35 Best Events in Denver, Colorado Summer of 2024 Edition
The summer of 2024 already feels the most like before COVID changed everything. Even though there are a lot of headwinds the Denver is dealing with ranging from endless infrastructure projects, a contentious budget shortfall and the unexpected things that cities deal with-the vibes are back. Denver reminds me in many ways of New Orleans (not the food) but the focus on fun, having a great time and the focus on just having a great time is unmatched. In fact, originally, I planned on sharing the top 25 best events in Denver this summer. However, there are so many incredible things happening that I had to extend the list. It would have been a disservice not to include many of the once in a lifetime experiences that we’ll be enjoying this summer. With that in mind, I’m sharing the 35 best events in Denver, Colorado summer of 2024 edition. If you see me side-hustling at some of these events, I’m trying to watch my budget. Please note, I’m likely to add more things to this list as more events are posted throughout the summer.
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Cowtown Denver
Sporting Events
I love sports! In a past life, I was a cheerleader for many years and enjoy the fact that Denver has so many incredible teams to support and enjoy. In fact, at the time I’m working on this post bot the Denver Nuggets and the Colorado Avalanche are heading into the playoffs. This summer there are 3 sporting events that I’m especially excited about and I think you would be too.
- MexTour: Mexico vs. Uruguay (soccer) 6/5/2024
- BMW Championship 8/20-8/25/2024 (Castle Pines)
Cultural and Theater Events
In addition to cheerleading, I also dabbled in theater. One of the many wonderful things about Denver is all of the incredible free and inexpensive cultural events that we can enjoy throughout the summer. I do have a few tips to share before you make your way to any of these fun events.
Tips for Attending:
- Always check the event’s website-You’ll typically find information about the venue, parking, cost, etc.
- If the event is being hosted outside-prepare for all types of weather. Bring a water bottle, sunblock, lip balm, a hat and a jacket. Denver’s weather is unpredictable, things can happen and sometimes you don’t feel like paying for water.
- Have two or three payment types-Don’t assume that every vendor has Apple Pay. Many have it, not all vendors have it. I’ve seen vendors take: cash/card/PayPal/Venmo/CashaApp/Apple Pay
Now that you’ve checked out the tips, here is my list of top cultural and theater events happening this summer.
- Denver Fringe Festival 6/6-6/9/24
- Junteenth (Music Festival) 6/15-6/16/24
- Brazilian Day 6/29/24
- Cherry Blossom Festival (50th Anniversary) 6/22-6//23
- Fan Expo Denver 7/4-7/7
- Wicked–Broadway Show at the Denver Center for Performing Arts
- Car Free First Friday 8/2/24
- La Raza Park Day (August TBA)
- Saigon Azteca Night Market-Hecho en Westwood
- This was one of my favorite summer of events of 2023.
- This year-8/10/204
- Blaxpanation hosted at History Museum Colorado
- Several events throughout the summer
Best Concerts Coming to Denver in 2024
I’ve been in a constant state of shock as different musicians announce that they plan on stopping in Denver. I remember when we never made the tour. Folks would just fly over us and we’d have to travel to see our favorites in other towns. Nowadays, people are flying to Denver to see their favorite artists. What I’ve noticed is how affordable many of these concerts are. In fact, the concerts go from free to several hundred dollars a ticket. I have no issue sitting in the nosebleed sections so I plan on buying the cheapest ticket for 95% of these tours and having a great time. A number of my friends are planning to do the same thing.
- Stevie Nicks 5/30/24
- The Outside Festival 6/1-6/2/24
- Janet Jackson 6/16/24
- The Rolling Stones 6/20/24
- Diana Ross 6/27/24
- Nas with the Colorado Symphony 6/30/24
- Black Opry Revue-7/14/24
- The Roots and Digable Planets 7/20/24
- Olivia Rodrigo 7/30
- Thirty Seconds to Mars 7/31/24
- Foo Fighters 8/3/24
- Peso Pluma 8/9/24
- Jhene Aiko 8/17/24
This was the hardest section for me to work on because there are so many freaking concerts coming to Denver. There are other concerts that missed this list because they are happening in early May or September…technically, not summer.
Out of Town Events
No summer in Denver would be complete without going on at least one road trip. However, many people will go on several trips throughout the summer. Again, there’s a ridiculous number of experiences to choose from but I picked the ones that people may not have gone to yet.
- Lavender Festival in Palisade, Colorado
- Rocky Mountain Folks Festival–Lyons, Colorado
- Tour De Fat-Fort Collins
- I miss participating in the one in Denver
- Wildflower Season in Crested Butte
Best Events in Denver, Colorado Summer of 2024 Edition
You’ve gone through the list, which events have caught your eye? What are you excited about doing this summer? Are you surprised by all of the variety of events that Denver has to offer this summer? Are there other events that you think I should know about or think should make this list? Let me know!