11 Festive Things to Do This Fall in Colorado

Boo at the Zoo: Storybook Safari | Through October 31

Have an unforgettable family zoo day, Halloween style, as the Denver Zoo transforms itself with costumed characters and mythical creatures, animal experiences, seasonal themed food and drink, and more. Get dressed up and head over to the 84-acre zoo for this fun (and socially distant) event suitable for the whole family. Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online. 2300. Steele St.

Dia de Los Muertos Exhibition | Through January 9

The celebratory Mexican tradition of honoring deceased loved ones is celebrated at the 20th anniversary of the Longmont Museum’s annual Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) exhibition and programs. This year’s exhibition, hosted by Colorado artist Tony Ortega, will feature community ofrendas (altars), as well as Ortega’s paintings, mixed media works, and illustrations from book collaborations with George Rivera. The annual downtown festival that usually accompanies the museum’s celebration will now be live-streamed (and free), so you can celebrate Day of the Dead from the comfort of your home while enjoying performances by singing trio Las Dahlias, dance by Grupo Folklorico Mexico Lindo, mariachi, and more. Admission for the exhibition is $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. 400 Quail Rd., Longmont

Virtual Science Field Trips | October 7, 14, 21
Venture inside the human body without ever leaving the comfort of your own home. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is introducing their new “Weekly Wow Series,” where you can engage in a virtual field trip live with museum educators every Wednesday through October 21, perfect for kids in grades 3-8. These online adventures will put your mind to work as you view an organ dissection, a jet off to Saturn’s largest moon, and the creation of a scientific illustration. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online.

Science Riot Comedy Show | October 9
Calling all geeks and comedy freaks: The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is hosting a virtual comedy show brought to you by mathematicians, immunologists, neuroscientists, celebrity guest comedian Adam Cayton Holland, and more. Join hostess and award-winning burlesque dancer Annie Medina for a night of brainy comedy that will take place on Science Riot’s YouTube channel. Tickets are $10 and you must be 18 years or older and have a YouTube or Google account to purchase.

Denver Beer Week | October 9–17

Beer lovers, this one’s for you: Nine whole days of beer events scattered throughout the Mile High City. Visit one of your favorite spots from 100 participating brewpubs, breweries, and taprooms, or follow a beer trail near you. Unfortunately, the annual Great American Beer Festival was canceled this year, but beer aficionados can purchase a Great American Beer Festival Passport, which will grant you virtual access to exclusive online content, as well as access to sudsy deals at participating breweries nationwide. Passport tickets are $20 each and can be purchased online.

Downtown Beer Week (Loveland) | October 12–18
Want to explore another city’s beer culture? Head north to Loveland and indulge in a week of brewery tours, limited-edition beer releases, tasting specials, and more at the city’s five independent downtown breweries. 4th Street & Lincoln, Loveland. Details and schedule of events can be found online

Ghosts in the Gardens-Open Air Scare | October 16, 17, 29, 30
Get your scare on with nights at the Denver Botanic Gardens, as the staff shares ghost stories, real-life ghost encounters, and history through the dimly lit paths at the Denver Botanic Gardens. 1007 York St. Tickets are available for purchase online by timed slots and range from $29–$34. 

Glow at the Gardens | October 20–25
Who said pretty garden lights are only for Christmas? Grab your mask and wander through this spooky illuminated landscape while Jack-o-lanterns light up the night at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Enjoy performances by musicians, dancers, and other performing artists while snacking on some seasonal treats and non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase by the Hive Garden Bistro. Timed tickets are $15–19 for members and $17–21 for non-members for a 30-minute time slot and can be purchased online. 

Denver Film Fest | October 22
The premier film celebration is, surprise, going virtual this year. On October 22, Denver Film will bring you the best video storytelling, along with exclusive filmmaker conversations, bonus content, special guests, and more, directly to your home. The four-pack and 10-pack Virtual Film Festival packages are currently sold out, but you still have time to purchase the all-access virtual pass for $250, or stream by screening or presentation.

Drive’N’Drag Halloween: Denver | October 23–25

Join seven of Ru Paul’s Drag Race queens as they take the stage in this haunted experience, and you don’t even have to leave your car. Shows are from 7–9:30 p.m and feature an immersive haunted parking lot, as well as gourmet food trucks, a concert-quality light show, and more. Prices range from $69–399. Purchase tickets and view more information online.

Downtown Loveland Pumpkin Festival | October 24
Downtown Loveland is hosting an “all-things-pumpkin” festival that you don’t want to miss. Enjoy local farmer’s markets pumpkins—that you get to decorate—works by Loveland artists, food vendors, and more in this time-slotted event at the Foundry Plaza. 3rd Street between Lincoln & Cleveland. Tickets are $12 and require advance purchase.