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Discover Denver, Beyond Politics

August 22, 2008 11:19 AM

Believe it or not, politics isn't the only game in town for the remainder of the month in Denver. For convention goers and travelers savoring summer's end in the Rockies, the region's options are endless as the nation turns its head to the Mile High city.

ABC News' Political Unit is keeping watch on the mayhem - both in and out of the lineup at the Democratic National Convention. And in addition to countless receptions, lectures, parties, media events and schmoozefests, Denver is preparing something for everyone. Whether you're coming to town early, staying late, or pedaling around the city during the week, you don't have to be a VIP to enjoy Denver.

For music lovers: Denver is buzzing with sounds of politics and rock and roll. Fifteen miles west of downtown, Red Rocks Amphitheater is an open-air venue with legendary acoustics and natural surroundings that also offers tours and trails for a weekend jaunt.

Willie Nelson with Jerry Jeff Walker performs Tuesday night, followed by country star Dierks Bentley on Friday, Aug. 29. The Allman Brothers with Bob Weir and RatDog play to fans on Saturday, Aug. 30 after convention crowds subside.

In addition a long lineup of celebs and rock stars at the convention, other Denver music events starting this weekend include: the Denver Jazz and Blues Festival in the historic Five Points neighborhood; a Sunday benefit at Denver's Fillmore Auditorium of New Orleans Jam Balaya; and a Tuesday show at the Fillmore featuring, among others, Cyndi Lauper, Rufus Wainwright and Melissa Etheridge.

For sports fans: Those staying in Denver this weekend before the politicians and media descend on the city can catch a ball game at Coors Field. The Colorado Rockies play the Cincinnati Reds tonight, Saturday, Aug. 23 and Sunday, Aug. 24.

Or take a deep breath before the political fanfare begins with the Yoga Health Festival. The festival happens Sunday and Monday in the City Park Flower Garden, among many events hosted by arts and culture exhibitions project, Dialog: City.

A charity poker tournament, high roller only, happens Tuesday evening at Coors Field, benefiting Paralyzed Veterans of America.

And for those whose blood pressure is still pumping come next weekend, they'll be another show in town after the convention wraps. Colorado's college football rivalry kicks off on Sunday, Aug. 31 at Invesco field, just days after the stadium is packed for the Democratic nomination acceptance speech. Days later, the stadium will be ready for an evening game between the University of Colorado Buffaloes and the Colorado State Rams.

For film buffs: What would a political celebration be without movies like Election, The Candidate and The American President? Those are among several on tap for viewing for press, guests, delegates and others with convention credentials.

For the rest, a film festival aptly titled "Cinemocracy Rocks!" culminates Monday evening at Red Rocks, featuring the top 10 films voted for online. The public event is hosted by Denver's Film Society, Denver's Office of Cultural Affairs and the Denver 2008 Host Committee.

For the art lover: Usually its day off, the Denver Art Museum is open for visitors Monday, Aug. 25. Admission is free for visitors on Monday, who may want to check out a Get Out the Vote poster exhibit that runs through Aug .31.

City visitors, convention goers and locals can also view an art exhibit called Dr. Seuss for President. The exhibit showcases political prints and Dr. Seuss art in the spirit of mulling who will be the next president of the United States.

Explore more from ABC News' Political Unit, ABC News' Denver affiliate KMGH, and ABC News' Travel.

-ABCNews.com's Kate Barrett

August 22, 2008 | Permalink | User Comments (2)

User Comments

Posted by: Deep Release | Aug 22, 2008 11:31:54 AM

Posted by: Bruning | Aug 30, 2008 12:48:58 AM

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