Like tulips poking their petals out of the snow, Colorado’s party people are tentatively taking to the patio.
The weather’s still changeable, of course — a string of sunny days can quickly sink back into cold sogginess — but the warm afternoons are starting to outnumber the ugly ones. After folding up the patio umbrellas for the winter, bar owners are now prepping their porches for months of summer sunsets to come.
Some joints are even throwing a party to celebrate summer’s impending arrival. Take the Stingray Lounge (2911 W. 38th Ave.): They’re hosting a weekend-long grand-opening party for their patio.
Starting tonight, the Sting- ray brings in a host of live performers to rev up the excitement for a season of outdoor drinking. The fun begins at 4:30 p.m., with DJ Scott Damnit spinning groovy tiki tunes to set the mood. DJ Savior Breath gets the party shaking at 10 p.m.
Saturday’s shenanigans start early with a gathering of classic-auto enthusiasts at 2 p.m. It’s an appropriate theme for the Stingray — its namesake is the sleek 1960s Chevrolet, and signs of vintage car culture decorate the bar’s interior. At 9 p.m., local burlesque star and singer Cora Vette stops by for a performance with the Vinyl Tops and BurlyCute Burlesque.
Sunday’s going to be a rager: DJ Rockstar Aaron holds court at a “Patio Pool Party” from noon to 4 p.m. Shake off the cobwebs from Saturday night and frolic with Aaron and his pals.
If that’s not enough outdoor celebrating, there’s more: Coming up next weekend, on May 21, Forest Room 5 (2532 15th St.) throws an opening party for its summer patio concert series.
Land Lines, featuring former members of Matson Jones, plays the first patio show, along with Denver alt-country crew Bare Bones. Forest Room will be unveiling their brand-new summer menu, too — the supercool bar also serves small plates and entrees, perfect for a glass of wine and a nibble on the shady terrace.
These are but a mere two suggestions for upcoming outdoor fun times. Just watch: In the next few weeks, the patio scene is only going to get bigger and better. Get out there, and enjoy it.
Elsewhere.
There’s a big weekend happening at Beta (1909 Blake St.): On Saturday, DJ Dubfire, formerly of house duo Deep Dish, spins a set of “jet-black, polished chrome techno.” Tickets are $10.
Then, on Sunday, Armin van Buuren makes an appearance behind the decks. Known as one of the world’s top DJs, van Buuren plays and produces progressive trance. He also holds a law degree — in case he needs something to fall back on, perhaps. Tickets are steep for this one at $45.
Buy tickets for both shows at .
The Wynkoop Brewing Co. (1634 18th St.) is partnering with local hip-hop heroes Flobots to raise money for Denver’s Cole Arts and Science Academy — and they’re seeking fellow beer lovers to help out.
On Monday, the Flobots’ Jonny 5 will step in as a guest bartender at the Wynkoop; all of his tips will go toward arts and mentorship programs at Cole. In addition, the ‘Koop’s already pledged $1,500 to the campaign in an effort kickstart matching donations from brew fans.
Learn more about the Flobots’ project, including other local restaurants that have stepped up to sponsor schools, at .
