If you’ve lived in Denver for any stretch of time, you probably already know: Sunday evenings at City Park are where it’s at during the summer. And if you haven’t been yet? Let this be your official nudge.
City Park Jazz is back for its 2025 season starting June 1st, and it’s one of my all-time favorite free things to do in the city. Picture it: live jazz as the sun sets behind the mountains, blankets and lawn chairs scattered across the grass, the smell of picnic baskets and food trucks in the air, and a full lineup of incredible local talent.
This isn’t just a concert series—it’s a Denver tradition that’s been bringing people together for nearly 40 years. Whether you're dancing barefoot with your toddler, sipping wine with friends, or just soaking in the music solo, there's something magical about these Sundays in the park.
💫 Here’s the Scoop:
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Where: City Park Pavilion (between the Denver Zoo and Museum of Nature & Science)
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When: Every Sunday from June 1 through August 3, 6–8pm (except Aug 3, which starts at 5:30pm)
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How much: FREE!
This year’s lineup is stacked—from Afrobeat and salsa to soul, funk, and big band jazz. One of the most exciting kickoffs? Blessing Bled Chimanga on June 1st, bringing his high-energy Afro-fusion all the way from Zimbabwe. The full schedule is up at cityparkjazz.org if you want to plan your Sundays accordingly.
🎒 What to Bring:
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A blanket or low-back chair
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Your go-to picnic setup (pro tip: no glass!)
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Sunscreen and maybe a backup umbrella—Colorado weather likes to keep us guessing
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Your pup (on a leash) and your people
They even have a free bike corral if you want to ride over!
🧡 Why I Love It:
There’s something so Denver about this event. It’s community, it’s music, it’s laid-back and joyful and full of connection. If you’re looking for an easy way to fall a little more in love with our city this summer, this is it.
Source: CityParkJazz.org
See you on the lawn!
