Top Festivals in Denver 2025: Your Ultimate Guide

_{[Cover Photo by Five Points Jazz Festival]}

Denver in 2025 is about to be next level when it comes to festivals. Whether you're into dancing under the stars at an epic electronic rave, discovering hidden indie bands, or sipping craft beer while soaking in the city’s artsy vibes, Denver’s festival lineup has you covered. Imagine kicking off summer with the smooth sounds of jazz in Five Points, then diving into the electrifying energy of Global Dance Festival at Mile High Stadium. Or maybe you're more into exploring local art at the Cherry Creek Arts Festival before catching a sunset by Sloan’s Lake during the Colorado Dragon Boat races. From music and food to art and culture, Denver’s festivals are bringing the heat in 2025. So grab your calendar, because these events are not ones you’ll want to miss.

Let’s dive into the must-attend festivals lighting up Denver in 2025!

1. Global Dance Festival (July 18-19, 2025)

Global Dance Festival is Denver’s largest electronic music event, bringing in top EDM artists from across the globe. Hosted at Mile High Stadium, this festival transforms the stadium into a neon-lit wonderland with massive stages, light shows, and booming bass. Featuring DJs like Marshmello, Illenium, and Tiësto in the past, the 2025 lineup promises more high-energy performances that will keep the party going all night long. With food trucks, art installations, and multiple stages, Global Dance Festival is a must for any electronic music lover.

How to Get There: Located at Empower Field at Mile High, it’s accessible by public transport or rideshare.

Tickets: General admission starts at $150, with VIP packages available.

Must-See: The breathtaking sunset sets—there’s something magical about dancing as the sun dips behind the Rockies.

Local Tips: Be prepared for weather changes—Denver’s climate can shift quickly, so bring a jacket for those cooler evening temps.

2. Five Points Jazz Festival (May 17, 2025)

Denver’s Five Points Jazz Festival celebrates the city’s rich jazz history, particularly in the historic Five Points neighborhood. Known as the “Harlem of the West,” Five Points has deep roots in the jazz world, and this free, one-day festival honors that legacy with live jazz performances throughout the area. With more than 40 bands performing across multiple stages, the festival offers a variety of jazz styles, from smooth bebop to lively swing, making it a great event for all music lovers.

How to Get There: The festival is located in the Five Points neighborhood, easily accessible by RTD light rail or bus.

Tickets: Free to attend.

Must-See: The local food vendors offering classic and innovative cuisine inspired by the neighborhood’s African American heritage.

Local Tips: Arrive early to grab a good spot near the stages and explore the neighborhood’s historic landmarks.

3. Underground Music Showcase (August 1-3, 2025)

The Underground Music Showcase (UMS) is Denver’s largest indie music festival, featuring hundreds of local and national acts across a range of genres. Held in the South Broadway neighborhood, UMS transforms the area into a bustling music hub, with performances happening in dive bars, coffee shops, and outdoor stages. It’s an ideal event for discovering up-and-coming talent and enjoying the vibrant local music scene. In 2025, expect an eclectic mix of rock, pop, indie, and experimental sounds.

How to Get There: The festival takes over South Broadway, accessible via public transportation or rideshare.

Tickets: General admission starts at $60, with weekend passes and VIP options available.

Must-See: The secret pop-up shows that add an extra layer of excitement to the festival.

Local Tips: Take some time to explore the neighborhood’s trendy shops and eateries in between performances.

4. Great American Beer Festival (September 25-27, 2025)

Beer lovers, rejoice! The Great American Beer Festival is one of Denver’s most iconic events, celebrating the best of craft brewing. Held at the Colorado Convention Center, this massive festival features over 4,000 different beers from more than 800 breweries across the country. It’s a paradise for beer enthusiasts, offering everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Attendees can enjoy unlimited beer tastings, food pairings, and educational seminars on the art of brewing.

How to Get There: The festival takes place at the Colorado Convention Center, which is easily accessible via public transit or car.

Tickets: General admission starts at $85, with VIP options for early entry and exclusive tastings.

Must-See: The rare beer tastings featuring limited-edition brews from renowned breweries.

Local Tips: Hydrate and pace yourself—it’s a marathon, not a sprint! Also, check out the nearby craft beer bars for more local flavor.

5. Denver Film Festival (November 1-10, 2025)

The Denver Film Festival is a highlight for cinephiles, bringing international and independent films to the city for over a week of screenings, premieres, and special events. Held at various theaters around Denver, including the Sie FilmCenter and the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, the festival showcases everything from documentaries and shorts to feature films and experimental works. In 2025, the festival promises an exciting lineup of films from both established and emerging filmmakers, making it a must-attend event for anyone passionate about cinema.

How to Get There: Most screenings take place in the heart of Denver, making them easily accessible by public transport or rideshare.

Tickets: Prices vary depending on the film, with general admission starting at $15.

Must-See: The red carpet premieres and filmmaker Q&As, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the creative process.

Local Tips: Don’t miss the festival’s closing night gala—an opportunity to see the year’s standout films and celebrate with fellow film enthusiasts.

6. Cherry Creek Arts Festival (July 4-6, 2025)

The Cherry Creek Arts Festival is one of Denver’s largest and most prestigious art events, bringing together over 250 artists from across the country. Held in the upscale Cherry Creek North neighborhood, the festival is known for its diverse range of fine art, including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and photography. The event also features live music performances, interactive art installations, and plenty of food and drink options, making it a full weekend experience. The festival takes place over the 4th of July weekend, so visitors can enjoy the art during the day and catch fireworks in the evening.

How to Get There: Cherry Creek North is easily accessible by public transport or car, with parking available nearby.

Tickets: Free to attend.

Must-See: The live art demonstrations where artists create pieces in real time, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process.

Local Tips: Spend some time exploring Cherry Creek’s high-end shops and restaurants while you’re at the festival.

7. Colorado Dragon Boat Festival (May 31, 2025)

The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival is a lively celebration of Asian and Pacific Islander cultures, held at Sloan’s Lake Park. This unique festival features exciting dragon boat races, where teams paddle in sync to compete on the lake. Alongside the races, attendees can enjoy cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional Asian cuisine from a variety of food vendors. The festival is known for its vibrant atmosphere, showcasing the diversity and richness of Denver’s Asian community.

How to Get There: Sloan’s Lake Park is located in northwest Denver, easily accessible by car or public transit.

Tickets: Free to attend.

Must-See: The dragon boat races—these high-energy competitions are the heart of the festival and provide a thrilling spectacle for attendees.

Local Tips: Bring sunscreen and a hat—summer in Denver can be hot, especially by the water, but the park offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy the festival atmosphere.

Denver in 2025 is shaping up to be a festival lover’s paradise, offering something for everyone throughout the year. Whether you’re dancing to electronic beats at Global Dance Festival, discovering new indie bands at UMS, or exploring fine art at the Cherry Creek Arts Festival, Denver’s festival scene is as diverse as it is vibrant. With its stunning natural surroundings, rich cultural heritage, and endless creative energy, the Mile-High City is the perfect backdrop for these unforgettable events. From the bustling streets of RiNo to the peaceful shores of Sloan’s Lake, Denver’s festivals showcase the very best the city has to offer. So, whether you're a local or planning a trip, make sure to mark your calendar for these must-see festivals in 2025.

Stay tuned for more festival updates and tips at Woke Waves Magazine!

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