Unleash the artist within.
Each Fourth of July, huge crowds flock to the Cherry Creek Arts Festival to see the work of hundreds of local and regional artists. But why wait until then? May has some stellar artsy events of its own. Below are ideas for creatively inspired fun this month, ranging from clever comedy to chalk art to viewing beautiful paintings and sculpture.
And take note, all you new Stepping Stone homebuyers: a couple of these events may provide you with the perfect, one-of-a-kind treasure you need for your brand new walls.
Denver Mini Maker Faire – May 3- 4, 9am-5pm
This one is pure fun for the whole family. Dubbed the “Greatest Show (and Tell) on Earth,” the Maker Faire is a fascinating, annual showcase of invention, creativity, and resourcefulness, and a celebration of the Maker movement. Makers range from tech enthusiasts to crafters to homesteaders to scientists to garage tinkerers. Prepare to be amazed, engaged and inspired by Colorado’s creative minds as they craft, hack, recycle, build, think, and play. Maker Faires are annual, multi-generational gatherings that now span the globe. National Western Complex, $6.50-20. Learn more.
Family Friendly Comedy: Sam Adams at Comedy Works South – May 11, 3pm
If you think about it, stand-up comedy is just another form of art — but created in real time, in front of a live audience (scary!). And comedian Sam Adams is a master at it. At the age of 41, Adams boldly jumped careers from award-winning sports journalist to stand-up comic. Winner of the Great American Comedy Festival in 2009, Sam has shared the stage with comedians such as Frank Caliendo, Phil Palisoul, Jake Johannsen, and Mike Epps, and musicians including Rick Springfield, Al Jarreau, and The Guess Who. His show is hilarious, clean, and recommended for everyone
ages 12 and up. Comedy Works South at The Landmark. Tickets, $12.
Whiskey and a Western: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid – May 16, 5:50pm
Winner of four Academy Awards and nominated for two more, this 1969 classic western is ranked #11 among the all-time greatest screenplays. Celebrate the artistry and humor (and yes, timeless good looks) of outlaws Paul Newman and Robert Redford as they blaze across the Extreme Screen at The Wildlife Experience. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres served at 5:30pm, movie at 7pm. Ages 21+. Tickets $15-28. Learn more.
Downtown Denver Arts Festival – May 23-25
Now in its 16th year, this festival of fine arts and crafts features more than 100 Colorado artists, as well as a select group of juried national artists. Want to start daydreaming about what pieces might look good in your home? View work from the artists on the DDAF Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/DowntownDenverArtsFestival?ref=ts
The festival will be held at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. Hours are Friday 4pm-8pm, Saturday 11am-8pm, Sunday 11am-5pm. Admission is free. Learn more.
ArtStir Denver – May 24, 11am-8pm and May 25, 11am-6pm
Intended to “stir up” the artist in all of us, this lively event showcases local and regional artists whose work includes paintings, sculpture, photography, illustration, textiles, furnishings, mixed media, and locally designed goods. Part of the event proceeds will benefit the Colorado chapter of AIGA (a professional organization for design). ArtStir Denver will be held on Glenarm Place between 15th and 16th Streets, alongside other fun Memorial Day events such as the Denver Day of Rock. Learn more.
Denver Chalk Art – May 31, 10am-10pm; June 1, 10am-7pm
Prepare to be amazed. At this unique two-day street-painting festival, more than 200 artists transform the streets of Larimer Square into a museum of breathtakingly intricate chalk art. Whet your appetite by checking out past creations on their Facebook page. This event is free. Learn more.
