Denver Weekend Upcoming Events

Getting antsy for Halloween? Get an early jump on the holiday antics this weekend at a zombie-packed rendition of The Nutcracker or a spooktacular pig roast complete with costume contest. Still biding your time? Forget about the whole “dressing up” thing and opt for an aroma-infused art experience or a heavy metal flea market. How about some fuel to keep you moving? There’s a pupusa fest, chili cookoff, and 5280 Dines -- where you can sample eats from many of the city’s top restaurants. So throw on that jacket and high-five the week goodbye, it’s time to rock.

See a zombie version of The Nutcracker

Friday, October 18-Saturday, October 19
Cleo Parker Robinson Theater 
This holiday classic is getting a Halloween-worthy makeover. The Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Company will be performing three shows of Clara in the Underworld -- A Zombie Nutcracker, Spectres of the Shadowlands. Set in the netherworld, you’ll meet ghoulish versions of the Rat King and the Sugarplum Fairy as Clara takes a trek through the catacombs.
Cost: $15

Explore art in a multisensory way at the Smell This Show tour

Friday, October 18
Clyfford Still Museum
You may think of art as mostly a visual experience, but how would that change when the aroma of crackling fire is introduced? Or a whiff of rainwater? Find out for yourself at this one-of-a-kind experience where sight and smell combine to challenge your perceptions and give you a whole new way to think about art and your senses.  
Cost: Included with museum admission of $10; advance registration is required

Celebrate the Jewish holiday Sukkot at a four course dinner

Friday, October 18
Comal Heritage Food Incubator
Although it just landed on 5280’s 25 Best Restaurants list for 2019, Comal is much more than just a place to grab a bite. Exhibit A: this dinner which is the first in their new educational series that’s all about bringing together different cultures. This event will explore Sukkot, a harvest holiday, with four courses paired with wine, beer, and plenty of challah. 
Cost: $50/person

Celebrate Leopold Bros.’ 20th Anniversary

Saturday, October 19
Leopold Bros. 
Two decades of making some of the best spirits around is certainly reason to party. And party you shall. Stop by the distillery anytime from 12-6pm for food, drinks, tours, and more surprises -- all in the name of booze.
Cost: Admission is free

Dine at a Spooktacular Pig Roast

Saturday, October 19
Julep
What do you do when October arrives and you own a Southern eatery and you love Halloween? You throw a pig roast, of course. Join chef and owner Kyle Foster for an evening feasting and fun complete with live music from The Raratins and carnival games at the haunted sideshow. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes so go all out. 
Cost: All you can eat and drink tickets are $40

Eat everything at a Pupusa Festival

Saturday, October 19
Stanley Marketplace 
Pupusas -- a thick flatbread made with cornmeal that’s often stuffed with meat, cheese, and other goodies -- are straight up delicious. Want proof? Head to this festival to sample a variety of pupusas along with other corn-based dishes. There will also be music, dancing, games, all celebrating the culture of El Salvador.
Cost: Free

Upgrade your brunch at the Bloody Mary Festival

Sunday, October 20
EXDO Event Center
For the fourth year in a row, you can sample the city’s best Bloody Marys at one big brunch celebration. Get unlimited samples of this classic brunch cocktail and vote for your favorite to help crown the People’s Choice winner. There will also be brunch eats on hand to keep you energized for more Bloodys along with live music and other fun surprises.
Cost: General admission tickets are $45

Find unique goods at a Heavy Metal Flea Market

Sunday, October 20
Black Sky Brewery
Score some heavy metal themed goods at this flea featuring a dozen local vendors. Shop the wares (jewelry, artwork, crafts, etc) that are all adorned with a touch of darkness. It’ll be sure to please your heavy metal heart. 
Cost: Admission is free

Taste your way through Joy Wine and Spirits Chili Cook Off

Sunday, October 20
Joy Wine and Spirits
More than 20 local restaurants will be on hand dishing up their best chili at the 8th annual edition of this event that’s sure to warm you up. Tickets include samples from all participating eateries -- and drinks and games will be available at an additional cost. Not only will you get to fill up on some spicy goodness, you’ll also be doing good because all proceeds go to SAME Cafe. 
Cost: Tickets are $20/person pre-order; $25/person day of the event

Sample eats from some of Denver’s 25 best restaurants at 5280 Dines

Sunday, October 20
The Hangar at Stanley
If reading 5280’s annual 25 best restaurants list made you hungry, then you’re in luck. The list comes to life at this event where a group of Denver’s best chefs congregate for an evening of food and fun that’s sure to please. Along with bites to sample, you’ll also get access to open bars pouring plenty of wine, beer, and specialty cocktails. 
Cost: $78