No plans for the upcoming weekend? There’s plenty of action happening around Denver and beyond to get folks off the couch, like Pride events, a full moon paddle, and hot air balloon festival.
Each Thursday, explore Denver’s essential weekend events curated by The Denver Gazette. Dive into cultural experiences and entertainment delights across the city. Whether you enjoy art galleries, pottery, or outdoor sports, there’s something for everyone in Denver’s vibrant cultural scene. To submit an event for consideration, email [email protected].
FRIDAY
Donkey Derby DaysWhat: Ready. Set. Race against Cripple Creek’s famous town donkeys. The race is only a half-mile sprint through downtown Cripple Creek with one catch: you have to convince your donkey to cross the finish line with you. Living up to their names, it won’t be an easy task getting these stubborn ol’ mules to complete the race. The festival helps support the Two Mile High Club, which cares for the town’s donkeys as an ongoing, historic mining tradition. The festival will also have live music, a parade, vendors, a beer garden, and a pancake breakfast. When: Varying times June, 26-28Cost: Free to attend and watch. $100 fee to race with the donkeys. Register here. Where: Cripple Creek, 200 E. Carr Ave., Cripple Creek, CO 80813
Pitch-A-FriendWhat: Finding the paw-fect date can be a ruff time. That’s why Pitch-A-Friend is coming back to McGregor Square with a special twist. Adoptable dogs will be at the event, ready for you to take home in case you don’t find your newest boyfriend, or they can help break the ice on that really awkward first date, which will come in handy if you are the one being pitched. Howl you fare in this dog-eat-dog dating night? Come alone or come with a friend, you’re sure to meet ‘the one,’ even if that one has four legs instead of two.When: 6 p.m. FridayCost: Free admissionWhere: McGregor Square, 1901 Wazee Street Denver, CO, 80202…