Denver’s summer concert calendar is taking shape, and you won’t need to hike to Red Rocks to find great music.
State of play: City Park, Levitt Pavilion and the Botanic Gardens will host summer concerts — many of them free to attend. Here’s what you need to know.
City Park Jazz
This free concert series, now in its 38th year, is each Sunday from June 2- Aug.4 at City Park’s bandshell. Concerts are 6-8pm. (Here’s our guide to doing it right.)
June 2: Roka Hueka. The season opens with a Latin ska band that will get the crowd moving.
June 9: Stafford Hunter and Jazz Explorations. Led by a Grammy-nominated trombonist who has collaborated with all-stars of jazz.
July 14: Delta Sonics Blues Revue. A well-known Denver blues band.
Aug. 4: Jakarta. The top party band in Denver — and one of the best in the country.
Levitt Pavilion
Located at the city’s Ruby Hill Park, the nonprofit venue offers a free concert series alongside ticketed shows. Bring a picnic and sit on the grass amphitheater.
The free shows include:
- May 17: Paa Kow with Zimbira
- June 8: The Drop’s 4th annual Block Party with Common
- June 13: Buffalo Nichols with Bison Bone
- June 20: Sunny War
The ticketed shows include:
- Cool Vibes Reggae Fest 2024 on June 15.
- The Beach Boys’ Endless Summer Gold tour Aug. 14.
Botanic Gardens
The intimate amphitheater inside the Denver Botanic Gardens is the setting for wine and cheese crowds and rocking tunes. All shows start at 6:30pm and ticket prices vary.
July 11: DeVotchKa
July 21: Watchhouse with Allison de Groot and Tatiana Hargreaves
Aug. 15: Gregory Porter
