Unmissable Events in Denver: What’s On in 2026

Denver’s calendar is filled with art walks, food festivals, outdoor concerts and neighborhood celebrations. There is nearly always something new to experience, especially in the creative River North Art District, better known as RiNo.

Located in the heart of the neighborhood, The Source Hotel gives you a convenient base for exploring events in Denver. Start with coffee or breakfast in The Source Market Hall, head out to your chosen event and return for dinner, rooftop drinks or a relaxed evening overlooking the city.

Here are some of the most exciting events happening in Denver during the rest of 2026.

Upcoming Events in Denver at a Glance

Denver Food + Wine Festival

When: August 26–29, 2026
Where: Tivoli Quad, 1000 Larimer Street

Denver Food + Wine Festival brings together restaurants, chefs and beverage producers for four days of tastings and culinary events. The program includes seminars and special experiences before concluding with the signature Grand Tasting.

It is a strong choice for visitors who want to experience Denver through its food scene. Staying at The Source Hotel keeps the theme going, with artisan coffee, local dining and drinks waiting inside The Source Market Hall when you return. 

Colorado Dragon Boat Festival

When: August 29–30, 2026
Where: Sloan’s Lake Park

The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival celebrates Asian and Asian American culture through dragon boat racing, food, art, performances and shopping. The races across Sloan’s Lake are the main attraction, but the cultural program makes this a full-day event.

Arrive earlier in the day to explore the food and vendor areas before finding a place to watch the races. The 2026 festival takes place at Sloan’s Lake on August 29 and 30.

First Friday Festivals at RiNo ArtPark

Upcoming dates:

• September 4, 2026, 5–9 p.m.
• October 2, 2026, as part of Art RiNo
• November 6, 2026, 5–9 p.m.
• December 4, 2026, as part of RiNo’s holiday festivities

First Friday is one of the best ways to experience RiNo’s creative character. Galleries and studios open their doors while the neighborhood hosts live music, exhibitions, local makers, food trucks and hands-on activities.

The main festival takes place at RiNo ArtPark, practically across the street from The Source Hotel. It is around 1,000 feet, or 0.2 miles, away on foot. Start at ArtPark, then follow the galleries, murals and independent businesses that catch your attention.

Parking around the festival can fill quickly. Guests staying at The Source can leave their car at the hotel and walk over in minutes, making it easy to enjoy the evening without searching for a space near the event.

See upcoming activities and timings on the latest First Friday festival schedule from RiNo Art District.

Denver Oktoberfest

When: September 18–20 and September 25–27, 2026
Where: Larimer Street between 20th and 22nd streets

Denver Oktoberfest returns to the Ballpark District for two weekends of live music, Bavarian-inspired food, drinks and traditional competitions.

The festival opens at 2 p.m. on Fridays and 11 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. General admission is free, although selected experiences and reserved areas require tickets.

The Ballpark District is a short ride from The Source Hotel, so guests can enjoy the festival without giving up RiNo’s restaurants and nightlife. Review the official Denver Oktoberfest schedule before visiting.

Art RiNo 2026

When: October 2-4, 2026
Where: RiNo ArtPark & RiNo Art District

Art RiNo returns October 2–4 for a three-day celebration of art, food, music and creative culture throughout the RiNo Art District. Each day offers a different way to experience the artists, makers, chefs and brewers that give the neighborhood its distinctive character.

The weekend kicks off Friday, October 2 with RiNo Eats, a 21+ culinary tasting experience at Truss House featuring local restaurants, immersive art, live music and performances.

On Saturday, October 3, Art RiNo Festival takes over RiNo ArtPark from 1–8 p.m. The free, all-ages festival features live music, mural painting, artist activations, workshops, open studios, local makers, food and community programming.

The weekend wraps up Sunday, October 4 with Beers Made By Walking, beginning with a free guided neighborhood walk from 10 a.m.–12 p.m., followed by a 21+ tasting from 2–4:30 p.m. featuring beers inspired by RiNo’s art, history and landscape.

Guests at The Source Hotel are perfectly positioned to make a weekend of it, exploring RiNo’s murals, galleries and festival events before returning to the hotel for dinner, rooftop drinks or a night in the neighborhood.

Great American Beer Festival

When: October 10–11, 2026, noon–4 p.m.
Where: Levitt Pavilion, 1380 West Florida Avenue

The Great American Beer Festival enters a new chapter in 2026 as it moves outdoors to Levitt Pavilion. Visitors can sample drinks from independent producers alongside food, live music and festival activities.

Start the weekend at Cimera, where a special beer-paired dinner with festival participant Coronado Brewing Co. is planned for October 9. The one-night experience will bring together a dedicated menu and paired beers before the main festival begins. Further details and booking information will be announced closer to the date.

Denver’s brewery culture extends well beyond the festival grounds. RiNo is home to numerous breweries and taprooms, making The Source Hotel a fitting base for a beer-focused weekend. Guests can also find dining and drinks inside The Source Market Hall.

The festival runs on October 10 and 11, with tickets and session details available through the official Great American Beer Festival website.

Denver Arts Week

When: November 6–15, 2026
Where: Museums, galleries and cultural venues across Denver

Denver Arts Week brings hundreds of exhibitions, performances and cultural events to locations throughout the city. The program begins with expanded First Friday celebrations across Denver’s creative districts, including RiNo.

One of the main events is Free Night at the Museums on November 7. Participating institutions stay open between 5 and 10 p.m., with free admission and shuttle services available between selected locations.

The full 2026 lineup will continue to grow as November approaches. Check the Denver Arts Week calendar when planning your visit.

RiNo Holiday Market and ArtPark Tree Lighting

When: December 4–5, 2026
Where: RiNo ArtPark

RiNo’s holiday season begins with a local market and tree-lighting festival at ArtPark. Visitors can shop from independent makers, enjoy seasonal food and experience the neighborhood in a festive setting.

The event coincides with December’s First Friday, creating a lively weekend of art, shopping and community programming. The Source Hotel offers a warm and convenient place to return to after exploring, with restaurants, shops and welcoming guest rooms all under one roof.

Times and detailed programming will be announced closer to the event. Check the RiNo ArtPark calendar before your visit.

Looking for Events in Denver This Week?

New gallery openings, concerts, markets and pop-ups are announced throughout the year. If you are searching for events in Denver this week, check The Source Hotel’s local events calendar shortly before your trip.

You can also explore RiNo on foot without committing to a large event. The neighborhood’s galleries, murals, restaurants, breweries and independent shops make it easy to create your own itinerary.

Stay Close to Denver’s Best Events

A packed event calendar is easier to enjoy when your hotel feels connected to the destination.

At The Source Hotel, you can begin the morning with coffee in the Market Hall, spend the day exploring Denver and return for rooftop views, dinner or a comfortable night in your room. RiNo’s creative energy is just outside, while downtown attractions remain within convenient reach.

Explore rooms and suites at The Source Hotel and plan your next Denver event weekend.