The Local newsletter is your free, daily guide to life in Colorado. For locals, by locals.
Denver Jazz Fest
Front Range jazz fans are in for a treat this week: Dozens of the genre’s luminaries are convening for this second-annual fest. In addition to performances from lauded guitarist Pat Metheny, local legend Hazel Miller, and acclaimed saxophonist Branford Marsalis, nab tickets to see tributes to legends such as John Coltrane, Bill Evans, and Miles Davis. April 7–12; times vary; ticket prices vary
Boulder International Film Festival
Long before Sundance Film Festival announced its move to Boulder, this annual cinema summit established the People’s Republic as a movie-loving locale. The jam-packed schedule includes screenings of films such as Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World, a documentary about the renowned poet; See You When I See You, a Jay Duplass film that follows Denver comedian Adam Cayton-Holland’s experience with PTSD; and The Trial of Alec Baldwin, an account of the actor’s legal battle after the accidental killing of a cinematographer on a movie set. Baldwin will be in attendance for a live interview following the screening. April 9–12; times vary; passes start at $195, ticket packs start at $35
Read More: What To Watch at the 2026 Boulder International Film Festival This Weekend
Steel Magnolias
Before Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, and Daryl Hannah stole hearts on the silver screen in Steel Magnolias, this iconic feel-good story was a stage production. Lone Tree Arts Center will revive the original play, set in Louisiana beautician Truvy Jones’ in-home beauty parlor, this month. April 9–19; times vary; starting at $45
5280 Brunch Event
For those of us who always opt for a bloody Mary over a martini—and take advantage of breakfast-for-dinner whenever possible—our annual brunch event is a must. Your ticket will get you bites from editor-selected brunch spots, unlimited signature drinks (including a build-your-own-bloody Mary station), and tunes spun by DJ Mr. Groove. April 11; 10 a.m.–1 p.m.; $62–$67
Arvada Kite Festival
If you’re passing through Arvada this Sunday, you might have to do a doubletake: The sky will be dotted with snakes, dragons, pirates, and bugs—all in kite form, of course. This annual festival brings community members out to fly kites, plus peruse more than 100 vendor booths, participate in arts and crafts, stop by food trucks, and play in a Nurf Gun Zone. April 12; 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; free attendance
Pro-Roe Bake Sale
Since this fundraising event was founded three years ago, it’s raised more than $56,000 for Planned Parenthood—but the organizers are just getting started. More than 30 of Denver’s best bakeries and restaurants (including Reunion Bread, Tavernetta, Rioja, and Moxie Bread Co.) will supply baked goods. Visitors can indulge in the treats, plus sign up for raffle prizes, sip on coffee and cocktails, and bring home special event merch. April 12; 10 a.m.–noon; $5 per ticket, VIP entry $150
