I’m thrilled to share a fantastic list of events and festivals in Denver for young adults in 2024. From lively music gatherings to tasty food festivals, Denver has something for every young adult seeking fun and culture.
Let’s explore the top 15+ events together and make some unforgettable memories this year. Get those calendars ready – it’s time for a year of exciting experiences!
Page Contents
Events and Festivals in Denver for Young Adults to Attend in 2024
1 – Winter Brew Festival 2024: A festival celebrating craft beers with live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Winter Brew Festival 2024 is an event that young adults in Denver, especially craft beer enthusiasts, should not miss. Here’s everything you need to know about the festival:
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, January 27, 2024
- Location: Mile High Station, 2027 West Lower Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80204
Sessions and Pricing
| Session | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM | $59.95 |
| VIP (includes MouCo cheese sampling and beer pairing, VIP swag, and a VIP souvenir glass) | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM | $69.95 |
| Evening | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM | $59.95 |
Note: Keep an eye out for promo codes on emails or social media for potential discounts.
What to Expect
- Unlimited Tastings: The festival offers unlimited tastings of some of the best brews available.
- Souvenir Glass: Attendees will receive a souvenir glass as part of their admission.
- Entertainment: The festival features a vibrant atmosphere with musical entertainment and a chance at prizes. The 2024 edition of the festival will have a 90s theme, with 90s music and 90s karaoke.
- Food: Food will be available from food trucks located just outside the building.
Transportation and Parking
Attendees are advised to take public transportation, or a ride share to the event, as parking is extremely limited.
Charitable Cause
The Winter Brew Festival is also a charitable event, with proceeds benefiting Big Bones Canine Rescue, a non-profit dog rescue organization.
Participating in the Winter Brew Festival 2024 is one of the best things to do in Denver for young adults to enjoy a wide variety of craft beers, live music, and a lively atmosphere, all while supporting a good cause.
2 – Global Dance Festival: A two-day event featuring a wide range of music genres and immersive art installations.
The Global Dance Festival is a premier event for dance music fans, offering a dynamic mix of electronic dance music genres. Here’s everything you need to know about the festival:
Event Details
- Location: Denver, Colorado
- Dates: To be announced (Traditionally takes place in July)
Festival Highlights
- Electrifying Atmosphere: The festival is known for its electrifying atmosphere, featuring multiple stages with world-renowned artists and up-and-coming acts.
- Immersive Art Installations: Attendees can also enjoy immersive art installations.
- Food Options: A variety of food options from some of Denver’s best food trucks are available.
- Unique Musical Styles: Each stage offers a unique musical style, from house and techno to dubstep and trance.
- Carnival Wonderland: The festival grounds transform into a carnival wonderland, complete with roaming performers and a fanciful playground of art installations.
Additional Information
- Age Limit: Global Dance Festival is an 18+ event.
- VIP Experiences: VIP experiences are available for those who seek an enhanced festival experience.
- Festival Timings: The festival runs from 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm daily.
The Global Dance Festival is a must-attend event for young adults in Denver looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.
3 – Underground Music Showcase: A three-day festival on South Broadway featuring over 200 artists and attracting thousands of attendees.
The Underground Music Showcase (UMS) is a three-day music festival that takes place on South Broadway in Denver, attracting thousands of attendees each year.
Here’s everything you need to know about the festival:
Event Details
- Location: South Broadway, Denver
- Duration: Three days
- Artists: Over 200 artists
- Founded: 2001 by journalists John Moore and Ricardo Baca of The Denver Post
- Mission: To highlight the diverse music scene in Denver
Festival Highlights
- Largest and Longest-Running: The UMS is Denver’s largest and longest-running music festival.
- Evolution: Over the years, it has evolved into a major event, drawing music lovers from all over to the Broadway + Baker neighborhoods for three days every July.
- Festival Hours: The festival typically takes place from Friday to Sunday, with festival hours from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday and 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
- Rain or Shine: The event is rain or shine, and all purchases are non-transferable.
- Wide Range of Music Genres: The UMS showcases a wide range of music genres, with performances taking place across multiple outdoor stages and over a dozen indoor venues.
- Lineup: The lineup includes both local and national artists, with past headliners including Chicago musician and poet Jamila Woods, indie electronica singer and producer Emmit Fenn, and psychedelic rock band Crumb.
- Focus on Artist Care, Accessibility, and Harm Reduction: In addition to the music, the UMS also focuses on artist care, accessibility, and harm reduction at music festivals. The festival has a mission to promote accessibility throughout its showcase, with a comprehensive UMS Accessibility Guide available for attendees.
The UMS is a great event for young adults in Denver, offering a unique opportunity to discover new music, enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere, and experience the city’s thriving music scene.
With its diverse lineup and commitment to accessibility and artist care, the UMS is a standout event in Denver’s festival calendar.
4 – Denver Day of Rock: A one-day, free music festival in Denver’s LoDo District that benefits Amp the Cause, with multiple stages of live music.
Denver Day of Rock is a one-day, free music festival that takes place in Denver’s Lower Downtown (LoDo) District. Here’s everything you need to know about the festival:
Event Details
- Location: Denver’s Lower Downtown (LoDo) District
- Organizer: Amp the Cause, a Denver-based nonprofit organization
- Cause: The proceeds from the festival go towards supporting Amp the Cause, making it not just a day of great music, but also a day of giving back to the community.
Festival Highlights
- Five Stages of Live Music: Denver Day of Rock features five stages of live music throughout downtown Denver.
- Diverse Lineup: With a lineup that includes both local and national talent, the festival offers a diverse range of music genres. Past performers have included popular artists such as Austin Young Band, Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers, and Tracksuit Wedding.
- Food and Beverage Vendors: In addition to the music, Denver Day of Rock also offers a variety of food and beverage vendors, making it a full-day event with something for everyone.
- Date: The festival typically takes place on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, making it a great way to kick off the summer season.
Denver Day of Rock is more than just a music festival. It’s an opportunity to enjoy great music, explore downtown Denver, and support a good cause.
Whether you’re a Denver local or just visiting, Denver Day of Rock is an event you won’t want to miss.
5. Denver Arts Festival: Held in Denver’s Conservatory Green in Stapleton during Memorial weekend, showcasing Colorado and national artists.
The Denver Arts Festival is a celebrated event that takes place annually during Memorial weekend at Denver’s Conservatory Green in Central Park. Here’s everything you need to know about the festival:
Event Details
- Location: Denver’s Conservatory Green in Central Park
- Artists: Over 150 Colorado artists, as well as a select group of national artists
- Attendance: Around 50,000 people each year
Festival Highlights
- Showcasing Fine Arts and Crafts: The festival is dedicated to showcasing fine arts and crafts.
- Wide Range of Art Forms: Visitors can expect to see a wide range of art forms, including mixed media, ceramics, fiber, furniture, glass, jewelry, metal, photography, and wood sculpture.
- Live Music Performances: The event also offers live music performances.
- Food Trucks and Wine Tasting: Enhancing the festival atmosphere are food trucks and wine tasting.
- Kids Art Zone: For families, there’s a Kids Art Zone where children can engage in art activities.
The Denver Arts Festival is not only a celebration of art but also a community event that brings people together to appreciate creativity and craftsmanship.
With its diverse lineup and commitment to accessibility and artist care, the festival is a standout event in Denver’s cultural calendar, offering a unique opportunity for young adults to immerse themselves in the vibrant art scene.
6. First Friday Art Walks: Occur in Denver’s art districts, where galleries and studios open late for visitors to enjoy art, food, and drink.
First Friday Art Walks are a staple event in Denver’s art districts, offering a unique blend of art, food, and drink. Here’s everything you need to know about these events:
Event Details
- Location: Art District on Santa Fe, spanning from 13th Avenue to Alameda Avenue and Kalamath Street to Inca Street
- Frequency: Monthly, on the first Friday
- Time: 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Festival Highlights
- Artistic Expressions: Visitors can explore a diverse range of artistic expressions, meet local artists, and even find original artwork on sale.
- Food and Drink Specials: Many establishments offer food and drink specials, allowing visitors to enjoy a culinary experience alongside their cultural exploration.
- Live Music: The atmosphere of the First Friday Art Walks is always buzzing, with live music often accompanying the visual feast.
First Friday Art Walks in Denver offer a unique blend of art, food, and drink, making it a must-visit event for young adults and art enthusiasts.
It’s not just about viewing art; it’s about immersing oneself in the vibrant cultural scene of Denver.
7 – Food & Drink Festivals: Denver’s culinary scene is celebrated with various food and drink festivals throughout the year.
Food and drink festivals in Denver offer a delightful experience for young adults who are eager to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Here’s a snapshot of some of the city’s most popular festivals:
- Denver Food & Wine Festival: This multi-day event honors the local culinary community with a series of exciting events, including the Grand Tasting, where attendees can sample dishes from a variety of eateries.
- The Big Eat: A one-night showcase of Denver’s independent dining scene, featuring small bites and sips from numerous food and beverage providers.
- Denver BBQ Festival: A savory celebration of all things barbeque.
- Bloody Mary Festival: Brings together the best of Denver’s Bloody Mary mixes for a spirited competition.
- Northglenn Food Truck Carnival: Highlights the city’s food truck scene, offering a casual and diverse dining experience.
These festivals not only provide an opportunity to indulge in delicious food and drink but also to mingle with fellow food enthusiasts, enjoy live music, and participate in interactive culinary experiences. With such a rich array of festivals, young adults in Denver can look forward to a year-round feast for the senses.
8 – Denver Food + Wine Festival: A multi-day event featuring tastings, food from local restaurants, and wine pairings.
The Denver Food + Wine Festival is a multi-day extravaganza that celebrates the vibrant culinary community of Denver. It’s organized by the Colorado Restaurant Foundation and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.
Event Details
| Dates | Location | Beneficiary |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, September 4 – Saturday, September 7, 2024 | Tivoli Quad, Denver Auraria Campus | Colorado Restaurant Foundation |
Highlights
- Grand Tasting: Sample dishes from a variety of eateries.
- Shake + Brake Showdown: A thrilling event (details not provided).
- Riedel Seminar: An informative seminar (details not provided).
The festival is not just about food and wine, it’s also about supporting a good cause.
The proceeds from the festival go towards supporting the Colorado Restaurant Foundation, which provides resources for worker education, training, mental health and wellness, and the Angel Relief Fund.
This festival is a fantastic opportunity for young adults in Denver to enjoy a wide variety of food, wine, and spirits, while also supporting a good cause.
9 – Taste of Vail: A festival in April that showcases Vail’s culinary offerings.
The Taste of Vail is a premier food and wine festival that takes place annually in April, showcasing the rich culinary offerings of Vail, Colorado. It’s rated as one of the top food and wine festivals by Forbes, USA Today, and The Travel Channel.
Event Details
| Dates | Location |
|---|---|
| April 5th – 8th, 2024 | Vail, Colorado |
Highlights
- Grand Tasting: Sample dishes from various local restaurants and taste a wide selection of wines.
- Debut of Rosé: Features more than 80 varietals of just-released Rosé wines.
- Culinary Seminars: In-depth seminars about the culinary scene, paired with offerings from some of Taste of Vail’s premier wineries.
The festival features more than 30 of Vail’s top chefs and restaurateurs, along with owners and winemakers from nearly 50 of the nation’s highly ranked wineries.
This festival is a fantastic opportunity for young adults to explore a wide range of culinary delights and wine offerings, learn from culinary experts, and experience the lifestyle of the Vail Valley.
It takes place at several venues throughout Vail, including the top of the mountain and in Vail Village, providing attendees with stunning views and a taste of the Vail Valley lifestyle.
10 – Denver Greek Festival: An annual celebration of Greek culture with authentic food, music, and entertainment.
The Denver Greek Festival is an annual celebration of Greek culture that takes place over a weekend in June. It’s hosted by the Assumption Cathedral parishioners.
Event Details
| Dates | Location |
|---|---|
| A weekend in June (exact dates not provided) | Assumption Cathedral, Denver |
Highlights
- Food: Indulge in traditional Greek dishes such as pastichio, spanakopita, souvlakia, and dolmathes. Desserts like baklava, kourambiethes, paximadia, and koulourakia are also available, along with new offerings like a lamb dinner and baklava ice cream.
- Music and Dance: Enjoy live Greek music and traditional dance performances by youth and adult dance troupes. The Assumption Cathedral Choir also performs.
- Boutique: Explore a boutique showcasing traditional Greek jewelry, clothing, Orthodox icons, and art.
- Church Tours and Choir Performances: Join church tours and enjoy choir performances.
The Denver Greek Festival is not just a cultural event but also a community gathering that brings together locals and visitors.
It provides a unique opportunity for young adults to experience and celebrate Greek traditions in Denver.
11 – Denver Oktoberfest: Celebrates German culture with beer, food, music, and traditional activities like stein hoisting and keg bowling.
The Denver Oktoberfest is a festive celebration of German culture that has been a staple event in Downtown Denver since 1969. This two-weekend festival is known for its lively atmosphere and traditional activities.
Event Details
| Dates | Location |
|---|---|
| Two weekends in September (exact dates not provided) | Downtown Denver |
Highlights
- Activities: Enjoy traditional activities such as keg bowling and stein hoisting.
- Music: Live music ranging from polka to modern beats at the late-night silent disco. Participate in sing-alongs and chicken-dance along.
- Food: A variety of German foods like schnitzel, pretzels, sausages, and much more.
- Beverages: Oktoberfest-style brews and other tasty beverages. Walk the streets with refillable steins.
- Exclusive Experience: Access the Jägermeister VIP Beer Hall for a more exclusive experience.
- Contests: Participate in contests for costumes and dachshund races.
The Denver Oktoberfest encourages attendees to dress in their finest dirndl or lederhosen and immerse themselves in the festivities.
It’s a community event that brings people together to celebrate tradition, camaraderie, and, of course, excellent beer.
For young adults in Denver, the Denver Oktoberfest presents an opportunity to enjoy all-around revelry, complete with authentic German food, music, and a vast selection of craft beers.
12 – Cinco de Mayo Festival: A cultural event with Mexican food, music, and dance.
The Cinco de Mayo Festival in Denver is a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture that takes place annually over a weekend in May. It’s known as the “Celebrate Culture” Festival and is produced by NEWSED Community Development, a local nonprofit organization.
Event Details
| Dates | Location |
|---|---|
| A weekend in May (exact dates not provided) | Denver |
Highlights
- Food: A variety of vendors serving up traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. The festival also features a taco eating contest.
- Music and Dance: Live performances on three stages featuring a variety of genres, including mariachi, salsa, and norteño. The Mexican Hat Dance, known as “Jarabe Tapatío,” is a particularly energetic and iconic performance.
- Parade: A festive parade showcasing Mexican culture.
- Lowrider Car Show: A display of lowrider cars.
- Chihuahua Race: A fun and competitive race featuring Chihuahuas.
- Vendors: Vendors display Mexican folk art and handcrafted goods.
The Cinco de Mayo Festival is a family-friendly event that welcomes thousands of attendees each year.
It provides a unique opportunity for young adults in Denver to experience and celebrate Mexican traditions in a lively and festive atmosphere.
13 – Red Rocks Summer Concert Series: Enjoy live music at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
The Red Rocks Summer Concert Series is a must-attend event for young adults in Denver. The iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, renowned for its live music performances, has hosted some of the most iconic concerts in history.
Event Details
| Location | Seating Capacity | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Red Rocks Amphitheatre, just west of Denver | Over 9,000 seats | Summer and Fall (through November) |
Highlights
- Venue: The amphitheater is located within Red Rocks Park, which features 738 acres of hiking trails, geological wonders, and astounding views. The Colorado countryside can be seen from the stands, and on a clear night, the sky is filled with millions of stars.
- Artists: The concert series features a diverse lineup of artists, catering to a wide range of musical tastes. The schedule includes performances from artists like Rezz, The Chainsmokers, Ween, The Front Bottoms, Boygenius, Joe Bonamassa, Gov’t Mule, Hippie Sabotage, Maggie Rogers, Parker McCollum, and many more. The upcoming schedule promises to be just as exciting, with performances from artists like Boogie T, Dom Dolla, Elderbrook, and many others already announced.
- Tickets: Tickets for the concerts can be purchased online. It’s recommended to stay updated with the most recent concert schedule on the official Red Rocks website.
The Red Rocks Summer Concert Series offers an unforgettable experience of live music in one of the most iconic and acoustically perfect venues in the world. It’s an event that young adults in Denver should not miss.
14 – City Park Jazz: A summer series of free jazz concerts in City Park.
City Park Jazz is a beloved summer tradition in Denver, offering a series of free jazz concerts in the city’s namesake park. This volunteer-run organization has been activating Denver’s City Park with music since 1986.
Event Details
| Dates | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Early June – Early August (exact dates not provided) | Sunday nights, 6-8 p.m | City Park Pavilion, Denver |
Highlights
- Concerts: Produces 10 free jazz concerts each summer, attracting thousands of music fans for each performance.
- Artists: The lineup is diverse, featuring a range of jazz-related genres and artists such as Sarah Mount and the Rushmores, Stafford Hunter & Jazz Explorations, Dotsero, Ritmo Jazz Latino, Wellington Bullings, Chris Daniels & the Kings, Otis Taylor, The Burroughs, and La Pompe Jazz.
- Food: Attendees can enjoy a variety of food options from Denver’s finest food trucks, offering everything from ice cream and pizza to Ethiopian food and sushi.
- Seating: Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets or folding chairs for the grassy area in front of the stage.
- Parking: Free parking is available at the Denver Zoo and Denver Museum of Nature & Science lots and garage.
The City Park Jazz concerts are a family-friendly event and are held rain or shine. It’s a fantastic event for young adults in Denver to enjoy live music in a beautiful park setting, experience a variety of jazz genres, enjoy delicious food, and connect with the local community.
15 – The Block Party: YOR Youth Music Fest: A free community event with music, food, and activities.
The Block Party: YOR Youth Music Fest is a dynamic community event that celebrates the creativity and talent of young musicians in Denver. It’s hosted by Youth on Record and is youth-led and designed.
Event Details
| Location | Admission |
|---|---|
| Youth on Record Studio and neighboring streets, Denver | Free |
Highlights
- Live Music: The festival features live music performances by young artists across various genres. It serves as a platform for Youth on Record students and local musicians to showcase their talents.
- Activities and Workshops: The Block Party offers activities and workshops, including art-making sessions, health and wellness workshops, and career advancement panels, providing both entertainment and educational opportunities.
- Food: Local food trucks are present, offering a range of culinary delights.
This free public event emphasizes community engagement and support for young creatives, offering young adults in Denver a chance to connect with peers, enjoy live music, and participate in fun, interactive activities.
The festival highlights the importance of music and arts education and celebrates Denver’s vibrant youth culture.
16 – Sunnyside Music Fest: Supports local bands, businesses, and youth organizations.
The Sunnyside Music Fest is a vibrant community event that supports local bands, businesses, and youth organizations in Denver. This annual festival is entirely volunteer-run.
Event Details
| Location |
|---|
| Chaffee Park, Denver |
Highlights
- Music: The festival features a diverse lineup of local bands, offering a platform for Denver’s musicians to showcase their talents.
- Food and Beverage: The event includes a variety of food and beverage options, with local food trucks and craft beer vendors present.
- Local Businesses and Artisans: The festival supports local businesses and artisans by providing them with a platform to showcase their products and services.
- Youth Organizations: The festival supports youth organizations through year-round programming. This includes activities and workshops designed to engage and educate young adults.
The Sunnyside Music Fest is not just a music festival, but a community event that brings together people of all ages to celebrate and support local talent, businesses, and organizations. It’s a day of fun, food, and music that highlights the vibrant community spirit of Denver.
Wrapping Up
As I wrap up this journey through Denver’s vibrant events and festivals for young adults in 2024, I hope you’re as pumped as I am for the incredible experiences that await.
From the beats of music festivals to the sizzling energy of food events, our social calendars are bursting with possibilities.
Let’s seize the moment, make new friends, and create lasting memories in the heart of Denver’s lively scene.
Here’s to a year filled with laughter, exploration, and the thrill of being young in the Mile-High City! Cheers to the adventures ahead!
