, but RSVPs are required here.

Tiana Longmire and DJ Malc G

Saturday, August 3, 5 to 7 p.m.
Skyline Beer Garden, 1601 Arapahoe Street
The Downtown Denver Partnership opened Skyline Beer Garden for the summer to activate the city center, and has added some extra attractions to the pop-up with free movies and concerts. Take in R&B from Tiana Longmire and DJ Malc G on Saturday, August 3, or dance along to hits courtesy of DJ M’n'M on Saturday, August 17. The ethereal pop of Grace DeVine will be highlighted on Saturday, August 31, along with DJ DesiredAdmired, while it'll be a hip-hop party on Saturday, September 28, with Ason Yugen and ReSrface. Admission is free; find out more here.

Shakedown Street
Saturday, August 3, 7 p.m.
Levitt Pavilion, 1380 West Florida Avenue
For over thirty years, Shakedown Street has been performing the immense catalogue of the Grateful Dead. The ever-shifting repertoire draws from homegrown idioms steeped in traditional Americana, folk, blues, jazz, and rock and roll, with a healthy dose of the avant-garde. Admission is free; learn more here.

Arts & Community Fair
Sunday, August 4, 2 to 6 p.m.
Mestizo-Curtis Park, 32nd and Arapahoe streets
PlatteForum is hosting this free, family-friendly Arts & Community Fair celebrating the diverse work of Denver's nonprofit community. There will be more than twenty artist vendors, live performances by El Sistema Colorado, games, food and demonstrations by community partners, including Community Strategies for Change and Art Garage. Admission is free; learn more here.

Concerts on the Fly
Sunday, August 4,  2 to 6 p.m.
Park on the Plaza, Denver International Airport
Denver International Airport summer concert series runs Sundays through September 1; the lineup on August 4 is Ambrosia, The Petty Nicks Experience (Tom Petty/Stevie Nicks tribute band) and DJ Lil Joe. Admission is free, but tickets are limited. RSVP here.

City Park Jazz: Jakarta
Sunday, August 4, 6 p.m.
City Park Pavilion
Head to City Park on Sunday for a Denver tradition: City Park Jazz. Admission is free; get info here.

Jurassic Park
Sunday, August 4, 6 p.m.
Skyline Park, 1601 Arapahoe Street
The fun continues at Skyline Park with a screening of Jurassic Park. Admission is free; learn more here.

Plan ahead:

Colorado Parks and Wildlife Free Day
Monday, August 5
Across Colorado
To celebrate Colorado Day, there's no entry fee at any Colorado state park on August 5. Although Colorado Day is technically August 1, the CPW always celebrates the occasion with free admission on the first Monday of August. Learn more here.

High Plains Chautauqua: Game Changers
Monday, August 5, through Friday, August 9
Aims Community College Welcome Center, Greeley
The annual High Plains Chautauqua will focus on Game Changers: individuals who had an enduring impact on society. Evening events start at 5:15 p.m. with live music on the patio, along with an on-site food truck, followed by performances from a Young Chautauquan from Greeley-Evans District 6 and portrayals of two historical characters ranging from Eleanor Roosevelt to Albert Einstein, Rachel Carson, Louis Armstrong and many more. Admission to all events is free; get a complete schedule here.

Washington Park 125th Anniversary Jubilee
Wednesday, August 7, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Washington Park
Denver was a dusty cowtown in 1899 when City Landscape Architect Reinhard Schuetze drew up the plans for Washington Park. Today, 125 years later, this urban forest is filled with greenery and activities, including a big free birthday bash with everything from yoga to a concert capping off the day. Learn more here.

48 Hours Summit: Stories_UnderScored
Friday, August 16, 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday, August 17, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
RedLine Contemporary Art Center: 2350 Arapahoe Street
RedLine's 48-hour Summit returns with programming that includes ten-minute talks, hands-on workshops, performances, socially engaged art projects, a block party, the opening reception for The Other Side of the Tracks exhibition and more. It's all free; find the schedule here.

Global Fest
Saturday, August 17, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Aurora Municipal Center Great Lawn, 15151 East Alameda Parkway, Aurora
Aurora bills itself as “The World in a City,” and it lives up to that billing at Global Fest, the city’s signature event showcasing international cultures. Now in its eleventh year, the family-friendly fest will include two stages of musical and dance performances, a variety of local food trucks, an international marketplace, the Parade of Nations, a fashion show, art displays, creative activities for children, and much more. Admission is free; learn more here.

Read more at Westword.com

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