WEEKLY EVENTS: December 5, 2014 – December 11, 2014

Denver!  I just got back from Long Beach, CA and am still trying to get my mile high legs back.  This week is literally packed with stuff to do, including many opportunities to get started on that holiday shopping by buying local.  Peep the list below for holiday markets out the ying yang, as well as movies, comedy, craft beer events, dance parties, vampire brunches, and SO MUCH MORE.

(And as per youzh, check-out Westword’s 10 things to do for $10 in Denver blog for free/low-cost events this weekend, which includes a Naughty or Nice Party at Tracks and KRAMPUS Fest.)

Friday, December 5, 2014 @ 11am – 9pm: Denver Christkindl Market at Skyline Park

European quaintness in the heart of BroDo?  Yes, it’s true.  Skyline Park has once again been transformed into a traditional German Christmas Market.  German music, big beers, a heated beer tent, Gluhwein, soft pretzels, European desserts, Christmas knickknacks, and twinkling lights will round out this festive experience.  Peep their website for additional hours and entertainment schedule.

Friday, December 5, 2014  @ 2 – 9pm: Return of the Ugly Sweater at the Wit’s End Brewing Company

It’s the return of the Ugly Sweater (beer)!  Wit’s End will be tapping their beloved winter ale once again this Friday, starting at 2pm.  Come help them celebrate by rocking your own ugly sweater in the taproom.  Bring a can of food and get a raffle ticket for prizes throughout the evening.  They will also crown the king or queen of ugly sweaters at 7pm.  Pride of Philly will be serving up the steaks and taproom hours will be extended slightly from 2 – 9pm-ish.  Also, Friday will be the only day they will sell Ugly Sweater to go—and only in 40s (haaaaaaaaay).  So bring your 40 in for a refill or grab a new one to go.  FREE.

Friday, December 5, 2014 @ 2 – 10pm: End of Prohibition Celebration at Black Shirt Brewing Co.

This Friday night, Black Shirt Brewing Co. is hosting a Prohibition Repeal Day celebration, complete with their own speakeasy, proper Prohibition era attire, a pop-up hat shop from Goorin Bros, and a huge art installation from their favorite artist, TiredPirate.  Plus, they’ll be unveiling a new collaboration beer, along with other exclusive beers and a beer cocktail.  Admission is FREE and everyone 21+ is welcome.

Friday, December 5, 2014 @ 4 – 10pm: Holiday ManCraft at VFW Post 2461

Ink Lounge has gathered together 40+ seriously creative and crafty men who kick-ass in the making stuff department for the most unique and fun holiday market available.  From clothing to pickles to monsters to letterpress to knives to screenprints to soap to glassware to art prints to just about anything super sweet that a guy can make with his hands.  And in case there’s any question – the vendors are all men (a few couples are included), but the event is open to everyone as many of the items these fine men make are suited for a variety of genders and ages.  So don’t worry, even though it will be a room full of creative men, not everything will smell like a garage at 3AM or dirty socks.  Plus!  Be one of the first 50 people in the door to receive a “man sack” with goodies such as a free drink ticket and an official ManCraft koozie.  FREE.

Friday, December 5, 2014 @ 6 – 10pm: First Friday Art Walk at Cabal Enterprises

New work from Lindsey Kuhn and Cabal members.  Music from Sputnik Slovenia; comedy from: Kevin O’Brien; and DJ tunes from Gene Gene The Dancing Machine Martinez.  Sponsored by Sailor Jerry.  FREE.

Friday, December 5, 2014 @ 6 – 10pm: The Knotty List Mini Holiday Market at Knotty Tie Co.

9 rad vendors, one night, all of your holiday shopping in one place.  The Knotty Tie Co. is teaming up with some of their favorite vendors from around the city to bring you one awesome night of local shopping, friends, and tunes.  And of course, it wouldn’t be a Knotty soiree without a little beer.  Sons of Scullery will be on-hand slinging BBQ to fill your belly, and there will also be suds from Renegade Brewing Company.  Jewelry?  Check.  Apparel  Yup.  Accessories?  Got it.  Stationery?  That too.  It’s all here.  You should be too.  FREE.

Friday, December 5, 2014, doors at 7pm, show starts at 8pm: Annual Independent Voices Celebration at Denver Open Media (DOM)

YOUR community access television station is turning 8!  Come join in the fun with intimate, live studio performances by Sorcha Richardson and Miss America by Wheary!  PLUS!  Enjoy stand-up comedy by Ben Kronberg.  And for a suggested donation of $10, you can enjoy great food and drink from Illegal Pete’s, Snarf’s Sandwiches, Pizzeria Locale, Wynkoop Brewing Co., Wines Off Wynkoop, and the Breckenridge Distillery.  And  if you are not yet convinced, you will also have the opportunity to participate in DOM’s legendary silent auction, where you can score a plethora of holiday steals for you and yours.  BOOM.

Friday, December 5, 2014 @ 7pm: Sexpot Comedy Presents: Comics Against Civility 3 at the Armoury

Listen up!  If you are a fan of Cards Against Humanity, then this is a show for you.  This week’s contestants include Byron Graham, Laramie Wassertoff, Cody Spyker, and Rick Bryan.  Comics will be playing for a spot in the finals, where the title of Denver’s Least Civil Comedian will be bestowed.  Audience members win prizes by submitting questions that the contestants will answer during the show.  Prizes this week include free Sexy Pizza gift cards, 420 prizes (with a 21+ ID), free drinks, awful literature, and more!  Doors open at 7pm; you must arrive early to win prizes.  FREE.

Friday, December 5, 2014, doors at 8pm: Denver Broncos UK Live at Leon

Join the Leon crew for a performance by Munly Munly, Slim Cessna, Lord Dwight Pentacost, and Rebecca Vera.  Gary Isaacs has worked closely with DBUK, Slim Cessna’s Auto Club, Munly and the Luprechalians and this show will celebrate their music and art together.  Tickets are $12 at the door.

Friday, December 5, 2014 @ 9pm – 2am: Lipgloss at the Beauty Bar

Beautiful babies of Denver, come dance it out at one of Denver’s favorite indie rock dance nights, featuring DJ Hollow and DJ Tower.  To sweeten your evening there will be $1 PBRs and $3 wells from 10 – 11pm.  Otherwise it’s only $5 for a whole lotta magic.  Life is short; go to Lipgloss.

Saturday, December 6 & Sunday, December 7, 2014: Firefly Handmade Market at the Exdo Event Center

Over 100 artisans will be selling thier wares, including adult and children’s fashion and accessories; home goods; pet goods; artisan food & drink; art; bath & body; and more!  There will also be a free DIY gift wrapping station, a creation station for kids, live music, food, a full bar, and free parking.  Event runs from 11am – 7pm on Saturday and 11am – 5pm on Sunday.  Your $3 admission goes to There With Care, an organization helping families and children facing critical illness.

Saturday, December 6 & Sunday, December 7, 2014: Holiday Flea at the Bindery on Blake

The Denver Flea returns in holiday form (and moves indoors!) for a two-day event at Bindery on Blake, located at 2901 Blake Street.  Expect even more vendors, more food, more booze, delicious hot beverages, fewer lines, and an insane amount of holiday cheer!  Event runs from 12- 6pm each day and don’t forget to RSVP for a free winter cocktail or beer!

Saturday, December 6, 2014 @ 1 – 5pm: Share Denver’s Holiday Craft Workshop at Share Denver 

Create handmade gifts that you are proud to give.  Join some of Share Denver’s best instructors for an afternoon of creating handcrafted gifts, toasting with holiday joy, and celebrating the season!  For just $99, each crafter will leave with more than 12 handmade items perfect for gifting or keeping for yourself!  Register here.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 @ 2pm: Love Actually at the SIE FilmCenter

Billed as “the ultimate romantic comedy”, Love Actually involves more than a dozen main characters, each weaving his or her way into another’s heart over the course of one particularly eventful Christmas in London.  Tickets run $7 – $10.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 @ 2:30 – 6:30pm: Holiday Handmade Artisan Fair and Spa Day at the Freyja Project

Sip, shop, and spa this Saturday at the Freyja Project.  Discover the perfect handcrafted gift from local artisans and indulge in complimentary spa treatments, Freyja Boutique discounts, and holiday treats.  Spa treatments include mini-facials, massage, acupuncture, astrology readings, energy healing, and more and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.  FREE.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 @ 3 – 4pm: Denver’s Gay Man Chorus at the Denver Central Library

Fresh City Life is honored to be hosting a free performance of the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus in its 34th season.  This spectacular event will feature almost 100 men.  Their angelic singing, bright spirits, and holiday cheer will enhance your season.  This concert will include favorite holiday carols, plenty of inspirational singing, and maybe even an audience sing-along.  Come see why the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus is the premiere chorus in Denver.  A perfect prelude to downtown’s Parade of Lights!  FREE and open to the public.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 @ 5:30pm: Pre-Opening Reception at the Denver Cat Company

Denver’s newest invention, the Denver Cat Company, is throwing a small party to show their appreciation for supporters who contributed to their crowdfunding campaign and volunteers who helped get them set-up.  If you would like to join them for this sneak preview, you can do so by donating $50 or more at www.denvercatco.com/rewards.  You will be the first to see the space, meet the cats, and get to know the people behind the scenes who made this happen.  Prizes will also be raffled off.  MEOW!

Saturday, December 6, 2014 @ 6 – 8pm: Winter Wonderland Craftery at The Craftsman & Apprentice

Spend a cozy evening at the Craftsmen & Apprentice, sipping hot toddies, and learning how to make the most epic paper-cut snowflakes you’ve ever seen.  They’ll provide all you need to create cards, decorations, and ornaments to satisfy your inner Martha.  Registration is $25 and includes all materials.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 @ 9pm: Mile High Soul Club at Syntax Physic Opera

After a residency that lasted just shy of 2 years at Beauty Bar, Denver’s Mile High Soul Club is moving to Syntax Physic Opera, located at 554 S. Broadway.  The award-winning club night will break in its new home with a guest DJ appearance by Innovative Leisure recording artist, Nick Waterhouse.  Waterhouse’s most recent trip to the mile high city found him headlining a sold-out show at the Bluebird Theater earlier this year.  Tickets are just $5 in advance or at the door.

Sunday, December 7, 2014, pre-show at 11am, movie at 11:30am: Vampire Brunch: The Lost Boys at the Alamo Drafthouse

This Sunday, cure your weekend regrets with the Alamo’s Vampire Brunch featuring the hot vamp classic, The Lost Boys.  This event features a vampire-inspired brunch menu (duh), 2-for-1 mimosas, and a special in-theater musical performance starting at 11am.  Tickets cost $12.50.  Vampire Brunch occurs every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month.

Sunday, December 7, 2014 @ 1 – 3pm: Bingo Brunch at the Squeaky Bean

Forget about that embarrassing thing you did this weekend, by eating well and winning big at bingo!  Hosted by comedian Nathan Lund, you will be shame-free for at least 30+ minutes.

Sunday, December 7, 2014 @ 4 – 7pm: Gears, Beers & Holiday Cheers at the Former Future Brewing Company

Plan on attending “Gears, Beers & Holiday Cheers”, a steampunk holiday fundraiser benefitting Safehouse Denver.  There will be beers, crafts, a photo booth, and lots of fun.  Cash and item donations will go to Safehouse Denver.  Donate an item from their wishlist worth $10 or more, and get a FREE 4-beer taster flight!  No cover.

Sunday, December 7, 2014 @ 5pm: Screening: Crafting a Nation at Black Shirt Brewing Co.

What could be better than spending Sunday evenings this winter cozying up to watch a classic movie with a red ale in hand?  Black Shirt Brewing Co. is pleased to announce Sunday Night Picture Show, a free movie inside the BSB brewhouse each Sunday starting at 5pm.  Be sure to come early to secure a spot.  This new winter tradition will kick off December 7th with Crafting A Nation, a feature-length documentary and new media project about how the American craft brewers are rebuilding the economy one craft beer at a time.  FREE.

Monday, December 8, 2014 @ 6 – 7pm: Civic Center Moves at the McNichols Civic Center Building

Move, sweat, and loosen up to an all-levels vinyasa yoga class that is sequenced to open your bold heart, unlock your emotional hips, and get your blood moving through every fiber of your body.  At the end of class, wind down and relax with soothing stretches and a moment of quiet reflection.  Please bring your own yoga mat.  FREE.

Monday, December 8, 2014 @ 6 – 10pm: Tinseltown on Pecos Street at the McNichols Civic Center Building

An evening spent with friends over good food and drinks, and a chance to find locally handmade gifts for the special people in your life.  Beer by TRVE Brewing and food by The Tasterie Truck.  Peep the list of vendors here.  FREE.

Monday, December 8, 2014 @ 9pm: Manic Monday Mary-oke at Hamburger Mary’s

Is your Monday night your weekend?  Well then come check-out Manic Mondays Mary-oke with Meowllison!  The fun starts with happy hour pricing all day long – $3 wells and $4 calls.  Also, all of their martinis, margaritas, and Moscow Mules are only $5.  Plus there is a $5 burger & fries deal starting at 8pm.  Drink, eat, sing, and be Mary (aka call out of work on Tuesday!)

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 @ 7pm: Bridges & Brews at 3455 Ringsby Court

Please join the Bridges to Prosperity staff, supporters, and friends at the new TAXI event space on December 9th.  There will be music, games, beer from Upslope Brewing, snacks from Whole Foods Market, kombucha from Happy Leaf Kombucha, and lots of fun! Feel free to bring lots of friends to celebrate all of the bridges that B2P has built.  The event space is on the 4th floor of the Drive 2 building in the TAXI complex; look for signs directing you once you park.  FREE.

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 @ 6:30 – 8:30pm: Matt Shepard Is A Friend Of Mine: Community Event And Film Screening at South High School

Please join Facing History for this special screening of the award-winning film, Matt Shepard Is a Friend of Mine.  This powerful documentary tells the story of Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old gay man murdered in Laramie, Wyoming in October, 1998.  His murder made headlines around the world and set the stage for historic anti-hate crime legislation.  Following the screening there will be a panel discussion, which will include filmmaker Michele Josue, about the role that we all, especially parents, can play in shaping inclusive schools and communities.  This event is FREE, but you are encouraged to RSVP.

Tuesday, December 9, 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?  FREE; happens every Tuesday.

Wednesday, December 10, 2014 @ 7:30pm: New Wave the World Over Film Series at Cafe Max

FREE weekly film series, which explores the New Wave movement.  In the late 50s, a radical move towards progressive, subversive, deconstructionist, and fiercely political cinema began.  Filmmakers in countries all over the world were trying to make sense of their post-war societies, widespread apathy, oppressive communist, socialist, and capitalist regimes and an overwhelming sense of melancholy.  Birthed from this perfect storm of pain and confusion was a new kind of cinema yet unknown to the world.  Come watch some lesser-seen films from this movement, while enjoying food and drink specials.  This week’s film is Loves of a Blonde.

Wednesday, December 10, 2014 @ 9pm: Teez Me Pleaze Me at the Beauty Bar

Come check-out the Beauty Bar’s new weekly, Teez Me Pleaze Me.  All the hits from the 80s, 90s, 2000s, and today!  From Prince to Little Dragon, from Madonna to Rhianna, from Cindy Lauper to Miley Cyrus  – all your guilty pleasures.  Baby it’s cold outside, so come get warm on the dance floor!  $15 martini/manicure all night long, $3 well drinks for ladies, plus buy any shot and get a free PBR!  No cover.

Thursday, December 11, 2014 @ 5 – 8pm: Holiday Jewelry and Gift Market at Goldyn

Shop a curated selection of Goldyn’s favorite jewelers and gift makers, hosted by blogger Lawn-Party.  Featuring Gem & Blue, R.L. Linden & Co., Communion by Joy Sangalang, Pamela Love, Nyc, Native and Nomad, The Woods Fine Jewelry, Kristen Hatgi Photography/ Hatgi Sink Studios.  Guests will also enjoy complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres.  FREE.

Thursday, December 11, 2014 @ 7:30pm: Home Alone Quote-Along & Pizza Party at the Alamo Drafthouse

Quote along with this holiday classic, while enjoying all-you-can-eat cheese pizza!  Tickets are $13.