No plans for the upcoming weekend? There’s plenty of action happening around Denver and beyond to get folks off the couch, like the Denver FanExpo, Yoga on the Rocks and more.

Each Thursday, explore Denver’s essential weekend events curated by The Denver Gazette. Dive into cultural experiences and entertainment delights across the city. Whether you enjoy art galleries, pottery, or outdoor sports, there’s something for everyone in Denver’s vibrant cultural scene. To submit an event for consideration, email [email protected].

THURSDAY

FanExpo Denver
What: Break out your nerdiest, coolest, most elaborate costume, because FanExpo this year calls for a little bit of chaos. The celebrity guest list is stacked this year with a cast reunion from ‘The X-Files’ and a Lord of the Rings Panel, which includes appearances from The Hobbits and some of your favorite faces from the Fellowship. There are also guest appearances from cast members from some niche favorites like Scream, The Goonies, and Breaking Bad. Regardless of if you bought a meet-and-greet, you are sure to run into your favorite characters and see some really rad cosplay or score some cool merch.
When: 12 p.m.–8 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday
Cost: Tickets starting at $35, price depends on which day you go, and experiences can be added on. Buy tickets here.
Where: Colorado Convention Center, 700 14th St., Denver

FRIDAY

Mike the Headless Chicken Festival
What: Colorado is known for its quirky, fun festivals and this one in Fruita is no exception. The lore goes that there lived a ‘headless chicken’ named Mike in Fruita, kept alive only by part of one ear, a jugular vein, and the base of his brain after a botched beheading. The festival each summer celebrates its local celebrity with a pancake breakfast, classic car show, live music, a 5K race, and a ‘Peep & Wing’ eating contest. You can also relax in the beer garden and take in all the weirdness in this cute little mountain town.
When: Varying times, Friday-Saturday
Cost: Free
Where: Downtown Fruita, 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita

Outside Days Denver
What: Bringing the magic of Colorado’s wilderness into the heart of downtown Denver with a festival that is packed with activities and fun for the whole family. Try your hand at rock climbing, yoga classes or fitness challenges. Check out their outdoor gear demos or try an off-road obstacle course. Not into the outdoorsy stuff? There is a film series and plenty of musical guests, including Death Cab for Cutie and Cage the Elephant.
When: 5 p.m. Friday-Sunday
Cost: Tickets starting at $115. Get tickets here.
Where: Auraria Campus, 1201 5th St., Denver

SATURDAY

Urban Markets at Denver Union Station
What: Meet me at the train station for a craft market set against a city backdrop at Denver’s bustling Union Station. This local market includes jewelry, clothing, handmade art, furniture and unique little treasures. Whether you make this your relaxing Saturday or Sunday shopping trip or a stop between destinations, it’s a perfect way to enjoy an outdoor market without too much commitment.
When: 12 p.m.–6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Cost: Free
Where: Union Station, 1701 Wynkoop St.

Colorado Shakespeare Festival in Boulder
What: What light through yonder Rockies breaks? The Colorado Shakespeare Festival kicks off with a performance of Twelfth Night at the Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre on the CU Boulder Campus. Whether you’re a theater aficionado or just a Bard beginner, everyone can enjoy a story about a wise fool, a mistaken identity, with a little bit of love and romance thrown in. With performances of Shakespeare’s plays throughout the summer, you will have plenty of opportunities to experience the culture of the theater.
When: Select performances May 30-Aug. 2
Cost: Starting at $31. Get tickets here.
Where: Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre, 277 University Ave. Boulder

Yoga on the Rocks
What: Do a sun salutation and watch the sun come up over the Mile High City for a relaxing morning experience at Red Rocks. You don’t need to be the most seasoned yogi to give it a whirl; all you need is your water bottle and a yoga mat. Yoga on the rocks is a fun chance to take in the views of the natural amphitheater overlooking the sprawl of downtown Denver, and getting in a nice, big stretch while you’re at it. It might even just be a good excuse to go to Red Rocks, because who doesn’t need a reason to be there?
When: 6 a.m. Saturday
Cost: $23 per person, reservations required. Get tickets here.
Where: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, 18300 W Alameda Parkway, Morrison

SUNDAY

Sundays on Santa Fe
What: Celebrating local artists, this event focuses on the artwork from local galleries in the heart of the Santa Fe Art District. Galleries will open their doors to sell artwork at a range of price points, styles and mediums. From trippy abstract art to modern minimalism or classically painted scenery, there’s something for everyone. The free art walk will host workshops, live music, food and other vendors so you can support local artists and small businesses.
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday
Cost: Free
Where: Santa Fe Arts District, 858 Santa Fe Drive, Denver