We’re gearing up for Independence Day with plenty of July 4th activities lined up for Monday, but that doesn’t mean the rest of the three-day weekend should be neglected. Especially since so much on our Weekend Agenda is free.
Cherry Creek Arts Fest: One of the most anticipated Denver arts festivals, this four-day event features 230 visual artists, beer gardens, wine and spirits, musical and performing artists, culinary arts, the interactive Artivity Avenue, Creation Station for the kids… frankly, even the kitchen sink might be in attendance. July 1 - 4; Friday, 7pm - 10pm, Saturday and Sunday, 10am - 8pm, Sunday, 10am - 6pm; freeCherry Creek North, Between Second Ave. & Third Ave.; 303-355-2787
Free Days: Free is the theme of the weekend, which is evident with free days at Botanic Gardens and Chatfield on Friday, the Denver Art Museum on Saturday, and Boulder’s History Museum on Sunday.Botanic Gardens at Chatfield, 8500 Deer Creek Canyon Road; 720-865-3500Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy.; 720-865-5000Boulder History Museum, 1206 Euclid Ave., Boulder; 303-449-3464
Rockies: It’s an all-American weekend as the Rockies play three ballgames – Friday, Saturday and Sunday – against the Kansas City Royals. The first two will end with post-game fireworks.July 1 - 3, Friday & Saturday, 6:10pm, Sunday, 1:10pmCoors Field, 2001 Blake St.; 303-292-0200
Studio 12/First Friday: Galleries all over town will be open in celebration of First Friday art walks, but we’re spotlighting Studio 12 in the Santa Fe Arts District. It’s hosting a reception for “The Open Show,” a group exhibition featuring varying styles of Colorado artists.Fri., July 1, 4pm - 9pm; freeStudio 12, 209 Kalamath St., #12; 303-629-8744
Foothills Red, White & You: Begin the three-day weekend at a beer and wine garden with free concerts featuring Jobi & Erin Riccio, Chris Fairbank, and Chase N' The Dream. After an intermission of fireworks, live music will resume.July 1, 5pm - 10pm; freeClement Park, 7306 W. Bowles Ave., Littleton
Heritage Square’s 40th Anniversary: Heritage Square – best known for its half-mile Alpine slide – turns 40 this year. Stilt walkers, jugglers and balloon artists are just a few helping to ring in the new decade. July 2, 10am - 8pm; freeHeritage Square, 18301 W. Colfax Ave., Golden; 303-277-0040
4th Fest: Don’t be confused by the name – 4th Fest is held on the third this year. The outdoor festival includes live music and family activities with the Colorado Rapids soccer match against Houston Dynamo beginning at 7pm. Stay for the fireworks show, beginning at 9:30pm. Sun., July 3, festival begins at 5pm, game begins at 7pm; Rapids tickets, $17 - $45Dick’s Sporting Goods Arena, 6000 Victory Way, Commerce City; 303-727-3500
Independence Eve: Begin your pre-fourth celebration with this Independence Eve eventat Civic Center Park, where you’ll be treated to a free Colorado Symphony concert along with a smashing display of lights set to the music.Sun., July 3, begins at 8pm; freeCivic Center Park, Colfax & Broadway