Risas free dental work
If you need some dental work, here’s a chance to get it done at no cost. This Labor Day, dentists and staff from Risas Dental & Braces will volunteer their time to provide free dental services to the general public across the Mile High City — during its annual Labor of Love. On Sept. 7, from 8 a.m. to noon, visit one of its six locations for the complimentary service – Aurora (2), Commerce City, Denver (2) and Wheat Ridge. Choose from four treatment options, including a basic cleaning, cavity filling, tooth extraction or complete exam with X-rays. With no appointments accepted, patients will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early and be prepared to wait in line.
First Act
First Act is the kickoff celebration to Denver’s performing arts season on Sept. 12 – from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The event brings together all of the organizations that call the Denver Performing Arts Complex home (1400 Curtis St.) – including Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Dazzle, Opera Colorado, Colorado Symphony and Colorado Ballet. Attendees can experience ballet, symphony, jazz, theatre and opera, while exploring the complex and meeting the artists and organizations behind the performances. Beyond the stage, families can strike a pose for a free professional headshot, craft their own paper flowers, see costumes and opera props up-close, or step into the spotlight at Clowning on the Complex. There will also be a Broadway Bound Community Dance Class, designed for all ages and abilities.
Electronics recycling event
Do you have old electronics piling up in the basement or garage? If it can be plugged in or runs on batteries, there’s an easy option to recycle it on the cheap. Denver7 and ITAD Electronics Recyclers are hosting an Electronics Recycling Event on Sept. 12 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park (6000 Victory Way) in Commerce City. The drive-thru event in Parking Lot H runs from 7 a.m. to noon. Cost is only $5 per car, with no limit on the number of items you can drop off. All things electronic (including small appliances) are welcome. For additional safety, all data-bearing items collected will get an additional three-pass data wipe and/or be physically destroyed. There is an extra fee for select items, including TV and CRT monitors. Cash and credit cards accepted.
Denver Orchid Society
Get ready to embark on a blooming adventure at the Denver Orchid Society Fall Show and Sale on Sept.19 and 20 at Nick’s Garden Center (2001 S. Chambers Rd.) in Aurora. Admission is free. This year’s theme, “Falling for Orchids,” promises to immerse visitors in a world of hundreds of flowering plants, vibrant colors, and exotic blooms. Enthusiasts looking to start or expand their own orchid collection will find plants for sale from $20 to $100. Browse more than 600 potted orchid plants, carefully curated to cater to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. Best of all, society member experts will be on hand to share their wisdom and provide valuable tips on caring for the tropical beauties. Hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Denver Oktoberfest
Denver Oktoberfest is so large and popular it spans two weekends. The salute to Bavarian heritage features authentic German beer and fare, crafts, music, dance, oom-pah-pah entertainment and more. The festival runs in the Ballpark Neighborhood from Sept. 18 to 20 and again the following weekend from Sept. 25 to 27. Admission is free. A big draw is the stein hoisting event, which challenges locals to see who can hold up two full 1.5-liter steins of beer the longest. Plus, there’s keg bowling and a costume contest. And the most popular event is the Long Dog Derby on both Sundays, where wiener dogs (dachshunds) show off their racing skills. Besides the ubiquitous beer, enjoy bratwurst, turkey legs, sausage, sauerkraut, potato salad, warm pretzels and more. Festival hours are 3 p.m. to midnight on Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Clyfford Still Museum 15th anniversary celebration
Happy 15th anniversary, Clyfford Still Museum! The Museum (1250 Bannock St.) in Denver is celebrating the major milestone with a community celebration (including activities, tours, and treats) on Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the Museum is also free for the day. Starting at 10 a.m., enjoy music, bubbles, hula hoops, lawn games, sidewalk chalk and more on the outdoor forecourt. Plus, get creative with hands-on artmaking with doodle artist Zak Todd, toast the museum with mini-cupcakes, and groove to live music by the Mona Eye-Yoob and the HabiBeats Band. There will also be guided mini-tours throughout the day.
Colfax Chicken Fest
Don’t be a chicken! Get ready for the most extraordinary, wacky, and one-of-a-kind experience. It’s the 2026 Colfax Chicken Fest on Sept. 19 in the 40 West Arts District (6501 W. Colfax Ave.) in Lakewood — from noon to 4 p.m. The free event lets attendees groove to live music, participate in chicken-inspired activities, including a Chicken Egg Scavenger Hunt, Chicken Cluck n’ Strut contest, and chicken-themed artwork and sculptures on display. Plus, indulge in food trucks serving chicken dishes and treats.
Festival Del Sol
Here’s a grand way to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month in September. Enjoy the vibrancy of Latin culture in the stunning surroundings of Colorado Chautauqua on Sept. 20 at the Chautauqua Auditorium (198 Morning Glory Dr.) in Boulder — from noon to 5 p.m. The bilingual Festival Del Sol features live music, salsa and samba dance lessons, guided hikes, family activities and games. Attendees will also be able to shop the festival’s market for lots of Latin-inspired treats and treasures. Admission is free.
Morrison Ciderfest
An apple a day may keep the doctor away, but what about a glass of apple cider? Find out at the Morrison Ciderfest on Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The family-friendly fall festival is held at the corner of Highway 8 and Summer Street (150 Summer St.) in downtown Morrison. Admission is free. The festival includes live music, kids’ area with bounce house, artisan market, horse & wagon rides, food, beer and, of course, plenty of cider for all to enjoy. Complimentary golf cart shuttles run from designated pickup zones near the free parking lots straight to the festival’s main entrance.
Arvada Fire Safety Day fair
You can never be too prepared for an emergency. That’s one reason why so many fire departments host safety fairs. Arvada Fire Safety Day is on Sept. 26 at the Arvada Fire Training Center (6651 Indiana St.) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free event promises loads of fun with interactive booths, emergency preparedness information and a chance to meet local first responders. Hang out with and see firefighters, police officers, emergency response vehicles and more. The event includes a live fire sprinkler demonstration, fire truck tours and a stuffed animal first aid station. A Flight For Life helicopter landing is planned, if the weather cooperates and the chopper is available.
Find more freebies, discounts and deals at MileHighOnTheCheap.com. Send tips to info@milehighonthecheap.com 14 to 21 days in advance.
