Denver’s Biggest Events for 2026

World's Largest Dinosaurs (March 20–Sept. 7, 2026) – Size affects just about everything an animal does: eating, breathing, moving and reproducing. This traveling exhibition goes beyond bones and into the bodies of sauropods, the biggest land animals ever, to take a look at how these titans pulled it off. Find out how scientists study fossils and living animals to understand sauropod biology; how heart rate, respiration, metabolism and reproduction are linked to size; and what we can learn from these extinct animals about what it means to be big. 

Colorado Rockies Home Opener (April 3, 2026) – What would spring be without baseball? Don’t miss the annual return of the Colorado Rockies to Coors Field and the Rockies Opening Day Party at McGregor Square.

Raye at the Fillmore Auditorium (April 6, 2026) – Soul-pop phenom Raye has built a formidable following after departing from her dancefloor topline roots and embracing ‘40s nostalgia and updating it with modern flair and prose. That creative pivot ensured a Best New Artist Grammy nomination and groundbreaking performances at BST Hyde Park as well as Coachella. 

Denver Jazz Fest (April 7–12, 2026) – This annual celebration during Jazz Appreciation Month features 40 shows taking place over six days at 15 venues. 

Twice at Ball Arena (April 14, 2026) – The nine-piece K-pop outfit, Twice, continues their world domination, expanding their wildly successful This Is For World Tour that included a well-publicized headline performance at this year’s Lollapalooza. As with most K-pop concerts, expect a sensory overload of harmonies, large-scale choreographed dance routines and of course, the over-the-top production.

'Hell's Kitchen' (April 14–26, 2026) – In this new musical from Alicia Keys, Ali is a 17-year-old girl full of fire – searching for freedom, passion and her place in the world. How she finds them is a New York City coming-of-age story you’ve never felt before. 

USWNT vs. Japan (April 17, 2026) – The U.S. women’s national soccer team closes out its April series against Japan. One of the most iconic rivalries in women’s soccer history takes center stage in Colorado, where the USWNT has consistently delivered dominant performances. With world-class talent on both sides, this matchup promises elite intensity from kickoff to final whistle. Be there as the U.S. caps off a three-match series against one of the world’s best.

Colorado Rapids 30th Anniversary Match Featuring Lionel Messi* (April 18, 2026) – Lionel Messi is slated to visit Denver as the Colorado Rapids mark 30 years since their inaugural home match in 1996. The anniversary matchup against Inter Miami CF takes place at Empower Field at Mile High, celebrating three decades of professional soccer in Colorado and welcoming one of the sport’s biggest names to the Mile High City.
*Scheduled to appear

Mile High Asian Food Week (April 26–May 3, 2026) – This week-long culinary celebration is a delicious way to support Colorado's growing Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander community with special deals and secret menu items.

Lewis Capaldi at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre (April 28 and 29, 2026) – The heartwarming return of Lewis Capaldi is upon us. After his devastating diagnosis of Tourette syndrome and the increased pressure of maintaining his ability to perform, taking a mental and physical toll on the artist, it was uncertain when and whether Capaldi would be able to resume his life as a touring artist. Fortunately, it seems as though Capaldi has gotten to a place in his mental and physical health where he’s ready to return to the limelight.

Cinco de Mayo Festival (May 2–3, 2026) – A weekend filled with food, fun and culture, this annual festival puts the spotlight on the Mile High City’s vibrant Latino population. With more than 300,000 attendees in Civic Center Park, it’s one of Denver's most fun and family-friendly events.

'Madama Butterfly' (May 2–10, 2026) – The performance makes its highly anticipated return to Opera Colorado, bringing Puccini’s emotionally charged masterpiece to the stage. This iconic opera tells the story of Cio-Cio San, a young Japanese geisha whose unwavering devotion to an American naval officer leads to devastating heartbreak. 

'Hadestown' (May 5–10, 2026) – This theatrical experience intertwines two mythic tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — as it invites you on a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back.

Demi Lovato at Ball Arena (May 6, 2026) – The ever-talented “Cool For The Summer” singer has genre-hopped in recent years, from balladry to hard rock anthems, and now the dance floor beckons with fresh air atop the boom of EDM culture. Watch out, because Demi’s got her groove back. 

SeriesFest: Season 12 (May 6–10, 2026) – This unique festival celebrates the art of independent TV series creation — here in the birthplace of cable television. The event showcases the best new pilots from across the globe by both seasoned and emerging content creators in an international, juried competition.

MJ (May 13–17, 2026) – Back by overwhelming demand, the multiple Tony Award-winning musical about Michael Jackson is making a victorious return to Denver. 

Bodies: The Science Within (May 15–June 28, 2026) – This national touring exhibition is starting in Denver. Go on a journey through real human specimens, carefully and respectfully preserved, uncovering the intricate systems that sustain life. This immersive experience reveals how our bodies work, what we are made of, and how we became who we are.

Denver Colfax Marathon (May 16–17, 2026) – Denver's only marathon is much more than a marathon with seven races over two days, including a half-marathon. The full-length marathon follows seven miles of rivers, lakes and bridges.

'Star Wars: Return of the Jedi' in Concert with Colorado Symphony (May 22–24, 2026) – See the classic movie while the Colorado Symphony performs John Williams' legendary score live.

Outside Days (May 29–31, 2026) – Now in its third year, celebrate the outdoors during this one-of-a-kind weekend festival that features live music, films, speakers and tons of gear. 

Fan Expo Denver (May 28–31, 2026) – Experience the ultimate fandom weekend of celebs, cosplay, comics, anime, gaming and so much more. 

Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation (May 28–June 14, 2026) – History Colorado is one of only eight cultural institutions nationwide chosen to display a collection of remarkable documents from our nation’s founding that have never before traveled together. It's a once-in-a-generation chance to see priceless historic artifacts, such as an original engraving of the Declaration of Independence and a tally of votes approving the U.S. Constitution — alongside History Colorado's ongoing exhibitions like Moments That Made US and 38th Star: Colorado Becomes the Centennial State. Also coming to Colorado is a rare secret printing of the U.S. Constitution in draft form with a delegate’s handwritten notes, as well as a copy of the Treaty of Paris recognizing American independence, signed by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and John Jay. 

Morgan Wallen at Empower Field at Mile High (May 29 and 30, 2026) – Pop-country megastar Morgan Wallen heads to two (no doubt) sold-out nights at Empower Field following the wildfire success of his newest album, "I’m The Problem." At this point, whether you're a fan of the often controversial singer or not, Wallen has a knack for creating massive cultural waves with his juggernaut music releases, massive concerts and large personality. That’s all to say, his "I’m Still The Problem Tour" will only be a problem if you’re not able to get tickets — good luck. 

'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child' (May 30–June 21, 2026) – Broadway’s spellbinding spectacular is coming to Denver. Join the next adventure and experience the wizarding world like never before at this record-breaking hit and winner of six Tony Awards, including best play.

Urban Markets at Union Station (May 30–June 28, 2026, on select days) – Set against one of the city’s most iconic backdrops, this vibrant outdoor shopping experience brings together an exciting mix of local artists, makers, collectors, and small businesses offering an ever-changing selection of art, handmade crafts, antiques, clothing, jewelry, home décor, unique treasures and more.

Summer Sessions (June 6) – Kick off festival season at Riverfront Park with this free, high-energy celebration in downtown Denver. Running from 2–9 p.m., the event brings together live music, cold drinks and a lively crowd for an afternoon and evening of open-air fun to start summer on a high note.

Denver Chalk Art Festival (June 6 & 7, 2026) – A little bit of Italy comes to the Mile High City every summer. The event features more than 200 professional and amateur artists who will spend hours on their creations over the course of two days. Their efforts transform the streets of the Golden Triangle Creative District into a bright and colorful street museum, adorned in vivid pastel chalks.

Skyline Park World Cup Watch Party (June 11–12, 2026) – The Colorado Rapids will host live viewings of every FIFA World Cup 26 match on two large outdoor screens. Local food vendors, retail specials, and surprise guests, including Rapids legends, will be featured on the block.

Red Bull Soapbox Race (June 13, 2026) – The world’s wildest downhill race rolls back into Denver for the first time in 24 years, taking over Empower Field at Mile High. Teams of up to five will race their imaginative, non-motorized soapbox cars down a winding course packed with curves, steps and obstacles — all while showing off costumes, choreography and over-the-top creativity. Judged on speed, design and showmanship, this global phenomenon promises a full day of adrenaline-fueled entertainment as one team claims the top spot.

2026 Transplant Games (June 18–23, 2026) – Thousands from across the country and around the globe will come together in the Mile High City to honor the courageous families who gave the gift of life and to shine a light on the power of organ, eye and tissue donation. The 2026 event will unite transplant recipients, living donors, donor families, caregivers, those awaiting transplant, donation and transplant professionals for an unforgettable week of competition, connection and celebration. 

Juneteenth Music Festival (June 20, 2026) – One of the nation’s largest Juneteenth celebrations, look for a parade, live performances, art, vendors and fun for the entire family.

Denver Pride 5K (June 27, 2026) – Grab your tutu and your glitter and join 4,000 participants for a morning of movement, joy and belonging. The Denver Pride 5k is more than just a race — it’s a moment. Every mile is a celebration of Colorado’s LGBTQ+ community, and every dollar raised supports the programs and resources that help our community thrive.  

Troutfest Colorado (June 27, 2026) – This one-of-a-kind summer festival will celebrate conservation and offer education and community. It’s for anglers, would-be anglers, outdoor enthusiasts or simply families looking for a fun and engaging day at Coors Field. There will be lots of exhibitors, clinics on fly tying and casting, and live music.

Denver PrideFest (June 28, 2026) – Denver PrideFest is an annual celebration of community and culture that is welcoming, inclusive and fun for all attendees, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Also, don't miss the Vizzy Denver Pride Parade.

Colorado Rockies vs. Miami Marlins (June 29–July 2, 2026) – Cheer on the home team for this "sibling rivalry" at Coors Field.

Deadrocks XII with Zeds Dead at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre (July 2–3, 2026) – For two nights, see this electronic music duo perform at a magical place. 

Cherry Creek Arts Festival (July 3–5, 2026) – This major arts festival offers a perfect opportunity to find inspiration, connect with others through art and expand your worldview.

Colorado Rockies vs. San Francisco Giants (July 3–5, 2026) – West meets West Coast on Fourth of July weekend. 

Ed Sheeran at Empower Field at Mile High (July 4, 2026) – The king of loops is back in town on the Fourth of July for the aptly titled Loop Tour. Taking center stage for his impressive one-man stadium-filling loop extravaganza, Ed Sheeran brings his newest album, "Play," and his prior mathematics-themed albums to life in only the way he can.

Deadbeats Backyard Jamboree: Zeds Dead & Friends (July 4, 2026) – The annual concert will be at a new downtown location, the Tivoli Quad at Auraria Campus.

Colorado Black Arts Festival (July 10–12, 2026) – This free annual celebration honors African American art and culture in the historic City Park West neighborhood. Enjoy live music, art shows, a marketplace and a food court. The event is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™: Glow-N-Fire (July 11–12, 2026) – The high-octane show returns to Ball Arena with car-crushing action, gravity-defying stunts and the world debut of Rhinomite, a powerful new rhino-themed truck. Fan favorites like Mega Wrex™, Tiger Shark™ and Bone Shaker™ will also join FMX riders performing an all-new, no-handed front flip. Pre-show parties and VIP experiences available.

Tyler Childers at Folsom Field (July 18, 2026) – Hot on the heels of releasing his seventh studio album, "Snipe Hunter," Childers is bringing his brand of country to the Flatirons in Boulder. Tagging along is special guest Jon Batiste (plus Evan Honer, Wednesday and Scott T. Smith), bringing positive vibes to an already happy place.

Bright Nights at Four Mile (July 18–Oct. 4, 2026) – Denver’s original lantern festival experience returns. Each year unveils a brand-new theme, fresh experiences and stunning new sculptures. 

Forrest Frank (July 20, 2026) – The popular Grammy-nominated Christian artist will be performing, with special guests Tori Kelly, Cory Asbury and the Figs, at Ball Arena.

Underground Music Showcase in RiNo (July 24–26, 2026) – The Underground Music Showcase returns in a new home, moving from South Broadway to the River North Art District. Long known for spotlighting emerging and independent artists, the festival will present more than 200 performances across outdoor stages and venues throughout RiNo.

Olivia Dean at Ball Arena (July 25–26, 2026) – The rising British singer/songwriter will be in town for two nights. 

AC/DC at Empower Field at Mile High (July 28, 2026) – The legendary rock outfit is set to continue their "Power Up Tour," which began in 2025, through stadiums across the U.S. With a band of their caliber and the race against time and age, this very well could be the last time Denver gets a chance to see the “Hells Bells” group in their current form. 

'The Sound of Music' (July 29–Aug. 2, 2026) – This vibrant and romantic tale of Maria and the von Trapp family features beloved songs like “Do-Re-Mi,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and “Edelweiss.”

Denver International Festival (Aug. 1, 2026) – Enjoy live music, food, beer, wine and art from around the world.

Meghan Trainor (Aug. 1, 2026) – The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter is coming to Ball Arena as part of her latest tour.

Noah Kahan at Coors Field (Aug. 8, 2026) – The folk-pop singer-songwriter brings his catalog of introspective, singalong-ready songs to Coors Field for a summer ballpark show.

'Spamalot' (Aug.11–23, 2026) – Based on the classic film, "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," this dramatic live version features flying cows, killer rabbits and tons of international humor. 

Zach Bryan at Empower Field at Mile High (Aug. 13–14, 2026) – The rising country singer-songwriter will be in Denver for two dates at the city's largest venue. 

Savannah Bananas at Coors Field (Aug. 14–15, 2026) – “Banana Ball” is a fast-paced, action-packed style of baseball with rules that include a two-hour time limit, fans catching foul balls for outs and games that are won by points — not runs.

Toto, Christopher Cross and the Romantics (Aug. 22, 2026) – The late 1970s are back as a trio of powerhouses that formed during that era will rock Ball Arena. 

Avenged Sevenfold and Good Charlotte (Aug. 23, 2026) – Heavy metal converges with punk rock for an epic extravaganza at Ball Arena.

Denver Food + Wine Festival (Aug. 26–29, 2026) – A multi-day extravaganza of food, wine and spirits. Need we say more?

My Chemical Romance at Coors Field (Aug. 27, 2026) – The pivotal goth band reemerged in 2019 to roaring excitement that has led the “Black Parade” rockers to be bigger than they’ve ever been, leveling up from arena headliners to stadium giants.

Chicago and Styx (Aug. 28, 2026) – We did the math. These two classic rock bands have more than a century's worth of experience combined. Countless hits. Countless performances. While nothing can go on forever, see these rock heroes while they're still going strong. 

Colorado Dragon Boat Festival (Aug. 29 & 30, 2026) – Honor Asian culture with food, shopping, art and thrilling dragon boat races.

Phish at Dick's Sporting Goods Park (Sept. 4–6, 2026) – Phish returns to Dick's Sporting Goods Park for three nights over Labor Day weekend. As part of their Summer Tour ’26, the iconic jam band will bring their free-flowing, anything-can-happen live show to the soccer stadium in Commerce City. 

'The Outsiders' (Sept. 8–27, 2026) – This classic coming-of-age story takes you to Tulsa, Okla., in 1967, where Ponyboy Curtis, his best friend Johnny Cade, and their family of Greaser “outsiders” dream about who they want to become in a world that will never accept them.

Denver Oktoberfest (Sept. 18–20 & Sept.  25–27, 2026) – From keg bowling to stein hoisting, live music and more, there’s something for everyone, split over two weekends.

Andrea Bocelli at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre (Sept. 20–21, 2026) – World-renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli visits Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre for two nights. The milestone tour marks three decades since the release of “Romanza,” one of the best-selling classical albums of all time, in a venue famous for its powerful natural acoustics.

Rush 50th Anniversary (Oct. 5 & 7, 2026) – The legendary Canadian rock band, Rush, is embarking on one last career-spanning reunion, celebrating 50 years as a group. 

Doja Cat at Ball Arena (Oct. 8, 2026) – The Queen of Pop-Rap is heading back to the Mile High City.

Great American Beer Festival (Oct. 8–10, 2026) – It’s America’s favorite beer festival and cultural phenomenon that brings together 500 breweries and 2,000-plus beers over three days. 

Denver Film Festival (Oct. 22–Nov. 1, 2026) – One of the oldest film festivals in the country (going on 49 years) is returning for yet another encore with a new slate of films, stars and more.

Denver Arts Week (Nov. 6–13, 2026) – Hundreds of events, including the visual arts, music and comedy, showcase Denver’s creative scene. Plus, dozens of the city’s top cultural spots are open for free during Night at the Museums.

Mile High Holidays (Nov. 26, 2026–Jan. 1, 2027) – During the holiday season, Denver will twinkle with millions of lights all across the city. Feel the warmth of family-friendly performing arts classics, find the perfect gifts and marvel at elaborate lights displays. No other city creates holiday miracles quite like Denver. Mile High Holidays has something for everyone.

Mile High Drone Shows (TBA 2026​) – For 41 magical nights, 600 drones will soar into the sky, creating breathtaking holiday-themed animations. See these dazzling displays from across the city every night at 7 p.m. for free. From Santa and his reindeer to iconic Denver landmarks like the Mile High Tree and Denver Union Station, each night will bring a new visual experience to life.

The Mile High Tree Presented by Xcel Energy & Xfinity (TBA 2026​) – Denver’s holiday season will once again be illuminated by the spectacular Mile High Tree’s dazzling light and music show. Everyone's invited to get close and step inside this brilliantly lit, 110-foot-tall immersive art installation that will be erected on the Great Lawn in Civic Center Park.

'A Christmas Carol' (TBA 2026) – Essential to the holiday season in Denver, this joyous and opulent musical adaptation for the whole family traces money-hoarding curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge’s triumphant overnight journey to redemption.

Colorado Ballet: 'The Nutcracker' (TBA 2026) – The annual event returns to delight audiences of all ages with this timeless tradition that captures the festive spirit of the season, replete with mischievous dancing mice, sweet Sugar Plums and a symphony of swirling snowflakes.

New Year's Eve (Dec. 31, 2026) – Celebrate the new year with your family by checking out fireworks, blockbuster museum exhibitions, stunning lights displays like Zoo Lights and art shows all over town. Plus, fireworks over downtown from two locations.