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Signature Events
The Partnership believes in the transformative power of bringing people together.
Our carefully curated events, from signature public celebrations like the 9NEWS Parade of Lights to educational member gatherings like the State of Downtown, serve as the heartbeat of downtown vitality. We understand that an activated downtown is a thriving downtown. Through creative programming and thoughtful activation of spaces like 16th Street and Skyline Park, we craft moments that transcend the ordinary, fostering genuine connections and joy within our community.
Signature Events
Downtown Denver Awards
For nearly seven decades, the Downtown Denver Awards have honored the dedicated efforts of those who positively transform and shape our city. This iconic event is not just a recognition of excellence; it’s a testament to the incredible work of companies, organizations, and entities that have made significant contributions toward creating a unique, vibrant, and distinctive downtown environment for the benefit of all. The Downtown Denver Awards will return in 2026.
State of Downtown
The State of Downtown Denver is a legacy event that puts our center city into focus. Anchored by the release of the State of Downtown Denver report, this event delivers a compelling analysis into the trends, opportunities and challenges shaping the urban core. Explore the stories behind the statistics and what’s in store for Downtown Denver this year, download the report below.
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Annual Meeting
Annual Meeting celebrates the Partnerships' successes and milestone accomplishments from the past year while highlighting our plans and momentum for the upcoming year. It is a gathering for all business and civic leaders representing our membership to come downtown and learn about our work, the changes we are making, and the city we invite you to help us shape. This event showcases the Downtown Denver Partnership's impact as we propel Denver toward continued greatness.
Public Events
Summer in Denver:
Skyline Beer Garden
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Denver, Skyline Beer Garden is a summery pop-up experience you don’t want to miss. Open from June to October in Skyline Park, the beer garden is the perfect spot to enjoy a local craft brew or challenge friends to a round of mini golf. Each season, Skyline Park is transformed into a hub of family-friendly activities, creating a lively, welcoming space for the entire downtown community to gather and enjoy.
Winter in the City
Every year we invite you to unwrap the magic of downtown with Winter in the City! Bundle up and experience the most festive lights, holiday installations, markets, music and more. Enjoy some of our winter programs including free ice skating at the Downtown Denver Rink in Skyline Park, the 9NEWS Parade of Lights and New Years Eve Fireworks.
9NEWS Parade of Lights
For over 50 years, the Downtown Denver Partnership has proudly produced the Parade of Lights, Colorado’s most dazzling holiday tradition! This free, two-mile spectacle lights up downtown with more than 40 festive units, including illuminated floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and cultural performances. Drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators each year, the Parade of Lights brings joy to families, celebrates Denver’s rich cultural diversity, and marks the official kickoff to the holiday season. Whether creating new traditions or reliving cherished memories, this iconic event embodies the magic and spirit of the season in the heart of downtown.
Bike to Work Day
Colorado Bike to Work Day is the region’s premier cycling event, engaging over 34,000 participants. Now in its 12th year, the “Pedal for Pancakes” ride welcomes cyclists of all levels and drew over 500 participants in 2024. With more employees returning downtown, 2025 attendance is expected to grow.
Summer Bike to Work Day is Wednesday June, 25