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Whether you’re ready for a long weekend at home with your family or are looking for ways to enjoy the last days of summer (while staying safe), the Mile High City has you covered. From socially distanced cocktail parties and backyard picnics to Derby watch-parties and more, here are six ways to celebrate this Labor Day weekend.
Denver Union Station Tiki Bar Takeover
This late-summer luau at Denver’s Union Station features beach-inspired cocktails and dishes from the landmark’s notable restaurants, like Ultreia (try: Jamaican empanadas), Mercantile Dining + Provision (try: green papaya salad), Pigtrain Coffee (try: Cold Brew Colada), and Stoic & Genuine (try: Jungle Bird cocktail and Lomi Lomi with oysters and salmon). Saturday to Monday, 4–11 p.m. Menu prices vary.
Celebrate the Kentucky Derby with Julep
It may be a few months later than usual, but the horses of the Kentucky Derby will gallop again this weekend. Host your own watch party with Julep’s Kentucky Derby fried chicken dinner and mint julep kits, or venture into the RiNo restaurant to join the party in real life. The Derby will be aired live on a projector while guests sit at socially distanced tables and enjoy drink specials. Before the hooves hit the track on Saturday, patrons can get in the spirit with hat decorating at Julep (BYOH or purchase one there), giving everyone the chance to don Derby-appropriate attire. Reservations are encouraged. Friday 4–8:30 p.m., Saturday 4–9 p.m. Menu prices vary.
Film on the Rocks Drive-In
With news that Red Rocks will be closed to the public later this month, don’t miss your chance to experience our favorite Colorado events venue in a new way. Cult classics like To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Love & Basketball, The Princess Bride, and Star Wars: A New Hope are screening this weekend at the open-air amphitheater. Thursday to Sunday, 7:30 p.m. $59.50 per car
Japanese Hibachi BBQ Pop-Up
If the thought of a shared hibachi table with strangers makes you nervous during a global pandemic, Denver Sushi House has you covered. Every Sunday, the RiNo restaurant is offering a DIY Habachi plate with your own mini grill. A smattering of veggies accompanies four ounces of meat and seafood each—chef’s choice. Sunday, multiple times; $40 for two people
Labor Day Dash
Make up for all the canceled races this year, and put your fitness to the test with a 5K or 10K. This race, which will be hosted at two different locations in north and south Denver, will give you a chance to roll off the couch, get out the door, and stretch your legs. Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; $45
Coperta’s Take-Home Labor Day Weekend Special
Bring home the bacon (literally) this Saturday with a special Labor Day menu from Coperta. On the menu is a series of three Italian spiedini (or skewers) that come raw so you can grill them at home, Caprese pasta salad, house-made focaccia, watermelon crostata, and a variety of tasty take-home sides and toppings. Pickup available on Saturday; $25 per person