Affordable Fun Events Around Denver Sept. 7-9 2012

Although we usually stick to plugging free and affordable Denver events, we can’t help but note that some of our neighboring communities are having some great autumn-ish (and affordable) attractions during the next few weeks.

First off, don't miss Old Town Arvada's 87th annual Harvest Festival and parade, which runs Sept. 7-9. This delightful old time fair features carnival rides, live music, a beer/margarita garden, and a kickoff concert in McIlvoy Park on Sept. 7. Saturday, September 8 starts with a 9/11 Remembrance Run, then the parade, a food fair and garden harvest contest, Kid Zone in McIlvoy Park with hands-on craft projects from Home Depot, a tour of the old Flour Mill, petting zoo, pony rides, a kids parade and a FREE family movie in the park. More info, including directions, parade route, event schedules HERE. Parade is a national band qualifier and is expected to feature some 20 bands.

Pirates Cove Goes to the Dogs!

Englewood's Festival of the Bastardino at Belleview Park's Pirate Cove on Saturday, Sept. 8th raises money for Freedom Service Dogs, a local group that saves shelter dogs, trains them as service dogs and adopts them out to the disabled and military veterans. Admission to the festival is FREE, and there will be food, retailers and plenty of doggie activities, including dog contests, pet adoptions and dog demonstrations. To have your pooch partake in the Doggie Plunge (which you won’t want to miss), register your dog(s) here. $15 per dog.

Lakewood’s 9th annual Festival Italiano at Belmar is a FREE two-day event celebrating Italian culture, food, wine and artisans on Sept 8-9, 2012 ! You can expect to eat delectable homemade Italian specialties while you stroll an artisan marketplace, hear live music and partake in grape stomping and a competitive bocce tournament. Don't miss the: flag throwers flown in from Italy to perform throughout both days.A portion of event proceeds benefit Project Angel Heart. More info and directions HERE.

Lakewood’s Heritage Center is extra charming in autumn, so don't miss the 37th Annual Cider Days Harvest Festival from 10AM-5PM on Oct. 6-7.  Admission is $7 for adults and $4 for children (3-12)  Suck up delicious, locally-made fresh apple cider, or purchase a couple gallons to take home.  If you are partial to a particular kind of apple, bring it to the festival and  use their presses to make fresh apple cider to take home. Food, craft and commercial vendors are planned as well. Details and directions HERE. Proceeds from the event support educational programs at Lakewood's Heritage Center.