Memorial Day is only a few days away so you better start planning.
During Memorial Day weekend, most people are ready to hop in their campers or hit the pool since it often considered the unofficial kick off to summer, but it's also a time to pay respect to the men and women who have fought for our freedom. If you want to skip the crowded campgrounds and do something different this year, check out this list of 10 fun things to do this Memorial Day.
Memorial Day Tribute
When: May 25
Where: 340 Sherman St. in Denver
Denver's Memorial Day Tribute has become a staple since it started 20 years ago, and it's definitely something everyone in the Denver area should experience. It lasts from 10 a.m. to noon and there will be opportunities to learn and hear heroic stories while honoring all of our country's veterans. You can also expect to see unique musical acts that include bagpipes, singers, and handbells. Check out all the details here.
Denver Day of Rock
When: May 25
Where: 16th St. Mall in Denver
There will be 25 bands across five stages and it's all happening in Denver's Skyline Park on the 16th Street Mall. Denver's Day of Rock isn't just providing your family with all day entertainment you won't want to miss, it also supports Amp, a non-profit that helps raise funds for education and medical treatments for children in need. The best part is that it's totally free, but there are VIP lounge passes available for $250 and all proceeds will benefit Amp.
Colorado Remembers
When: May 25
Where: 756 Telluride St. in Aurora
Take part in a beautiful memorial service this weekend at Colorado Remembers. This ceremony will honor the heroes who have served our country and continue to do so. It will be held at the Colorado Freedom Memorial in Aurora, and it will have music, military vehicles, and even a helicopter flyover. It's going to be a lot of fun and you can find out more information here.
Veterans Tour at Fairmount Cemetary
When: May 26
Where: 430 S. Quebec St. in Denver
Courtesy of GT Cooper Photography on Flickr.com
Each year, Fairmount Cemetery becomes one of Denver's top places to visit for Memorial Day, and this year won't be any different. For two hours on Sunday, from 10 a.m. to noon, they will be offering tours around the cemetery in order to learn about and remember the fallen soldiers who helped protect us. There is no set ticket price, but they do ask for a donation of your choice. Get your tickets here.
Xtra Vaganza Sundays at Temple
When: May 26
Where: The Temple, 1144 Broadway
Xtra Vaganza is perfect for the people who are looking to get their party on. This LGBTQ friendly soiree is open to anyone and everyone to join in on the fun. It is guaranteed to an all-out night of dancing, music, and performances. Tickets are only $20 so get yours before they're all gone!
Denver Arts Festival
When: May 25-26
Where: 8304 E. 49th Place in Stapleton/Northfield
The Denver Arts Festival is finally here! In case you've never been, its a two-day event packed with art, food, and a lot of fun. There will be something for everyone, including wine and beer, music, and a Kids Art Zone. This free event starts on May 25 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and goes through May 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Find out all the details here.
Memorial Day Observance Concert
When: May 26
Where: Bandshell at Boulder Central Park, 1236 Canyon Blvd. in Boulder
There will be plenty of things to do outside of Denver this weekend. For one, the Memorial Day Observance Concert in Boulder is happening on Sunday and will start at 11:30 a.m. Performances will include Silas Nathaniel Huff, and a special guest appearance by Colonel Thomas H. Palmatier, a decorated military musician. Tickets prices range between $5 and $20 depending on whether you're a student, senior, or coming as a family. Check out all the prices here.
Bolder Boulder 10K
When: May 26
Where: Folsom Field, 2400 Colorado Ave. in Boulder
Photo Courtesy of bb10k.bolderboulder.com
If you're looking to get fit this Memorial Day weekend, join in on the annual Bolder Boulder 10K. This marathon has been going down since 1979 and hosts thousands of runners every year, but you don't have to run to join in on the action. You will have just as much fun on the sidelines watching the marathon while you enjoy street performers, food, and an F-16 flyover. If you do want to run, though, you can register here.
Run, Walk or Ruck
When: May 26
Where: Grist Brewing, 9510 Commerce Center Circle, Suite 300 in Highlands Ranch
This event might be smaller than the Bolder Boulder, but it will be just as much fun! It's perfect for families and anyone who wants to get active this weekend. There will be plenty of beer and 4four miles of gorgeous trails to enjoy. There will even be a free 30-minute warmup training hosted by Manic Training. Individual tickets start at $35 and veterans and active military will receive a $5 discount. There are even team packages, so make sure you register today.
South Gaylord Memorial Weekend Festival
When: May 26-27
Where: 1000 South Gaylord St. in Denver
If you're looking for a great place to bring your kids, family, and even your dog, then make sure to go to the South Gaylord Memorial Weekend Festival. This year marks its 40th annual celebration, and that means there will be even more to love. There will be everything from food, a performance by The School of Rock, and public yoga. It's completely free and you can find out more details here.
For even more fun things to do this Memorial Day weekend, check our list of events happening in and around Denver!
