Top 10 Summer Festivals in Denver

Aerial view of a vibrant summer festival in Denver with colorful tents, stages, and crowds enjoying music and food

Denver comes alive in the summer with a plethora of exciting festivals that showcase the city's vibrant culture, music scene, and culinary delights. Here's our comprehensive guide to the top 10 summer festivals you shouldn't miss in the Mile High City.

1. Denver Arts Festival

Kicking off our list is the Denver Arts Festival, a celebration of visual arts featuring over 100 local and national artists. Held in the picturesque Cherry Creek North neighborhood, this festival is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Colorful art displays at the Denver Arts Festival with visitors browsing paintings and sculptures

2. Denver PrideFest

One of the largest LGBTQ+ pride events in the country, Denver PrideFest transforms Civic Center Park into a rainbow-colored celebration of love and diversity. Don't miss the vibrant parade and live performances!

3. Colorado Dragon Boat Festival

Experience Asian culture at its finest at the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival. Watch exciting dragon boat races on Sloan's Lake and enjoy authentic Asian cuisine and performances.

4. Denver BBQ Festival

Meat lovers rejoice! The Denver BBQ Festival brings together pitmasters from across the country to serve up mouth-watering barbecue. Enjoy live music while savoring smoky delights.

Sizzling grills and smokers at the Denver BBQ Festival with chefs preparing various barbecue dishes

5. Underground Music Showcase

For music enthusiasts, the Underground Music Showcase is a can't-miss event. This multi-day festival features hundreds of local and national indie acts across various venues on South Broadway.

6. Denver Chalk Art Festival

Watch Larimer Square transform into a canvas as talented artists create stunning chalk masterpieces right before your eyes. This complimentary festival is a visual treat for all ages.

7. Taste of Colorado

Indulge in the flavors of Colorado at this Labor Day weekend tradition. The Taste of Colorado offers a smorgasbord of local cuisine, arts and crafts, and live entertainment.

8. Denver Brew Fest

Beer aficionados won't want to miss the Denver Brew Fest. Sample a wide variety of craft beers from local and regional breweries while enjoying live music and food trucks.

Rows of beer taps and enthusiastic crowds at the Denver Brew Fest, with people sampling various craft beers

9. Cherry Creek Arts Festival

Another gem for art lovers, the Cherry Creek Arts Festival showcases world-class visual, culinary, and performing arts. This complimentary event attracts thousands of visitors each year.

10. Denver ETHDenver

While not traditionally a summer festival, we couldn't leave out ETHDenver, the world's largest Web3 #BUIDLathon and innovation festival. This unique event brings together developers, entrepreneurs, and blockchain enthusiasts from around the globe.

Denver's summer festival scene offers something for everyone, from art and music lovers to foodies and tech enthusiasts. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best of what the Mile High City has to offer!