The weekend is here, and Denver is bustling with a variety of exciting events to choose from!
From world-renowned artists to local festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in and around the city.
One of the major highlights this weekend is the legendary Paul McCartney performing at Coors Field, promising a night of unforgettable music.
In addition to this stellar concert, fans of craft beer can attend the Great American Beer Festival, showcasing hundreds of breweries and their finest offerings.
Not far behind is the Great Mexican Beer Fiesta, celebrating traditional Mexican brews, and for those looking for something a bit different, there is a pumpkin festival happening as well.
A local pride event in Littleton will celebrate inclusivity, while animal lovers can enjoy the Denver Dog Days celebration at Sloan’s Lake.
For those looking for some physical activity, a 1.3-mile and 5k race will take place at Red Rocks, combining fitness with the breathtaking scenery of the iconic venue.
As many are familiar with, October brings forth a series of festive activities perfect for families and individuals alike, all across Denver.
**Worth the Trip**
On Saturday, the 2nd Annual Hallowine Festival will take place at Thompson River Ranch in Johnstown from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For a more mysterious experience, visitors can partake in the Mystery at the Museum event at the Frisco Historic Park and Museum from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., which is free and ideal for ages eight and older.
If relaxation is what you seek, the Passenger Princess Spa Day Experience at Aspire Hotel & Spa in Estes Park offers a day of pampering from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with prices ranging from $199 to $350.
Families can enjoy the Autumnfest Train, running all weekend in Georgetown, with times varying throughout the day. Prices are free for infants under 11 months, $32 for ages 1-10, and $39 for those aged 11 and older.
**Friday, October 10**
Kicking off the weekend, there are plenty of events worth exploring.
The *Freedom to Read Collection* can be accessed virtually through the Palace mobile app at your convenience for free, available exclusively to Colorado residents.
For those wanting to explore historic Denver, self-guided tours of the Denver Clocktower will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with varying prices: free for children five and under, $8 for Historic Denver and Molly Brown House Museum members, and $10 for the general public.
The Denver Coin Expo at the National Western Complex welcomes guests from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with free entrance for children aged 11 and under, an $8 fee for adults, and a $12 weekend pass.
Families can immerse themselves in the Aurora Borealis Festival at High Prairie Park from 5 to 8:30 p.m, with admission starting at $17.
For those seeking thrills, the Ghosts in the Gardens – Open Air Scare event at the Denver Botanic Gardens offers haunting evenings at 5:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m., with ticket prices ranging from $29 to $34.
Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park will host its *Fright Fest* from 6 to 10 p.m., with advance tickets costing $49.99, plus an additional $40 for the Haunt Pass Ticket.
For horror enthusiasts, several haunted houses including the 13th Floor Haunted House and The Frightmare Compound will operate late into the night, starting around 7 p.m. with entry fees beginning at $34.99.
**Kids and Family Activities**
Families can visit Nick’s Fall Fest at Nick’s Garden Center and Farm Market in Aurora from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., where entry is free.
The beloved Pumpkin Festival at the Denver Botanic Gardens – Chatfield Farms will be running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with ticket prices ranging from $10 to $20, depending on age.
The Butterfly Pavilion opens its Spiders Around the World exhibit from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with various pricing based on age and membership status.
At branches of the Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Library, kids can enjoy shadow puppetry at 10:30 a.m. or participate in a monarch butterfly craft at 11:30 a.m., both for free.
The Read More Makers Market at Orchard Community Church runs from 4 to 9 p.m. with no cover charge, making it ideal for families.
As night falls, the *Magic of the Jack O’ Lanterns* at Hudson Gardens offers a stunning display from 6:30 to 10:15 p.m., with tickets priced at $12.99 for children and $22.99 for adults.
**Comedy and Theater Highlights**
A rich variety of comedy options are available this weekend, including Michael Rapaport performing at Comedy Works South and Moshe Kasher at Comedy Works Downtown, both featuring multiple showtimes throughout the weekend.
For a unique local experience, the *Cult of Cthulhu* event takes place at Second Dawn Brewing Co. starting at 7:30 p.m.
Fans of classic musicals can catch *Nice Work If You Can Get It* at the Lone Tree Arts Center, offering matinee and evening performances.
For those inclined towards outdoor movie experiences, the Spooky Cinema in The Sky featuring the film *Smile* at Halcyon starts at 8 p.m., including popcorn and pool access for $25.
**Art, Culture, and Media**
Art enthusiasts can explore a range of exhibitions, including *38th Star: Colorado Becomes the Centennial State* at History Colorado from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Denver Art Museum is showcasing *Andrea Carlson: A Constant Sky* and *Confluence of Nature: Nancy Hemenway Barton*, with tickets priced at $25-$30 for adults.
For those who enjoy community events, the Second Fridays Pop-Up Artisan & Art Market at Edgewater Public Market takes place free of charge from 5 to 8 p.m.
The opening reception of *Untitled* at D’art Gallery from 6 to 9 p.m. is also free, allowing guests to engage with local artwork.
Finally, *Lumonics Immersed*, an immersive art experience, takes place from 8 to 10 p.m. with tickets priced between $15 and $28.52.
**Eating and Drinking**
Food lovers can explore a myriad of options this weekend, including *East vs. West: A Scientific Standoff of IPAs* at Cerebral Brewing from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. with no cover charge.
For a healthier alternative, the Huerta Urbana Farmers Market at Focus Points Family Resource Center will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. for free.
Craft beer aficionados should undoubtedly check out the Great American Beer Festival at the Colorado Convention Center starting at 5:30 p.m., with prices running at $104.20 for the first day or $245.49 for all three days.
For those looking for a social outing, the Broadway Halloween Bar Crawl along South Broadway runs from 7 to 11 p.m., costing between $29 and $40.
**Music and Nightlife**
The music scene this weekend is alive and thriving, starting with *Music in the Gardens* at the 17th Street Community Gardens from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for free entry.
For those looking for a unique local event, *Tape B* will perform at the iconic Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, starting at 5 p.m.
The Life of a Showgirl Album Listening Party takes place at Town Hall Collaborative starting at 7 p.m. with no cover charge.
The much-anticipated *Vampire Ball* at Tracks Denver promises a thrilling night starting at 8 p.m. with ticket prices ranging from $20 to $25.
Those wishing to enjoy live music in a more laid-back environment can head to *Grave Yard Grooves* at Milepost Zero from 9 to 11 p.m., also with no cover.
**Saturday, October 11 Events**
More weekend excitement continues on Saturday with unique activities.
The second annual One Hope Craft Fair plus Coffee Shop offers a free entry from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at One Hope in Littleton.
Once again, the Denver Coin Expo will welcome visitors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Participate in the *Big Pride Littleton 2025* at Bega Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a celebration of diversity, free of charge.
The *Denver Dog Days* festival allows furry friends a chance to join in on the fun at Sloan’s Lake Park from noon to 5 p.m.
Urban Market at Wynkoop Plaza will be a great spot to explore from noon to 6 p.m. with no cover charge.
*Fright Fest* at Elitch Gardens runs from noon to 10 p.m. continuing the Halloween spirit, so don’t miss out!
Other fun activities include meet-and-greets, cultural festivals, and various entertainment options continuing into the evening for a vibrant night out.
On Saturday night, music fans can look forward to *Paul McCartney’s* performance at Coors Field, alongside *Lane 8* at Red Rocks, both starting at 7 p.m.
**Sunday, October 12**
The weekend winds down with numerous events on Sunday as well.
The Denver Clocktower will again offer self-guided tours from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at no charge for young visitors.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the Baile Folklórico event at Hadley Branch Library from noon to 1 p.m.
Elitch Gardens will host its final day of *Fright Fest* from noon to 9 p.m. for those seeking more spooky fun.
For a creative experience, the Butterfly Coffin Mini-World Workshop at Poka Lola takes place from 1 to 2:30 p.m. for $105.
The *Ghosts in the Gardens – Open Air Scare* concludes at the Denver Botanic Gardens with multiple time slots for entertainment.
Fun family activities also flourish with various programs available, including the Pumpkin Festival at Chatfield Farms and children’s events at the Butterfly Pavilion.
In addition, several performances, including *Nice Work If You Can Get It* at Lone Tree and *SchoolHouse Rock* at the Aurora Fox Arts Center, round out Sunday’s entertainment.
Sunday night brings more laughter as comedy shows continue across the city, showcasing local and national talent alike.
With a weekend packed with entertainment options, festivals, and family activities, Denverites can look forward to a vibrant time filled with unique experiences!
Overall, whether it’s iconic concerts, festive celebrations, or family-friendly events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Denver this weekend.
image source from:denverite