A series of vibrant festivals and events will take place across Colorado this weekend, offering residents and visitors an opportunity to celebrate arts, culture, and nature. Notable events include the **39th Colorado Black Arts Festival** in Denver, the **U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum Festival** in Colorado Springs, and the **30th Bug Bash** at the Butterfly Pavilion.
Colorado Black Arts Festival Highlights African American Culture
From Friday, July 7, to Sunday, July 9, the **Colorado Black Arts Festival** will fill **Denver City Park West** with a rich showcase of African American arts and culture. This year’s festival features the **Art Garden**, which educates visitors about the history of the bottle tree, a tradition originating from the Congo in the ninth century that was used to ward off evil spirits.
The festival will kick off with the **Boogaloo Celebration Parade** at **10 a.m. on Saturday**. Attendees can enjoy performances across three stages, including a concert by artist and producer **Adam Hawley** at the **KUUMBA Stage** at **7 p.m. Saturday**. Other attractions include a popular Gospel Stage, family activities, and vendors from Black-owned businesses. Parking is available within the park and on nearby blocks at the west end. For more information, visit [facebook.com/Coloradoblackartsfestival](https://facebook.com/Coloradoblackartsfestival).
Olympians and Nature Awaits in Colorado Springs
Simultaneously, **Colorado Springs**, known as Olympic City USA, will host the **U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum Festival** from **Thursday, July 6, to Sunday, July 9**. This event provides a unique opportunity for the community to engage with Hall of Fame Olympians and enjoy free admission to the museum on Saturday and Sunday.
The weekend kicks off with **Movie Night** on Thursday, featuring sports-themed films at various locations including **Fort Carson**, **Weidner Field**, and **Lulu’s Downtown**. A complete schedule of events, including athlete appearances around the **Pikes Peak region**, can be found at [usopm.org/festival](https://usopm.org/festival).
Nature enthusiasts can explore the **30th anniversary Bug Bash** at the **Butterfly Pavilion** in **Westminster** on Saturday and Sunday from **11 a.m. to 7 p.m.** This family-friendly event allows participants to learn about insects up close, featuring everything from butterflies to tarantulas. The festival will also include interactive exhibits, a beer garden, and food trucks. Tickets are priced between **$5 and $22.45**, and more details can be found at [butterflies.org/insectival](https://butterflies.org/insectival).
The weekend will also see the **Bastille Day – A French Fest** at **Fillmore Plaza** in **Cherry Creek North** from **Friday through Sunday**. Hosted by the **French American Chamber of Commerce Rocky Mountain**, the event will feature shopping, art, and cultural activities, along with a lounge bar at **Le Cafe de Paris**. The festival runs from **4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday**, and **11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday** and **11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday**. More information is available at [tinyurl.com/984dh5ut](https://tinyurl.com/984dh5ut).
For those who appreciate beautiful landscapes, the **Crested Butte Wildflower Festival** will take place until **July 20**. This annual event showcases Colorado’s stunning wildflower displays, providing ample opportunities for photography and artistic inspiration. A full schedule of educational tours and activities can be found at [crestedbuttewildflowerfestival.com](https://crestedbuttewildflowerfestival.com).
Exciting Rodeos and Fundraisers
The **Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo**, a historic event dating back to **1937**, will conclude this weekend at the **Norris Penrose Event Center** in Colorado Springs. This rodeo, which benefits local military services, features a total payout of **$1 million** and showcases top cowboys and cowgirls from the NFR Open Pro Rodeo and Canadian Circuits. Ticket information is available at [pikespeakorbust.org](https://pikespeakorbust.org).
Additionally, the **Colorado Gay Rodeo Association** will host the **Rocky Mountain Regional Rodeo** at the **National Western Complex** from Friday through Sunday, with additional events including dancing and parties at **Charlie’s Denver**. For details, visit [cgrarodeo.com](https://cgrarodeo.com).
On Saturday, the **Crosscurrents fundraiser** will be held at **Confluence Park** from **2 p.m. to 10 p.m.** This event supports the **Greenway Foundation**, which works to protect the South Platte River. Participants can engage in family activities, art projects, and concerts, with more information available at [crosscurrentsdenver.com](https://crosscurrentsdenver.com).
Lastly, the **Wine and Jazz Festival** will take place in **Keystone** this weekend, featuring a variety of wines along with performances by jazz musicians. Tickets range from **$35.03 to $210.51** depending on food options. More details can be found at [keystonefestivals.com/festivals](https://keystonefestivals.com/festivals).
With a diverse lineup of events, this weekend promises to be an exciting time for all in Colorado. Whether celebrating the arts, enjoying nature, or participating in community activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
