- RB Daily
- Posts
- 🎀 Heat, Thunder & Bottomless Brunch: Denver’s Weekend Survival Guide
🎀 Heat, Thunder & Bottomless Brunch: Denver’s Weekend Survival Guide
Kiki Ash
August 08, 2025
Friday, August 8, 2025
⛅ Partly cloudy • High: 90°F • Low: 57°F
Good morning, Denver. Happy Friday! Are you melting with these temperatures? Hot enough to fry an egg on your dashboard, but don’t try that at home. By 4 pm, those classic afternoon storms will roll in, so squeeze in all the fun before the skies open up.
In today’s RB Daily:
Downtown office vacancy hits new heights (but our patios are still packed)
The Hornet pours its last bottomless mimosa (get there before they run out)
Weekend shenanigans from RiNo art crawls to Joe Bonamassa under the stars
As always feel free to email me at [email protected] with comments.
Kiki ❤️
THE DIGEST
The Hornet Says Goodbye After 30 Years of Hangovers
That bright blue building at 76 Broadway (you know, the one with the perpetual brunch line) is closing THIS SATURDAY after nearly three decades. The Hornet announced its final service will be August 9, citing "changing dynamics" after an investment group bought the building. The two-story spot has been South Broadway's weekend warrior headquarters since 1995, serving bottomless mimosas to generations of Denverites. If you want one last green chile fix, you've got exactly one more day. Pro tip: The entire neighborhood is about to descend for emotional goodbyes, so maybe just remember it fondly from your couch.
Note: I feel like I'm announcing restaurant closures every week. Sorry, I don’t want to make you too sad.
The Savannah Bananas (yes, the TikTok-famous baseball team where players dance, do backflips, and wear kilts, but also, ok, not going to lie, I had to look them up) are taking over Coors Field this Saturday (7 pm) and Sunday. This isn't baseball; it's controlled chaos with a two-hour time limit, fans catching foul balls for outs, and a scoring system that makes zero sense but maximum fun. ESPN is covering it, tickets are selling for $200+ on sketchy sites, and there's even a Dunkin' takeover tomorrow morning where players will serve coffee. The Rockies could never.
Metro Denver Home Prices Dip as Buyers Gain Leverage
After months of red-hot growth, the housing market finally cooled in July: the Denver Metro Association of Realtors reports detached-home prices fell 2.3% while new listings dropped 13.6%, and properties lingered on the market longer. Zillow data shows a 2.7% year-over-year decline in June values, one of the steepest among the nation’s top 50 metros
After closing both Denver taprooms, 31-year-old Great Divide Brewing is coming back to life at 3040 Blake Street. Parent company Wilding Brands is converting the current Stem Ciders space (which closes August 3) into a full brewery and restaurant. RiNo needed this, the neighborhood's been hemorrhaging OG spots faster than developers can build "luxury" studios. Great Divide promises the same beloved beers plus a full kitchen and what they're calling a "comfortable, inviting interior," which in RiNo means exposed brick and $16 burgers.
LOCAL BUSINESS
Denver Airport Dishes Out Local Flavor
Denver International Airport rolled out 19 new local concessions on August 5, spotlighting homegrown spots, from Uncle ramen and the hidden Williams & Graham speakeasy to Tocabe Indigenous cuisine, Woody Creek Bakery, Maria Empanada, and more. Gate A24 to C46 has never tasted so good.
Training camp's been downsized from 3,000 fans to just 800 due to construction. Free tickets required, but they’re all sold out!!! The intimate vibe means you can actually see Bo Nix's spiral instead of watching the jumbotron. Silver lining to construction chaos.
The literary-themed brewery on East Colfax that announced its closure in December is reopening under new ownership. Sometimes the sequel is better than the original. Details coming soon, but the book-filled taproom at 7101 E Colfax remains intact.
WHAT'S HAPPENING
This Weekend: August 8–10
Friday, August 8
🍩 Savannah Bananas Dunkin' Takeover 9-11am
📍 9595 E. Arapahoe Rd, Greenwood Village
💰 Free (but buy a donut, don't be weird)
What: Bananas players serve coffee, sign autographs, and hand out free swag before tomorrow's game. Expect chaos, kids everywhere, and possibly the most exciting thing to happen at a Dunkin' since forever.
🎨 First Friday RiNo Art Walk 6-9pm
📍 Larimer & Walnut Streets
💰 Free
What: Monthly gallery crawl with new exhibitions, street performers, and food trucks. Hit fooLPRoof Gallery for their national juried show, then grab tacos from the truck at 35th & Walnut.
🎪 Saigon Azteca Night Market 6–10pm
📍 3900–4100 Morrison Rd, Denver
💰 Free
What: Street food, artisan vendors, Aztec dancers, and live DJs. This Westwood night market blends Mexican and Vietnamese culture; it's wild, it's delicious, and it's one night only.
🎶 B-Side Music Fridays: Rumtum & Uhl 7–10pm
📍 MCA Denver, 1485 Delgany St
💰 Free with museum admission ($5–10)
What: Chill rooftop concert series featuring local legends Rumtum & Uhl. Expect synthy vibes, skyline views, and maybe a hot take on Denver’s music scene over a $7 beer.
🎸 Joe Bonamassa at Red Rocks 8pm
📍 Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 18300 W Alameda Pkwy
💰 $60+
What: Blues-rock guitar god. Killer vocals, iconic venue, and fingers that move faster than your weekend plans. Doors open at 6:30; pack a poncho just in case.
Saturday, August 9
🥬 City Park Farmers Market 8am-1pm
📍 2551 E. Colfax Ave
💰 Free admission
What: Denver's biggest market with 100+ vendors, live music, chef demos. Get there before 10am for Munson Farms' legendary peaches.
⚾ Savannah Bananas vs. Firefighters 7pm
📍 2001 Blake St
💰 $92+ resale (good luck)
What: Viral baseball meets Denver. Expect dancing players, trick plays, and rules that make no sense. The beer lines will be insane, pre-game elsewhere.
🍻 The Hornet's Final Day 10am-2am
📍 76 Broadway
💰 Regular menu prices
What: Last chance at this Broadway institution. Expect tears, long waits, and someone definitely getting a Hornet tattoo they'll regret.
🎶 Slightly Stoopid w/ Iration & Collie Buddz 6–10 p.m.
📍 Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St
💰 $35–45
What: Reggae-pop stars light up the gardens with a summer concert under the stars, featuring wine, unmatched vibes.
🎨 Denver Graffiti Tour (self-guided) 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
📍 Meet anywhere in RiNo
💰 ~15$ suggested donation
What: Wander Denver’s most famous murals with your own pace. Insider tips, story-filled street art; totally Instagram-ready.
🪐 Full Moon Stargazing at Red Rocks 8–10 p.m.
📍 Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 18300 W Alameda Pkwy
💰 Free (just parking)
What: Peak Perseid meteor shower meets bright Sturgeon Moon; brace yourself for shooting-star magic with the Rockies view.
🪐 Yoga on the Rocks: Rooted Heart Yoga & Wellness 7 – 10 a.m.
📍 Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison
💰 $ I think it’s 22, not sure, sorry, stupid AXS page doesn’t let me confirm
What: Start your Saturday with soaring downward dogs at Red Rocks. It’s a breathtaking workout with nature as your studio, bring your mat and zen.
🎸 Slightly Stoopid w/ Iration & Collie Buddz 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
📍 Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison
💰 $ 65+
What: Reggae-rock legends Slightly Stoopid headline with Iration and Collie Buddz in tow. This is outdoor concert magic at Denver’s most iconic venue.
🛍️ Urban Market at Union Station 12 – 6 p.m.
📍 Union Station, Downtown Denver
💰 Free
What: Browse local crafts, art, and delicious food vendors in the heart of the city. Perfect for some midday people-watching and unique shopping finds.
🧃 Second Saturdays at Denver Central Market 5–8pm
📍 2669 Larimer St
💰 Free admission
What: Monthly party with DJs, vendors, drinks, and very good outfits. Pop between bars with a cocktail in hand and pretend you're in Berlin.
Sunday, August 10
⚾ Savannah Bananas Round 2 2pm
📍 2001 Blake St
💰 $92+ resale
What: Second chance to see baseball's Harlem Globetrotters. Sunday crowd includes more families, fewer drunk bros.
🥘 Highland Square Farmers Market 9am-1pm
📍 32nd & Lowell
💰 Free
What: Neighborhood market with stellar breakfast burritos from La Popular. Dog parade happens naturally around 10:30am.
🍳 Drag Brunch 11am & 1pm
📍 1336 E 17th Ave
💰 $35 includes show
What: Sunday Funday with queens, bottomless mimosas, and enough glitter to find on your clothes until Wednesday.
🎪 South Pearl Street Market 9am-1pm
📍 1400-1500 S Pearl St
💰 Free
What: Best people-watching in Denver. Grab Grateful Bread pastries, Kaladi coffee, then judge everyone's dogs.
🪘 Cheesman Park Drum Circle at Sunset (~7 p.m.) Cheesman Park
📍 9th Ave & Denver Botanic Gardens
💰 Free
What: Drumbeats meet Denver vibes every Sunday at dusk. Bring rhythm, BYO bongos, and vibe with strangers. (Cheesman Park Sunday drum circles are a classic, widely known, and still happening summer staple.)
🧺 Mile High Flea Market 7 a.m.–5 p.m. Henderson (just outside Denver)
📍 7007 E 88th Ave, Henderson, CO
💰 Small admission
What: Denver’s sprawling flea gem. Thousands of vendors, food, mini rides, and ring‑toss nostalgia every weekend
RECURRING WEEKEND FAVORITES 🔄
South Pearl Farmers Market
📍 South Pearl Street | Sundays 9 am–1 pm through November
Why: The bougie market where everyone pretends they’ll actually cook those $8 heirloom tomatoes
Urban Market at Union Station
📍 Union Station | Saturdays 12 pm–6 pm
Why: Eclectic arts & crafts, live music, and downtown people-watching, free and endlessly satisfying
Yoga on the Rocks
📍 Red Rocks Amphitheatre | Saturdays 7 am (doors 6 am)
Why: Bend, stretch, and downward dog your way into the weekend at the most epic fitness venue in the world
RiNo Made Summer Market
📍 RiNo ArtPark | August 23, 4–8 pm
Why: Monthly market with 50 artists, live music, and the Ethiopian food truck that'll change your life
FAMILY FRIENDLY PICKS 👨👩👧👦
🧸 Teddy Bear Clinic All ages
📍 Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St | 🕐 Saturday, Aug 9, 9 am–1 pm | 💰 Regular zoo admission
What: Bring your favorite stuffed animal for a check-up with real veterinarians, catch live animal demos, and take home a vet-themed souvenir
🏞️ An Evening in the Park All ages
📍 Children’s Museum of Denver Esplanade, 2121 Children’s Museum Dr | 🕐 Friday, Aug 8, 4:30–6:30 pm | 💰 Free
What: After-hours takeover of Joy Park & Adventure Forest—enjoy hand-made ice cream demos, crafts, and exclusive play zones
🎉 Joy Park Free Night All ages
📍 Children’s Museum of Denver, 2121 Children’s Museum Dr | 🕐 Friday, Aug 15, 4:30–8 pm | 💰 Free (Joy Park only)
What: Score free evening access to the outdoor playground and Adventure Forest, plus special nighttime activities
🔬 SCFD Free Day All ages
📍 Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd | 🕐 Monday, Aug 25, 9 am–5 pm | 💰 Free (ticket required)
What: Enjoy no-cost access to all exhibits, planetarium shows, and hands-on labs; courtesy of the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District
🦋 Butterfly Pavilion Family Night All ages
📍 Butterfly Pavilion, 6252 W 104th Ave, Westminster | 🕐 Tuesday, Aug 14, 5:30–7:30 pm | 💰 $10/person
What: Explore after-hours galleries, complete themed self-guided activities, and earn fun invertebrate stickers
🐾 Junior Zookeeper Ages 6+
📍 Butterfly Pavilion, 6252 W 104th Ave, Westminster | 🕐 Saturday, Aug 9, 9 am–1 pm | 💰 $20 (includes admission)
What: Step into a zookeeper’s shoes; meet animal ambassadors, feed live bugs, and help care for critter habitats
INDIE & NICHE EVENTS 🎨🌈
👗 ThriftCon • All ages
📍 National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St | 🕐 Sat–Sun, Aug 9–10, 10 am–5 pm | 💰 $17+
What: Hunt vintage gems among 100+ clothing, collectible, and furniture vendors at Denver’s premier secondhand expo
🥩 Colorado Beef Festival • All ages
📍 MSU Denver (Park Hill Campus) | 🕐 Saturday, Aug 9, 12 pm–8 pm | 💰 $33+
What: Savor chef cook-offs, live country music, and the best beef creations from local ranchers and restaurants
🎬 CinemaQ Film Festival • All ages
📍 Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E Colfax Ave | 🕐 Fri–Sun, Aug 8–10 | 💰 $13+
What: Denver’s LGBTQ+ film fest returns with curated features, director Q&As, and community panels
🏡 Parade of Homes • All ages
📍 Various Denver-area residences | 🕐 Thu–Sun, now–Aug 24, 12 pm–5 pm | 💰 Free
What: Tour nearly 70 newly designed homes, from sleek condos to luxury dream houses; for free (virtual tours available)
🎡 Boulder County Fair • All ages
📍 Boulder County Fairgrounds, Longmont | 🕐 Through Sunday, 8 am–10 pm | 💰 Free admission (rides extra)
What: Colorado’s oldest county fair features rodeos, demolition derbies, carnival rides, and live music
🍷 West Elks Wine Trail • 21+
📍 West Elks AVA, SW Colorado | 🕐 Fri–Sun, Aug 1–3 | 💰 $25+
What: Sip award-winning wines at multiple tasting rooms along scenic back-roads; shuttle service included
PLAN AHEAD 📅
🎵 Yonder Mountain String Band August 12
📍 Denver Botanic Gardens | 💰 Tickets start at $56
Why: Intimate bluegrass show in the amphitheater.
🏃♀️ Colfax Marathon May 17, 2026 (registration opens mid-August)
📍 City Park Esplanade | 💰 TBD (early notification for lowest rates)
Why: Denver’s largest marathon weekend returns with eight races
🎡 Colorado State Fair & Rodeo August 22–September 1
📍 Pueblo County Fairgrounds, 1001 Beulah Ave, Pueblo | 💰 Free admission (rides extra)
Why: 11-day celebration of rodeo action, concerts, carnival fun, and fair food under the Pueblo sky
FREE STUFF THIS WEEKEND 🆓
🏈 Broncos Training Camp Through August
📍 Broncos Park Powered by CommonSpirit, Dove Valley | 🕐 10 a.m. daily | 💰 Free mobile tickets required
What: Watch Bo Nix and crew in training — limited capacity; reserve free mobile tickets via Account Manager or Ticketmaster citeturn0search3.
🚶♂️ Denver Free Walking Tours 10 a.m. daily
📍 Meet at Colorado State Capitol & Civic Center Park | 💰 Pay-what-you-wish
What: Guided historic downtown tour covering the Capitol, Library, Art Museum, and Big Blue Bear
🎥 Movies & Music in the Park 7 p.m. (movie at dusk)
📍 Parfet Park, 800 10th St, Golden | 💰 Free
What: Live band followed by an outdoor screening of Air Bud under the stars; bring a blanket and snacks!
🏔️ Washington Park Loop Always
📍 Wash Park | 🕐 Sunrise–sunset | 💰 Free
What: 2.3-mile loop for running, walking, and judging other people’s athletic wear
🏛️ Colorado State Capitol Tours 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., & 1 p.m.
📍 Colorado State Capitol, 200 E Colfax Ave | 💰 Free
What: Guided tours of the historic Capitol building and dome; learn about Colorado history without spending a dime
EXTRA SPRINKLES
Overheard at Whole Foods: "Is oat milk still cool or are we back to almond?" The anxiety was palpable.
Local X (formerly known as Twitter) Drama: Someone posted that Casa Bonita's food is "actually good now" and the quote xeets/tweets are BRUTAL.
Uchi Denver has a fantastic Sunday happy hour. Your wallet isn't ready but your Instagram is.
NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHTS 🏘️
RiNo This Weekend
First Friday galleries open until 9pm
Number 38 has live music Saturday
Death & Co launches new cocktail menu
South Broadway This Weekend
The Hornet closes forever Saturday
Sputnik has comedy Sunday 8pm
Highland This Weekend
Highland Farmers Market Sunday 9am
Little Man Ice Cream debuts August flavors
Highland Tap & Burger has $15 burger+beer special
DENVER BY THE NUMBERS
🌡️ Forecast: 92°/65° with afternoon storms
🍺 Number of weekend events: 73 (we counted twice)
🏔️ Trail status: Clear above treeline, muddy below
🚇 RTD note: A-Line on time (suspicious but we'll take it)
🎭 Days until Broncos home opener: 31