Looking for fun and budget-friendly ways to enjoy Denver and surrounding communities this summer? Thanks to the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) and other generous sponsors, many of Colorado’s best cultural institutions are opening their doors for free throughout August.
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From art exhibits and museums to concerts and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendars—here’s a look at the free events happening this month:
Wednesday, August 6
Lost and Found: Art with Found Objects
10 AM – 5 PM | Lafayette, CO
A gallery exhibit exploring art made from found materials. Free and open to the public during gallery hours.
Thursday, August 7
Picnic on the Plaza
12 PM – 1 PM | Lafayette, CO
Enjoy your lunch with live music in a relaxed outdoor plaza setting.
Friday, August 8
Sacred Voices LIVE – Open Mic Night
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Denver Community Media, Downtown Denver
A monthly gathering of poets, musicians, and storytellers in a vibrant open mic setting.
Saturday, August 9
Visible Mending with Sashiko Stitching
2 PM – 4 PM | Lafayette, CO
Learn the beautiful Japanese art of decorative mending in this hands-on workshop.
Sunday, August 10
Concerts in the Carousel
3 PM – 5 PM | Historic Elitch Gardens Theatre, Denver, CO
Enjoy live music in one of Denver’s most charming and historic settings.
Tuesday, August 12
Denver Art Museum – Free Day
10 AM – 8 PM | Denver, CO
Explore galleries, exhibitions, and hands-on activities with free general admission.
Wednesday, August 13
SCFD Free Day at Marjorie Park (Museum of Outdoor Arts)
10 AM – 5 PM | Greenwood Village, CO
Stroll through whimsical sculpture gardens and public art in a serene outdoor setting.
Thursday, August 14
Free Day at Plains Conservation Center
9 AM – 2 PM | Aurora, CO
Experience prairie wildlife and Colorado's cultural history at this nature education center.
Picnic on the Plaza
12 PM – 1 PM | Lafayette, CO
Another chance to unwind with music and lunch under the summer sun.
Friday, August 15
CELL Museum – SCFD Free Day
10 AM – 4 PM | Denver, CO
Explore thought-provoking exhibits focused on global security and terrorism awareness.
The Great Outdoors Concert @ Clement Park
6 PM – 9 PM | Littleton, CO
Enjoy a free symphony concert under the stars.
Saturday, August 16
Carousel of Happiness – Wingate Free Ride Weekend
10 AM – 5 PM | Nederland, CO
Celebrate with free rides on this magical, hand-carved carousel.
Lost and Found: Art with Found Objects
10 AM – 5 PM | Lafayette, CO
Continue exploring this unique, ongoing gallery exhibit.
Sunday, August 17
Carousel of Happiness – Wingate Free Ride Weekend
10 AM – 5 PM | Nederland, CO
The Great Outdoors Concert @ Hudson Gardens
6 PM – 9 PM | Littleton, CO
A second free outdoor symphony performance in a lush garden setting.
Thursday, August 21
Lost and Found: Art with Found Objects
10 AM – 5 PM | Lafayette, CO
Friday, August 22
Four Mile Historic Park – SCFD Free Day
10 AM – 4 PM | Denver, CO
Step back in time and explore Denver’s pioneer history at this unique living history park.
Saturday, August 23
See and Respond Poetry Workshop
2 PM – 3 PM | Lafayette, CO
Write poetry inspired by local art in this interactive, literary workshop.
Monday, August 25
Denver Museum of Nature & Science – Free Day
9 AM – 5 PM | Denver, CO
Dinosaurs, space, gems, and more—explore one of Denver’s best museums for free.
Wednesday, August 27
Denver Botanic Gardens – Free Day at York Street & Chatfield Farms
9 AM – 8 PM | Denver, CO
Experience two stunning garden campuses in full bloom with free admission all day.
Saturday, August 30
Lost and Found: Art with Found Objects
10 AM – 5 PM | Lafayette, CO
Found Words: Poetry & Collage with Poet Laureate Z
1 PM – 3 PM | Lafayette, CO
Get creative by combining poetry and visual collage in this community art workshop.
Museums That Are Always Free
Some cultural spots are free every day—no ticket needed!
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Broomfield Veterans Museum
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Depot Art Gallery
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Foothills Art Center
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City of Lakewood Art Exhibitions
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Aurora History Museum
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Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park
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Colorado Music Hall of Fame
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Louisville History Museum
Plan Ahead
Dates and times are subject to change—always confirm with the organization before attending.
📍 Want to explore a new part of town while you're out and about? Check out our Neighborhood Guide to discover more about Denver's unique communities.
