This weekend in Thornton, CO

Join a free beginner-friendly pickleball class that covers the basics of the game. You’ll learn the fundamental rules, court positioning, scoring, and key gameplay concepts in a one-hour session designed to build up from the non-volley zone (the kitchen) back toward the baseline. Arrive about 10 minutes early to meet your instructor and get set up for the courts. Wear athletic shoes with non-marking soles, and paddle equipment is available at no cost if you need it.

Get ready for the Summer Sizzler 5K at Carpenter Park/Thornton Recreation Center Park. Packet pickup runs from 5:30 to 6:45 AM, followed by the Kids Dash at 6:55 AM. The national anthem and the race start happen at 7:00 AM.

Join this family-friendly race day with multiple distance options, including 5K, 10K, and 15K, plus a 1 Mile event that is untimed. There will also be a Kids Dash for children ages 10 and under. The schedule includes packet pickup early in the morning, a Kids Dash walk-out to the start area, and the national anthem followed by the race start. Everyone taking part receives a designer shirt, a custom finisher medal, chip-timing with live results and awards, and free photos. Kona Ice will be available at the finish line, and youth-based pricing is listed for the shorter distances and Kids Dash. Participants are encouraged to register early to guarantee a shirt.

Northglenn Parks and Recreation hosts the 22nd Annual Adult Wiffleball Tournament at Northwest Open Space. Teams consist of three to five players, with three players on the field at a time. The registration fee is $135 per team and includes a t-shirt for registered participants. Registration is open until filled.

RachieRocks returns to the University Hills Farmers Market to launch its fifth season.

Market in the Park at The Aurora Highlands creates a neighborhood gathering in the open air each month from June through September. Set in Winged Melody Park, it welcomes families and friends to browse, snack, and relax outside. Explore artisan booths with handmade pieces and local goods, along with a farmers market selection of produce and baked treats, plus food trucks, sweets, and refreshing drinks. During market hours, the Winged Melody Park carousel offers free rides for all ages, adding a nostalgic touch to the day.

Bring the whole family to the Karter Karnival Festival at Karter School of Thornton. Expect carnival-style fun like bounce houses and games, a petting zoo, face painting and balloon artists, plus DJs and family entertainment. There will also be food trucks, local vendor booths, and giveaways throughout the day. Admission is $5 per child, and adults are free.

Serving as the official finale to Denver Days, this free, family-focused back-to-school festival for Denver families features the distribution of more than 1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies, access to community resources, a clinic offering vaccinations and basic physical exams, and activities for all ages. Students can personalize their new backpacks at a customization station presented by Goodwill of Colorado. Live performances from Youth on Record add to the celebration, and haircuts will be available from R&R Headlabs. It is a welcoming showcase of community, culture, and opportunity that helps kick off the new school year.

70 West is hosting a GriefShare group for anyone coping with the loss of a loved one. It offers a welcoming space to process grief with guidance from facilitators Sarah Abrose and Maryellen Stipe. Registration is available through the GriefShare website or by calling 720-898-3208.

Market at the Center is a monthly outdoor marketplace at the National Western Center that spotlights local makers, food vendors, artists, and community groups. In partnership with the National Western Stock Show and CSU Spur’s Second Saturdays, it brings together families, entrepreneurs, and neighbors for a full day of exploration, connections, and fun. Set in the Main Campus Plaza, the event fills the heart of campus with vendor booths, shopping, activities, and CSU Spur offerings. Explore handcrafted goods, meet small business owners, and enjoy the lively feel of a distinctive Denver gathering place. Throughout the season, editions introduce rotating themes such as celebrations of mothers and the earth, sustainability highlights, a playful rubber ducky focus, a back to school edition with a backpack giveaway, and a showcase of Colorado-made foods.

Broken Shovels Farm Sanctuary opens its gates for an easygoing visit centered on kindness and connection with rescued farm animals. Wander through pens and pastures to meet residents from 23 species, with caretakers and volunteers nearby to introduce individual personalities and share moments from daily life. Every ticket directly supports animals recovering from neglect, abuse, or abandonment by funding veterinary care and lifelong safety. Pricing is intentionally accessible, with $10 admission in advance and $15 at the gate, and EBT or SNAP guests receive free entry with a card. To keep animals safe, outside food or drink is not allowed for people or animals, and companion animals are not permitted on the property or in vehicles. Everyone needs their own ticket, and any food or beverages offered on site are sold separately. Tickets are nonrefundable unless the event is canceled because of severe weather, and arrival on time is important since hours cannot be extended. This is a sanctuary, not a petting zoo. Many animals enjoy attention, but interactions are guided by their comfort. Move calmly, respect boundaries, and let each animal choose how to engage. Some residents are older, healing, or living with chronic conditions, and their care follows long term wellbeing with veterinary guidance. The sanctuary is reachable by public transit, close to the 88 bus line and within a short walk of rail service.

Bubble Palooza brings a day of bubbly fun to Arvada Marketplace with playful activities for kids and kids at heart. Enjoy swirling bubble machines, a foamy play zone, and giant inflatable slides, along with hands-on bubble science that sparks curiosity. Face painting adds extra color, a live DJ keeps family-friendly music flowing, and all-ages entertainment keeps the energy high. Between activities, browse local shops and savor tasty treats for a lively community outing.

Explore the Denver Art Museum’s campus on an hourlong tour guided by trained docents. The experience focuses on how the museum’s three distinctive buildings reflect evolving ideas about what an art museum can be. If the weather cooperates, the itinerary includes time outside to study the building exteriors as well as time in the galleries. Tours take place on the second Saturday each month. Meet the docent in the Hamilton Building lobby to begin. Groups of more than ten are encouraged to arrange a group tour. Participation is covered by general admission and is complimentary for members.

Soul Sisters Studio offers a gentle monthly gathering for women to slow down, make art, and connect in community. Inspired by SoulCollage and JourneyCircles, the session centers on simple collage and reflective practice to open space for insight and authentic connection. No prior art experience is needed. This is not therapy or a formal art class, just a welcoming place to create, share, and be together. The gathering takes place in Arvada at King of Glory Church. Supplies are included, with options to attend for a single session or in multi-session bundles priced at $40, $105 for three, or $180 for six.

Soul Sisters Studio offers a recurring creative circle for women who want to slow their pace, make art, and connect with one another. Drawing on SoulCollage and JourneyCircles practices, participants use simple collage and guided reflection to invite personal insight, a sense of community, and real connection. Each gathering blends grounding meditation, intuitive image collage, and supportive circle conversation to encourage reconnection with inner wisdom in a caring environment. No prior art experience is required. It is neither therapy nor a formal art class, just a welcoming place to make, share, and spend time in community. Pricing is $40 for a single session or $105 for a bundle of three sessions, and all supplies are included.

The second installment of Regimes card show returns following a successful debut. It offers a lively atmosphere with food trucks, a welcoming community, and a strong vendor lineup. Additional surprises are planned, with details to be announced.

Denver’s Vibe Artisan Markets returns with a two day summer celebration of art, music, and food. More than 130 artists, makers, and creatives will showcase unique holiday treasures, accompanied by live local music from DJ CYN and a gallery area featuring local artists. The Vibe Bar will pour spring cocktails from Uncle Tim’s Cocktails, with globally inspired bites from chefs and freshly brewed coffee from Astro Van Coffee. Each Vibe market offers a new mix of creators drawn from a community of over 2,000, so every visit brings something different. Admission is free, and the first 25 attendees through the door each day receive a complimentary swag bag. This family friendly event is mostly indoors and will take place snow or shine. Please note the pet policy, as pets are not permitted inside this venue during Vibe Fairs moving forward.

This event features a drawing for a chance to win a year of free pizza. The first 200 children will receive backpacks, there will be a spin-the-wheel game for prizes, and complimentary treats and slices of pizza will be available. Giveaways continue only while the backpack supply lasts.

This monthly amputee support group at Reunion Rehabilitation Hospital Denver creates a welcoming space for people living with limb loss and their loved ones to connect in person. Attendees can share experiences, learn practical strategies for life after amputation, and receive insight from rehabilitation professionals focused on building mobility, independence, and confidence. Caregivers and family members are welcome to take part in the conversation. The group is open to the wider community and meets on a consistent schedule, and RSVPs are appreciated though not required.

Olde Town Arvada’s Second Saturdays returns with a summertime concert series and street festival that spans two stages and showcases 16 bands from the Front Range over the season. Each weekend features more than 50 artisan vendors, a variety of food trucks, local adult beverages, and a dedicated area for kids, and admission is free. For this edition, the Square Stage includes Deeply Rooted Music School Teen Band and a headlining set from Ignatius Reilly, while the Bank Stage features The Doll House Thieves with the Eric Golden Band as the Bank Stage headliner.

Spirit Ridge is a two-piece act featuring JJ and Mikey, offering melody-forward songs layered with tight vocal harmonies and lively rhythmic interplay. The duo is billed as one of a kind, enjoyable, and memorable, all delivered with a warm, playful charm.

Rotating Tap Comedy is bringing its touring stand-up show to Someplace Else Brewery Thornton. It’s an indoor comedy night with comedians featured on major networks and platforms. Doors open for seating, with guests asked to arrive by 6:45 PM. There’s an adult content warning, and a suggested two drink minimum. Free entry does not guarantee seats, so arriving early is recommended.

Enjoy an evening of live music as The FIXX performs at The Ogden Theatre in Denver. Admission is limited to guests 16 and older.

Renowned hip hop artist Rick Ross marks 20 years of his debut album Port of Miami with a black-tie concert in Denver that reimagines his chart-shaping tracks with the sweep of a full orchestra and choir. Performing alongside the Renaissance Orchestra and the Sainted Trap Choir, he turns signature songs into a symphonic showcase that blends the grit of hip hop with lush, powerful arrangements for a refined, high-energy night. Part of a national anniversary tour, this special performance invites formal black-tie attire to match the elegant atmosphere.

Eric Golden performs live with a set of traditional honky tonk country music.

Enjoy a lively mix of karaoke and arcade nostalgia at a party that blends singing with classic gaming. Show off your voice at the mic, then switch to pinball and vintage arcade machines for a throwback good time. Whether you are a karaoke regular or just want a fun outing with friends, this Karaoke and Arcade Party offers music, games, and upbeat energy.

Hillbilly Demons bring a two-night party to Cheers in Northglenn, featuring boot-scooting energy, cold drinks, and lively fun throughout. Back-to-back evenings keep the celebration going across both nights.

Managed by Jarman and Co., this farmers market highlights local vendors offering Colorado-grown produce, fresh baked goods, specialty meats, gourmet foods, and more. Its purpose is to strengthen surrounding communities by providing a welcoming place to find fresh, wholesome products. Items must originate from the vendor through growing, raising, producing, or gathering within Colorado or in counties that border the state. If something is not available in Colorado but would benefit the market and its vendors, organizers review the vendor’s relationship with the producer and may allow exceptions.

Now in its sixth year, the Northglenn Parks & Recreation youth wiffleball tournament features divisions for ages 9 to high school, with brackets for 9 to 10, 11 to 12, 13 to 14, and high school. Rosters range from three to six players depending on division, and every team will take the field for at least three games. The entry fee is $135 per team and includes a wiffleball T-shirt.

Enjoy live music while children cool off at the splash pad, and explore a wide selection of produce and baked goods, including cheese curds.

Enjoy an all-levels outdoor yoga class in Washington Park with Yoga Social. This weekly gathering welcomes beginners and experienced practitioners with a Vinyasa-style flow that links breath and movement, plus modifications for every body. Expect a community-focused, inclusive atmosphere with rotating local Denver instructors and the fresh air and mountain views that make practicing in the park special. The class is donation-based to keep wellness accessible, with a suggested contribution of $15–$30 that supports instructors, staff, and community programming, and no one is turned away for lack of funds. Plan to arrive a little early for check-in and waiver signing, bring water, layers, and sunscreen, and look for the yellow Yoga Social flag. Yoga mats are available to rent for $5 on a first come, first served basis. After class, stick around to meet new people and enjoy time by the lake.

The only farmers market in DTC returns to Belleview Station for its sixth season with People + Produce, creating a weekly neighborhood tradition. Expect more than 50 local makers and food producers, farm fresh produce and Colorado seasonal favorites, breakfast and coffee, and weekly staples from Longmont Dairy, Spruce House Breads, Miller Farms, and more. Breakfast tacos from Rosa Frida are available, and live music and drinks await at Belleview Beer Garden, with a nearby dog park adding to the outing. Shops and eateries around Belleview Station round out the experience. Admission is free, and dogs are welcome. Bring a reusable bag and a friend to make the most of your market run. Parking is easy. Street parking is complimentary. The lot is free for the first three hours, then $1 per hour, and you can register your license plate once by scanning the posted QR code so the system recognizes it on future visits. There are plenty of spaces. An optional free RSVP is available if you want reminders before market day.

Set at Improper City, this family-friendly outdoor festival is an annual celebration of Latin sabor with lively music and a curated selection of food from across the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. Expect a festive atmosphere with drinks, plenty of choices for different tastes, and desserts, plus vegetarian and vegan options. Tickets or an RSVP are required for entry, and space is limited. Outside food and beverages are not permitted. Pets should be left at home unless the venue states otherwise, and lost and found assistance is handled by the venue. By attending, guests consent to photography and video recording, and all sales are final.

Magical Meet & Greets brings character fun to Town Center at Aurora with a special appearance by Paw Patrol’s Chase and Skye. Families can head to the Lower Level Center Court for meet and greets, play time, and photo opportunities. The event is free and family friendly, and it is part of the ongoing monthly Magical Meet & Greets series.

La Rumba hosts an evening of salsa and bachata with DJ Noslen keeping the music going. A bachata lesson is offered with Subbu and Reid, and there is also a salsa class led by Joseph Snowhawk. Cover is $10, or $15 if you take the classes.

This weekly free stand-up comedy showcase in Denver features local and touring comedians testing new material at East Fax Tap. It is part of Showcase Comedy Denver’s weekly live comedy series. There is no cover, and off-street parking is free. Arrive early for the best seating.

Passion Pit brings The Pretty Penny Tour to the stage for a general admission show. The event welcomes attendees ages 16 and up. Tickets use a tiered pricing system, and all general admission tiers provide the same access. Lower priced tiers will no longer appear once sold out, and you may see multiple price levels available at the same time. Ticket transfers are permitted starting one month after the public on sale.

Pickin' on the Dead shares the bill with Breadbox, who will perform a patio set. The concert takes place at Cervantes' Other Side.