The Ultimate Guide to Denver’s Best Spring & Summer Festivals in 2025
Introduction: Denver is a city that knows how to celebrate! As spring and summer roll in, the Mile High City bursts into life with an exciting lineup of festivals, concerts, and cultural events. Whether you’re a food enthusiast eager to explore the city’s top restaurants, a music lover looking for live performances, or someone who enjoys outdoor celebrations with family and friends, there’s something for everyone. From the renowned Denver Restaurant Week to the colorful Chalk Art Festival and the legendary Great American Beer Festival, Denver’s festival season is packed with can’t-miss experiences.
Get ready to mark your calendar and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of these incredible events. Here’s your ultimate guide to Denver’s top spring and summer festivals in 2025!
MARCH 2025
Denver Restaurant Week
WHEN: March 7–16, 2025
WHERE: Various restaurants
For more than 20 years, Denver Restaurant Week has been a highly anticipated event celebrating the city’s vibrant food scene. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy exclusive multi-course menus at discounted prices from some of the best restaurants in town. This is the perfect opportunity to indulge in Michelin-recognized eateries and taste dishes crafted by James Beard Award-winning chefs.
Icelantic Winter on the Rocks ft. Gramatik
WHEN: March 8, 2025
WHERE: Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Experience a breathtaking winter concert at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where Gramatik makes a long-awaited return to the stage. Accompanied by Zingara, The Funk Hunters, and The Sponges, this high-energy event will be a fusion of electronic beats and funk rhythms in an unforgettable outdoor setting.
HEYDAY: An Indoor Fair with Urban Flair
WHEN: March 8, 2025
WHERE: Asterisk Denver
HEYDAY reimagines the classic state fair with a modern urban twist. Expect an exciting lineup of entertainment, including Denver’s top artists, immersive carnival games with local-themed prizes, and an array of food and drinks, from elevated fair favorites to craft cocktails. Enjoy vintage arcade games, tarot readings, face painting, a VW bus photo booth, and much more in this all-ages event that brings together the best of the city’s culture.
Boulder International Film Festival
WHEN: March 13–16, 2025
WHERE: Boulder Theater, Boulder
Film enthusiasts won’t want to miss the 21st Annual Boulder International Film Festival (BIFF), a premier event that brings critically acclaimed films and emerging talent to Colorado. Over four days, attendees can enjoy thought-provoking screenings, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and exclusive panels. Beyond the films, the festival offers culinary experiences with renowned chefs, live music, and the BIFF at Home Virtual Festival for those who prefer to enjoy the event remotely.
Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival
WHEN: March 14–16, 2025
WHERE: Sie FilmCenter
Celebrating the rich cultures and contributions of Asian and Asian Pacific American communities, this annual film festival showcases a diverse selection of films that highlight powerful storytelling and representation. The event also features filmmaker discussions, cultural performances, and special screenings that bring to light the vibrant narratives of these communities
Denver St. Patrick’s Day Parade
WHEN: March 15, 2025
WHERE: Downtown Denver
Since 1962, Denver has embraced Irish heritage with one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country. Featuring dazzling floats, marching bands, and cultural performances, this annual tradition is a family-friendly celebration of Irish culture, complete with plenty of festive green attire and community spirit.
Denver March Powwow
WHEN: March 21–23, 2025
WHERE: Denver Coliseum
One of the largest and most significant gatherings of Native American culture in the country, the Denver March Powwow is a three-day event filled with traditional dance, music, storytelling, and arts and crafts. More than 100 tribes from across the U.S. and Canada come together to honor indigenous heritage, offering attendees an immersive experience into centuries-old traditions.
APRIL 2025
Denver Jazz Fest
WHEN: April 3–6, 2025
WHERE: Various venues
As Denver’s newest annual music event, the Denver Jazz Fest is set to become a must-attend for jazz lovers. This four-day celebration showcases local, national, and international jazz musicians, bringing soulful melodies and vibrant performances to the city. In addition to concerts, festivalgoers can enjoy educational sessions, jam sessions, and intimate artist talks
The Nostalgia Con
WHEN: April 25, 2025
WHERE: Colorado Convention Center
Step back in time at Nostalgia Con, a one-of-a-kind event dedicated to everything 90s and early 2000s. From throwback music and celebrity guests to themed merchandise and gaming experiences, this convention is a nostalgic trip for millennials and pop culture enthusiasts alike.
Sneaker Con Denver
WHEN: April 25–26, 2025
WHERE: Colorado Convention Center
Sneakerheads unite at Sneaker Con, the world’s leading sneaker convention. This two-day event offers attendees the chance to buy, sell, and trade some of the most sought-after sneakers while connecting with fellow enthusiasts, influencers, and designers in the sneaker community.
SeriesFest: Series 11
WHEN: April 30–May 4, 2025
WHERE: Various venues
SeriesFest is a festival unlike any other, dedicated to celebrating independent television pilots and storytelling. The event brings together emerging creators, industry professionals, and TV fans for exclusive screenings, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, making Denver a hub for the future of television.
MAY 2025
Cinco de Mayo Festival
WHEN: May 3–4, 2025
WHERE: Civic Center Park
A vibrant celebration of Latino culture, the Denver Cinco de Mayo Festival attracts more than 300,000 attendees each year. With live music, traditional dance performances, authentic food vendors, and a parade, this event showcases the rich heritage and traditions of the Latino community.
Denver Colfax Marathon
WHEN: May 17–18, 2025
WHERE: City Park
Denver’s premier marathon event offers scenic views of the city, with courses running through lakes, bridges, and even Denver Fire Station #1. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or participating for fun, the Colfax Marathon has options for everyone, including a half marathon and relay races.
Outside Festival
WHEN: May 31–June 1, 2025
WHERE: Civic Center Park
This unique event is a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts. From live music performances by headliners like Lord Huron and Sylvan Esso to adventure films, expert talks, and outdoor gear showcases, the Outside Festival celebrates all things nature and exploration.
Troutfest Colorado
WHEN: May 31, 2025
WHERE: Coors Field
Anglers and outdoor lovers alike will enjoy this festival dedicated to fly fishing and conservation efforts. With hands-on casting clinics, educational exhibits, and live music, Troutfest offers fun for the whole family while promoting sustainable fishing practices.
JUNE 2025
Denver Chalk Art Festival
WHEN: June 7–8, 2025
WHERE: Golden Triangle Creative District
Denver’s streets transform into an open-air gallery during the Denver Chalk Art Festival. More than 200 talented artists use vibrant pastel chalks to create mesmerizing works of art directly on the pavement. This free, family-friendly event allows visitors to witness art come to life in real time, enjoy live entertainment, and engage with local creatives in one of the city’s most artistic districts.
Juneteenth Music Festival
WHEN: June 14–15, 2025
WHERE: Five Points neighborhood
As one of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in the country, this festival in Denver’s historic Five Points neighborhood honors Black culture, freedom, and community. The weekend features a vibrant parade, live music from local and national artists, cultural performances, art installations, and delicious food from Black-owned businesses. It’s a time for celebration, education, and unity in one of Denver’s most historic neighborhoods.
Denver Cherry Blossom Festival
WHEN: June 21–22, 2025
WHERE: Sakura Square
Celebrating over 50 years, Denver’s Cherry Blossom Festival—known as “Sakura Matsuri” in Japanese—brings a taste of Japan to the Mile High City. Visitors can experience traditional taiko drumming performances, enjoy authentic Japanese food like teriyaki chicken and sake, and browse beautiful handmade artwork and crafts. It’s a must-visit event for those who appreciate Japanese culture, food, and community spirit.
Denver PrideFest
WHEN: June 28–29, 2025
WHERE: Civic Center Park
Denver PrideFest is one of the largest Pride celebrations in the region, drawing thousands to Civic Center Park for a weekend of inclusivity, love, and celebration. The festival features an exciting parade, a 5K run (where participants can walk, run, roll, or sashay), incredible live entertainment, and a variety of vendors supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you’re a longtime advocate or new to the Pride scene, this event is a joyful and welcoming experience for all.
Colorado Indian Market & Powwow
WHEN: TBA 2025
WHERE: The Fort restaurant
The Tesoro Cultural Center hosts this annual celebration honoring the American Indian tribes that played a vital role in shaping Colorado’s history. Set against the backdrop of The Fort restaurant, visitors can experience traditional Native American dance, music, storytelling, and craftwork. The event pays homage to the tribes that were part of Old Bent’s Fort, a crucial fur trading post in the 1840s, and offers an immersive cultural experience for all ages.
JUNE 2025
Fan Expo Denver
WHEN: July 3–6, 2025
WHERE: Colorado Convention Center
Fan Expo Denver is the ultimate destination for pop culture lovers, uniting fans of comics, anime, gaming, and sci-fi under one roof. Meet celebrity guests, explore artist alley, participate in cosplay contests, and engage in panel discussions with industry professionals. Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard enthusiast, this is the place to celebrate your favorite fandoms with like-minded people.
Cherry Creek Arts Festival
WHEN: July 4–6, 2025
WHERE: Cherry Creek neighborhood
One of Denver’s premier art events, the Cherry Creek Arts Festival is an annual celebration of creativity and community. The festival showcases works from over 250 national and international artists, ranging from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media. Visitors can also enjoy live performances, interactive art experiences, and gourmet food vendors, making it a must-visit event for art lovers of all ages.
Colorado Black Arts Festival
WHEN: July 11–13, 2025
WHERE: City Park West neighborhood
This free festival highlights African American culture through live music, art exhibitions, and an expansive marketplace featuring Black-owned businesses. Attendees can enjoy a variety of entertainment, from jazz and R&B performances to poetry readings and cultural showcases. It’s a great opportunity to experience the richness of African American heritage while supporting local artists and entrepreneurs.
Bright Nights
WHEN: Opens July 24, 2025
WHERE: Four Mile Historic Park
Bright Nights is an immersive nighttime event where larger-than-life sculptures illuminate the 12-acre Four Mile Historic Park. Created in collaboration with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc., this mesmerizing display of light and artistry is a visual feast for visitors of all ages. The enchanting experience lasts for 10 weeks, making it a summer highlight in Denver.
Underground Music Showcase
WHEN: July 25–27, 2025
WHERE: South Broadway neighborhood
Denver’s largest music festival takes over South Broadway with more than 200 artists performing on multiple stages, both indoor and outdoor. The Underground Music Showcase (UMS) is a celebration of independent and emerging music, offering attendees the chance to discover new artists while enjoying the vibrant nightlife and energy of one of Denver’s trendiest areas.
SEPTEMBER 2025
25th Annual Colorado Dragon Boat Festival
WHEN: Sept. 6–7, 2025
WHERE: Sloan’s Lake Park
This annual festival is a vibrant celebration of Asian culture featuring thrilling dragon boat races, live performances, traditional dance, delicious Asian cuisine, and artisan vendors. As one of the largest dragon boat festivals in the country, it’s an incredible way to experience and appreciate the rich diversity of Denver’s Asian and Asian American communities.
Denver Food + Wine Festival
WHEN: TBA 2025
WHERE: TBA
Food lovers, rejoice! This multi-day festival is a dream come true for culinary enthusiasts, featuring tastings, chef demonstrations, wine pairings, and exclusive dining experiences. Whether you’re a fine dining aficionado or simply love trying new flavors, the Denver Food + Wine Festival is an experience not to be missed.
Denver Oktoberfest
WHEN: Sept. 19–21 & Sept. 26–28, 2025
WHERE: Downtown
Get ready to hoist your stein, don your lederhosen, and embrace the German spirit at Denver’s Oktoberfest. This lively event spans two weekends and features traditional Bavarian beer, bratwurst, live music, stein hoisting contests, keg bowling, and more. It’s a fantastic way to welcome the fall season with friends and family.
Westwood Chile Fest
WHEN: TBA 2025
WHERE: Westwood Creative District
Westwood Chile Fest is a one-day celebration of Hispanic culture, featuring authentic cuisine, vibrant local arts, live music, and, of course, plenty of roasted chiles. The festival showcases the neighborhood’s strong Hispanic heritage and community pride, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Denver’s rich cultural diversity.
OCTOBER 2025
Great American Beer Festival®
WHEN: Oct. 9–11, 2025
WHERE: Colorado Convention Center
Beer enthusiasts from across the country flock to Denver for the Great American Beer Festival, one of the most prestigious beer events in the U.S. Featuring over 500 breweries and 2,000+ beers, attendees can sample a diverse array of craft brews, meet brewers, and enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with beer lovers. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a beer connoisseur, this is an unforgettable event to sip and savor.
