The Local newsletter is your free, daily guide to life in Colorado. For locals, by locals.
Tables for Change Fundraiser at Rioja and Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar
Not only does dining out this week mean you won’t have to do dishes—if you reserve a spot at one of these two dinners, you’ll also be doing good. This series from Independent Restaurant Coalition, which aims to protect independent restaurants and bars through legislative policy, is coming to Denver. Rioja’s Tuesday night dinner will include a Santa Barbara–inspired menu (think: lobster, Black Mission figs, and coastal wines), while Jax’s Wednesday offering is a seafood-focused four-course meal. Save yourself the bother of choosing which to go to and book seats at both—it’s for a good cause. Nov. 11–12; Tuesday 6 p.m., Wed 4:30–9 p.m.; $85–$150 per person
Mile High Holiday Mart
Your future self will profusely thank you for getting your holiday shopping done at this early-bird market. Hosted by the Junior League of Denver, this three-day event will include dozens of local vendors hawking everything from jewelry and clothing to cookies and CBD. For free admission, bring a toy or book to donate to the Denver Santa Claus Shop. Nov. 14–16; Friday 1–8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; $10–$40
Snowflake Through the Years
Each December, whiskey hounds camp outside of Stranahan’s Distillery hoping to receive a coveted bottle of the maker’s Snowflake Batch. At this VIP tasting, connoisseurs can taste the limited-edition liquids from years past—no camping required. Attendees will sample pours from 2016, 2019, 2022, and 2023 while enjoying light bites and live music. If braving the cold all night for a glass of hooch is part of the fun for you, though, Stranahan’s Snowflake Festival is back on December 5 and 6. Nov. 14; 6–8 p.m.; $88
Turkey Tailgate
Before you veg out on November 27, make sure other Mile High City families are set for the holiday. This fundraiser at the Wings over the Rockies Air and Space Museum pits Denver Fire against Aurora Fire for a friendly competition to see who can amass more donated frozen turkeys. The party will also include tons of tailgate-inspired food and drink, music, college football games on the big screen, and a spicy wing-eating contest featuring local firefighters. Nov. 15; 3 p.m.; free
We know, we know: Thanksgiving hasn’t even arrived, and we’re already looking forward to Christmas. But before crowds line up around the corner to meet Santa, we suggest you get your photo ops in at this seasonal bash. In addition to St. Nick meet-and-greets, kids can enroll in “elf training camp,” stop by crafting stations, watch the tree-lighting ceremony, and indulge in sweet treats and beverages. Nov. 15; 4:30–7:30 p.m.; free
French Dip Chef Competition Series
If you’ve binged all seasons of Beat Bobby Flay and can’t get enough of Top Chef, see some culinary action up close at this local showdown. Denver’s Pony Up, which specializes in the French dip sandwich, is inviting Matt Vawter of Breckenridge’s Rootstalk and Radicato to craft his best iteration of the dippable roast beef dish. Hungry attendees will be the judges and crown the winner with a blind vote. Nov. 17. 4–7 p.m.; free attendance, sandwich costs vary
