September in Colorado is glorious – the best of two awesome seasons. Good thing there are so many awesome things to do during the month. Here’s our roundup of What’s In Good Taste in September.
FEATURED EVENT:
PROMO CODE ALERT: Plan a quick getaway to beautiful Park City, Utah, for the Park City Wine Festival, produced by Colorado’s own Team Player Productions (Breckenridge Wine Classic and others). The 6th annual event takes place from October 2-4, drawing thousands of wine experts, enthusiasts, and foodies together to enjoy autumn at its best in this stylish mountain town. Experience tastings, paired meals, and all-inclusive special events like Best of Fest and Grand Tasting. Use promo code “ingoodtaste” for $10 off any Grand Tasting ticket! Find out more about all the festivities at ParkCityWineFest.com.
Ongoing Events In Good Taste in September
13th Floor Haunted House returns for its 18th season, Sept. 6-Nov. 9. This year, there are three experiences including The Legend of the 13th floor, The Blood Shed and Trick ‘r Treat at Verse Immersive.
Artisan Rhapsody is an inaugural event in Vail running Sept. 25-28, blending high fashion, fine art and culinary experiences.
NEWS Aurora Borealis Festival tickets are on sale now for the Oct. 10-11 event at Aurora’s High Prairie Park in Painted Prairie. In addition to laser shows, there will be live music, interactive installations, food vendors and a Global Gift Bazaar.
Bark at the Park Yappy Hours at McGregor Square run Sept. 2, 3, 16 and 17. Enjoy a wide-range of dog-friendly activities including free dog caricatures, prizes and (human) drink specials.
Beethoven and Brews at the ‘Plex is Sept. 6 at the Denver Performing Arts Complex event tickets are available now. The event includes unlimited sample pours from local and national breweries, food from local food trucks and a concert by Colorado Symphony Ensembles.
NEWS Blind Tasting Tuesdays are now weekly at Trellis Wine Bar. From 6-9pm, there’ll be one red and one white, helping you discover new wines and sharpen your wine-tasting skills.
NEWS Breakfast in Bed Package at The Ramble Hotel includes guaranteed late checkout and a $50 breakfast credit to enjoy in-room, in the hotel lobby or at DC/AM.
Bright Nights returns to Four Mile Historic Park. The creative lantern festival experience has themes of Farmhouse Flora and Fauna, Chinese Dreamland and more than 40 larger-than-life sculptures. The event is July 19, July 23-Oct. 5 with a VIP party on the 19th.
NEWS Broadway 10 is opening in Cherry Creek at the 300 University development this fall. Originally opened in 2014 in Oklahoma City’s historic Automobile Alley, this is only their second location and features hand-cut, house-aged steaks cooked over pecan and hickory wood, broiled to order plus fresh sushi, seafood and more. Everyone who bellies up to the bar gets a free glass of crispy bacon to enjoy while they peruse the menu or enjoy a drink. They had us at “free” and “bacon.”
NEWS Chef’n It, is a new show on YouTube, debuting Sept. 10, spotlights the chefs, restaurants and cuisine that shape Colorado’s culinary scene. Each monthly episode features a local Executive Chef preparing a modified version of one of their restaurant’s favorite dishes home cooks can copy at home. Season 1 chefs include Carrie Baird of Fox and The Hen, Kenta Kamo of Temaki Den and Erasmo Casiano of Lucina Eatery and Bar. The show is created by Behind the Apron Media and hosted by the company’s own Tarah Runco.
NEWS Cimera, a Pan-Latin restaurant will open this fall at The Source Hotel + Market Hall in the former The Woods rooftop spot. The culinary direction is led by internationally renowned Peruvian Chef Diego Muñoz alongside Executive Chef, and Denver local, Geoff Cox.
NEWS Crêpe Therapy Café will be opening in Boulder this fall, owned by Chef Mawa McQueen. The well-ness-forward take on French Comfort food expands on Mawa’s Aspen concept. Look for savory and sweet crepes, French pastries, smoothies, vegetarian and gluten-free offerings and a community-focused space.
Dazzle has revamped their Sunday brunch. During two seatings, enjoy live, local jazz performances, a chef-curated buffet plus passed bites, and the option to add bottomless Mimosas, Bloody Mary’s or Aperol Spritz stations. Pricing includes taxes and gratuity – $55 food-only, $75 food plus bottomless drinks.
DISCOUNT PROMO CODE ALERT Denver Oktoberfest runs two weekends, Sept. 19-21 and Sept. 26-28 in the Ballpark District. The tradition, which has been going on since 1969, returns, with stein hosting, keg bowling, live music, “long dog derby”, a costume contest, stein hoisting and vendors. VIP tickets include a separate area, unlimited drinks and food throughout the day. BONUS: Use promo code IGTD10 for 10% off any VIP package.
NEWS Dine-Around Fundraiser by Spork & Compass, to support SAME Cafe, is Oct. 23. But tickets are on sale now for the special event featuring Erasmo Casiano (Lucina, Xiquita), Kenneth Wan (MAKFam), Dana Rodriguez (Work & Class, Carne), and many more. Tasting stations from each chef plus bars will be set up to help the pay-what-you-can model restaurant that is having a really hard time right now due to rising food costs.
Been there, loved that Dixie’s Never Wear a Tube Top While Riding a Mechanical Bull (And 16 Other Things I Learned while I Was Drinking Last Thursday) runs through Sept. 7. Don’t miss your last chance to see this fun, funny, wisdom-filled one-woman show.
NEWS Emily Griffith Technical College’s three student-run businesses are open for the school year. Emily’s Cafe, Emily’s Salon & Barbership and Emily’s Massage Clinic are open to the public and offer services at affordable prices to help students train in their industry.
Fall Animal Sanctuary Week has Next Level Veggie Grill partnering with three animal sanctuaries across the country, including Luvin Arms in Erie, Colorado, donating 5% of sales from all Next Level locations from Sept. 14-20.
NEWS Fall Drinks at Olive & Finch and Little Finch are now on the menu. That includes Spiced Apple Chi, a Toasted Pumpkin Shaken Espresso, Apple Pie Latte and classic Pumpkin Spiced Latte.
NEWS FlyteCo Tower is ready for football-watching season with Sunday rotating nacho specials like birria, black bean and birria varieties, plus drink specials like half off margaritas, $5 well shots, and 5-for-$20 bucket specials for Hamm’s Rainier, Old Style and PBR. As for the viewing, there are two 150-inch projectors and 25 TVs throughout the space. There’s plenty to do for those not watching the game too.
NEWS Great American Beer Festival tickets are on sale now, plus there’s a new event along with it, PAIRED, the festival’s exclusive beer-and-food tasting experience, returning Oct. 9-10. Enjoy small bites paired with craft beer, cider and cocktails from chefs who are James Beard nominees and winners, Michelin Star winners and others.
NEWS High Point Creamery has opened their latest location in Fort Collins. In addition, September’s special flavors at all their scoopshops are Banana Matcha, Peach Sorbet and Huckleberry Lime Sorbet. Soon, they’ll have Dark Chocolate with Spicy Brownies, Tiramisu and Joan’s Pumpkin Pie flavors.
It Girl Dinner, in the bar area of Del Frisco’s Grille, is a $25 dining experience that is a twist on the viral “girl dinner.” Enjoy spicy cavatappi à la vodka, a Caesar salad, and truffle fries, paired with cocktails like the purple-hued Femme Fatale with Belvedere Vodka and St-Germain, a hazelnut espresso martini or classic martini.
NEWS Leven Deli Co. and Leven Supply unveil fall menus and happy hour. Leven Deli Co. has new items including Earl Grey Martinis, Jalapeno Cheddar Biscuits, a Harvest Veggie Sandwich and Salted Maple Blondie. At Leven Supply, they have a Harvest Focaccia Sandwich and Mushroom Pizza. Plus, their new happy hour is Monday-Friday from 3-6pm.
NEWS Love is Blind Watch Party + Cast Q&A tickets are available now for the Oct. 1 event on Kisbee on the Roof. There’ll be a special appearance from a Denver cast member, Kcie. Guests can enjoy themed cocktails and hear firsthand about Kacie’s experience on the show, then watch the season premiere.
Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns event at Hudson Gardens returns select nights Sept. 19-Nov. 25. See a glowing trail of thousands of hand-carved pumpkins including a nautical sea-scape, dinosaurs, dragons and more, softly aglow.
NEWS MAKfam is freshening up their tradition-inspired Cantonese-ish menu. One of those items is the new offering of a Deluxe Steak Platter with Shrimp for $88.88 which includes boneless ribeye with seared shrimp and house-made XO butter. The dish serves two and is available Mondays and Wednesdays for dinner only starting on September 17. Other items are available now including Mama Wan’s Pork Belly ($17) and HK Tomato, Egg & Beef ($16).
Mercado Monarca runs Sept. 13-Oct. 15 at Denver Botanic Gardens at York Street. The festive pop-up market runs during the Yo Soy: Mariposas Sin Fronteras exhibition. It features local artists and small business owners, many of whom have participated in events like Dia de los Muertos.
MOD Pizza has the Pumpkin Spice No Name Cake available for a limited time. Pumpkin-spiced cake is wrapped around cream filling, coated in a sweet, autumnal glaze.
Music in the Gardens Lunchtime Series continues daily in the 17th Street Community Gardens at 17th & Wewatta. The series is Monday-Friday, 11:30am-1:30pm, featuring a lineup of local musicians performing a variety of genres.
National Hispanic Heritage Month at Dazzle runs Sept. 15-Oct. 15, recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic culture through special music performances including Sammy Figueroa presenting the music of Cal Tjader.
Neustadt Jewish Arts, Authors, Movies and Music Festival runs Sept. 2-Oct. 12 with live music, author talks, theater performances and more. Special events include a night exploring Middle Eastern spices and herbs from Chef Yaniv Cohen, The Spice Detective; and Jillith Fair, a celebration of the late Denver musician, Jill Sobule, one of our favorites.
Next Level Grill presents Vegan Pumpkin Shakes and Pumpkin Spice Cake through Oct. 31. The shake features house-made organic coconut or soy soft-serve ice cream with pumpkin, spices, whipped cream and cinnamon. The pumpkin mini bundt cake is drizzled with cinnamon-spiced icing and topped with chopped nuts.
Pissaro’s Impressionism tickets are on sale now for the exhibit opening at the Denver Art Museum Oct. 26. Fans of Monet and Van Gogh will love this exhibit about the man referred to as “the father of Impressionism.”
NEWS Q House has announced it is closing after seven years of serving modern Chinese cuisine. They encourage diners to stop by in the next few weeks for a final meal and to say “goodbye.”
NEWS Restaurant Olivia is leading two hands-on sustainability events in September. On Sept. 8, in partnership with the Denver Activist Women’s Group and the City of Denver’s “Keep Denver Beautiful” program, Olivia is hosting a Community Sustainability Panel on Monday, September 8, 6–8 p.m. for neighbors to learn practical ways to keep communities clean, source ingredients ethically and cook sustainably. On Sept. 20, chefs, staff and volunteers will join more than 100 locals to clean up Wash Park and surrounding neighborhoods.
NEWS Revival has begun $10 Burger Nights every Wednesday from 3-11pm. There will also be a rotating specialty burger for $15, their Revival Burger and Southwestern Melts, both also $15.
Rhein Haus, the Bavarian-inspired beer hall celebrates Oktoberfest Sept. 19-26 with stehein holding and pretzel tossing competitions taking place Fridays and Saturdays of weekends Sept. 19-20 and 26-27. Also enjoy house-made brats, giant pretzels and schnitzel plus more than 24 beers on tap,
Savor the Season 2025 is an EatDenver event running Sept. 15-18 in RiNo. Feast on food from 24 award-winning local chefs and independent restaurants plus an open bar of craft spirits, beer, wine and cider. Each day’s event benefits a local community food system organization.
Snooze unveils its freshly-fueled menu that’s being tested in Denver at its Ballpark, Union Station, South Broadway and Colorado Blvd. locations. The “healthy-ish” options include a mango smoothie, Thai chicken salad sandwich and crisp green apple and fennel salad. The menu is available for a limited time.
Spirit of Japan, hosted by Colorado’s Sakura Foundation, holds the second annual event, Sept. 12-14 in Sakura Square. There’ll be culinary tastings and cultural experiences that highlight both traditional and contemporary Japanese food and drink.
NEWS Starbird has come to Colorado, bringing its super-premium, fast-food concept to 965 S. Colorado Blvd. on Sept. 15. They are known for their crispy “no antibiotics ever” chicken and chef-crafted recipes. On Sept. 19, they will give away 200 free meals to celebrate their grand opening week.
Sunday Family Game Night at Denver Milk Market is every Sunday from 4-9pm. Play shuffleboard or another classic game and enjoy dinner specials across the market including a 22” cheese or pepperoni pizza and Caesar salad for a family of four plus sodas for $40 or two burgers and two grilled cheese sandwiches with fries or tots plus four sodas for $40.
Swingin’ Shells Brunch at Local Jones, located within Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek, is a brand-new Saturday brunch offering beginning Sept. 6 and every Saturday through the end of November. In addition to its regular brunch, there will be a shellfish spread featuring raw, roasted and dressed oysters, bubbles, cocktails and live jazz.
Taste of Stoke & Rye Fall Season 3-Course Meal kicks off Sept. 9. For $99 per couple, the menu includes your choice of Colorado Fondue or Black Mussels “Mariniere” to share for the 1st course. Both diners can select an entrée of Cast Iron Chicken, Scallop Risotto, Grilled Hanger Steak or Wild Mushroom Ravioli. For dessert, enjoy a Smoked Mason Chocolate Jar or Flourless Carrot Cake.
The 2025 Denver Gem Show returns, Sept. 5-14, bringing shop owners, gemologists, artists, miners, designers and metaphysical practitioners from around the world. Attendees can purchase and explore extremely rare gemstones, minerals, fossils, healing crystals and jewelry pieces.
The Blind Cafe Music & Dinner in the Dark Experience is a social impact music and dinner experience at the Dairy Arts Center. Enjoy a tapas-style dinner, social impact discussion with legally blind ambassadors and live music in 100% darkness – no blindfolds. It runs Sept. 19-21.
NEWS The Golden Mill’s Keg Conditioning is running through the first weekend of October. Hosted by Golden’s women-owned Unite Fitness, the all-levels, outdoor HIIT class uses empty kegs as the primary equipment. $20 includes an hour-long class and a complimentary kombucha.
Truly Colorado Summer Specials can be had through Sept. 30 at The Fort. Inspired by mountain man cuisine and Native American traditions, try barbeque pork ribs with rattlesnake and rabbit bratwurst served with mashed potatoes and seasonal veggies for example.
NEWS The Ramble Hotel wants everyone to know their grand lobby, set with twinkling chandeliers and comfortable lounge seating, welcomes remote workers. There are outlets under or within each seating area and provisions from DC/AM providing coffee and food including their new menu with seasonal additions.
NEWS Urban Egg Downtown Denver has opened in the Triangle Building near Union Station. This is the brand’s third location in Denver. Urban Egg serves breakfast, brunch and lunch favorites including signature dishes like the Billion $$$ Bourbon Bacon, Chicken & the Egg and Huevos Rancheros.
Oktoberfest Vail Oktoberfest happens in Lionshead Village Sept. 5-7 and then in Vail Village, Sept. 12-14. At both, there’s live German entertainment, loads of German food and drink and fun for the family.
Vinyl Brunch is now being offered every Sunday at Local Jones. Enjoy cinnamon rolls, pork green chile burritos, short rib hash, blueberry pancakes, wine, mimosas and spinning tunes.
Yo Soy: Altares y Ofrendas is a community altar installation presented in partnership with Soccer City Aurora and artist Cal Duran. This collaborative display celebrates the traditions of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), offering a meaningful space for the public to honor the memory of loved ones through reflection, remembrance and celebration. It happens Sept. – Nov.
Gather ‘Round tickets are available now for the October 2 event that is the annual Denver Urban Gardens (DUG) fundraiser. The evening includes a multi-course plant-based meal by The Easy Vegan, silent and live auction, live music and more.
Dated Events In Good Taste in September
September 1 – Labor Day
The Hampton Social’s Denver location is hosting a Labor Day Brunch running 10am-3pm with dishes like wild berry French toast, lobster rolls, steak & eggs, Hampton frosé and espresso martinis.
Summer Spritz Pop-up at Punch Bowl Social celebrates its last day. The patio event features festive Aperol Spritz decor, swag, silent disco and more.
September 3
DISCOUNT PROMO CODE ALERT Denver Food + Wine Festival, Sept. 3-6. Enjoy four events: Riedel Wine Glass Seminar; Shake + Brake Showdown; Dine Out Culinary-Auction Series; and the Grand Tasting. Be sure to use our exclusive In Good Taste Denver discount promo code, IGTD10, to save $10 on any ticket (except the Riedel seminar). Sign up here to make sure you get the best deals and updates on the latest details on the Festival. And watch for our upcoming Know-Before-You-Go article for details and tips for making the most of the events.
September 4
Denver Climate’s “Do more. Do less. Do something” campaign kicks off with a limited-edition flavor created with Little Man Ice Cream to support the Rye Resurgence Project, which helps save water and prevent Dust Bowl conditions in Colorado’s San Luis Valley. The event will also showcase new partnerships with Lime and Bird, featuring campaign-branded bikes and scooters across Denver, along with exclusive offers that motivate people to test out shifting to eco-friendly transportation options.
Denver Over the Edge, hosted by the Cancer League of Colorado, invites participants to rappel from the Kimpton Claret hotel to raise funds for life-saving cancer research and services. From Sept. 4-6, participants who raise $1000+ will earn their place to go “over the edge” in honor of loved ones, survivors and fighters.
Editor’s Pick Event Fill a Plate for Hunger returns. The major fundraising event for We Don’t Waste features food from talented Denver chefs and restaurants including Chef Troy Guard, The Bindery, Bistro Vendome, Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar, STK and Urban Farmer. Enjoy the food, drink and an uplifting program that assists Coloradans experiencing food insecurity.
Sunset Sips for SAME Cafe is an evening of community, connection and purpose. Gather in the restaurant’s backyard for live music, passed apps, craft cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. The benefit supports SAME’s mission of supporting healthy food access for all. Tickets are $50.
September 5
Oktoberfest Boulder Social celebrates with two special beer tappings, live music and German food and drink specials including a “Wurst” Flight and Classic Corned Beef Reuben.
Denver Over the Edge continues. See Sept. 4.
Fall Fest in Frisco runs Sept. 5-6, with live music, make-and-take art projects, a beer garden serving German beer paired with pretzels and sausages plus there’ll be an art show.
September 6
Oktoberfest 100% Gluten-Free Oktoberfest at Holidaily includes food trucks and food vendors, stein-holding contests and live music.
36th Annual Friendship Powwow at the Denver Art Museum features Native American dance competitions, hands-on activities, prizes, plus artist, food and vendor booths. Admission to the museum will be free all day.
Colorado Dragon Boat Festival runs Sept. 6-7 at Sloan’s Lake Park has live music, live entertainment and demonstrations, shopping, food and, of course, dragon boat races.
Denver Over the Edge continues. See Sept. 4.
Fall Fest continues in Frisco. See Sept. 5.
Flock Party at the Denver Zoo is an annual fundraiser featuring live music, animal experiences, food and cocktails in the company of real animals.
Golden Hours Music Festival at Riverfront Park features tunes on two stages including Yasi,, Kayla Marque, Dragonettes + The Knocks and Miss Flowers. There will also be food and drink available for purchase.
Ho-Bo Care Boxer Adoption Event will present information and collect donations as well as introduce people to their new pet, at McGregor Square.
Hops & Pie is celebrating 15 years with a big anniversary bash from noon-10pm. Fifteen breweries will be pouring up specialty beers; funk band Super Magick Band and American ban Cottonwood Drifters will perform and there will be food, swag and merch.
Tour de Cure invites cyclists to ride in support of people living with diabetes. The fundraiser helps increase awareness, provides vital programs, funds lifesaving research and works towards a cure.
September 7
Boombots Pasta Shop Final Pop-Up will be hosted at Odie B’s RiNo space in advance of their official opening in October.
Colorado Dragon Boat Festival continues. See Sept. 6.
Jewish Deli Bike Tours are part food tour and part social bike ride. There will be two concurrent tours of varying lengths and to a varying number of delis.
Revival’s Maryland Crab Fest serves up traditional Old Bay steamed Maryland Blue Crab with sausage, potatoes and corn plus live music. The offering runs alongside their regular brunch menu. The event is also available Sept. 21 and Oct. 5.
Oktoberfest St. Julien’s Oktoberfest combines Bavarian tradition and Colorado elegance. There’ll be live music with the Alan Polivka Band, a German-themed buffet including black forest cake, plus prizes for best dressed and stein holder winner.
Tulum Pool Party with GNAT Jewelry Atelier happens at Rare Bird. There’ll be live DJ’s spinning house, Afro and techno plus mezcal, tequila and tropical-inspired drinks. There’ll also be tacos, ceviche, shrimp specials and the opportunity to take a dip in the pool.
“Yo Ho It’s a Band’s Life for Me,” Music of the High Seas is performed by the Denver Concert Band in Lakewood. From the sweeping drama of Victory at Sea to the patriotic spirit of Anchors Aweigh and the swashbuckling excitement of Pirates of the Caribbean, this program brims with history, heroism, and high-seas adventure.
September 8
Collaboration Art Night with the Denver Art Society is a free night for creatives to gather and play music, write a poem, paint or play “pass the canvas.”
September 10
UPDATED! Sunset & Saffron at Kisbee on the Roof celebrates golden hour with a Spanish-themed event that includes live, open-flame paella cooking, Spanish-inspired tapas and drinks, and an Ibiza-style DJ set. Unlimited paella (vegetarian or chicken & sausage) is available for $25. Plus enjoy cocktails like Saffron Sunset Sangria, Sun-Kissed Citrus Cooler and Campo Viejo Cava Brut for $12-$14.
Tour of Italy Winemakers Dinner at Jovanina’s Broken Italian is a four-course wine dinner and the winemakers who created them. Tickets include courses of cheese & charcuterie, salmon gravlax salad; ragú of rabbit confit with house made bicicleta pasta; grilled trattoria steak with romesco and grilled late summer vegetables; and assorted sweets, all accompanied by complementary wines.
September 11
Throwback Thursday is the last summer concert of the year in Cherry Creek North. The band is The Long Run, an Eagles tribute band.
September 12
Art Students League of Denver holds an opening reception for Every Little Thing: A Mini-musings Exhibit. Celebrate mini masterpieces from the collaborative exhibit in partnership with the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls & Toys. From dollhouses to miniature fine art works, block out big distractions to focus on every little thing.
Mile High Q & Groove is Tennyson Center’s signature night of music and community. There’ll be food, drink and live performance all to support children healing from trauma and mental health challenges.
Snowmass Balloon Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary, Sept. 12-14. See 40 hot air balloons launching in the sunrise plus a Night Glow on Friday. There’ll also be music and concessions.
Telluride Blues & Brews Festival is Sept. 12-14. The multi-stage event is a celebration of an eclectic blend of music plus craft beer from breweries around the country. There’s also kids activities, a 5K fundraiser race, morning yoga and local food and drink.
September 13
Oktoberfests 5th Annual DOGtoberfest at River North Brewery offers stacked beer releases, local vendors selling dog gear and treats, a costume contest for dogs and their humans and various games.
Bookcliff Wine Dinner in Boulder features a 5-course meal prepared by award-winning Chef Colton Wagner from Colorado Cache. The menu includes Hamachi Crudo, Local Heirloom Tomato Watermelon Salad and Grilled New York Strip.
Been there, loved that Colorado Wine Walk, hosted by Blanchard Family Wines, is an immersive tasting experience with unlimited samples from the state’s finest wineries and cideries. There’ll also be live music and local food.
Ethiopian New Year at Konjo will feature the national dish, Doro Wot, served on holidays and special occasions. The spicy, bone-in chicken stew is served with hard-boiled egg and takes about four hours to make. They’ll be preparing two big pots so once it’s gone, it’s gone.
High Points – A Five Points Festival includes a tribute to the great Charles Burrel from Purnell Steen plus performances by many other local performers.
Oktoberfests Highlands Oktoberfest lets contests take center stage during the North Denver event including live music, a weiner dog race, keg bowling, stein hoisting, a costume contest and more than 75 vendors.
Hispanic Chamber Chili Fest in Trinidad is a fiesta day filled with culture, food, fun and entertainment including food from local vendors. There’ll also be a horseshoe and cornhole tournament.
Handmade in Colorado Expo, Sept. 13-14, features independent designers producing original handcrafted goods for sale including metals, paper, glass, fibers, fabricated objects, clay, paint and more. There will also be food and live entertainment.
Lemon Sponge Cake Contemporary Ballet: LOLA RUN occurs September 13 and 14 at the Dairy Arts Center. The new work is described as “a lean, elegant, modernist, almost mechanical” way for audiences to see “the beauty of how bodies move in space without explanation.”
Moon Raccoon celebrates its opening weekend Sept. 13 and 14. The proudly woman- and queer-owned bakery, which earned a cult following at farmers markets, has its own brick and mortar in the Sunnyside neighborhood. Enter to win free pastries for a year. The first two customers in line get a swag bag of treats. Shop for Rye Chocolate Chip Cookies, Honey Pecan Monkey Bread, Lottie’s Sausage Rolls and more.
Snowmass Balloon Festival continues. See Sept. 12.
Telluride Blues & Brews Festival continues. See Sept. 12.
The Fort Native American Beading Workshop includes a lecture about the history of beadwork, starting from porcupine quill work to the modern-day style beading explaining the evolution of beads over the years and demonstrating different styles and techniques used. Tickets include a starter beading kit to take home.
Oktoberfest Wynkoop Oktoberfest has German beers including WIxas Weiss and Doppelganger Doppelbock paired with Spatzel with Schnitzel and Jaeger Sauce and Beer Brat in Pretzel Bun and Sauerkraut plus a pretzel helmet toss, brat-eating competition and costume contest.
September 14
Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2025 semi-finals are being hosted by Denver at DICK’s Sporting Goods Park. Six teams from Canada, Fiji, Japan, Samoa, Tonga and the United States, will compete to qualify for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia.
UPDATED! Cooking for Culture Community Bake Sale at Mile High Spirits, a bigger venue, due to high demand. One hundred percent of proceeds will benefit Kaizen Food Rescue, a Denver-based nonprofit founded on the principle that food is a human right, and the Rocky Mountain Immigration Advocacy Network (RMIAN), which provides free immigration legal and social services to children and detained adults in need.
Crafty Sips: Horseshoe Happy Hour is a new, monthly event series by Vanishing West Cider. Gather for a relaxed, hands-on craft hour featuring a new, fun project. This month, it’s decorating horseshoes.
Handmade in Colorado Expo continues. See Sept. 13.
Lemon Sponge Cake Contemporary Ballet: LOLA RUN continues. See Sept. 13.
Moët & Chandon Bubbly Brunch Launch Party at Jill’s Restaurant in Boulder, invites guests to indulge in an elevated brunch experience. Brunch will be available every Saturday and Sunday, including add-on bubbly, with a roaming Champagne cart pouring glasses.
Moon Racoon grand opening weekend continues. A portion of proceeds this day benefit Bienvenidos Food Bank. See Sept. 13.
Snowmass Balloon Festival continues. See Sept. 12.
Telluride Blues & Brews Festival continues. See Sept. 12.
September 16
Colorado Rockies Bark at the Park at Coors Field, Sept. 16 and 17, lets dogs come with their owners to enjoy a day of fun and festivities at the ballpark with the purchase of a special ticket package.
September 17
Colorado Rockies Bark at the Park continues. See Sept. 16.
Market Mixologist Cocktail Class at the Denver Milk Market celebrates the sweet flavors of early fall teaching attendees how to make a Peach & Thyme Sour, Spice Rum & Pear Smash and Rosemary Grapefruit Spritz. A tincture will also be made to take home. Tickets are $55 and include light bites.
September 18
Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard celebrates National Cheeseburger Day with a deluxe cheeseburger, small fries and small drink for $8. The deal’s available via drive-thru, walk-up and online ordering through their website or app.
Immigrant Narratives through Food: Film, Food and Discussion is a History Colorado Center partnership with Dr. Julie Roncoroni of D.U., bringing her mission-forward program Cocina Libre. The immersive experience includes a documentary screening, live storytelling, and traditional pupusas to eat.
National Cheeseburger Day is celebrated at Next Level Veggie Grill with a BOGO American ChzBurger deal. The vegan creation features a house-seasoned smash patty, organic tempeh bacon, dill pickles, choice of cheese and choice of sauce on a brioche bun for $11.95. Two for the price of one is available in-store only on Sept. 18.
Rare Steak Championship returns with unlimited steak bites, cocktails and a chef competition. Participating restaurants include 801 Chophouse, Elway’s, Guard & Grace, Hesher BBQ, Edge and Church and Union.
September 19
Civic Center Night Market: Fiesta En El Mercado highlights the diversity and creativity of Denver’s Latin communities with nearly 80 small business food vendors and artisan retailers, representing the cuisines and cultures from throughout the Americas.
Latin Rhythms is performed by the Lone Tree Symphony Orchestra, featuring Masakazu Ito performing Joaquín Rodrigo’s iconic Concierto de Aranjuez. Also hear Rossini’s Barber of Seville, Ravel’s Bolero, and Manuel de Falla’s lively Three-Cornered Hat.
Oktoberfest Prost Brewing Co. Highlands Ranch runs Sept. 19-21 with a Ceremonial Festbier tapping, live music, Dachshund races, German food and more.
Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival, Sept. 19-21, features live music and performances, chile roasting, produce sales and shopping from local vendors.
September 20
Bolero is the fall concert and performance by Cleo Parker Robinson Dance. The event marks the return of Christopher L. Huggins along with new works by Lisa Johnson-Willingham and Winifred R. Harris, and guest artists Dayton Contemporary Dance Company. Also featured will be a work by Cleo Parker Robinson along with the return of a CPRD signature work. Bolero is performed September 20 and 21 at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House.
Oktoberfest Cherry Creektoberfest is the very first such event in Cherry Creek North. It runs Sept. 20 and 21. They are teaming up with the German American Chamber of Commerce (the folks behind Christkindlmarket) to bring authentic German flavor with bier, food, vendors in traditional wooden chalets, stein hoisting, German music and more.
Drag Eye for the Straight Guy is a community event benefiting Project Angel Heart. Hosted by Lushus La’Rell, five straight men will be transformed into stunning drag divas for the night.
Oktoberfest Joyride Oktoberfest Block Party closes off their parking lot to incorporate a stage for live music, a beer trailer, food truck, yard games and other fun. They’ll tap their Helles, Märzen, and Schwarzbier, and Ice Cutter Kölsch.
Party in the Paseo with Cooldown Running at BASECAMP Market Station includes a 5K guided run through Larimer Square to the Cherry Creek Trail and back to BASECAMP. There, enjoy a post-race celebration with live vinyl DJ set, food truck and bar program. The event is free to participate with advanced registration required.
Paws with Pride: A Doggie Drag Show at Denver Union Station will be hosted by celebrated local drag queen Talia Tucker. There’ll be a Doggie Drag Fashion Show with prizes, LGBTQIA+ artisans and amazing pet-service vendors plus food and drink specials served at Terminal Bar.
Poka Lola Social Club hosts a Negroni Cocktail Class where attendees will learn how to make the three new Negroni versions the bar will be serving during Negroni Week. Tickets are $40/person.
Oktoberfest Prost Brewing Co. Highlands Ranch continues. See Sept. 19.
Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival continues. See Sept. 19.
Santa Fe Nights is an homage to the Zoot Suite and Pachuco style which was born from barrios, big bands, jazz clubs and protest marches.
Southwest Fresh Fest at Billy Goat Hop Farm in Montrose is a celebration of fresh hop beers. Two bands, Hypothetical Bluegrass and Cryin’ Shame, will perform plus there will be food vendors, farm tour and beer tastings.
September 21
Bolero continues. See Sept. 20.
Oktoberfest Cherry Creektoberfest continues. See Sept. 20.
Oktoberfest Prost Brewing Co. Highlands Ranch continues. See Sept. 19.
Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival continues. See Sept. 19.
Revival’s Maryland Crab Fest continues. See Sept. 7.
Spritz Brunch at Local Jones offers up guided tastings into the storied past of the spritz, highlighting Grey Goose and its infused expressions, Bombay Sapphire and St. Germain. This special edition of brunch (served family-style) is $65 and includes three spritz cocktails.
September 22
Poka Lola Social Club celebrates Negroni Week with three special versions, Classic ($15) | Aviation Gin, Campari, Cocchi Torino; IYKYK ($16) | Union Mezcal, Select Aperitivo, Punt e Mes, Orange Bitters; and For The Bois ($16) | Old Forester Rye, Campari, Carpano Antica, Cacao Nibs. A portion of sales will be donated to Slow Food.
September 24
Flight Night with Ben Grossberg from GK Selections guides guests through a tasting experience of Portuguese wines at Trellis Wine Bar.
September 25
Will It Cocktail LIVE! At Done Deal is a new, monthly interactive event where Bar Liaison Jacob Pike and bartender Emil Frieslaar take on the challenge of transforming a random dish from Done Deal’s menu into a delicious, drinkable cocktail in front of a live audience.
September 26
Chef Zorba’s September Wine Down celebrates La Dolce Vita, pouring Italian wines and serving up small Italian bites. The cost is $30 and the event is held on the patio from 3-6pm.
Doors Open Denver returns, Sept. 26-28, from the Denver Architecture Foundation. This is the opportunity to see inside places you may have passed a million times and wondered about. This year’s theme is “Architecture and Nature in Harmony.” Learn more in the link.
Goodnight Moon A Fiber Tale brings the favorite children’s story to life in an installation handcrafted with more than 150 miles of yarn and nearly six million stitches. They capture every detail of The Great Green Room. It’s paired with interactive performances from Boulder’s Impact Playback Theatre Ensemble.
Mountain Harvest Festival, held in Paonia, Sept. 26-28, includes Colorado music, local arts and crafts, a Great Chili Cookoff, farm tours, musical guests and a Pub Crawl.
Urban Egg celebrates National Pancake Day by serving a free buttermilk pancake with any entree purchase. Just mention “Free Pancake Day” when ordering an entree.
September 27
Dairy Comedy in The Boe features an evening of comedy from Kari Stern, Catherine Shea, Mark Masters, Stacy Pederson and Janae Burris.
Doors Open Denver continues. See Sept. 26.
Estes Park Elk Fest is a family-friendly festival running Sept. 27-28 with vendors, food trucks, performances and bugling contests.
Michelada Fest is back at the Mile High Flea Market, Sept. 27-28. There’ll be specialty micheladas, street tacos, live music, Rocky Mountain Pro Wrestling, giveaways, rides and other activities.
Mountain Harvest Festival continues. See Sept. 26.
Nourished: Works by Jazz Holmes runs Sept. 27-March 22, 2026 at the Denver Botanic Gardens. The artist incorporates stories of her childhood in the South, agriculture and culinary traditions in mixed-media paintings that include glass beads, copper leaf and rhinestones.
Riverdale Regional Park Dragon Boat Regatta and Night Market has races in the morning, live performances, vendors and food trucks all supporting the Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander community.
Oktoberfest Snowmass Oktoberfest is its first, running September 27 and 28. They are partnering with the German American Chamber of Commerce bringing authentic beer hall tables and tents, collectible steins and a special appearance by the Oktoberfest Queen and her band.
Taste of the Market lets you sip, snack and sample your way through Denver Milk Market during a special evening event. Wander from vendor to vendor saving small bites and drinks available for purchase, with live music along the way. Entry is free but reservations are strongly recommended.
TheBigWonderful BEER FEST on 16th Street has two sessions with craft beer, live music and a makers’ market.
Vanishing West Ciders celebrates their 1-year anniversary with live music, fall menu releases, merch raffle, an anniversary cider release and the opportunity to sign up for the 2026 VIP Membership.
Woods Boss Brewing Company Block Party includes a stein holding competition, poster screen-printing, live music, local vendors and food trucks.
September 28
Doors Open Denver continues. See Sept. 26.
Estes Park Elk Fest continues. See Sept. 27.
Enslaved by Ducks is a series of funny, touching stories of human-animal interaction performed by Stories on Stage.
Mountain Harvest Festival continues. See Sept. 26.
Oktoberfest Snowmass Oktoberfest continues. See Sept. 27.
September 30
Toro & Kachina Cantina pair up for a one-night-only collaboration dinner highlighting the fresh perspectives of their recently-new chefs. Each chef creates two of the four courses for the evening. The cost is $87.21 including fees with 20% of the proceeds going to the Chicano Humanities & Arts Council.
-By Courtney Drake-McDonough, Publisher & Managing Editor, InGoodTasteDenver.com
Comments are closed.