There’s something magical about the unofficial start of summer—the energy, the laughter, and the promise of long, sun-soaked days ahead. This year, we decided to jump-start the season by heading to downtown Denver for the Start of Summer Festival on 16th Street Mall. With local vendors, kid-friendly activities, and a little unexpected tech magic, it turned into the perfect way to embrace summer without spending a fortune.
Denver’s Start of Summer Festival was the perfect way to ease into the season—vibrant, lively, and packed with local flavor. From interactive booths to family-friendly entertainment, it was a reminder that summer fun isn’t about spending big but about embracing experiences right in your own city. With excitement brewing, we set off for downtown, ready to soak it all in.
A Ride Worth Taking
After two hours on the road, the idea of navigating Denver’s traffic was less than appealing. Enter the lightrail, our saving grace. My son thought it was the coolest thing ever—watching the city unfold from the window, the excitement building with each stop. By the time we arrived at Union Station, we were ready to dive into the festival.
Local Finds & Summer Fun Surprises
We arrived just in time to stroll through vendor booths, discovering everything from handmade jewelry to local art. Of course, coffee was a top priority, and we stumbled upon something unexpected—a robotic barista. Not only was it strangely mesmerizing to watch, but the coffee? Surprisingly good. A fun little tech twist to start the day.
Walking the Festival
The heart of the event stretched over ten blocks, lined with local businesses, sports teams, and family-friendly activities. The Colorado Rockies, Broncos, Rapids, and Avalanche all had booths, bringing out team spirit and energy. The kids had plenty to keep them entertained, with interactive games and crafts. The only letdown? Not many food vendors. While we had hoped to indulge in street eats, we pivoted and made a stop at Rock Bottom for a sit-down meal, catching up with an old friend over burgers and good conversation.
A Sweet Ending to a Summer Fun Adventure
No day out is complete without a little sugar rush. Before heading home, we made a stop at a candy shop, stocking up on classic favorites to fuel the ride back. It was the perfect way to wrap up a day of simple summer fun.
Summer Fun Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune
This festival reminded me of a simple truth—making summer memories isn’t about spending big; it’s about finding joy in local experiences. Whether it’s riding the lightrail for the first time, marveling at a coffee-making robot, or meeting up with an old friend, these are the moments that stick with us.
For more ways to enjoy summer without draining your wallet, check out Big Summer Memories on a Small Budget: 10 Fun Ideas Kids Will Love. Because sometimes, the best summer adventures are right in your backyard.
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