The true meaning of Memorial Day may get lost in the excitement of a long weekend, spring weather settling in and a well-needed break from the work week, but it’s important to remember why we all get to rest for an extra day this upcoming week in Denver.
While attending these events all across Denver, indulging in barbecue, beer, country music, hotdog eating contests and live performances, keep in mind that all of the fun, festivities and happiness are possible through the sacrifices made by our veterans. That being said, here are some ways to embrace the holiday and honor the brave men and women who have served.
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Theme and Water Park + Fireworks
When:Sunday, May 26, 9 p.m.Where:Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, 2000 Elitch Cir., Denver, COCost:Prices varyThe Lowdown:
Elitch Gardens opens at 10:30 a.m., to which point, guests can hang out at Colorado’s only combination theme and water park. The park has around 40 rides, food and games to entertain for the day. The park is located Downtown Denver, so as it gets closer to dark, guests can prepare to find a spot to watch the fireworks nearby.
Photo courtesy Elitch Gardens
Cherry Creek Reservoir
When:Any timeWhere:Cherry Creek Reservoir, J4PJ+FQ, Greenwood Village, CO Cost:FreeThe Lowdown:
Nothing says “Memorial Day” quite like a day on the water. Cherry Creek Reservoir is open to boating, jet skiing, paddle boarding and fishing. Pack the cooler with some sandwiches and ice cold drinks to enjoy while floating around and embracing the long weekend.
Photo courtesy Cathy McCray/flickr of Cherry Creek Reservoir
Memorial Day Weekend at 54thirty
When:Sunday, May 26, 2024 at 12:00 p.m.Where:54thirty Rooftop, 1475 California St., Denver, COCost:FreeThe Lowdown:
Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend at 54thirty! Take advantage of a Monday off of work to enjoy live music and delicious frozen drinks. Don’t forget to try the new seasonal small bites.
Relax by the water at Sloan’s Lake
When:Any timeWhere:Sloan’s Lake Park, 1700 N. Sheridan Blvd., Denver, COCost:FreeThe Lowdown:
Family fun can be easily had at Sloan’s Lake Park as it offers baseball, softball and soccer fields, a basketball court, benches, flower beds, the lake, and a picnic area and shelter with tables.
Photo courtesy Michael Levine-Clark/flickr of Sloan’s Lake
Denver Arts Festival: Celebrating 25 Years Of Creativity & Culture
When: Saturday, May 25, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. & Sunday, May 26th, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.Where:Conservatory Green, Central Park 8304 E. 49th Pl., DenverCost:FreeThe Lowdown:
Experience the vibrant fusion of creativity and culture at the Denver Arts Festival. Immerse yourself in a weekend of artistic excellence, showcasing a diverse array of talents and mediums from local and national artists on 5/25 and 5/26.
Denver Memorial Day Weekend Vendor Market & Car Show
When:Saturday, May 25, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.Where:Gateway Classic Cars of Denver, 14150 Grasslands Dr., Englewood, COCost:FreeThe Lowdown:
This day is full of shopping from local vendors, food trucks and the chance to take a peak at classic cars. At 9 a.m., free coffee, pastries and t-shirts will be provided will supplies last. The vendor market will run until 2 p.m. From 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., the chrome car show will take place, followed by the Women In Wheels Car Show from 12 – 2 p.m. where the top three female car owners will win an award selected by attendees. This event is pet friendly and cars may be showcased for free.
Photo courtesy Colorado Shoppers Market
Kickoff to Summer Memorial Weekend Festival
When:Saturday, May 25th, 4 – 10 p.m., Sunday, May 26, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. + Monday, May 27, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.Where:1000 Block of Old S. Gaylord St.Cost:FreeThe Lowdown:
This event is stacked with live music, drinks, food trucks, rides and vendors. From 4 – 5 p.m. on Saturday, Very Jerry Band will perform, followed by Johnny & The Mongrels (5:30 – 7 p.m.) and Ryan Chrys and The Rough Cuts (7:30 – 10 p.m.) Live music will continue the next two days alongside a great deal of vendors, and food trucks. Sunday and Monday will feature Rescue Puppy Yoga with an adoption event. A doggie bar and play area will be open Sunday and Monday so you can even take your furry friend. Find additional information here.
Photo courtesy Old South Gaylord
Boulder Creek Festival
When:Friday, May 24 5 p.m. – 10 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., Monday, May 27, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.Where:Along the Boulder Creek from 9th St. to 14th St. between Canyon Blvd. + Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, COCost:FreeThe Lowdown:
While you have to make the skip over to Boulder for this event, it’s well worth the gas mileage to experience 4 days of more than 30 bands across three stages, 200+ artisans to shop, 30+ restaurants, as well as family friendly events like face painting, rides and a dance party. On Saturday, there will be a painting competition from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. where guests can vote for their favorite artists and bid on a custom painted Adirondack chair.
Photo courtesy Team Player Productions Events / Eventbrite
Memorial Day Weekend Party
When:Friday, May 24, 12 p.m.Where:Punch Bowl Social, 65 Broadway, Denver, COCost:FreeThe Lowdown:
For Memorial Day weekend, Punch Bowl Social is offering $9 margaritas and a free shareable for the table with an RSVP.
Photo courtesy Punch Bowl Social / Eventbrite
Memorial Day Parade
When:Monday, May 27, 9:30 a.m.Where:Veterans Memorial Park and down 64th Ave., Commerce City, COCost:FreeThe Lowdown:
Commerce City is the home to Colorado’s largest Memorial Day Parade, just 20 minutes outside of Denver. Before the parade, there will be a ceremony at the park to honor the fallen service members and recognize the parade Grand Marshal. Following the parade, there will be a concert at the park, along with food trucks, live music, and booths from veterans’ service organizations.
Photo courtesy City Government of Commerce City / Facebook
Buds & Boots
When:Sunday, May 26, 2 – 6 p.m.Where:The Viewhouse Ballpark, 2015 Market St., Denver, COCost:FreeThe Lowdown:
Show up to this event hungry and participate in a hot dog eating contest that awards the winner a pair of Zach Bryan concert tickets. There will be country music, complimentary cowgirl hats and Bud Light specials.
Photo courtesy ViewHouse Ballpark / Eventbrite
Diebolt Memorial Day Cookout
When:Monday, May 27, 12 – 8 p.m.Where:Diebolt Brewing Company, 3855 Mariposa St., Denver, COCost:FreeThe Lowdown:
Head to Diebolt with your own meats and cook them up on grills or a Blackstone flat top. If you’re unsure what you want to grill, don’t fret — with any beer purchase, a free hot dog is yours to claim.
Photo courtesy Diebolt Brewing Company / Facebook
Memorial Day Mimosas & Pool Games
When:Monday, May 27, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.Where:Skyline Acres Swim & Tennis Club, 6451 E. Jewell Ave., Denver, COCost:The Lowdown:
This Memorial Day Social begins at 9 a.m. with a bubbly toast to honor the holiday. After mixing and mingling with friends and family, at 1:30 p.m., the pool games for all ages will begin — whether you’re a competitive swimmer or like to tan on the sidelines — there’s an activity for everyone to have fun with.
Photo courtesy Skyline Acres
Missing Man Table
When:Monday, May 27Where:Guard & Grace, 1801 California St., Denver, COCost:Prices varyThe Lowdown:
Stop in Guard & Grace as they pay homage to Memorial Day with their yearly salute to veterans and those in active service through the “Missing Man Table.” The table serves as a heartfelt tribute to honor the brave souls who have dedicated their lives to our country. It stands as a symbol of their sacrifice and valor.
Photo courtesy Your Hub
Memorial Day Community Sauna & Cold Plunge
When:Monday, May 27, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.Where:KALO, 1077 S. Gaylord St., Denver, COCost:$50The Lowdown:
Come see what all the rage is about with saunas and cold plunges by alternating rounds at KALO. This event is open to the public, not only KALO members.
Photo courtesy KALO Fitness / Eventbrite
Outdoor Yoga & A Cone
When:Monday, May 27, 6 – 7 p.m.Where:Little Man Ice Cream, 2620 16th St., Denver, COCost:$18The Lowdown:
End the long weekend with a workout on the patio ice cream shop! Bring your own yoga mat and water and take part in some yoga, regardless of your skill level. With purchase of a ticket, guests will receive a free single scoop after class. There is limited space so snag a ticket if interested!
Photo courtesy Skyliens Yoga / Eventbrite
Applebee’s Memorial Day Car Show
When:Monday, May 27, 8 a.m.Where:Applebee’s Grill + Bar, 10625 W. Colfax, Lakewood, COCost:FreeThe Lowdown:
Street Rodders For Life is hosting their annual car show and fundraiser at Applebee’s where attendees can view classic cars, get a fresh lemon shake up and a Chicago dog.
Photo courtesy Buckaroo Enterprises / Facebook
NA Memorial Day Picnic & BBQ
When:Monday, May 27, 1 – 5 p.m.Where:Progress Park, 5100 S. Hickory St., Littleton, COCost:$5 suggested donationThe Lowdown:
At this potluck style event, Mile High Area Service Committee Literature (MHASC) activities committee will provide burgers, hotdogs, beverages and chips. It’s asked that guests bring their favorite side, salad or dessert. There will be two guest speakers, music, games, fellowship, and obviously, food.
Photo courtesy Denver NA website
Memorial Day BBQ Celebration
When:Monday, May 27, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.Where:The Post Chicken & Beer, 2200 S. Broadway, Denver, COCost:Prices varyThe Lowdown:
The Post Chicken & Beer’s culinary director Jimmy Giesler is bringing his expertise in smoked meats to all Post locations in the form of a fresh-from-the-smoker Memorial Day barbecue menu. On the menu, guests can expect slow-smoked meat, campfire beans, mac n’ cheese, crunchy slaw and grandma’s cornbread for $30. The Post’s LoHi location will serve a smoked rib platter with Eastern Carolina “mop” sauce with the same sides for $32; a la carte racks of ribs for $21 and signature chef special sides like charred cabbage wedge with creamy dill dressing for $12 and a baked sweet potato with harissa-honey butter, scallion and lime for $12.
Photo courtesy The Post Chicken & Beer (Rosedale Denver) / Facebook
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