The city is all shined up for the Democratic National Convention, with newly planted flowers and all sorts of events for even the non-politically inclined.
It’d be a shame if Denver metro residents didn’t come downtown to partake in history.
We understand the concerns about traffic and protests. And while it’s far too early to make sweeping conclusions, there was a good bit of pedestrian activity downtown on Sunday afternoon but very little in the way of traffic congestion.
Certainly, there were well-publicized road closures. And there were protesters, but fewer than expected. They had permits to march down city streets and they did.
Though there were a few tense moments when a handful of them blocked streets, they were soon moving.
During the last two decades, law enforcement authorities have come a long way in figuring out how to give convention protesters an opportunity to have their say but keep them largely contained. It’s too early to get a sense of the tone for the week, but by Sunday afternoon we could sum it up like this: So far, so good.
And there is a bounty of things to see and do. The American Presidential Experience has set up shop near Invesco Field and offers visitors an opportunity to sit in a replica of the Oval Office or walk aboard Air Force One. Tickets are required.
A variety of musicians are in town, and the Denver Art Museum is holding a series of events, including free admission today.
The Denver Post’s Politics West website, at , has a lengthy listing of parties, events and gatherings to consider.
City leaders spent an enormous amount of energy getting the convention to Denver and then raising money to pay for it.
We hope local residents take the time to find some part of the convention and its many public events to attend and enjoy.
Yes, depending on where you are, there could be protests and some inconvenience with traffic. If you’re concerned about parking or traffic, RTD may be a good option.
The DNC has brought history-in-the-making to Denver. Seeing and experiencing some part of that is a rare opportunity. Don’t miss it.
