BOOM! BANG! CHEAP! Fourth of July fireworks and festivities sparkle throughout Colorado. Fortunately, there are many free and low-cost festivals and parades to keep families entertained from July 2 to 5. One of the biggest celebrations is Indy Eve at Civic Center in Denver on July 3 from 5 to 10 p.m. Enjoy live music from the Colorado Symphony and a night market with food, local artisans and family-friendly activities. Performers from Circus Foundry come together at 9 p.m. for an LED light acrobatic and aerial show, followed by 300 drones filling the sky at 9:40 p.m. Commerce City boasts the largest public fireworks display in Colorado as part of its Fourth Fest on July 4. Revelers can enjoy the show from the parking lot of Dick’s Sporting Goods Park following the Colorado Rapids game, at around 10 p.m. Find a comprehensive round-up of all the patriotic festivals and celebrations at milehighonthecheap.com/denver-fourth-of-july.

Krispy Kreme July Fourth

Celebrate the Fourth of July by enjoying one of America’s favorite treats for free: doughnuts. Through Independence Day, Krispy Kreme is honoring the summertime holiday with a special Stars, Stripes & Sweetness doughnut collection. On July 4, any customer wearing red, white and blue can get a free original glazed doughnut in-shop. There are four participating shops in Colorado: Fort Collins, Lone Tree, Thornton and Colorado Springs. krispykreme.com/promos/july4th

Colorado Renaissance Festival – Children’s Weekend

Hear ye! Hear ye! Merriment (on a budget) awaits. The 48th annual Colorado Renaissance Festival (650 W. Perry Park Ave.) in Larkspur is back for adventure and family fun on weekends this summer. There’s plenty for families to do and see, including entertainment, an artisan’s marketplace and themed weekends. On July 5 and 6, kids 12 and under get in for free with the purchase of an adult ticket. The offer is only available at the box office on-site. If you’re going without children for the holiday weekend, find discounted tickets at King Soopers. The festival runs on weekends through Aug. 3. coloradorenaissance.com

AMC Theatres’ 50% off Wednesdays

Frugal film fanatics have always known that Tuesday is the day to go to the movies, as most chains offer discounted tickets. This summer, AMC Theatres is expanding the options to see the latest blockbuster at reduced admission with its 50% off Wednesday special, starting July 9. (Price varies by location.) This is in addition to the chain’s ongoing discount Tuesdays offer. There is an upcharge for premium formats, including IMAX, Dolby Cinema and 3D. Plus, fees still apply for online ticket orders. The new discount is only available for AMC Stubs members, which is free to join at the basic level. amctheatres.com/offers

Colorado Black Arts Festival

It’s the 39th year for the Colorado Black Arts Festival at the West End of Denver’s City Park, happening July 11 to 13. Multiple stages will showcase local and regional talent performing jazz, blues, soul, hip-hop, dance and gospel. In addition, festival-goers will find a wide variety of artwork for sale, as well as food, games and services. The Watu Sakoni (People’s Marketplace) is the place for unique gifts, crafts, woodcarvings, clothing, jewelry, oils, incense, music and books. Plus, a Children’s Pavilion will offer the younger set lots of hands-on fun with various activities and games. The Food Court serves up affordable dishes from the American South, Africa, the Caribbean and America. The festival is open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and 11 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free. colbaf.org

Boulder’s Summer Sidewalk Sale

Get your walking shoes ready. Boulder’s annual Summer Sidewalk Sale takes place from July 11 to 13. Shoppers can find lots of deals up to 75% off from many merchants on the Pearl Street Mall. Parking is free on Saturdays and Sundays in the five downtown Boulder municipal garages; metered parking is free on Sundays. boulderdowntown.com/shopping/side-walk-sale

Erie Hot Air Balloon Festival

It’s worth getting up early for the colorful hot air balloon launch that highlights the annual Erie Hot Air Balloon Festival from July 11 to 13. The balloons take off at 6 a.m. each morning (weather permitting) in the open field across from Erie High School, on the northwest corner of County Road 5 and Colliers Parkway. Coffee and breakfast will be available from food trucks. If you’re not an early bird, there is also a Balloon Glow on July 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the same field. Attendees will also enjoy food trucks, music, face painters and a lighted-up walk-through balloon. erieballoonfestival.com/event-guide

Rocky Mountain PBS KIDS Fest

Kids can see their favorite characters come to life at the Rocky Mountain PBS KIDS Fest on July 19. The family fun takes place at E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park (11701 Community Center Drive) in Northglenn from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event features games and activities for all ages, a scavenger hunt, music, an art project, face painting and more. Most important, many of PBS KIDS characters will be there for a meet-and-greet (including photos!) with little fans, including Clifford the Big Red Dog, Daniel Tiger, Zeke, Buddy from Dinosaur Train and Super Why. Food trucks will also be on-site selling food, snacks and drinks. Admission is free for all. While tickets are not required, advance registration is encouraged by organizers. events.rmpbs.org/event/rocky-mountain-pbs-kids-fest-metro-denver/e685832

Tennyson Street Fair

Block off the weekend for summer fun! The Tennyson Street Fair is now a two-day affair, set for July 18 and 19. The fair runs from 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. The neighborhood block party extends multiple blocks on Tennyson from West 41st to West 43rd avenues and brings local businesses out into the street for a festive atmosphere. Shop from more than 100 artisans and local shops at the fair’s marketplace, enjoy eats from local food trucks and drink Tennyson-brewed craft beers and libations – all while listening to live music and more. Don’t forget to bring water to beat the heat. tennysonstreetfair.com

Evergreen Summerfest

It’s a festival of arts, crafts, music and more at Evergreen’s annual Summerfest, with more than 100 artists from across the country. The event takes place on July 19 and 20 at Buchanan Park (32003 Ellingwood Trail). Enjoy live music, entertainment, kids’ craft activities and shopping at a multitude of artists’ booths and vendors. Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 6 on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $5 for adults at the gate. Children 10 and under are free. No pets, please. evergreenarts.org/summerfest-2025

Arapahoe County Fair

The Arapahoe County Fair offers four days of family fun July 24-27 at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds (25690 Quincy Ave.) in Aurora. Gate admission includes unlimited carnival rides and all main stage performances, rodeos, 4-H livestock shows, public competitions, mutton bustin’ and more. Only midway arcade games cost extra. See rabbits, pigs and poultry in the east wing and horses, cattle, llamas, alpacas, goats and sheep in the livestock pavilion. Weather permitting, fireworks are planned for Friday and Saturday nights at 9:30 p.m. Single-day general admission tickets are $25 for adults. Kids under 36 inches get in for free. arapahoecountyfair.com

Colorado Lottery concert ticket

The Colorado Lottery is offering a free concert ticket when Cheap Trick plays the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo on Aug. 31. Expect to hear the iconic group’s greatest hits, including “Surrender,” “I Want You to Want Me” and “Dream Police.” Through Aug. 31, purchase a qualifying Colorado Lottery ticket valued at $30 or more and receive a voucher good for one free digital ticket — which includes gate admission — to the show. The voucher will print at the retailer when you buy an eligible lottery ticket. Then, visit coloradostatefair.com and enter the code on the voucher. The free ticket will be sent digitally. Learn more at coloradolottery.com/en/cheap-trick-concert.

Send tips to info@milehighonthecheap.com 14 to 21 days in advance.

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Planet Fitness is making exercising more affordable for families with teens. The fitness center’s High School Summer Pass program invites teens ages 14 to 19 to work out for free at one of its many clubs nationally — including 25 in the Denver metro area. The program runs from June 1 to Aug. 31. Teens under the age of 18 must sign up with a parent or guardian. However, once they’re registered, they can work out solo. Participants can only work out at the Planet Fitness location where they signed up. planetfitness.com/summerpass.

Movie Nights at Infinity Park

Glendale is again hosting its free Movie Nights at Infinity Park in 2025. However, now there are two nights: Monday Movie Madness and Friday Night Flicks. (The latter shows more adult fare, i.e., PG-13 and R-rated movies.) Gates open at 6 p.m. and the movie starts at 7 on Mondays and at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. on Fridays. Friday Night Flicks begins on June 6 with “Road House.” Monday Movie Madness kicks off on June 16 with “Shrek.” There is also a special July Fourth on the Second screening with “Armageddon” on July 2 at 7 p.m. Review the complete schedule at infinityparkatglendale.com/events.

Arapahoe County Public Works Play Date

Leave it to Arapahoe County to come up with a clever way to celebrate its Public Works Department, those hard-working folks who fill potholes, remove snow, nuke noxious weeds, shelter lost animals and do so much more. On June 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., adults and kids alike can take part in the free Public Works Play Date held at Dove Valley Regional Park at 7900 S. Potomac St. in Centennial. Kids of all ages can jump in the driver’s seat of big road and bridge vehicles, learn crosswalk safety, fill potholes, microchip a stuffed animal, be a junior building inspector, plan a city, and more. arapahoeco.gov/news_detail_T13_R1001.php

Colorado Concours d’Elegance

More than 300 exceptional cars will be on display at the annual Colorado Concours d’Elegance &  Exotic Sports Car Show on June 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Arapahoe Community College, 5900 S. Santa Fe Drive in Littleton. Local and regional car clubs showcase more than 300 rare vehicles, from early collectibles to the latest exotics. Many venture out once a year for this show only. That means you’ll likely see autos from Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lotus, Maserati, Jaguar, Porsche, Shelby and Alfa Romeo to name just a few. Tickets are $10 for adults and free for kids 12 and under, as well as military, police and fire personnel with ID. abilityconnectioncolorado.org/special-events/colorado-concours/

Natural Grocers Reusable Bag & Father’s Day Giveaway

From June 6 to 8, Natural Grocers is giving away a free reusable bag with any purchase. Then, make plans to stop by the grocery store on Father’s Day, June 15, for a free Epic or Primal snack strip. Both giveaways are only available for members of the store’s loyalty program – {N}power. naturalgrocers.com/fathers-day

National Donut Day

This year, National Donut Day falls on June 6, the best time to “make the rounds” in the Mile High City for free and cheap donuts. Get a free glazed donut at any LaMars Donuts’ location. Dunkin’ is offering a free donut with the purchase of any beverage. You get a free donut of choice at Krispy Kreme, no purchase required. Voodoo Doughnut’s deal is 12 Pink Raised Glazed Doughnuts for just $10, in-shop and online. However, if you pick up the special dozen in-shop, you can also enjoy a doughnut of your choice for free. Plus, Shipley Do-Nuts is offering a free Glazed Do-Nut with any purchase every Friday in June. lamars.com; dunkindonuts.com; krispykreme.com; shipleydonuts.com; voodoodoughnut.com

Five Below Grand Opening

Chill out at the opening of Five Below’s 31st store in Colorado. The deals are hot for anyone on a budget. Known for offering a variety of products for $1 to $5 (with some priced higher), Five Below sells affordable items and gifts in beauty, sports, tech, toys, snacks, pets and more, as well as seasonal items. The new location opens in Centennial at 2416 E. Arapahoe Road on June 6. Enjoy lots of games and trivia with prizes, all weekend long. And, on June 7, shoppers can enjoy free hot dogs from noon to 3 p.m. Plus, they will be handing out free drawstring bags on Saturday, while supplies last. facebook.com/events/1054353340171791

Denver Chalk Art Festival

Chalk this up to lots of family fun! Over a span of 48 hours, 200 professional, amateur and student artists will use chalk to paint thousands of square feet of raw pavement into re-creations of masterpieces, modern art and their own original pieces during the Denver Chalk Art Festival in Denver’s Golden Triangle District. On June 7 and 8, the free festival transforms streets and sidewalks into a temporary outdoor art museum. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on both days. In addition, there will be food vendors, beverage booths and live music. Children can also create their own temporary mini-masterpieces in the Kids’ Corner from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. denverchalk.art

Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express

All aboard, bored kids! Regal Cinemas has scheduled nine weeks of discounted family-friendly flicks at select theaters for its popular Summer Movie Express. The summer movie series features two family-friendly movies every Tuesday and Wednesday at 11 a.m. from June 10 to Aug. 6. Admission is only $1. Plus, all attendees can purchase a specially priced $5 Snack Pack, which includes a junior-sized drink, snack-sized popcorn and fruit snacks. The series kicks off on June 10 and 11 with “Sing 2” and “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.” There are participating locations in Centennial, Denver, Lakewood and Longmont. regmovies.com/promotions/summer-movie-express

Aspen Grove Mutt Market

As a dog-friendly shopping center, Aspen Grove is throwing a party for all of its furry friends. Stop by Mutt Market on June 28 from 5 to 8 p.m. for a fur- and family-friendly mini-expo of all things canine. The Mutt Market will have special treats, more than 40 pet-focused vendors, a bubble foam zone, special contests with prizes, games, entertainment, live music, food trucks for humans, and more. Admission is free. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP, so organizers can plan accordingly. The fun takes place outside the Barbox in the outdoor shopping center at 7301 S. Santa Fe Drive in Littleton. aspengrovecenter.com/event/mutt-market-2

Greek Festival

Opa! Eat, drink and dance like a Greek at the Greek Festival from June 6 to 8 on the grounds of Assumption Greek Orthodox Cathedral. The popular festival offers live music, dance performances and cooking demos, as well as a Greek boutique stocked with jewelry, clothing, fine art and more. Plus, enjoy lots of homemade Greek food and treats, including spanakopita, kalamari, dolmathes, gyros, baklava and more. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for seniors – with kids (12 and under) admitted for free. Save on parking with the free shuttle service to and from the PetSmart parking lot adjacent to the church. thegreekfestival.com

Denver Fringe Festival

Original, immersive and experimental performances on the “fringes” of mainstream theatre are the hallmark of the sixth annual Denver Fringe Festival. This year, it runs June 4 to 8, with more than 200 live performances of 75 productions at 20 indoor and outdoor venues. The festival spans all types of performing arts, including theater, dance, comedy, improv, cabaret and more. There are original plays, immersive experiences and a two-day KidsFringe with free shows for families. Tickets are $20 each for all shows. And, as always, 70% of ticket revenue goes straight to the performers. Look for the Fringe-Free-For-All showcase with free performances in the streets and spaces throughout RiNo and Five Points – featuring circus arts, physical dance theater, magic and illusion and more. denverfringe.org

Send tips to info@milehighonthecheap.com 14 to 21 days in advance.

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Wednesday-April 18. If you’ve ever skied Arapahoe Basin and wondered what kind of daredevil it takes to ski or ride its rugged East Wall, next week is your chance to find out without risking your neck. On Wednesday through Friday, 80 freeride skiers and snowboarders will be competing on it to qualify for next year’s pro Freeride World Tour.

Freeriding is a form of competitive skiing or snowboarding in which athletes test themselves on steep, ungroomed terrain. The famous East Wall is a perfect venue with exposed faces, tight chutes and other gnarly terrain challenges. Competitors are judged on line choice, control, fluidity, technique, air and style.

The East Wall is visible from the Lenawee Express lift. There also will be good viewing spots at the Black Mountain Lodge and an on-mountain vendor village. A lift ticket is required, which costs $104-$120 for a full day (date dependent). freerideworldtour.com or arapahoebasin.com — John Meyer

Go fly a kite!

Sunday. Warm, sunny weather is forecast for the Front Range this weekend, making it the ideal time to revisit the Arvada Kite Festival. This year’s 20th anniversary event is a family friendly gathering with free kids activities such as inflatables, face painting and a “Nurf Terf” Zone; demos from professional kite flyers (yes, they exist); 100-plus vendors including food trucks; and Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s Curiosity Cruiser.

Bring your own kite or buy one at the festival. Free parking starts at 10:45 a.m., with a free “bike valet” from Bike Friendly Arvada. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, at Stenger Sports Complex, 58th Avenue and Quail Street in Arvada. arvadaco.gov/1245/2025-arvada-kite-festival — John Wenzel

Blossom and Bloom this spring

Saturday. The immersive theme party Blossom and Bloom, which comes to East Colfax Avenue’s Champagne Tiger on Saturday, April 12, is geared toward a floral theme — which organizer Gary Adrian Randall, from producer Haus of Other, said ranges from “a subtle floral accent or a head-to-toe masterpiece.”

The night includes live sets by Richi Ramos, DJ Buddy Bravo, and Vio the Violinist, and performance artist MotherDaddy, along with the costume showcase, a vendor market (for last-minute outfit additions) and a scavenger hunt with prizes.

A portion of the proceeds will directly support Trans Lifeline, an organization that provides resources to trans people, Randall said. It takes place from 6-11:30 p.m. at 601 E. Colfax Ave. in Denver. Tickets: $23.18 via eventbrite.com — John Wenzel

Guitars, toys, radios and more

Sunday. A quartet of collector’s shows are coming to Denver this weekend, with the annual Toy & Doll Supershow, Vintage Voltage & Vinyl Expo, Colorado Guitar Show and Colorado Radio Collectors Club uniting under one roof for the first time. Those first two events are decades-old gatherings, and along with the upstarts, they’re angled toward swapping, buying and selling rare, vintage and collectible items.

They’re all running 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, April 13, at the National Western’s Expo Hall and Hall of Education, 4655 Humboldt St. in Denver, just east of I-25 on I-70. Admission is $10 to get into all shows; kids aged 10 and younger get in free. Parking is also free. For more information visit danacainevents.com. — John Wenzel

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Colorado Rockies Game Day Giveaways

A day at Coors Field usually includes a hot dog, peanuts and an ice-cold beer. However, it’s more fun when there’s a special giveaway or themed event. This season, the Rockies are giving away jerseys, bobbleheads, hats, tote bags, buy-one-get-one hot dogs and more at select home games. The freebies are usually limited to the first 10,000 to 15,000 fans through the gates. This season also includes many themed game days with special giveaways, including Star Wars, Harry Potter, Grateful Dead and more. The Rockies season kicks off with a magnet schedule giveaway on Opening Day, April 4. Review the full schedule of giveaways and events, before making your summer plans. mlb.com/rockies/tickets/promotions

DCPA Kids’ Night on Broadway

Take your family down the yellow brick road for a night of theatre fun. “The Wiz” returns to the stage in an all-new Broadway tour, the first one in 40 years. And the hit musical is making its way to Denver from April 8 to 20 at the Buell Theatre. On opening night, the Denver Center for Performing Arts is hosting Kids’ Night on Broadway. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Families can enjoy fun activities in the theatre lobby before the show — starting at 6:30 p.m. Even better for budget-minded families, the DCPA is offering a buy-one-get-one free ticket with promo code WIZKNOB for the performance on April 8. The discount is only available for Price Level 2 tickets, while supplies last. denvercenter.org/tickets-events/the-wiz

Ben & Jerry’s Free Cone Day

Have you heard the latest scoop? To thank customers, Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shops sets aside one day every year to scoop its popular ice cream at no cost — Free Cone Day. This year, shops scoop free ice cream, frozen yogurt and sorbet on April 8. The ice cream giant’s Free Cone Day is also an opportunity to introduce new limited-time or seasonal flavors. The giveaway is a chance to give them a lick…or stick with one of your all-time favorite flavors. There is one participating shop in Denver – 2339 E. Evans Ave. There are also shops in Boulder (1203 Pearl St.) and Fort Collins (1 Old Town Sq.). Hours may vary by location, but the giveaway usually runs from noon to 8 p.m. benjerry.com/scoop-shops/free-cone-day

Duluth Trading Co. Underwear Trade-Up Event

It’s out with the old and in with a new pair of underwear. On April 12 and 13, Duluth Trading Co. is holding its third annual Underwear Trade-Up Event. Retail locations will collect old underwear and upgrade them to a new pair, while supplies last. Customers who trade in one pair of their old underwear will receive one free pair of Duluth’s signature underwear (in select styles and colors). Plus, the first 300 customers at every location each day who trade in their old undies will receive a Peel & Reveal prize card for a chance to win in-store discounts or Underwear for Life. There are three locations in Colorado — Golden (16630 W. Colfax Ave.), Thornton (16557 Washington St.) and Colorado Springs. duluthtrading.com/content/trade-up-event

Record Store Day

Go for a spin to enjoy lots of music this spring. This year, the annual Record Store Day is April 12 with local record stores offering discounts, free gifts, giveaways and entertainment by local bands or DJs. However, the day is truly all about introducing hundreds of new releases on vinyl by big-name stars, as well as new artists — all supporting the resurgence of vinyl and the real brick-and-mortar record store. Because they’re independent stores, each store sets its own celebratory hours, events and/or giveaways. In the Denver metro area, participating stores include Angelo’s CDs & Records, Black & Read, Chain Reaction Records, Electric Cherry Shop, Twist & Shout and Wax Trax Records. There are more shops throughout Colorado celebrating the day. recordstoreday.com

Wheat Ridge Easter Egg Hunt

Go hunting for Easter eggs a little early this spring. The Wheat Ridge Parks & Recreation Department’s Egg-stra Special Easter Egg Hunt at Anderson Park is on April 12 — from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The park will have 10,000 colorful eggs scattered throughout the park. A handful of eggs will contain prize slips hidden inside for special rewards. The fun is less chaotic this year because organizers are staggering start times by age group: 2 and under at 10 a.m.; ages 3 to 4 at 10:10 a.m.; ages 5 to 6 at 10:20 a.m.; and ages 7 to 10 at 10:30 a.m. Plus, be on the lookout for special appearances by the Easter Bunny and Wheat Ridge mascot Booster the Rooster. Crack open your finds and then enjoy lots of family-friendly activities, including bubble machines, sidewalk chalk, carnival games, and music. rootedinfun.com/371/Easter-Egg-Hunt

Toy & Doll Supershow

Fans of vintage and collectible toys should check out the Toy & Doll Supershow. The “play date” is on April 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the National Western Hall of Education (4655 Humboldt St.) in Denver. With more than 250 tables of toys, dolls and more, there will be lots for every collector and enthusiast in attendance to explore or add to their collection. For 2025, the show’s special guests will be Trendmasters Kurt Van Ulmer, Master Toy Designer Tim Clarke and Charlie Fox, creator of Chubwagon Monsters. Admission is $10. Children 10 and under get in free. Those who want first crack at the show floor can get in early at 10 a.m. for $15. Best of all, not only is parking free, but tickets also get you admission into the Colorado Guitar Show and Vintage Voltage Expo. Tickets are available online and at the door. tdsupershow.com

Arvada Kite Festival

Look up! The Arvada Kite Festival is set to again fill the skies on April 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Stenger Soccer Complex (11200 W. 58th Ave.) The free, high-flying event will thrill all ages with the artistry of kite flying and friendly competition. Bring your own kite or buy one on-site. When you aren’t looking up, there will be plenty of fun to enjoy on the ground, including musical entertainment, more than 70 local vendors, kids’ activities, kite demos, food trucks and more. Gates open at 10:45 a.m. Those who ride their bike can use the complimentary bike valet. arvadaco.gov/kitefest

Colorado State Button Society’s Annual Button Show

Button up and zip over to the Colorado State Button Society’s Annual Button Show. On April 12 and 13, find a ballroom filled with buttons at the Embassy Suites by Hilton (4444 Havana St.) in Denver. Crafters and collectors alike can explore thousands of vintage, antique and contemporary buttons displayed by dealers from across the U.S. The show will include buttons for sale, competition trays, a Button Boutique and button art. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Women” and buttons with women on them will be featured. Plus, the Denver group “Legendary Ladies” will portray several of Colorado’s famous women on Saturday at 2 p.m. Hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free. For free parking, use code E9FAB01E in the hotel’s garage. coloradobuttons.com

Earth Day Celebration

Lakewood is going green! Each year, Lakewood hosts its Earth Day Celebration at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park (801 S. Yarrow St.) with live music, entertainment, educational exhibits, electric car test drives and family activities. Highlights include nature walks and animal yoga. Plus, families (including pets!) are all encouraged to wear their favorite plant or animal costumes, decorate their wagons or strollers, bring an instrument and march in the Parade of Species at 3 p.m. This year’s free celebration takes place on April 26 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. lakewood.org/Government/Departments/Sustainability-and-Community-Development/Sustainability/Lakewood-Earth-Day-Celebration

The Park People Tree Sale

Really dig in on Earth Day! There’s no better way to celebrate Earth Day than by planting a tree. And The Park People make it easy and affordable at its annual Denver Digs Trees Earth Day Tree Sale on April 27. The sale takes place from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the City Park Greenhouse (2500 E. 23rd Ave.) in Denver. Anyone is welcome, even if you live outside Denver. Shade, flowering, and fruit trees will be available for $50 each, unless noted otherwise. It’s a savings of about 60%. Cash, check and credit cards are accepted. Trees are available in limited quantities and sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early for the best selection. All trees purchased at the sale must be planted on private property. theparkpeople.org/What-We-Do/Denver-Digs-Trees/Tree-Sale

Tulip Fairy & Elf Festival

No need to go to Holland to see tulips in a rainbow of colors. Just head to Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall, where more than 15,000 tulips will be blooming in time for the annual Tulip Fairy and Elf Festival on April 27 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The free family-friendly event features the lovely Tulip Fairy fluttering among all of the little ones dressed as fairies and elves prancing around. Activities include face painting, arts and crafts projects, entertainment, foam sword dueling, fairy wand making and more. Plus, don’t miss the photo-worthy parades with the Tulip Fairy, leaving from the performance stage at 1:45 p.m., 2:45 p.m. and 3:45 p.m. The festival is even more fanciful for frugal parents because parking is free on Sundays at all Boulder municipal garages and street meters. If the weather turns out to not be so spring-like, the rain date is May 4. boulderdowntown.com/events/tulip-festival

Olive Garden Free Take-Home Entrée

Olive Garden really does treat you like family. And that means you don’t leave without food to take home for later. After five years, the Italian restaurant is bringing back one of its most popular giveaways through May 4. Starting at $14.99, Olive Garden diners who enjoy an entrée in-restaurant (from a select menu) get a free take-home entrée for later. Choose from Fettucine Alfredo, Spaghetti with Meat Sauce or Five Cheese Ziti al Forno for your take-home dish. (The take-home entrée is served cold and needs to be reheated.) olivegarden.com/specials/buy-one-take-one

Send tips to info@milehighonthecheap.com 14 to 21 days in advance.

The Aurora Fox Arts Center is bringing classic, family-friendly films to the big screen with its new monthly film series, Fox Flix. The program aims to fill the void left by the recent closure of some of the metro area’s independent movie houses. Movies screen one Saturday at 2 p.m. each month at the Aurora Fox Mainstage Theatre at 9900 E. Colfax Ave. Here’s the current schedule: March 1, “Labyrinth”; April 19, “The NeverEnding Story”; May 10,  “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure”; June 14, “The Goonies”; July 12, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”; Aug. 30, “Who Framed Roger Rabbit”; Oct. 25, “The Wiz”; Nov. 15, “Encanto”; and Dec. 6, “Scrooged”. Admission is $5. aurorafoxartscenter.org/fox-flix

Natural Grocers reusable bag giveaway

There’s no better way to celebrate Colorado than at one of the state’s own homegrown businesses. From March 3 to 5, customers will receive a free limited-edition reusable bag and sticker, while supplies last. And the grocery chain is supporting other Centennial State businesses with a huge sale on a variety of Colorado favorites through March 22. naturalgrocers.com

IHOP National Pancake Day

Pancake lovers will flip for free flapjacks. In celebration of National Pancake Day, for the 19th year, IHOP is serving up free pancakes on March 4 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Diners enjoy a complimentary short stack of three buttermilk pancakes (dine-in only). Limit one stack per customer. ihop.com/en/national-pancake-day

Blarney on Belmar

For those who want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day a wee bit early, check out Blarney on Belmar. Wear your green and join in the fun on March 8 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Belmar Shopping Center (7337 W. Alaska Drive) in Lakewood. The shopping center transforms into an Irish celebration with live music, dancers and family-friendly activities. Shop the Lucky Clover Market for unique, handmade goods from a variety of local vendors. Plus, kids will find lots of fun activities to keep them entertained. Admission is free. belmarcolorado.com/event/blarney-on-belmar-march-8

Assistance League of Denver’s Thrift Shop

Want a great deal on antiques and vintage items? Look no further than the Assistance League of Denver’s Thrift Shop for lots of trinkets and treasures. The shop is also holding an Antique and Vintage Sale March 10-22. The sale includes vintage clothing, hats and purses and the antiques section of home goods and collectibles will be expanded with more items for sale. The shop’s hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The store is located at 6265 E. Evans Ave. in Denver. assistanceleague.org/denver/thrift-mart

Daiso Grand Opening

Waribiki. That’s how you say “discount” in Japanese. And bargain hunters looking for a fun and unique shopping experience are excited for the opening of Colorado’s first two Daiso locations. Japan’s popular discount store is a 50-year-old, family-owned company, with more than 100,000 products available. They operate more than 150 locations within the U.S. — now including Colorado. On March 15 and 16, Daiso opens its doors at the Pavilion Shopping Center at 4300 S. College Ave. in Fort Collins. On March 22 and 23, the chain debuts in Aurora at the Village on the Park shopping center at 2353 S. Havana St. The first 100 customers who make a $30 purchase each day will receive an exclusive goodie bag. Open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. facebook.com/events/557470537301266; facebook.com/events/531562549953923

St. Paddy’s celebration in Aurora

Can’t make it to Downtown Denver’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities? Town Center at Aurora (14200 E. Alameda Ave.) goes green on March 15 from 2 to 6 p.m. The afternoon of festive entertainment includes live performances by Celtic Steps and Queen City Rovers, free beer from Helga’s Haus (21+ only), kids’ crafts and face painting. towncenterataurora.com/events/st-patricks-day-celebration-at-town-center-at-aurora/

Free cab rides

No doubt, lots of green beer (and other celebratory libations) will be flowing for St. Patrick’s Day. The Wilhite Law Firm is offering a free safe ride home for revelers from March 14 to 16. The firm is offering a $20 credit for a Lyft or UBER ride home over the holiday weekend. You will need a digital receipt and copy of your valid ID. Submit your request online at wilhitelawfirm.com/rideshare-program. Submissions are due two weeks after the last date of the program to be eligible for the credit. You must be 21 or older to participate. The deal is only valid for a one-way ride home within the Denver metro area.

Jewels for Hope

Fine jewelry can be expensive, but not when you buy from Jewels for Hope. The group collects pre-owned jewelry and holds sales throughout the year with proceeds benefiting the Children’s Diabetes Foundation of Denver. Find plenty of bling at their March Madness Sale on March 15 at its shop in Englewood (3500 S. Corona St.) The sale runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. During this sale, receive one free $10 item for each $10 item you buy. Plus, there will be a big selection of handbags for sale. Jewelry ranges from vintage to contemporary and diamonds to rhinestones, all reasonably priced. childrensdiabetesfoundation.org/jewels-for-hope

Denver Lyric Opera Guild competition

No need for a fancy dress or tuxedo for this opera experience. Some of Colorado’s finest young opera singers take to the stage at the Denver Lyric Opera Guild’s 2025 final competition on March 15 at Calvary Baptist Church (6500 E. Girard Ave.) in Denver. Finalists perform before a panel of distinguished judges from 1 to 5 p.m., in hopes of singing their way to the top prize. Admission is free, with open seating. Stay for all the performances or come and go as you please between performers. Past winners have gone on to successful operatic careers at companies such as Opera Colorado, Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Metropolitan Opera. denverlyricoperaguild.org/2025-competition

Phamaly Theatre Company

A motley crew of six adolescents take the stage, but only one will earn the title of champion in “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee!” The show is performed by Phamaly Theatre Company from March 20 to April 6 at Northglenn Arts Parsons Theatre (1 E. Memorial Parkway). The delightfully witty and heartfelt musical has captivated audiences since its Tony Award-winning premiere in 2005. Phamaly Theatre Company is the foremost disability-affirmative, nonprofit theatre company in the country. It produces professional plays, musicals and original work cast entirely of performers with all nature of disabilities. General admission tickets range from $28 to $30 and can be purchased in advance online. Half-price tickets are available at the door by request one-hour before each performance. phamaly.org

Prom Dress Exchange

No one should miss out on the experience of prom simply because of the expense of getting all dressed up. Fortunately, there is an inexpensive option for families on a budget. The 25th Annual Prom Dress Exchange offers more than 2,000 gently-used dresses on March 22. The event takes place at Adams 12 Five Star Schools (1500 E. 128th Ave.) in Thornton from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Students will find a range of formals from minis to ball gowns. Each dress will be available for a $10 donation. However, no one will be turned away. If you have dresses you want to donate, drop them off at the venue the day of or at any Tide Cleaners location prior to the event. promdressexchange.org

Denver Center for Performing Arts

It’s showtime! The Denver Center for Performing Arts’ next on-sale date for its discounted DCPAccess tickets is on March 25 at noon. A limited number of $15 tickets will be available for “Little Shop of Horrors” and “The Hot Wing King.” (There is also a $2.25 service fee per ticket, for a total of $17.25.) The sale is extremely popular and often sells out quickly, so plan accordingly. Longtime patrons of the program will note that the ticket price and service fees have both increased from $10 and $1.50, respectively. However, it still remains one of the best deals in town for theater lovers on a budget. denvercenter.org/dcpa-access-sale

Send tips to  info@milehighonthecheap.com 14 to 21 days in advance.

Through March 2. One of Colorado’s most playful art outings is showing right now at NEXT Gallery in Lakewood’s 40 West Arts District, which is hosting its 8th Casa Bonita Art Show. This time around, the gallery asked artists to imagine what the iconic 50-year-old restaurant might look like in another 50. “The year is 2074,” NEXT explained. “What is the status of Casa Bonita? Still pink? Still beloved? Still iconic? Still standing?”

Hours are 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, at 6501 W. Colfax Ave., inside the 40 West Arts Hub. There are free kids activities Feb. 21-22, and an awards show will take place on Feb. 28. Admission is free. Visit nextgallery.org or 40westarts.org for more. — John Wenzel

Party your pants off

Saturday. Strip down and lace up for a good cause this weekend as Cupid’s Undie Run comes to Denver. The event, which first hit the pavement in the Mile High City in 2013, raises funds for the Children’s Tumor Foundation. It also aims to raise awareness about neurofibromatosis (NF), a group of genetic disorders that cause tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body.

Participants are encouraged to wear pantless costumes for a party at Stoney’s Bar & Grill, 1111 Lincoln St., which includes a “brief” run at 2 p.m.; festivities are noon to 4 p.m. Registration is $45 at cupids.org/#register. — Tiney Ricciardi

“Lost” Cambodian treasures at DMNS

Opens Friday. More than 100 intricate carvings, sacred sculptures and ancient relics — many of them on display outside of Cambodia for the first time — will grace a new exhibit at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science starting this weekend.

“Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia” includes Khmer artifacts such as sculptures, tools and religious items “that provide insight into the empire’s history and spirituality,” along with hands-on and interactive experiences for adults and kids, the museum wrote.

Included with museum admission: $26 for adults, $21 for kids, and $23 for seniors. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at 2001 Colorado Blvd. Call 303-370-6000 or visit dmns.org for more. — John Wenzel

Arvada Winterfest

Saturday. This weekend’s warmer temps mean a slightly less wintry Arvada Winterfest, but that won’t stop anyone from enjoying free live cultural performances from the Colorado Asian Cultural Heritage Center and Rocky Mountain Indian Chamber of Commerce (think dancing, drums and more).

Kids and adults can also enjoy free storytelling at the Arvada Library and live ice sculpting, as well as a beer garden, food trucks, craft vendors and more items for purchase. The fest runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, in Olde Town Square, 5726 Olde Wadsworth Blvd. in Arvada. Parking is limited, so attendees are encouraged to park in the Olde Town Parking Hub or use alternate modes of transportation. For more information, visit arvadaco.gov/winterfest or oldetownarvada.org/events. — John Wenzel

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Many other nonprofits funded by the SCFD also offer free days — or are always free, such as the Broomfield Veterans Museum, city of Lakewood art exhibitions, Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park, Foothills Art Center, Colorado Music Hall of Fame, the Aurora History Museum, and Louisville History Museum, according to the SCFD.

All free days take place during regular business hours unless otherwise noted. Check the full list, and a printable bookmark for the spots listed below, at scfd.org/find-culture/free-days. Some require online reservations, and all events are subject to change or cancellation.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

• • March 7 (5-9 p.m.)
  • April 7
  • April 27
  • May 12
  • June 19
  • Aug. 25
  • Sept. 15
  • Oct. 12
  • Nov. 8
  • Dec. 8

Free admission does not include IMAX or the Planetarium. Call 303-370-6000 or visit dmns.org for more.

Denver Art Museum

• Feb. 22
• March 11
• April 8
• April 27
• May 13
• June 10
• June 27
• July 8
• Aug. 12
• Sept. 6
• Sept. 9
• Oct. 14
• Nov. 8
• Dec. 9

Note: General admission is free every day for those 18 and younger. Free days don’t include admission to ticketed exhibitions. Call 720-865-5000 or visit denverartmuseum.org for more.

Denver Zoo

• Feb. 9
• Feb. 22
• April 7
• Nov. 7
• Nov. 15
• Nov. 23

Due to demand, tickets will not be available at the gate. Instead, all reservations must be made online. Call 720-337-1400 or visit denverzoo.org/free-days for more.

Denver Botanic Gardens at York Street and Chatfield Farms

• Feb. 13
• March 10
• April 22 (Earth Day)
• June 10
• July 3
• Aug. 27
• Nov. 28

Call 720-865-3500 or visit botanicgardens.org for more.

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Through Sunday. Did you know Denver’s newest, largest dog park isn’t on public land? Not after this weekend, anyway, when Skiptown Denver opens in the RiNo Art District. It offers boarding, grooming and training, but the real draw is the indoor and outdoor turfed dog bar and park, where 21-and-up pet people can enjoy 20,000-square-feet of play space with 24 beers on tap, food trucks, coffee, “a splash pad agility course,” and “bone broth dog beer.”

It’s the company’s third location, following Atlanta and Charlotte, N.C. The Friday, Oct. 18-Sunday, Oct. 20, grand opening includes free admission, vendor products, specials, giveaways, demos and more. 3833 Steele St. in Denver. skiptown.io/locations/denver-co

Family fun, Día de los Muertos-style

Saturday. The free, family-friendly Catrinas en Mi Ciudad marks the approach of Día de Muertos with eye-popping art, musical performances and more on Saturday, Oct. 19, at Sculpture Park, just west of Denver Performing Arts Complex.

The noon to 6 p.m. event features works by Colorado Latino artists inside an immersive, outdoor exhibit inspired by Mexico’s Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. “Larger-than-life art pieces by internationally acclaimed costume and set designer Ricardo Soltero will be showcased, along with original pieces created by Cooperativa Jaen Cartonería from Mexico City,” producers wrote.

Face painting, sugar-skull decorating, food and more will be on site. 1736 Speer Blvd., with parking available at the Arts Complex. RSVP at evenbrite.com or visit artscomplex.com/events for more.

Denver comedy’s bright future

Through Saturday. Denver’s first Sketch Fest will take place Thursday, Oct. 17-Saturday, Oct. 19, at the Ballpark-neighborhood’s Rise Comedy, featuring Philadelphia’s Sarah Knittel, Baltimore’s all-female Forevermore, Portland, Ore.’s Group Shower, Canada’s Cam Wyllie, and more for public performances and workshops. 1260 22nd St. in Denver. Shows are $18-$20, an all-festival pass is $99, and there are additional fees for workshops. risecomedy.com

It’s hard to imagine Denver’s comedy scene without the Bug Theatre. The historic Highland venue — which has welcomed hundreds of stand-up, improv and sketch performances in recent years — is celebrating three decades under the Bug name on Saturday, Oct. 19, with “Saved by the Bug.”

The variety show is one of those crazy values that includes stand-up from nationally known Denver comic Andrew Orvedahl (TV’s “Those Who Can’t”), films, the Freak Train show, a silent auction and more to be announced. Tickets: $15-$20. 3654 Navajo St. in Denver. bugtheatre.org

Taking stock of gig posters

Saturday-Sunday. The South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas, has long presented the Flatstock poster show, which spotlights dozens of the best independent gig-poster artists from around the country — and tests wallets with its array of rare and one-of-a-kind art.

A touring version known as Flatstock 99 is coming to The Dairy Block Saturday, Oct. 19, and Sunday, Oct. 20, and it’s great news for poster collectors and music diehards. The noon-6 p.m. event at 1800 Wazee St. in Denver has 15 local and national artists and their handmade art, plus live concerts by Sofar Sounds, a Wax Trax vinyl pop-up, live printing demos with Ink & Drink, and an artist panel discussion (additional fee). Free and all ages. dairyblock.com/events

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All aboard! RTD sent its first light rail train down the tracks 30 years ago from Interstate 25 at Broadway to 30th and Downing. As a thank you to the community, the agency is hosting an anniversary party on Oct. 5 at 1514 California St. (in the parking lot adjacent to 16th and California Station). From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., join the RTD team for a day full of family fun. Attendees can play games, dance and check out light rail maintenance equipment up-close. Food and drink will be available for purchase from local food trucks. Of course, take the bus or light rail for convenience and to avoid finding (and paying) for parking. rtd-denver.com/community/events/30th-anniversary-of-light-rail-party

Littleton Craft Fair

Prepare your walking shoes. It’s time for the annual Littleton Craft Fair, sponsored by the Friends of the Littleton Library and Museum. Some 250 craft booths and 18,000 shoppers are expected on Oct. 5 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Ketring Park (6000 Gallup St.). All items sold must be hand-crafted by the artist. Be prepared, as parking can be a challenge, and don’t even think about parking in the Bemis Library lots. littletoncraftfair.org

Thornton Harvest Fest

On Oct. 5, families can enjoy live entertainment, games, a craft bazaar and activities at the Thornton Harvest Fest from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Festivities take place at Community Park (York Street and Thornton Parkway). For those early risers, there’s a Pancake Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. and Fishing Derby at 8 a.m., each with a nominal fee. During the day, there’s First Responder Row, Harvest Fest Marketplace, activities for kids, a Skate Park competition, live-action Mexican wrestling, food court and a beer garden. Kids only can claim a free pumpkin and spend some time decorating the gourd with onsite supplies including stickers, paint and stencils. thorntonco.gov/community-culture/festivals-events/thornton-harvest-fest

Pumpkin Fest at Fairmount Park

Prospect Recreation & Park District is holding its annual Pumpkin Fest at Fairmount Park (5222 Quaker St.) in Golden. The family-friendly celebration takes place on Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with pumpkins, live music, hay rides, games, a pancake breakfast and more — all at no cost. The festival is held rain or shine. prospectdistrict.org/events/pumpkin-fest

Northfield Candy Crawl

While it may not be Halloween quite yet, families deserve an early treat on a fall afternoon. Northfield Stapleton is hosting a Candy Crawl on Oct. 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Main Street. Admission is free. Enjoy trick-or-treating at many retailers; just look for the orange balloons that identify participation. All witches, wizards, ghosts and superheroes are welcome. Arrive early before the candy runs out, and dress up in your best costume for chance to win prizes in the costume contest. There also will be music, face painting, crafts, balloon twisters, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science’s Curiosity Cruiser, hayrides and more. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. shopsatnorthfield.com/event/Candy-Crawl/2145584723

Open Studios Boulder

Open Studios, the Boulder area’s annual fall artist tour, spans three weekends this autumn — Oct. 5-6, 12-13 and 19-20 — from noon to 5 p.m. each day. Participation is free. Now in its 30th year, the event features 85 studios, homes, garages and wherever else the 125 artists create their works. The working spaces in all media are not only in Boulder, but also in Erie, Louisville, Superior, Lafayette, Longmont and unincorporated Boulder County. Find more information, including an Artist Catalog, maps and self-guided tour instructions, at openstudios.org/about-5.

Chocotoberfest

October is all about candy, but chocolate takes the spotlight at one sweet event. If you love chocolate, you will definitely want to take bite of Choctoberfest on Oct. 12 at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds (25690 E. Quincy Ave.) in Aurora. The chocolate flows rom 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Within the 25,000-square-foot facility, find more than 70 vendors from across the U.S. offering chocolate candy, cakes, cookies, truffles, brownies, drinks and more. Attendees will also enjoy contests, entertainment and kids’ activities. General admission is $10 per person for Session One entry at 11 a.m. or Session Two entry at 1 p.m. (Note: You can stay as long as you like.) If you’re on a budget, gain entry at 3 p.m. for just $6. Kids 10 and younger get in for free. To sample the chocolate treats, you need to buy Taste Tickets which are 12 for $10. cochocolatefests.com

Touch-A-Truck Day in Aurora

What is it about trucks that fascinate little kids (and big kids, too)? Whether you’re young or young-at-heart, check out Touch-A-Truck Day on Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Spring Creek Park (4001 S. Himalaya St.) in Aurora. Organizers promise a variety of trucks — little ones, big rigs and everything in between. They include a fire truck, helicopter, armored car, police car, cherry picker, street sweeper, ambulance, concrete pumper and more. tprd.org/special-events/fall/touch-a-truck/

Fortimissimo: Fall Festival

Join in an afternoon of music, creativity and community at the Denver Young Artists Orchestra’s Fortimissimo: Fall Festival on Oct. 13. The festival runs from noon to 3 p.m. at Stanley Marketplace’s West Patio (2501 Dallas St.) in Aurora. Dive into the festive spirit with a pumpkin painting contest, carnival games, food and prizes. Admission is free. The highlight of the afternoon are performances featuring the talented young musicians of DYAO, showcasing their dedication and skill. The event is also an opportunity to support scholarships for young musicians in the Mile High City. dyao.org

Halloween happenings

Mile High Cheapskates love this time of the year. The ghouls, ghosts, zombies and witches are flying about the beautiful Colorado skies. Communities across the metro area offer an abundance of Halloween activities for kids and adults. You don’t have to wait until Oct. 31 for all the free and low-cost fun, with dozens of happenings filling the days and nights before All Hallow’s Eve. You’ll find a long list of what’s on the schedule for 2024 here: milehighonthecheap.com/halloween-denver-festivals-parties/

Castle Rock’s Spooktacular 2024

Families can scare up lots of fun in Castle Rock this Halloween season. The town is celebrating all things not-so-spooky at its annual Spooktacular 2024 on Oct. 26 at Philip S. Miller Park (1375 W. Plum Creek Parkway). The event runs from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is free. Family-friendly costumes are encouraged, but not required. Activities include games, prizes, food, and of course, lots of candy. Be sure to bring a trick-or-treat bag. The event is held outdoors, so check the weather report and  dress accordingly. crgov.com/2453/Spooktacular

Miller Farms’ Fall Harvest Festival

It doesn’t get more fresh than picking your own produce on a real working farm. And Miller Farms (13912 CR 19) in Platteville is making the experience a reality with its Fall Harvest Festival. Through mid-November, take a hayride through 180 acres of fields where you can pick your own vegetables — including potatoes, carrots, onions, beets, Indian corn, squash, peppers and pumpkins. In addition, there are lots of other fall activities for families to enjoy, including a corn maze, peddle tractors, hay pyramid, farm animals and more. There are snacks, drinks and other treats for sale on the weekends. Admission for visitors (11+)  is $28 per person with children (ages 5-10) are $18. Children 4 and younger are free. However, if you just want to visit the farm without picking produce or the hayride, admission is free. The farm is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.  millerfarms.net/fall-harvest-festival

Send tips to info@milehighonthecheap.com 14 to 21 days in advance.

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The giant swan boats, which are popular rentals for paddling around the 25-acre Ferril Lake, pose a threat to the otherwise peaceful Jazz in the Park series, jokes 30-year-old Lakewood resident Emerson Smith. They’re too big, scary-looking, and attention-hungry to ignore.

“Systems calibrated. Pool noodles firing at 800 m/s,” reads a July 10 post on Emerson’s Denver Jazz Flotilla Instagram page. “We’re ready to protect the citizens.”

“The whole flotilla thing is just my sense of humor,” admitted Emerson. “It’s fun to act tough while on a purple kayak listening to jazz. And let’s be real: not all jazz is created equal, and sometimes we need something else to entertain ourselves with.”

The concept is a goof, but the gatherings are real. Attendees of City Park Jazz, which takes place on Sunday afternoons over 10 weeks every summer, may have noticed kayaks floating behind the City Park Pavilion stage last summer, when Emerson first got the idea. He invited more friends to join him this year and secured their commitment to doing it as often as possible. Last week he had 10 people join him, he said.

“Their enthusiasm made me want to see how big we could make it,” said Emerson, who picked up 50 followers on a Reddit post — most of whom he doesn’t know.

Emerson has not heard any concerns about his semi-organized gatherings from Denver Parks & Recreation, including limits on the number of watercraft on the lake. Hand-launched boats are allowed at nearly all Denver park lakes, no permits required, according to their website.

“A sound-producing device and at least one life jacket per person aboard is required to be on all vessels,” officials wrote.

“(The) only research I did was just to confirm personal kayaks and stuff are actually allowed on that lake,” Emerson said. “I asked ChatGPT and apparently we could fit about 11,000 12-foot kayaks comfortably on Ferril Lake. So that’s the goal.”

It’s not all a joke: on his Instagram bio, Emerson not only mentions defending people from giant swans but adds “Sometimes we pick up trash.” The next meet-up is on Aug. 4, and gloves, trash bags, and “two extra grabby thingys will be provided (first come first serve),” Emerson wrote online. Most of the trash is caught up in plants and is hard to reach while floating, so he plans on walking the shoreline a bit too.

Swan-boat and bike rentals are available at the park from California-based company Wheel Fun Rentals, which sits just a few dozen feet from the jazz bandstand. People can also rent kayaks from Wheel Fun to confront the company’s own swan-boat army, along with sporty and cruiser bikes, four-wheel Surrey cycles, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. They offer nighttime rentals with LED-decked swan boats that can circle the lake’s giant, lit-up fountain.

Emerson gathers his own fleet in the southeast corner of the 330-acre park starting at 5:30 p.m. on Sundays. He recommends people who want to join him to meet up behind the stage if the show has already started. There’s no boat ramp, but most of the shore is accessible. And despite the lake’s natural beauty, be sure not to get any water in your mouth, he said.

“Like in most bodies of water there are some potentially harmful organisms,” he said. “As far as I understand this presents a relatively low risk but it’s best to avoid contact with the water, especially with your eyes, nose, mouth, open wounds, et cetera, and practice good hygiene.”

The cheeky front will continue even as Emerson works to grow the gatherings. The giant, evil swans are just too big a menace to ignore.

“They threaten to collide with the birds nests under the stage and they scare the native swans,” he said. “In general, they’re just a bad vibe and aren’t happy unless they’re stealing the show with their synchronized dance moves.”

Performances of the free, nonprofit Jazz in the Park series, which began in June, continue through next month with Denver Jazz Orchestra (July 21), Nelson Rangell (July 28), and Jakarta (Aug. 4). See cityparkjazz.org for more.