WEEKLY EVENTS: May 16, 2014 – MAY 22, 2014
Dear Denver,
This weekend the Colfax Marathon will be coming to town. If you’ve witnessed it before, you know that the whole town essentially becomes a cluster. Road closures will begin as early as 1am on Sunday and continue as late as 1pm that afternoon.
This year I will be running the Urban 10 Miler for the second time with my brother, sister, brother-in-law, and a close family friend. I have been struggling with an injury this training season, so I am hoping that I can just will myself across the finish line. But I honestly feel like training is harder than the actual race – sticking to your plan and committing for that long to do something you don’t *have to* do is tough. There are multiple times you wonder if you should throw in the towel and just “run for fun”. Why are you doing it anyway?
But you keep saying yes.
And come race time, there is no need to try and motivate yourself anymore – and there are no more excuses. You just go! And it is actually really fun. There is such a great energy in the air, and you are surrounded by so much motivation and commitment. It’s no secret that once you finish a race, you are itching to register for another.
So to all the runners out there, best of luck this weekend. Have fun, don’t forget to smile, and I would highly recommend some Biggie Smalls for your playlist.
(And as per youzh, check-out Westword’s 10 things to do for $10 in Denver blog for free/low-cost events this weekend.)
Friday, May 16, 2014 @ 7 – 10pm: Fresh Jazz and Crisp Vinyl Series at the Dikeou Pop-Up: Colfax
The Dikeou Collection’s sixth installment of the Fresh Jazz and Crisp Vinyl Series will feature a very special performance by the Jean-Luc Davis Band. There will also be a DJ spinning rare & classic jazz records from the Collection’s extensive vinyl archive. Davis and his band will play at 8pm. This event is FREE and open to the public; light refreshments will be provided.
Friday, May 16, 2014 @ 8pm: Vegan Drinks and Pizza at Bonnie Brae Tavern
Come on out for some tasty vegan cocktails/mocktails and an assortment of vegan pizzas at the family-owned Bonnie Brae Tavern. You do NOT have to drink alcohol, nor be a card-carrying vegan to attend. $10 for all you can eat, yo. Kids are welcome!
Saturday, May 17 & Sunday, May 18, 2014: Denver Master Gardener 9th Annual Plant Sale at CSU Denver Extension
The Spring Plant Sale offers a unique variety of heirloom and modern tomatoes, sweet and hot chili peppers, select vegetables and herbs, and annual and perennial flowers. Denver Master Gardeners have been working hard all spring in the City Park Greenhouse, operated by Denver Parks & Recreation, growing almost all of the veggies and herbs available at the plant sale. At the Spring Plant Sale, Master Gardeners will help answer any of your gardening questions and will help you choose the best plant varieties for your particular needs. All proceeds from the sale support the CSU Denver Extension Horticulture Program. On Saturday, doors will be open from 8am – 3pm, and on Sunday from 10am – 3pm. CASH ONLY.
Saturday, May 17, 2014 @ 9am – 4pm: Valverde Bazaar at Eron Johnson Antiques
First off, my apologies for posting this event last week. If anyone showed up last Saturday (including myself), at least we know how to get there? Again, I am sorry, but it does seem worth it to make the trek again! This is not your traditional flea market. This pop-up mart brings together emerging artisans and small independent Colorado businesses selling a diverse mix of vintage, antique, and hip handmade products. The market has expanded to over 70 booths and food trucks setting up shop in the outdoor space of Eron Johnson Antiques, surrounded by their garden and architectural antiques. Free admission, tasty eats, live music, go.
Saturday, May 17, 2014 @ 11am: Five Points Jazz Festival at 2600 Washington Street
The Five Points Jazz Festival, now in its 11th year, brings people together for a day of food, fun, and fantastic music. This FREE festival takes place the third Saturday of May each year and celebrates the history of Denver’s Five Points neighborhood. Once known as the Harlem of the West, Five Points was home to several jazz clubs that played host to many of jazz music’s legends such as Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk and many more. Since its inception in 2004, the Five Points Jazz Festival has grown each year in size and popularity. This year, 23 bands are scheduled on 7 stages. FREE.
Saturday, May 17, 2014 @ 12 – 5pm: RiNo Art Safari in the River North (RiNo) Art District
Come check out where art is made at the River North Art Safari. You’ll get the chance to tour over 30 locations, including tons of new art galleries and creative spaces opening up in the district. Some of the most anticipated exhibits include Bella Glass Studio, Chocolate Crisis Center, and the Dry Ice Factory. The event kicks off Saturday at noon. A VIP option is available, or take a self-guided tour for FREE.
Saturday, May 17, 2014 @ 12 – 4pm: Beer & Dessert Pairing at Denver Beer Co.
Sugar Bakeshop and Denver Beer Co. are teaming up to present an afternoon of yum. Sample delicious pairings such as Barleywine with a Cinnamon Poptart and Graham Cracker Porter with a Peanut Butter Orange Chocolate Chip Cookie.
Saturday, May 17, 2014 @ 6 – 8:30pm: Parents Night Out at the Freyja Project
Enjoy a LoHi night out while your kids have a fun evening with the Freyja Project. A kid’s yoga class, fun activities, and a healthy snack will be provided, while you do you. For kids ages 4 – 14. $25 for one child; $15 for each additional sibling.
Sunday, May 18, 2014, doors at 11:15am, movie at 12pm: Last Sunday’s Cinema at the McNichols Civic Center Building
Last Sunday’s Cinema is a monthly event that features two blockbuster movies shown in one of Denver’s hippest historic buildings. Tickets are $7 per person, $15 per family (both movies included), or FREE if you bring in 3 cans of food to donate to the Food Bank of the Rockies. Beer, wine, candy, popcorn, sodas, and water are all available for purchase. This month’s theme is Western. The first movie will be True Grit, followed by Django Unchained. First movie begins at noon, doors open @ 11:15am.
Sunday, May 18, 2014 @ 11am – 3pm: Neat Market Vegan Shop-Up at the Posner Center for International Development
Have you not been to this pop-up market yet? Are you scared because everything is vegan and you think it will be gross/weird/pretentious? Well check all of that at the door because you is missing out. This pop-up market is the coolest, even if you aren’t permanently riding the vegan train. Swing on by to pick-up some fresh pasta, chocolate, ice-cream, jerky, confectionaries, seasoned seitan, tamales, and tons of baked goods. Nothing not vegan, son.
Sunday, May 18, 2014, doors at 7pm, show at 8pm: Propaganda at Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret
FREE comedy show on the last Sunday of every month, featuring local and national talent in the coolest comedy club setting you’ve probably ever been to. Pick-up a FREE Sexy Pizza slice card on your way out and end your night with some of the most delicious East Coast-style pizza in Denver. This month’s comics include Jodee Champion, Byron F. Graham, Christie Buchele, Andy Sell, and headliner Deacon Gray! Hosting services provided by special guest, Brad Galli. Plus, enjoy FREE street parking on Sundays!
Sunday, May 18, 2014 @ 10pm: Arguments & Grievances at the Vine Street Pub
Comedy debating ha ha times. Debates this month include Two Birds vs. One Stone, Arnold Palmer vs. Shirley Temple, Bridge vs. Tunnel, Front vs. Back, and the headlining event, Pain vs Pleasure. FREE.
Monday, May 19, 2014 @ 6 – 8pm: Community Movie Night at the Posner Center for International Development
Please join the Posner Center for International Development for their upcoming Community Movie Night, where they’ll screen the award-winning documentary, Waste Land. Waste Land is an uplifting feature documentary highlighting the transformative power of art and the beauty of the human spirit. Top-selling contemporary artist Vik Muniz takes viewers on an emotional journey from Jardim Gramacho, the world’s largest landfill on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro, to the heights of international art stardom. Vik collaborates with the brilliant catadores, pickers of recyclable materials, true Shakespearean characters who live and work in the garbage quoting Machiavelli and showing us how to recycle ourselves. This event is FREE and open to the public.
Monday, May 19, 2014 @ 7pm: After Tiller at SIE FilmCenter
One night only! After Tiller intimately explores the highly controversial subject of third-trimester abortions in the wake of the 2009 assassination of practitioner Dr. George Tiller. The procedure is now performed by only four doctors in the United States, all former colleagues of Dr. Tiller, who risk their lives every day in the name of their unwavering commitment toward their patients. Directors Martha Shane and Lana Wilson have created a moving and unique look at one of the most incendiary topics of our time, and they’ve done so in an informative, thought-provoking, and compassionate way. Come check-out this film that has been featured at many renowned festivals. Tickets run $10 – $12.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014 @ 7pm: Free Screening of The New Black at the SIE FilmCenter
Centering on the historic fight to win marriage equality in Maryland, The New Black takes viewers into the pews, onto the streets, and provides a seat at the kitchen table as it looks at how the African American community grapples with the divisive gay rights issue. Although this event is FREE, please be sure to RSVP at www.rmpbs.org/cinema, as spots go fast.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014 @ 8pm: The Great Debate at Buntport Theater
The Great Debate pits teams of non-experts head-to-head, toe-to-toe, and often dumb-to-dumber in lively debates of the inconsequential. Mundane topics are brought to life by ordinary, but opinionated folks. You’re bound to be a flip-flopper after listening to compelling arguments on things that never mattered. This month’s theme? Nancy Reagan or Fancy Ray-Guns. Box office opens at 7:30pm, the feud starts at 8:00pm. $5 – $8, depending on your luck.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014 @ 9pm: Mark Star Karaoke at the Beauty Bar
Mark Star Karaoke may just be the funnest karaoke in town. Plus with $2 Olympia beer, $2 tequila, and free tacos from Mezcal starting at 10pm, how could you say no? No cover; happens every Tuesday.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014 @ 6pm: Evening Yoga at Denver Botanic Gardens
Looking for a new environment to practice your yoga skills this spring? Well how about amongst the natural setting of the Denver Botanic Gardens? The Denver Botanic Gardens is now hosting a weekly Vinyasa yoga class, taught by Blake Burger. Vinyasa yoga weaves beautiful movement with challenging postures, and cultivates a sense of peace and calm by the end of each yoga class. All levels are welcome; please bring a mat, a towel and water. $10 members, $12 non-members. Please bring cash if possible but credit cards are also accepted.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014 @ 6pm: Raw Vegan Night at the Sputnik
Join the Sputnik crew as they offer up a Mexican-inspired raw vegan menu for one-night only this month #getsome
Wednesday, May 21, 2014 @ 6 – 8pm: Networking Reception with Zimbabwean and Zambian Entrepreneurs at the Posner Center for International Development
Connect with representatives from WorldDenver and meet and greet Department of State fellows from Zambia and Zimbabwe that are working in Denver for the month of May. Fellows include entrepreneurs working in the fields of biofuels, manufacturing, telecom, tourism, public relations, and mobile technology. Food and drink will be served. Learn more about the Secretary of State’s program here. $10 to attend.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014 @ 8pm: The Narrators at Buntport Theater
Come welcome The Narrators to their new home! If you haven’t been to this show before, it is pure gold. It’s essentially like This American Life unfolding right in front of your beautiful smiling face. One of the best things to do in Denver, hands down. This month’s theme is “Moving”. Admission is FREE. (Plus there is cheap can beer to sip on while you listen, haaaaaaaaaaay.)
Thursday, May 22, 2014 @ 10pm: Karaoke with DJ Rockstar Aaron at Barricuda’s
Karaoke madness featuring all of your favorite hits from the 80s and 90s. FREE.