Summer Events in Denver

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Published on: June 01, 2025

Summer Events in Denver are a huge draw for both locals and newcomers alike, offering a mix of music, food, art, and outdoor fun across June, July, and August. These events showcase the energy and diversity of the city, from food festivals and outdoor concerts to neighborhood fairs and free public celebrations. Whether you’re into art, music, culture, or cuisine, there’s something for everyone during the summer months in the Mile High City.

For anyone moving to Denver or thinking about relocating to Denver, summer is the best season to explore what makes the area so special. Summer events in Denver not only provide endless entertainment but also offer a gateway to community connections, local culture, and neighborhood experiences. These festivals and gatherings are perfect for newcomers to Denver looking to engage, make friends, and get a true taste of what it means to live here.

June Events Set the Stage for Summer Fun

June 7–8, 2025: Denver Chalk Art Festival
June kicks off the season with a calendar packed with iconic summer events in Denver. First up is the Denver Chalk Art Festival, held in Civic Center Park. This free two-day event showcases stunning street murals created live by local artists and attracts thousands of visitors. It’s a perfect weekend outing for families, couples, and creatives looking for inspiration. It’s one of the most colorful Denver summer festivals of the year.

June 15, 2025: Juneteenth Music Festival
The Juneteenth Music Festival, celebrating African American culture and freedom, is another can’t-miss event. Taking place in Five Points—a historically Black neighborhood—this festival features live music, a vibrant parade, art, and food vendors. It’s an engaging way for newcomers to Denver to appreciate the city’s rich cultural roots.

June 28–29, 2025: PrideFest Denver
Also in June is PrideFest Denver, one of the largest Pride celebrations in the country. Hosted at Civic Center Park, it’s a high-energy weekend filled with parades, live performances, and family-friendly programming. Moving to Denver means being part of an inclusive and welcoming community, and PrideFest shows that off in full color.

July Brings Fireworks and Festivals

Summer events in Denver ramp up even more in July.

July 3: Independence Eve Celebration
The Independence Eve Celebration at Civic Center Park on July 3rd is a local favorite. It includes a free patriotic concert, light show, and fireworks display—all against the stunning backdrop of the State Capitol and Denver skyline. It’s an ideal night out for those relocating to Denver to mingle and enjoy Denver free events under the stars.

July 5–7: Cherry Creek Arts Festival
The Cherry Creek Arts Festival, held over the Fourth of July weekend, transforms the Cherry Creek North neighborhood into a massive outdoor gallery. With more than 250 national and international artists, live music, culinary demos, and interactive art for kids, it’s a summer staple and one of the most popular things to do in Denver summer.

July 25–27: Underground Music Showcase (UMS)
For music lovers, Underground Music Showcase (UMS) is one of the best indie music events in the region. Taking over South Broadway in late July, UMS features over 200 bands in 20+ venues. If you’re interested in moving to Denver, this event is a great way to experience the music culture firsthand.

August Delivers Outdoor Adventure and Culture

As the summer winds down, August summer events in Denver keep the energy going strong.

August 8–10, 2025: Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival
Held at Anderson Park in Wheat Ridge, this community favorite marks its 56th year with carnival rides, live music on two stages, a classic car show, fireworks each night, art exhibits, a spaghetti dinner, chili cook-off, and local food vendors—ideal for families and newcomers exploring summer events in Denver.

August 23, 2025: Denver International Festival
Hosted by Mile High Festivals at 2736 Welton St, this one-day celebration spotlights Denver’s international community through cultural performances, global cuisine booths, artisan vendors, and kids’ activities—offering a colorful snapshot of the city’s global diversity.

August 31, 2025: 15th Annual Mediterranean Festival
Taking place at Saint Elias Orthodox Church, this lively two-day fest (Aug 31–Sept 1) celebrates Mediterranean cultures with live music, traditional food, henna art, hookah lounges, and a fashion show—perfect for those seeking authentic cultural experiences within Denver summer festivals

Free Outdoor Movies and Concerts All Summer Long

Not all summer events in Denver are tied to a single weekend. Throughout June, July, and August, you’ll find Denver free events like outdoor movie nights in parks across the city. Venues like Skyline Park and Infinity Park host movie screenings where newcomers to Denver can pack a blanket, enjoy local food trucks, and watch a film under the stars.

Equally popular are the City Park Jazz Concerts, held every Sunday evening in City Park. These family-friendly shows attract thousands and are a great way to end the weekend with music, local vendors, and gorgeous sunset views of the mountains. It’s one of the most beloved Denver outdoor concerts of the season.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre: The Ultimate Summer Venue

No article about summer events in Denver would be complete without highlighting Red Rocks concerts. Just a short drive from downtown, Red Rocks Amphitheatre hosts world-famous musicians all summer long. From rock and country to EDM and symphonies, there’s something for every musical taste.

Red Rocks also offers Yoga on the Rocks, a sunrise experience where you can do yoga with hundreds of others in one of the most iconic venues on Earth. For newcomers to Denver, this event is a breathtaking introduction to the city’s active, outdoorsy lifestyle.

Farmers Markets and Food Festivals Celebrate Local Flavor

In between headline events, Denver’s weekend farmers markets provide a seasonal celebration of food and community. Weekly: Union Station Farmers Market (Saturdays)

Check out the Union Station Farmers Market, open every Saturday, Weekly: South Pearl Street Market (Sundays)

or the South Pearl Street Market on Sundays. These are ideal for those moving to Denver who want to explore local produce, artisan goods, and neighborhood charm.

August 8: Denver Burger Battle
Food lovers should also mark their calendars for Denver Burger Battle, typically held in August. Local chefs compete for burger bragging rights, and attendees get to vote for their favorites. This tasty showdown is a hit with both longtime residents and people relocating to Denver.

Connect with Denver’s Community Through Summer Events

Whether you’re interested in food, music, art, or culture, summer events in Denver offer something for everyone—and they’re a fantastic way for newcomers to build connections. The Mile High City takes full advantage of its warm summer months, giving residents every reason to step outside, explore, and engage.

From high-profile festivals in Civic Center Park to neighborhood block parties and international celebrations, these events make Denver more than just a place to live—they make it a place to belong.