Winter Bike Week, January 25–30

It’s time to pump up your bike tires and brush the dust off your cruiser. Learn (and get excited) to conquer the cold on wheels with daily clinics and gatherings for cyclists of all skill levels. On Wednesday, take advantage of complimentary B-cycle use for Winter Bike to Work Day; learn about fat bikes on Thursday; and cruise down the 16th Street Mall on Saturday. Don’t forget to light your ride so no one can miss your cycling pride. Mon–Sat, times vary; locations vary; free

EFPalooza Film Festival, January 28–30

Trade the previews and overpriced popcorn for a unique movie-going experience at this grassroots film festival. More than 45 local filmmakers will be in attendance to show off shorts such as Colfax 3 a.m., Neuroplasticity on Planet Diva, and Voldemort Vs the Navy SEALS. Stick around after each showing for an audience “talk back,” during which you’ll enjoy an open conversation with the director of each film. Thu, 8 p.m.; Fri, 7 p.m.; Sat, 3 p.m.; Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St.; ticket prices vary

In A Dream, January 28–March 11

Bend your sense of reality with Arts Brookfield’s latest surrealist exhibit. Artists such as Karel Moyer and Georges Loewenguth have been selected from the Englewood-based Museum of Outdoor Arts’ Design & Build Public Arts program to construct site-specific sculptures that create illusions and play with perception. Don’t miss installations such as “Cloud Walk,” an interactive, set-like piece that allows viewers to feel as if they are literally up in the clouds. Mon–Fri, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sat–Sun, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Republic Plaza, 370 17th St.; free

I Miss My MTV, January 29–February 6

This live performance mixtape of music, video, acting, and special effects is sure to induce nostalgia for those who remember when MTV was actually music television. The award-winning Band of Toughs theater troupe produces a performance (which sold out in Boulder last year) that features covers of ’80s hit artists like Weird Al Yankovic and A-ha, as well as a graffiti installation by Ritual Tattoo & Gallery. Generation X-ers are sure to appreciate the throwback, but this 75-minute ode to past pop culture will have all ages wishing they were original MTV kids. Fri, 8 p.m.; Sat, 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.; Sun, 8 p.m.; Ellie Caulkins Opera House, 1101 13th St., $11–$22

Chef Cooking Series: Lobster Mac & Cheese, January 30

Apprentice yourself to one of Denver’s best chefs for one appetizing evening. Frank Bonanno, the restaurateur and creative mind behind foodie favorites like Green Russell, Mizuna, and Lou’s Food Bar, relays his techniques to the eager public. In addition to picking up some key cooking skills, attendees of this intimate course will leave with the secrets behind Bonanno’s signature beurre blanc Lobster Mac & Cheese (and full bellies—dinner is included). Enrollment in the course is limited, but the evening is the first of a longer 10-course series of classes from some of Denver’s other star chefs. Sat, 4 p.m.; Mizuna, 225 E. Seventh Ave.; $200

Looking for more things to do? Check out 5280‘s events calendar.