"SantaLand Diaries" | A Snarky Holiday Show
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) has a whole slew of shows lined up over the holidays, from Christmas favorites we've known since childhood to very nontraditional shows, and stories you have to see to believe! This December's performances include "A Christmas Carol", "An Act of God", "Finding Neverland", "Hedwig and the Angry Itch", "Rudolf" and "SantaLand Diaries".
"SantaLand Diaries" is one performance that is difficult to categorize. While the story itself revolves completely around the Christmas holiday, it doesn't quite fit into the cheery and warm Christmas themes because of it's nontraditional, super snarky, offbeat and angsty tone. And that's exactly how the story's main character Crumpet the Elf feels during his time working in SantaLand. The story is based on a job satirical writer David Sedaris took on one winter in a desperate attempt to make some extra money over the holidays.
This is a one man show is played by Michael Bouchard, who has received multiple honors for his acting here in Denver, and chronicles Sedaris' season as a Macy's Elf in all of it's cringe worthy, agonizing, hilarious glory. He goes from a respectable looking man in the opening scene to a humiliated Elf in fluffy polyester from head to toe, that must go through interviews, tests and training just to get the un-glamorous position. Once elf-ed, his roles vary between getting everyone from families to unexpecting foreigners into line to see Santa, guiding guests along and keeping them entertained once in line, acting as right hand man to Santa filling him in on the child's name about to enter, that half the time Santa is too old to hear correctly, and cleaning up messes and the frequent vomit that happens with kids' excitement or fear that overcomes them when they finally meet Mr. Santa man himself.
Audience members get a good glimpse of how the Holidays can drive people to do crazy things and the capitalism surrounding it all. In the end though, Crumpet learns some valuable lessons about people, life, love and all that warm, fuzzy Christmas stuff this show leaves out until the very last scene. And that's what makes it an awesome alternative to the typical Holiday stories.
Off-Center Theatre Company
The Jones Theatre
1101 13th St.
Denver, CO 80204
(303) 893-4000
www.denvercenter.org
Blue Moon and Moon Taxi Team Up To Celebrate Denver Fans
WHAT: Blue Moon Brewing Company and indie rock band Moon Taxi are celebrating their Denver fans and Moon Taxi’s double header Denver shows on Dec. 2 and 3 with a free, open to the public, pre-party and meet and greet at the brewery.
The afternoon will give beer and music fans a chance to meet the popular Nashville band and check out the new brewery space, which opened in Denver’s River North Arts District (RiNo) late this summer.
Along with the band, guests can enjoy $4 Blue Moon Belgian White beers and have the opportunity to order the exclusive Moon Taxi Burger, a beef patty with white cheddar cheese topped with Blue Moon Southern BBQ Pork and shallot dressing, served with fries and green tomato chow chow. Guests will also have the chance to win tickets to the Saturday show.
WHO: Free and open to the public; No RSVP Required
WHEN: Saturday, December 3, 12 – 2:30pm
WHERE: Blue Moon Brewery RiNo, 3750 Chestnut Place (off the corner of 37th and Brighton Blvd.)
Moon Taxi’s performances will take place at Cervantes Masterpiece ballroom on Friday, Dec. 2 and Saturday, Dec. 3 at 8pm
Perfect Pairings at Stem Cider
While Colorado holds the wonderful title of craft beer leaders, we are also home to many local wineries, cideries and coffee houses. The Ultra5280 Lifestyle section has had the privilege to try almost all of our state's staples and we will continue to do so long as there are more to try! Tuesday night we took it upon ourselves to branch outside of our white IPA and saison obsessions and taste some local apple inspired hard cider. We ventured into RiNo for Stem Cider's weekly Tuesday's Cider & Sides featuring four ciders paired with four pies from Long I Pie downtown.
Stem Cider opened January 2014 with just three ciders on tap and now have over 20 ciders that they rotate weekly based on the season. In addition to great hard cider, they host fun events like Trivia nights, bluegrass bands and special tasting events. Stem Cider's Tuesday night pairings are different each week, matching hard ciders with sides such as cheeses, pizza, macaroni, pie, etc. from different local eateries. For $20 patrons get to try the four selected ciders with four samples of whatever the side of the night is at their own pace from 6-9pm.
Here's the lineup for last Tuesday's Cider & Long I Pie and our thoughts:
"Redhead's Revenge" (Sweet potato ginger pie) & L'Acier Cider
The pie was a typical sweet potato flavor and consistency tasting like mashed sweet potatoes with ginger and brown sugar mixed in and surrounded by a thick flaky crust. The cider was crisp, acidic and not very apple flavored, reminding us more of a white wine.
"Grandma's Pie" (Spiced apple cranberry) & Crabby Neighbor Cider
The pie was a blend of soft cinnamon apples and cranberries minus all the gooey, sugary pie filling in most apple pies, fully surrounded by a thick flaky crust. Paired well with the tart, fresh taste of the cider made from Granny Smith and crab apples and aged to soften the sour flavors up a bit.
"Honey Flower" (Salted lavender honey) & Remedy Cider
This pie was our unexpected favorite! Who knew a lavender honey pie was so divine?! This was our first experience with such a pie and we are fans for life. While this isn't a typical holiday pie because of the summer ingredients, it is just as decadent and delicious as all the pumpkin cheesecakes and pecan pies. It smelled and tasted like a lavender creme brûlée, but with more texture. The Remedy cider tastes very much like a white IPA. Very heavy on the hops for those who don't drink much beer as it is dry hopped with cascade and citra hops. We felt it overwhelmed and clashed with the delicate flavors of the Honey Flower pie. But we are excited to introduce this cider to our wheat impaired beer nostalgic buddies!
"Drunken Nut" (bourbon chocolate pecan) & Branch & Bramble Cider
I love a good pecan pie for the holidays and I especially love a pie with whiskey or bourbon in it, I've been making them that way since before I was 21. So kudos there! This Drunken Nut lived up to my expectations with a thick inside that wasn't just that sugary corn syrup filling, but flavor and pecan dense. The nuts had a nice toasty crunchy texture and a rich but slightly bitter chocolate to round out the overall taste that was somewhere between sweet and savory. The Brand & Bramble cider it was paired with was almost sweeter in comparison and didn't really match the flavors in the pie. Instead, it was fresh, floral and fruity, and would have been great with the Grandma's Pie. Luckily, no one is orchestrating the tastings so you are free to taste and pair as you please.
Redhead's Revence & L'Acier
We were surprised to learn that the Ciders and Sides was a weekly occurrence and could not be more excited to see what our friends at Stem roll out for the next pairing. On top of their weekly events, Stem is also host to a plethora of board games and day time activities... Your first Bumble date, girls night out, and friends in town activities just got easier to plan! See you next Tuesday!
http://stemciders.com/ http://thelongipie.com/
Vesta gets a makeover & cocktails featured in Winter Warmer
Vesta first opened in 1997 and the original owner Josh Wolken still leads the team and continues to combine positive energy, genuine hospitality, philanthropy and fun in all that Vesta does. For these reasons, along with a wonderful menu, Vesta has been a mainstay in the coveted downtown area for nearly 20 years. Downtown and Denver as a whole has undergone many changes the past 20 years and Vesta has made sure to evolve with the times and trends, while keeping true to its roots to ensure longtime diners as well as new enjoy their visit to Vesta.
The most recent and notable evolution introduces Executive Chef Nicolas Kayser, coming all the way from Hong Kong! He fits in perfect actually, as he grew up here in Denver and received his degree from the International Culinary School at the Art Institute of Colorado. After time in New York, Las Vegas and Hong Kong, diners can trust Kayser to continue the world cuisine concept of Vesta while bringing a new and fresh approach to the menu format and culinary style.
The new samplings we tried at their Happy Hour were really delicious and each unique in flavor and form. A couple standouts included their reimagined Tuna Poke spiced up with wasabi, jalapeno ponzu and fresh ginger. Their Tempura shrimp was tasty dipped in their house made sambal aioli containing 10 different chilies! (It’s much more flavorful than it is spicy). A Char Siu Pork Belly app was tender and decadent, topped with yuzu aioli, orange and cilantro. For dinner, the Colorado Rack of Lamb was phenomenal accompanied with crispy polenta, fennel, orange, black mission fig gastrique, and a tzatziki sauce.
Dessert was also a creative, worldly blend of flavors created by pastry chef Nadine Donovan. We tried opposite ends of the spectrum with the Southern-inspired sweet potato beignets with toasted marshmallow and the tropical passion fruit tart with coconut macaroon crust and raspberry sauce. The beignets themselves weren’t that sweet for the dessert category, but all of the little sauces and sides made them magical. The passion fruit cake was very sweet, but in a fruity way that makes it seem light, despite its rich creaminess. Basically, I could gobble up four of these before realizing I was full, and then still might have a couple more bites because it’s delicious and something you hardly see on a menu.
Vesta’s cuisine is complemented by a thoughtful, diverse six-page wine list, draft and bottled beer, and an upgraded cocktail menu offering both classic and contemporary variations with top local spirits. Vesta’s barrel-aged drinks provide the backbone for a new list of cocktails focused on fresh ingredients, seasonal flavors, and creative combinations. For dark spirit drinkers we recommend the Sherry Cobbler, The 7th Son, Apple Sidecar, and two of which you can find on the Passport Program’s Denver Winter Warmer - Do You Remember and Where the Buffalo Roam.
The Winter Warmer Passport is a field guide for great winter inspired drinks in the form of a booklet with 2 for 1 drink offers at a collection of Denver’s coziest and booziest spots in town. The offers run from Dec 1st through March 15th, those bleak, frozen months you’ll need it the most. The warm, inviting vibe Vesta has always been known for got even hotter with new lighting and various design embellishments. Vesta’s Barrel-aged Do You Remember is made with Rittenhouse bonded rye, Montenegro Amaro, Leopold bros tart cherry liqueur, yellow chartreuse, and orange bitters. The Where the Buffalo Roam cocktail is Old Granddad 114 bourbon, Laird’s applejack, sage, house made grenadine, ginger beer, and peychaud’s bitters. For those who don’t splurge on fancy craft cocktails, the Winter Warmer offers the perfect excuse to finally treat yourself (or others) this holiday season! So get your Passport and head to Vesta for a cocktail, the ambience and the delightful dining.
Denver Winter Warmer 2016
Star Wars And The Power of Costume Exhibit At The Denver Arts Museum Impresses In Many Ways
The Force is wide awake in Denver and will be until April 2, 2017. The Denver Art Museum is currently playing host to amazing exhibit Star Wars and The Power of Costume. The exhibition will give DAM visitors a look behind the scenes into the fantasy, marvel and delight of bringing characters in the Star Wars universe to life through a dramatic presentation of original costumes. Star Wars and the Power of Costume will closely examine the captivating process of costume conception and design for iconic outfits, from Princess Leia’s unforgettable bikini to Darth Vader’s imposing black uniform, featured in all seven films of the Star Wars series. We had a chance to check out the exhibit during press day earlier this week and were captivated by the extraordinary detail and craftsmanship each and every costume goes through. From the conceptual sketches to the costumes being brought to life.
“The creative process behind crafting the world of Star Wars is part of a pop-culture phenomenon that we are thrilled to bring to the Rocky Mountain region,” said Christoph Heinrich, Frederick and Jan Mayer Director of the DAM. “A vivid exhibition display and behind-the-scenes look will delight creatives, designers and die- hard fans alike.”
The challenges and triumphs of bringing characters and their believable worlds to life will be revealed through thematic exhibition sections, including Jedi vs. Sith and the Galactic Senate.
More than 60 hand-crafted costumes from all seven blockbuster Star Wars films will uncover the connection between character and costume. Star Wars and the Power of Costume also will explore the imagination and artistry of the world’s most recognized cinematic costumes, taking a closer look at the iconic villain Darth Vader, Wookiee Chewbacca, X-Wing pilots and DroidsTM, including C-3PO and R2-D2.
“So many of us have warm memories and a fascination associated with the Star Wars films, and it’s really the characters that maintain this longstanding connection,” said Stefania Van Dyke, interpretive specialist at the DAM. “Characters like Han Solo, Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker have become inseparably associated with their costumes, and our unique presentation will give a look at the inspiration and nuanced creative processes of designers and artisans.”
Visitors will be able to tap into fantasy, quality craftsmanship and character development through immersive experiences that include powerful Star Wars royalty, military and senate imagery, as well as behind-the-scenes videos and testimonials from artists, designers and actors.
Star Wars and the Power of Costume will be on view in the Anschutz and Martin and McCormick galleries on level two of the Hamilton Building. Individual tickets for this specially ticketed exhibition will go on sale on May 4, 2016. Tickets for groups of 10 or more are available now by emailing groupsales@denvertmuseum.org or calling 720-913-0088. The museum is now taking reservations for private gallery rentals and events, including holiday parties. Spaces book early, call for rates and more information.
Photo Credits: Robert Castro
Bacon and Beer | A Celebration of Food and Community
Cheers to bacon and beer. (photo Credit: Robert Castro)
This past Saturday we visited a magical land – one where beer was king and bacon lovers held hands and rejoiced in unison. What is this mythical place you ask? Well, it is the Bacon and Beer Festival! And it was a celebration fit for any self-respecting foodie/beer enthusiast.
Managing Editor Mcclain managed to grab this shirt for her yoga workouts. (Photo Credit: Robert Castro)
The event boasted 20 + breweries and over 15 restaurants – all debuting their bacon inspired dishes and beverages. The food ranged from Thai to brunch to the good ol’ American burger. Most breweries stayed true to their brand but, some rolled out bacon inspired libations. A personal favorite of the Ultra5280 staff was the Bacon Bourbon from Ol' Major which took the pairing to a whole new level. They even went so far as to add a mesquite salt chaser – which was absolute perfection.
Where do we get the bacon flavored salt? (Photo Credit: Robert Castro)
We love seeing events that celebrate our local scene, when there’s OMF (Our Mutual Friend), Ratio Beerworks and Call To Arms Brewing Co. on the same ticket – you can count us in. Moving outside of Denver’s coveted local watering holes we were elated to taste such classics as Breckenridge Brewery, Left Hand Brewing Company, Great Divide Brewing and Boulder Beer Co. The Fest offered a nice gluten free option (although why a gluten free person would attend a Bacon and Beer Fest is beyond us) by adding some ciders to the mix. Stem Ciders and Colorado Cider Company were holding down the fort for our wheat challenged bacon lovers. Side Note: Beer and cider is an amazing combination… future festival idea? TM
Serving up amazing beer our friends from Ratio were on hand. (Photo Credit: Robert Castro)
Bacon was the ideal sponge for soaking up our beer filled bellies. Some stand out dishes were the Bacon Wontons from Aloy Modern Thai, The Lobby’s bacon-brunch bite, Little Man’s ice cream and from what we’ve heard The Regional had a mean chicken fried bacon dish (sadly they ran out of ingredients before we made the rounds). The food was unique, tasty and answered every day-drinker’s wildest dreams and wishes.
Lovey bits of bacon morsel goodness compliments of Interstate Kitchen and Bar (Photo Credit: Robert Castro)
We wish we could have bottled up the scent emanating from the Glitter Dome this past Saturday – it was a scent filled with bacon fumes, hops and love. To quote our girl Taylor, there are just some things that never go out of style – and bacon and beer will forever be one of them.
Bacon and Beer 2016: A Match Made in Boozy Heaven
Peanut butter and jelly. Cookies and milk. Bacon and beer. A nice jean on jean combo. Some things just go together. And lucky for you match making is a special skill of our buddies over at Two Parts. Enter: the Bacon and Beer Festival.
If you're jonesing for a detox after your Halloweekend stop reading now. But if you're looking to spark your glutinous side and live a little, the Bacon and Beer Festival needs to be on your radar. The fest will feature beersy libations and pork inspired concoctions from local restaurants and breweries. Proceeds from the fest will benefit Metro Caring and Project Angel Heart - so drink up, it's for a good cause!
When: Saturday 2pm-5:30pm
Where: Glitter Dome
Tickets: https://www.twoparts.com/event/bacon-and-beer-2016/
Keep scrollin' for a full list of participating establishments:
The Breweries
Alpine Dog Brewing Company
Boulder Beer Co.
Breckenridge Brewery
Call to Arms Brewing Co.
Cerebral Brewing
City Star Brewing
Colorado Cider Company
Comrade Brewing
Goldspot Brewing Company
Great Divide Brewing
Grimm Brothers Brewhouse
Left Hand Brewing Company
Little Machine
Loveland Aleworks
Nighthawk
Odyssey Beerworks
Our Mutal Friend
Ratio Beerwerks
Renegade Brewing
Stem Ciders
Strange Craft Beer Co
Wit's End Brewing Company
Wynkoop Brewing Company
The Restaurants
Aloy Modern Thai
Bacon Social House
First Draft
Freshcraft
Hopdoddy
Interstate
Little Man
Max's Wine Dive
Rebel
Second Home Kitchen + Bar
The Colorado Pig Rig
The District
The Lobby
The Regional
The Rosedale
Wynkoop
Breckenridge Brewery: Opening Day Party 2016 // An Interview With Nick Hughes
For the past four years, Never Summer Industries and Breckenridge Brewery have teamed up to welcome the new season with a custom designed snowboard. Always one of our "Things To Do" events this time a year, we have had the chance to attend all the previous parties. The event itself has become a rite of passage amongst snowboard and skiing enthusiasts as well as the beer drinkers of our fair state.
It's this time of year that we get together with our friends at Never Summer to prepare for Opening Day of the winter sports season. Opening Day isn't just a day, though; it's a living, breathing, mini-season that varies by region. It's celebrated across the country with events throughout November and into December.
They are officially kicking off Opening Day in Denver on Saturday, November 5th, at the Punch Bowl Social. Plan to join the party and enter to win the first of the snowboard giveaways. From 5:00 - 10:00 pm they will be serving up Breck beer with live music from MF Ruckus. Never Summer is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and they'll be showing their new full-feature film. Be sure to check out Nick Hughes' art exhibit & play some games with friends while you're there.
So, put those golf clubs and fishing poles aside and bring out your snowboards and skis for a fresh wax courtesy of 7Twenty Boardshop. It's a free parking lot party you won't want to miss!
We had a chance to catch up with Nick Hughes who designed this years board and asked him a few questions about how the idea came to be and a little bit of his background.
(U5280) How long have you been designing and tell us a little about yourself (background).
(Nick) I've been an artist and designer for about 10 years now. I started getting really serious about art in college and got a studio in downtown Denver right after graduating. Nowadays I work primarily as a large-scale designer, designing vehicle wraps and graphics for interior and exterior walls. However, my background is in large scale painting and digital art.
(U5280) How did you get involved in this series?
(Nick) I did a pretty cool piece for Breckenridge Brewery's Agave Wheat beer a while back. After that they asked me if I wanted to have my artwork featured on the board this year, and I couldn't say no.
(U5280) What was the inspiration for this series and design?
(Nick) I really wanted this board to scream Colorado, from the old west to today. You could say the girl is just like Colorado: outdoorsy, classy, bold, and beautiful.
(U5280) Do you snowboard yourself?
(Nick) Absolutely. That is one of the great privileges of growing up in Colorado.
(U5280) Who are some of your influences in the design world?
(Nick) The design world is a bit bland and predictable these days so I focus more on the art world. And with that said I like what the illustrators James Jean and Tomer Hanuka have done the past few years.
(U5280) How much work goes into the process of designing a snowboard?
(Nick) On some designs I can jump right in and get an idea out in one sitting. Other times I spend weeks on a design gathering reference material, sketching out compositions, creating linework, coloring, shading and refining everything as I go.
(U5280) If you could help design or be part of a large project what would it be and why?
(Nick) I have always had the idea of wrapping one of those crazy angular rooms in the Denver Art museum from floor to ceiling with artwork printed on vinyl. I think it would be really great if you entered the room and you were basically inside of the artwork itself because it was that big. That would be the most extreme version of digital art that I can think of.
(U5280) Finally what is your favorite Breck Brew?
(Nick) Agave Wheat, hands down.
BEHIND THE PETE'S: An Exclusive Interview With Illegal Pete's Virgil Dickerson
Illegal Pete's successfully brought an end to the great Burrito deficit of the mid 90's in Colorado. We no longer have to fret about both frosted tips or the absence of good mission style Mexican food. At the forefront of the sustained efforts of Illegal Pete's stands the one, the only: the Virgil.
In an exclusive tell all with the man who does all and knows all things Denver, we get the inside scoop about ingredient sourcing, secret menu items, and why Illegal Pete's is so special.
Photo: Travel Channel
U5280: What does the average patron doesn't know about Illegal Pete's?
VIRGIL DICKERSON: Many patrons don't know about our Starving Artist Program (where we feed any out of town band for free when they come through Colorado and Arizona), that we have a record label (with 10 bands and 3 comedians), and that we are partners in festivals (High Plains Comedy Festival and Dusk Music Festival). We also do fundraisers every month at every store where we raise funds for non-profits. We do month long fundraisers for Youth on Record and The Joshua School. And on Colorado Gives Day, we partner with a different, local non-profit at every location.
U5280: Illegal Pete's has been making itself at home in Colorado since the mid 90's. What were the early days like?
VIRGIL DICKERSON: In those early days, I didn't work for Pete's, but I was a patron. The first store was tiny and at first did not have a bar. The second location on Pearl Street wasn't much bigger, but they opened up with a bar. In those days, when you were in line, you usually knew many of the people in line. There wasn't breakfast then, but we always had late night and late nights on the Hill and on Pearl were always nuts.
U5280: Illegal Pete's is a company with a lot of heart. What aspects of the company model help create the friendly, personable and relaxed environment?
VIRGIL DICKERSON: It all starts with Pete. Pete is one of those rare business owners who puts his people above profits. It's not that he doesnt' believe in profits, but he makes decisions based on whether it's the right decision and not necessarily the decision that will make the most money. This is why when I asked Pete to start a Starving Artist program and give bands half off of food, he said why not give bands free food. Pete recently did a wage increase across the entire company last year to ensure that all of his staff were earning a living wage and recently rolled out a 401K. These is not common for the restaurant industry.
U5280: What gets older: eating burritos everyday, or hearing burrito jokes every day?
VIRGIL DICKERSON: Oh man, that's a great question. I don't eat burritos every day (not sure if there is everything I could eat every day) and luckily I don't hear burrito jokes every day. Come to think of it, I'd like to hear more burrito jokes in my life. Have any?
U5280: What efforts does Illegal Pete's make to source good food?
VIRGIL DICKERSON: We are always striving to find the very best ingredients. We source our pork and beef from Creekstone. Creekstone never uses hormones or antibiotics. Our tortillas have no artificial flavors and no preservatives. We do our best to recognize the dietary needs of our customers. Recently, we replaced pine nuts with pumpkin seeds as people with nut allergies are able to eat pumpkin seeds.
U5280: The Starving Artist program feeds touring musicians every day who roll through town. How did the concept come about?
VIRGIL DICKERSON: In my former life, I ran a record label called Suburban Home. I used to tour with my bands and on one stop in Santa Fe, the promoter told us to check out Fred's Brread because they gave touring bands half off their food. We ate there, it was great, and I never forgot about that restaurant. Fast forward to 2010 when I started working for Illegal Pete's, I asked Pete if we could give touring bands half off food. As I mentioned above, he said why not give bands food for free and we haven't looked back. In 2015, we fed over 400 bands and I thin we will feed over 700 bands this year.
U5280: Illegal Pete's has done a lot to support local music. What shows should we put on our calendars for November?
VIRGIL DICKERSON: I'd say that if you have not yet seen Brent Cowles or the Still Tide, they are two of Greater Than's more recent acts and they are both incredible. You should just go to any local show you can. I could list about a hundred local acts that I adore and still so many more to see.
U5280: Any secrets to the Pete's menu?
Well, we have secret menu items. While I'd like to share them with your readers, we prefer our customers to find out about these items by word of mouth or randomly. We can't wait for you to find these items on your own.
U5280: Illegal Pete's is a restaurant built on good combos: freshly grilled meat, house-prepped salsas, great guac. Then there's the company: good people, good music, and good food. It seems like the Pete's team has figured life out. Impart the wisdom! Tell us the perfect Pete's burrito we have yet to try.
VIRGIL DICKERSON: I think if you ask anyone at Pete's, you are likely to get a different answer each time. I typically get burrito bowls, but when I do have burritos, they are almost always one of two burritos: a pork carnitas potato burrito or a big fish burrito.
U5280: Any thing left to impart on the Pete's fiends?
VIRGIL DICKERSON: Well, we are looking to grow Illegal Pete's to other cities and possibly other states over the next 4 years. Our first out of state location, in Tucson, Arizona, is going incredibly well. We hope to open locations in Tempe, Flagstaff, and possibly Phoenix. My personal wish list includes Portland, Austin, and Seattle. We have some fun projects in the works that I hope see the light in 2017. It's going to be another fun year!
The Ultimate Halloween Weekend
We know how overwhelming Halloween can be. With a googolplex of Halloween costume possibilities... (Denarius, the clown from American Horror Story, Donald Trump, a cat, a sexy cat...) it gets event more complicated with all of the parties (Dance parties, carving parties, old 80's slasher movie watch parties, High-school anti-homecoming parties... **cough-Ultraween 6- cough**). Well, we've come to cure your oh-so-first-world blues, and we've created a master plan for all of you. We can't choose your costume, stunner, but we can choose a fool proof plan for an epic weekend.
Sincerely,
Ultra5280
FRIDAY 10/28
Turner Jackson's Red Plastic Cup Feat. CAPYAC, At.Play & Chocolate Diamond
Turner Jackson, a Colorado born, New York City bred MC is ready to lead the revolution. “Music is about sharing thoughts and sending energy to another person," says Turner. "I am responsible for the message in my music, whether it’s that of destruction or positive impact.”
Buy tickets here.
SATURDAY 10/29
All Day Happy Hour @ Avanti
InterestedGoingShare
Oct 29-30, 11 AM - 1 AM
3200 Pecos St, Denver, Colorado 80211
Enjoy some cheap good eats and drinks, and some trick or treating too! There will be a complimentary photo booth between 3-7pm to catch memories with your family and friends,
and Avanti will be featuring Dogfish Head specials all day at the wolf bar, and a Fall flavored Apple Whiskey Sour as well. Rain or shine, trick or treating for the kids from all vendors between 3-7pm.
**ULTRAWEEN 6**
ULTRAWEEN 6: AN ANTI- HOMECOMING
Saturday October 29, 2016 - 8:00
Who's ready to say screw High-school all over again, and come to our anti-homecoming party instead? Our good friends and locals Bud Bronson & The Good Timers will be performing with The Velveteers, followed up by a dance party with DJ E-TRANE. The Velveteers are playing their first show since their recent tour across the UK, and Bud Bronson and the Goodtimers are returning from a brief hiatus, ready to scare the shit out of you at the Aztlan theatre! We've put our blood, sweat and years into supporting Denver music, and we decided to switch things up with a bigger, better version of those basement Halloween parties you went to when you were a rebellious teenager. VIP tickets include OPEN BAR and catering by ILLEGAL PETES, plus you get to meet the bands afterwards. You in?
-complimentary PhotoBooth with our photographer
-visual projections
-interactive missions
-snacks and treats
Get tickets here!
GA tickets (entry) $20 or $15 with our PROMO CODE: THISBUDSFORYOU
VIP tickets are $45, and include an OPEN BAR plus catering brought by ILLEGAL PETE'S, a fully immersive experience including a fashion show curated by Absoulute Vibe, and a meet and greet with the bands and more.
Find out more about our wonderful partners:
Breckenridge Brewery
The Black Actors Guild
Conscious Creatives
Two Parts' Coffee Bazaar Had Us All Kinds of Buzzed
The third annual Grand Coffee Bazaar hosted by Two Parts buzzed through RiNo’s art district last Saturday, under a clear blue sky, easy breeze and a mutual appreciation for beans. This event saw the third year running. Comprised of an all local lineup, the Bazaar showcased the independent coffee scene, which has been flourishing in Colorado. The event not only brought all Colorado coffee together under one roof, it brought the coffee pros and local aficionados together too.
Boulder Organic Coffee brewers.
The event sprawled into both gallery spaces of the Redline non-profit contemporary art center, with brunch offerings and artful hand tossed mugs for sale from local artists. The event is the perfect place to take a date, co-mingle with friends, or to simply just increase your coffee knowledge. The bazaar gives all the chance to talk to the brewers about exactly what goes into the process of brewing excellent coffees, and all the flavor compound complexities that go into the mug.
Some of our favorite Coloradan coffee vendors were present, including Boxcar Coffee Roasters, Corvus Coffee, Huckleberry Roasters and Pablo's Coffee. We were also stoked to try coffee beer, which tastes as good as it sounds, and it’s a multi-purpose breakfast beverage. This event is fitting for anyone who loves waking up with a fresh cup and a warm bagel, whether you prefer a nitro cold brew from Method Roasters, or an organic, medium brew Colombian coffee from Boulder Organic Coffee.
The Sophisticate’s Tea offered great Chai tea concentrates that allow you to create your favorite iced chai from the comfort of your home. We also recommend their Mountain Fog Earl Grey concentrate as well. The Sophisticate’s Tea was also a great option for for the cross-fitters who chose not to imbibe on coffee beer in the morning.
Hi Rise Bagel folks.
The brunch snacks were the perfect pair with an early morning bazaar experience. Hi Rise Bakery offered an amazing artichoke cream cheese sesame bagel, and Noosa Yogurt featured a spectacular chai flavored greek yogurt topped of with Olde Man Granola. While the event was pretty packed, the lines were manageable, and the coffee kept flowing forward into our complementary mugs. The brunch was more than enough to satisfy our morning hunger, and the event space was the perfect size to hold the bazaar. Spirits were as high as our adrenaline. According to our fitbits, our heart rates were happily high on a caffeine buzz as well.
We can’t wait to drink up at next year’s Coffee Bazaar, but until then, we’re going to try and roast our friends with our newly harvested coffee knowledge!
Our Buddies Breckenridge Brewery are Back at Ultraween 6!
Our good friends over at Breckenridge Brewery are once again the official booze sponsor of our annual Ultraween Halloween Party and we are so stoked to have them on tap again!
Ultra5280 and Breckenridge Brewery have had a long history of working together and share a passion for the Denver music, beer and event scene. Ryan Workman, Brand Manager for Breck Brewery explains, “We have always been involved in the Ultraween event from the beginning six years ago. Breckenridge Brewery brews balanced, sessionable beers that are perfect for the Colorado lifestyle. Ultra5280’s whole mission is to cover that awesome lifestyle we all get to live in, so it has always seemed like a perfect fit for us. We’re so happy to see the event grow to become one of Denver’s most sought out Halloween Parties!”
Ultraween6 will be held this Saturday Oct 29th at the historical and possibly haunted by now, Aztlan Theater on Santa Fe Blvd in Denver. This year we have two large local acts performing live and a DJ playing the party hits. (Ticket link at bottom). Breckenridge Brewery will be having a party of their own the following Saturday Nov 5th to kick off ski season!! Their "Opening Day Party" will celebrate with live music, games, art, free snowboard and ski waxing, and your chance to win the first limited-edition "Artist Series" snowboard of 2016! Don't miss this free event at Punch Bowl Social on S. Broadway from 6-10pm.
Breckenridge Brewery was founded in 1990 in Breckenridge, Colorado. In the past two decades they have grown from a small 3,000-barrels-a-year brewpub to one of the most successful craft beer and restaurant companies in the nation. It now handcrafts more than 62,000 barrels of fresh beer annually and owns and operates six brewpubs and ale houses in the state of Colorado.
Back in the early days, however, we very quickly found that there was more demand for craft beer than we could possibly make in that location. In 1992, they opened a second brewpub in downtown Denver. As luck would have it, in 1995, the Colorado Rockies built their stadium across the street. As much as they enjoyed that home, they inevitably outgrew it, and in 1996 moved production to 471 Kalamath Street several miles away. The Kalamath location served them well for 19 years, but as they approached 60,000 barrels a year they began to run out of space for any more expansions. President Todd and team once again searched for the right home that would accommodate their growing family. They found it in a 12-acre stretch of land in Littleton, Colorado and held their grand opening at last summer’s Hootenanny.
Terry L. Usry, Communications Director states that after 26 years, the focus is still on creating well-balanced, approachable, and interesting beers while also creating memorable visitor experiences. Their farm-inspired campus on Brewery Lane features a new 100-barrel brew house, barrel-aging room, all new packaging, dedicated tour staff, and the Farm House restaurant. “The Farm House is so much more than a tasting room. The wraparound porch and spacious beer garden offer multiple areas to convene, relax, and take in views of the majestic Rocky Mountains. Enjoy a comfortable dining atmosphere indoors or a leisurely, communal experience outdoors around fire pits, playing bocce ball, or challenging friends to corn hole. There’s also a 90-minute guided brewery/sampling tours are offered five days a week,” explains Usry.
What makes Breckenridge Brewery so successful and special you ask? Usry says it’s the many people who’ve been with Breckenridge Brewery for so long. “We have folks in the brew house, the restaurants, marketing, and the admin offices that have been with us for 20+ years. Over the years, we’ve grown as a business and as a family. What makes it special here is the pride in our product, the pride in our company, and the culture that we’ve fostered. It’s not just the ‘old-timers’ who’ve shaped it, either. All of our employees contribute to our success by embracing our mantra to offer a comfortable and welcoming place to hang out and enjoy well-balanced, approachable, interesting beers.”
In addition to their dedication and pride in their craft and their customers, they’re always pushing boundaries and dreaming up new and delicious beer. Their two locations, in Breckenridge and Littleton, are destinations for locals and out-of-towners. They now send beer to thirty-five states and continue to create new and exciting batches such as seasonals, barrel-aged beers, the new Brewery Lane Series, and a newly announced nitrogen-charged canned series. Breckenridge Brewery’s special seasonal crafts are especially popular, particularly the Autumn Ale in fall and the Christmas Ale. Also, their new Nitro Series includes seasonals as well, the first of which was just released, Nitro Pumpkin Spice Latte, with the winter nitro seasonal right around the corner!
Nitro Vanilla Porter – year round - http://www.breckbrew.com/beers/nitro-vanilla-porter
Nitro Lucky U IPA – year round - http://www.breckbrew.com/beers/nitro-lucky-u-ipa
Nitro Pumpkin Spice Latte – fall Nitro seasonal - http://www.breckbrew.com/beers/nitro-series-seasonal-pumpkin-spice-latte
Another special series this year is their Brewery Lane Series. The Brewery Lane Series is named after their new location on Brewery Lane in Littleton and aims at capturing the essence of the new brewery – big, bold, and adventurous.
After 26 glorious years of creating craft beers, their top selling are the Avalanche Ale, Vanilla Porter, Agave Wheat, Mango Mosaic, 471 Double IPA, and seasonals like Autumn Ale and Christmas Ale. Ultraween will be serving up a few of the favorites both on draft and by the bottle. Can't wait to see you all there, and btw discount tickets can be purchased today only at Illegal Pete's on S Broadway from 4-8pm!!
http://www.breckbrew.com/beers/avalanche-ale
http://www.breckbrew.com/beers/vanilla-porter
http://www.breckbrew.com/beers/agave-wheat
http://www.breckbrew.com/beers/mango-mosaic
http://www.breckbrew.com/beers/471-small-batch-ipa
http://www.breckbrew.com/beers/autumn-ale
http://www.breckbrew.com/beers/christmas-ale
https://www.twoparts.com/event/ultraween-6-the-anti-homecoming/
GABF: Beer, Beer, and More Beer!
The Great American Beer Festival rolled through Denver last weekend, sending a shockwave of beer lovers into our streets, breweries and bars. The GABF spirit was felt all across the mile high, but we dared to venture into the swarming epicenter of the Colorado Convention center to give you the low-down on the nation’s largest and most-loved beer festival.
To an outsider, the festival might seem like nothing more than pretzel necklaces and a beer holiday. The festival is in fact the most esteemed judging ceremony for breweries nationwide, large and small. It saw it’s 35th birthday this year, it hosted nearly 800 different breweries, and it’s awards leave lasting impacts on our national beer scene. Its awards are pared out by an elite panel of judges have the ability to make or break a brewery, and this year over one hundred different beers left decorated in silver, bronze and gold. For the full list of awarded beers, click here.
Photo: Matthew Smith
Colorado is known to be a craft beer destination, and tons of local breweries were representing this weekend. Breckenridge Brewery, Denver Beer Co, Fermaentra, Dry Dock, Black Shirt Brewing, New Belgium, and the list goes on. The "Napa Valley of Beer" not only created the festival, but has helped build a craft and microbrew culture that spreads from sea to shining sea.
Basically, more medals equal more credentials for up and coming brewers, and for those who don’t have the chance (or the tolerance) to sample every single beer, these medals give us a necessary steer in the right direction. Not to say that this festival is all stern faces and serious beer talk; the GABF is at once a make or break moment for breweries and a party. When you’re in the business of beer, it’s all about having fun too, and the GABF is proof.
I spoke with Greg the home-brew knowledge guru and member of the national GJCP about his favorite aspects of GABF. He called the festival the “longest running, annual gathering of beer geeks.” He takes his beer seriously, but the heart of the festival was the reason he attends. For Greg, the festival is a time to reconnect with once-a-year-friends, and to share a really good up-and-coming craft beer. He was buzzed on the energy in the air, not just the brews. The GABF has been bringing friends and beer enthusiasts together for decades, transcending from a tasting spree into a tradition, and creating strong connections between breweries across the nation. It’s a microcosm of the beer community at large, and it’s simply really, really fun.
Photo: Matthew Smith
Photo: Matthew Smith
Photo: Matthew Smith
The festival goers were kilt-sporting, rung with pretzel necklaces, and all in good spirits. I stopped to chat with a brewer from Hopworks of the Pacific Northwest about the attendees. They iterated, “Everyone here is stoked. Drunk people are prone to fight, but no one has. There’s a strong sense of comradery, everybody’s happy.”
Photo: Matthew Smith
In terms of logistics, the festival was a crowded swarm of costumes and shoulders to navigate through; some lines spilling out into the alley-space and it was sometimes a test of patience and dedication. It goes without disagreement, though, that the convention center, despite it’s inevitable, unavoidable closeness, was extremely well organized. Free water stations were spaced between every twenty or so booths. Huge signs marking every section and easily understood maps left little room for confusion. The crowd was heavy, but that’s to be expected.
The flock gathered often at hot-spot breweries, and the best breweries were sometimes dry within the first couple of hours of a session. The flock was a permanent fixture for Black Project Brewing, a local South Broadway brewery who touts their wild caught microbes and meticulous brewing practices. The line was over twenty minutes, but it was well worth the wait. On the upside of things, the flock would coagulate in pockets, leaving a lot of little known, great booths open for conversation and slow sampling. As long as you knew the patterns of the flock and which beers were worth the wait for, you were home free.
This festival is a chance to refine your tastes and discover what makes American beer special. Also, it’s the perfect chance to finally break out that old kilt you’ve been hiding in the back of your closet. Regardless of what you string on your pretzel necklace, the GABF welcomes all beer-weirdos and weird beers, so if you have the chance to snatch up a ticket for a session next year, don’t wait until it's too late!
Photo: Matthew Smith
Photo: Matthew Smith
Photo: Matthew Smith
Check out GABF's photo gallery to see if you made it in. If not, there's always next year!
9 Weekend Events | GABF Pregames, After Parties and More
From today until Saturday night, GABF will be taking over the Denver area. If you were one of the lucky few to get your ticket, you have quite the weekend ahead of you. For those who have their golden, amber ticket, check out our GABF survival pro-tips here. If you were Varuca Salt-ed ("I wanrt my GABF ticket now, daddy!) and have found yourself horribly without, do not fear. The Ultra5280 team is here, and we've got all the events to help you get your fair share of that flowing river of beer.
Pictured: River of beer, us (magic boat leading to all the festivities), and you.
FREE BRECKENRIDGE BREWERY TOURS: ALL WEEKEND
Breckenridge Brewery is running free buses from the Crowne Plaza Downtown (1450 Glenarm Place) Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (October 6-8) to their new Littleton brewery and back. Buses depart from the hotel at 10:00 am and 12:00 pm each of the three days. They're giving complimentary tours of the brewery that include a pint with time to enjoy their Farm House and beer garden before the groups head back. The 12:00 group departs the brewery at 3:00 to head back downtown, meaning those with GABF tickets and those without can all attend. Check out their website here for more information, special events, and promotional brews in celebration of GABF.
Haunted Housing: We Recommend 13th Floor and Field of Screams
Photo: Ultra5280; Field of Screams
Photo: Ultra5280; 13th Floor
If GABF isn't really your thing, or you're looking to scare the living shit out of your whole family, these haunted houses are sure to make even the most resilient shit their britches. We even went through the trouble of checking both these houses out for you, and trust us, it wasn't easy. Nothing says Halloween like shooting extremely realistic, havoc-reaping zombies, though (@ Field of Screams).
Check out our review for 13 floor here, and our review of Field of Screams here.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7TH
2016 The Voice Runner Up Laith Al-Saadi with Brent Cowles and Garrett Lebeau (21+)
8 PM - 12 AM
Summit Music Hall (1902 Blake St, Denver, Colorado 80202)
Tickets here.
Levitt Pavilion Denver Live! presents a special evening at The Summit Music Hall Friday October 7, 2016 8pm featuring, 2016 The Voice runner up, Laith Al-Saadi, along with Colorado’s rising star Brent Cowles and Austin mainstay Garrett Lebeau. This event celebrates the final show of the season for Levitt Pavilion’s free concert programing, and is sponsored by Jameson and Great Divide Brewing CO--the exclusive craft beer partner of Levitt Denver.
Tickets to this special concert are only $25 and 100% of ticket sales will benefit the Levitt Pavilion Denver (501(c)(3), a local non-profit focused on elevating the local music scene and increasing accessibility to live music through construction of the new Levitt Pavilion in Ruby Hill Park, a free music venue opening in July of 2017. Each ticket includes an exclusive opportunity to try ‘The Smoothness’ collaboration beer, as well as unlimited Jameson Irish Whisky, Great Divide Brewing CO. beer, sliders, appetizers and more.
Kaytranada + Cashmere Cat (16+)
9 PM - 12 AM
The Ogden Theatre (935 E Colfax Ave, Denver, Colorado 80218)
Tickets here.
Doors Open: 8:00PM
Price: $25-$35, GA: $49.75
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8TH
Stay Up Saturdays with CRL CRRL
Every Saturday we host a DJ set by CRL CRRL at Pearl's on 13th, so come hang out with us and keep the party going into the wee hours of the night.
The award winnig producer and DJ who's shared the stage with artists from Anderson Paak., Vic Mensa, Haden James to Wahsed Out and more ( CRL CRRLL ) teams up with the Motown and Mashup master DJ E-TRANE to bring you a saturday night of awesome drinks and dancing.
FREE ENTRY Doors 9 PM 21+ (608 E. 13th Ave Pearl's Denver)
Brought to you by: FASOR | BRECKENRIDGE BREWERY | REDBULL | ULTRA5280 | PEARLS DENVER
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9TH
Annual bRUNch Run
8:30 AM - 12 PM
Stapleton Central Park, Denver
Tickets here.
Come run off all that blood-alcohol related madness bright and early in Stapleton, CO. The bRUNch Run is a one of a kind race feeding everyone’s appetite for food, fitness, and fun. Runners start their morning off on the right foot with a timed 5K and 10K run, followed by indulging in some of the best brunch food and libations (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) alike that Colorado has to offer.
The bRUNch Run is a unique experience supporting health and wellness within the Denver community. There is more to running then putting one foot in front of the other. After a workout the body needs fuel and bRUNch provides you with just that. Upon finishing the race, enjoy a brunch festival featuring local eateries and morning libations, and non-alcoholic beverages.
It's is an annual fundraiser for Metro Caring, an amazing organization that provides nutritious food to hungry members of the community all while promoting health and self-sufficiency.
Haunted Field of Screams | Our Review and Why We are Swearing Off Corn Forever
Corn used to be our favorite vegetable... But now we shudder at the thought of eating the beloved kernels. We have what some would call PTCD (Post Traumatic Corn Syndrome) after entering the haunted stalks this past weekend. The Haunted Field of Screams is home to three different attractions: zombie paintball, a haunted house and the infamous corn maze - Transforming what was once a simple side dish into a horrific nightmare.
We began our night by shooting zombies and saving the world. Once you enter zombie territory it is up to you to survive – you and your gun filled with toxic zombie killing paint. Prior to arriving in quarantine you are forced to walk through the deserted aftermath of a zombie attack and are left to find your way to safety. This particular attraction will have your heart rate elevated from the second you enter the battle zone and remember - if you don’t shoot you will be eaten. While the zombies are bloated (read: stuffed with pillows) they are still terrifying and they seemed pretty ravenous to us!
The haunted house and corn maze ventures out into the corn stalks which automatically disorients you… The corn stalks are tall, ominous and filled with things that want to hurt you – do you see why we’re still suffering!? Venturing through the corn was chaotic, terrifying and all too realistic. Have you every imagined yourself lost in the country, wandering through corn trying to find a mechanic for your broken down vehicle? Well this is that nightmare, only there are real threats to your well being. Pro tip: do not say your name or the names of your loved ones unless you want to hear clowns, demons and dead children calling your name the entire time you’re inside.
A few highlights of the evening included my own mother screaming, "Take my children!" and then shoving us in front of her. And at the end of the night my little sister tackled me into the corn stalks to avoid being a victim of the chainsaw bearing madman blocking our exit to safety.
You will run, you will scream and you will try to sacrifice your loved ones in exchange for your own safety. But it would not be Halloween season in Denver without visiting this quintessential haunt.
Learn more and book your tour here: http://hauntedfieldofscreams.com/
9 Tips for Surviving the GABF
The Great American Beer Festival may be turning 35 years old this year, but stands as proof that you're never too old to host a kegger. This kegger is just much bigger, and much, much better than those three-inch-head beers you shared in your friend Kevin's basement while listening to Phish. This sold-out festival spans a marathon of nearly 20 hours in total during four beer soaked days. It's packed into a 2,500 space, and plans to host 3,800 different types of brew. Needless to say, this festival is guaranteed better than Kevin's basement.
Pictured: two likely phases of GABF drinkers. Photo: Chilled Magazine; Great American Beer Fest 2016
If you were one of the lucky few to get yourself a ticket during the thirty minutes before they sold out, you're now facing a whole new set of problems. To uber or not to uber? To show off your new youtube tutorial dance moves at the silent disco, or just hang back and keep it mild? To take it to the limit, or make an attempt at being responsible human adult?
While we can't make your decisions for you, we know that sampling 3,800 different beers is a difficult feat if you're trying to stay on your feet (just trying to have pun, here). Lucky for you, we've got a GABF prep list and survival guide to help you get your highest beer sampling score yet without making yourself into the village idiot. Here's a few ways to stave off that rising blood alcohol limit.
Yours truly,
The Ultra5280 Team (Certified Veterans of the Great American Beer Fest and ex-Phish fans)
Photo: The Rooster
1. Carbo-load. We recommend pre-fest Fried chicken & potatoes from Welton Street Cafe on 26th and Welton. This Five-Points Southern comfort joint is a hidden food gem in Denver. Be forewarned, though, it's liable to have a line out the door at any given point, so go early. The menu warns of a 30 minute anything-fried-chicken wait time too, but thats because they fry it upon ordering. Nothing like fresh fried chicken before a good old fashioned beer binge, amiright?
If you don't have time to finally fufill your fried chicken dreams, there's always the trusted, quick and easy Illegal Pete's LoDo. Their burritos are specially designed to carry you through even the most sauced adventures and escapades. We recommend their pablano pesto, too. It's worth the add on. Trust us.
2. Charge your phones before hand, or invest in leashes to keep your pickled posse close. Rumor has it that the Colorado Convention Center has hit and miss phone service. If you're not willing to leash up, it's always a good idea to plan your meeting spots with friends before hand. That's probably the best option, in retrospect.
3. Plan for snacks, and drink water in between tastes. If you're reading this and also live in Colorado, you have a Camelback backpack. Fill it up with some electrolytes and stuff some snacks in that thang. You're good to go.
Photo: Oakshire Brewing's Public House in Eugene, OR
4. Do some research. While Denver is a craft hub, other areas like San Diego and North Carolina are known for unique brews. With thousands of award winning breweries from across the U.S., it's time to venture out of your beer zone. We recommend Oakshire Brewing coming to us from Eugene Oregon. Their small-batch brews are usually only distributed across the Pacific-Northwest, but we've heard that they're sure to satisfy.
6. Pregame with Breckenridge Brewery's free Pre-GABF tours. Breckenridge Brewery is running free buses from the Crowne Plaza Downtown (1450 Glenarm Place) Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (October 6-8) to their new Littleton brewery and back. Buses depart from the hotel at 10:00 am and 12:00 pm each of the three days. They’ll give complimentary tours of the brewery that include a pint with time to enjoy their Farm House and beer garden before you head back. The 10:00 group departs the brewery at 1:00 to head back to the hotel. The 12:00 group departs the brewery at 3:00 to head back downtown. Although there’s no cost, reservations are required! Go to breckbrew.com/about/tours to sign up. Once you’ve chosen the date, click on “GABF Complimentary Bus to the Brewery Tour” at 10:00 or 12:00.
Note: Breckenridge Brewery is also giving free 1-hour tours (without transportation) Thursday, 10/6, and Saturday, 10/8, at the following times: 3:00, 3:30, 4:00, 4:30, and 5:00. Reservations are also required for these tours. Go to breckbrew.com/about/tours to sign up. Once you’ve chosen the date, click on “Complimentary Brewery Tour” at the desired time. Remember, they don’t provide transportation to these tours – you’re on your own for that, but they’ll take care of you once you’re there!
5. Prep your vocal chords, and get ready to shame the cup droppers. Due to the long-standing feud between glass breakers and those who keep their shit together, GABF will only be offering plastic tasting cups. This year we will not have to worry about stepping in broken glass and all. Still, no one likes beer-sticky hair or shoes. Don't be a cup dropper, and if you do, be prepared for some name calling (Spill Queen).
6. Have an exit plan. Don't want to be the loser that throws up and makes everyone walk around a house plant for the rest of the night. That being said. Pace yourselves! Old rhymes beer before liquor.. etc. Remember what you really learned in college: the boot and rally.
Photo: greatamericanbeerfestival.com
7. Start from the back to beat the line swarm. We heard from Left Hand Brewers themselves that the best way to get more beer in your belly is to start from the far right, avoiding the high traffics entrance row. This way, you'll know you never hit the same tent twice, and you'll save precious booze time.
8. Uber. Sorry for this sobering thought, but let's be real. No one wants to be a DD after scoring a ticket to this festival, and Uber is a great alternative. Do some networking and staff yourself an All-Star Uber crew, split the cost, and safely enjoy the festival. This way no one will bitterly be doing the taste and spit.
9. Have fun!
The 13th Floor: A Resurrection of Halloween Classics
The leaves are dying, our Colorado air is brisk and the faint sound of children screaming fills the air at night… Yep, it’s officially the fall season. And to your Ultra5280 team that means it’s time zip up our big kid pants and assess our local haunts. The first haunt on our list was the 13Th Floor, known for their intense stage design, disorienting floor layout and realistically terrifying animatronics. And this year there was no exception to the madness we’ve grown to expect from the 13th Floor.
The haunted house featured gallons of fog, blood and surprises and took you on a literal journey through hell. Beginning in a rundown Texas home the initial scene invited you to a quaint family feast which was then followed by a nice, relaxing tour of their home. From there you crept through the basement to various bedrooms and were visited from some of history’s favorite killing classics. This season the 13th Floor paid homage to Halloween greats like Freddy Krueger, Jason and the Texas Chainsaw Massacre gang.
Possibly the most entertaining and unique aspects of the 13th Floor were the animatronics which were almost as scary as the actors. They had giant gators straight from the Bayou, demons and a shipwrecked skeleton – all very lifelike and equally terrifying. A few other notable mentions from the haunted house were the spinning bridge, room of mirrors and our personal favorite: the pitch black room with cushioned floor (Please note: leashes, hand holding and clothes grabbing are highly recommended).
From the Texas plains to a Louisiana swamp the stage design immersed the guests in the scenery and transported them to a thrilling new destination. With danger lurking above, behind and around every corner your heart rate will be elevated from the second you enter. Bring the family, a date or just someone you can use a shield – the 13th Floor is the perfect start to our brisk and haunt filled month ahead.
Westword Dish Served Up Another Great Food Event
This weekend’s Westword Dish marked its 22nd year of bringing bites and booze from across the Denver area to foodie fans. The Dish was again sponsored by Stella Artois in the Performing Arts Center’s Sculpture Park on Speer Blvd. Westword’s Dish publication explains how much has changed on the food front since its first Dish back in 1995, “Denver has witnessed a restaurant boom in recent years that has presented diners with more options than ever before. The rich dining tradition and burgeoning new scene bolstered by recent transplants have helped this list grow.”
We had a couple of tickets to the event we also got to attend last year and were excited to see who would be serving up tasty bites and libations. Most of the time events where there are multiple restaurants vying to sample to patrons attract newer restaurants hoping to market and introduce themselves to the foodie scene. What makes the Dish a bit different however, is the eateries invited are comprised of Westword staff and reader’s favorites from the year. Thus, every year there’s a great selection of restaurants to try, many of which are newer, which gives guests the unique experience to try out different places they've likely heard of and probably planned to go, but just haven’t had the opportunity yet.
The newbies ranged from good, ole' American BBQ, which was the “special section” this year serving up brisket, pork, lamb and sausages, to Thai, Sushi, comfort food, and tacos, which we feel is the ultimate comfort food. As for those we saw at last year’s Dish, (we’re not sure if they are favorites of the staff because of their food/booze or more for their business partnerships) but they included Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, The Nickle, Golden Moon Speakeasy, Stranahan's Whiskey, Little Man Ice Cream, and Milk & Cake.
Angelo's Oysters: Before & After
We made the rounds, starting at the beginning with the special BBQ booths which were all hearty, saucy goodness. From there the restaurants seemed to be randomly lined up, with palettes and offerings all across the board, with booze booths thoughtfully placed every 5 or so booths, until the end where the desserts were grouped together. Some of the more memorable dishes we tried were the Tuna poke bowl from Ohana Island Kitchen, a Croque Monsieur from the equally fancy Art Hotel’s Fire restaurant, Gorgonzola topped oysters from Angelo’s Taverna, deep dish at Patxi’s Pizza, beef brisket tacos with BBQ and chimichurri sauce from R Tacos and pulled chicken tacos with red chilies from Degree Metropolitan Food+Drink. And all of the desserts were delicious but seemed to run out first, funny how that works.
R Tacos & Degree
These food events are always fun and flavorful, but they can also be tough and not always worth the price if you don’t know how to play it right. For example, first timers will find if they skip or miss a booth and try to go back later, the booth will be empty except for business cards in place of delicious food. The ultimate disappointment after spending a pretty penny to rush around. Many guests choose to divide and conquer or forgo sitting down or setting up at a table until they know they’ve tried it all. It is common to see friends separated, standing in lines alone, or ending conversations early in order to get the goods before they run out. However, this event lasted a bit longer than some of the other ones we recently attended and we were grateful.
Azucar Bakery cookie, Bignets from Syrup & Little Man Ice Cream
Because of these common food festival snags, there is always an incentive to go the VIP route. VIP tickets generally offer early entry, additional alcoholic options and booths, and at the Dish, Stella Artois passes out the beautiful glass goblets as seen in Stella’s advertisements to drink your full size VIP beers in. VIP guests are also able to relax in their own shaded area with lots of tables and seating. One improvement I noticed this year was even the GA area had many more high-tops and picnic tables, some with umbrella coverings so guests weren’t forced to stand in the sun while juggling their drink and samples. Another great thing was water coolers and a couple of soda booths so GA guests could keep hydrated and sober if they chose. Oh and Mile High Soul Club played the perfect mix of sunny, Sunday afternoon tunes!
While we and most of our readers are patrons, we don’t often think about the other side of the event, the vendor’s experience. In a sea of new concepts, restaurants, and fusions, it is one of the few ways for vendors/restaurants to set themselves apart and literally introduce themselves to Denver diners. That being said, we notice some do it better than others. Sometimes you go to booths that hire a promotional team and their lack of knowledge or care seeps its way out to the guests through experience or even the food. Other booths know this is their opportunity to convince us to make our way to suburbia for bomb BBQ or book that expensive reservation for our next date night. These booths are full of enthusiasm, offer out their menus, dish out details, offer coupons, and invite guests to happy hour.
Churn & Burn BBQ
So where can you expect to catch us in the near future? GQUE BBQ won us with their BBQ sauce and smothered beans and Piggin’ Out Smoke House with their selection of meats with Kale citrus salad and a buy one, get one coupon. Churn & Burn BBQ Truck was also a top pick because they offered beef brisket with jalapeno chimichurri atop baked mac & cheese and a corn bread waffle chip. Now that was a great way to be greeted upon entering the Dish! Beyond BBQ, we mentioned Ohana Island Kitchen satisfied our sushi cravings and gave us a coupon to use on delivery. Angelo's, a classic Italian Denver staple, offers oysters for $1 on happy hour along with other apps and cheap drinks. The two tacos we had were not only satisfying but substantial in size. And lastly, Little Man Ice Cream sampled their Mexican Chocolate and a Blueberry Marshmallow ice cream, that surprised us, but yet didn’t as they are always coming up with magical mixtures. After we had come full crescent (that was the layout) we were back at the beginning and ready for a Stella and a seat in the shade.
http://www.westword.com/
http://angelostaverna.com/denver/
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The Weekend | 11 Denver Events to Kick-Off the Fall Season
Today officially marks the first day of fall, but Denverites are not buckling down in preparation of the coming cold. Rather than morn the end of summer, Denver is jumping into the season with more drinks, more bpms, and as always, just the right amount of weirdness (Weird Touch @ Syntax). Wether your ideal weekend is one in neons in the lights of Big Gigantic or swaying to the gentle vibes of The Album Leaf, like always, there's something for everyone in the Mile High city. Venture out and see what Denver has to offer.
FRIDAY, 9/23
Photo: Jim Mimna
Big Gigantic @ Red Rocks
Coming on the heels of their two sold-out headlining shows at New York City’s Terminal 5 and the release of their new single “The Little Things,” acclaimed electronic music group BIG GIGANTIC is to play Red Rocks both Friday and Saturday. The fifth installment of the Boulder-based duo’s massive hometown show—voted the #1 EDM show by Denver’s Westword in 2012 termed "RowdyTown V". Tickets here.
Show Ya Teef! Hosted by The Black Actors Guild
8 PM - 9 PM
Crossroads Denver Theater
(2590 Washington St)
Tickets here.
10$
Come and see why The Black Actors Guild has collected "Best of" Westword awards two years in a row in the return of the crtically acclaimed "Show Ya Teef" comedy experience.
Show ya Teef is a high octane, interactive improv show full of original creations of all kinds. Be prepared to get involved, witness incredible talent, and take part in a slice of Denver culture!!
Local Natives @ The Ogden Theatre
16 & UP
8:00PM
Tickets: $32.50
Door Price: $35.00
Purchase here.
Come out and see the Local Natives debut their album Sunlit Youth. Digital download included with every ticket you order for this show.
Sassmouth, Alala.one, & Ejay pt. Hosted by Nocturnal
$10 at the door
11 PM - 5 AM
EKŌ HOUSE (5201 York St)
Musical exploration focused on duality and community.
SATURDAY, 9/24
The Album Leaf @ The Bluebird Theater
3317 E. Colfax Ave
16 & UP
8:00PM
Known for their artful light shows, A+ performance and tranquility, this show is the perfect way to spend your Saturday.
Renegade Craft Fair
Exdo Event Center (1399 35th St)
Saturday & Sunday 11 AM- 6 PM
Groove to sweet jams, as you browse world-class design and handcrafted goods by nearly 100 carefully selected indie Makers and artisans, including jewelry and accessories, home decor, apothecary, and art. Nom on treats by local trucks and food favorites, and enjoy an assortment of pre-packaged items by Dead Dog Chocolate, Strongwater, Teakoe Tea, T-We Tea, The Sophisticate's Tea, RedCamper, and Beautiful Briny Sea.
RiNO Oktoberfest
11am-10pm
The Rackhouse (2875 Blake Street)
Described as a 'bier drinking event', travel to Europe in the comfort of your favorite city. Ticket includes entrance to the festivities, your 0,5l mug, one liter of bier, and a donation to the RINO Art District, 'getting your good deed of the day out of the way' and buzzed in one fell swoop.
Check out more information and ticket pricing here.
Attending Breweries:
Great Divide Brewing Co.
Bierstadt Lagerhaus
Epic Brewing Company - Denver Taproom
C Squared Ciders
Ratio Beerworks
Our Mutual Friend Brewery
Beryl's Beer Co.
Black Shirt Brewing Co
Zephyr Brewing Company
Mockery Brewing
Stem Ciders
Weird Touch @ Syntax
9 PM- 2 AM
5$ Door Price
21+
Come get weird at Syntax this Saturday, 'all-vinyl dark disco, indie dance and weird house dance night'. It's sure to get you in touch with your dark side. The last Saturday of each month at Syntax.
Jazz on the Patio
4:20 PM - 8 PM
Vine Street Pub & Brewery (1700 Vine St)
Swingin' Denver and Vine Street Pub & Brewery present "Jazz on the Patio". The event features a free swing dancing lesson and live music provided by two of the best swing/jazz bands in town! Be ready for a West Patio party! We will be serving up our favorite beers and creating a special "picnic pack" special. Come support two of Denver's best features, Live Music and Great Beer!
Swing lesson: 4:20-5pm
Odessa Rose: 5pm-6:15
La Pompe Jazz 6:30pm-8:00
SUNDAY, 9/25
Westword Dish Hosted by Stella Artois
11 AM - 3:30 PM
Sculpture Park (1700 Speer Blvd)
21 +
DISH, Denver's all-inclusive food-and-drink sampling event, returns to Sculpture Park at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. This 22nd annual celebration of the local dining scene will feature 40+ favorite restaurants of Westword food writers and readers. Beverage samplings from exclusive beer sponsor, Stella Artois, and other liquor sponsors, as well as a smokin' area dedicated to barbecue.
Adelitas, Syrup, Little Man Ice Cream, The Real Dill, Aikopops, Onefold, Biker Jim's, Americatus, Interstate Kitchen, Neighbors Wine Bar, Milk & Cake, Brazen, Keenwah, CO, Il Porcellino, The Orange Crunch, Frijoles Colorado, Amore Gelato, Jozi's Kitchen & Sheebeen, FIRE at the Art, a hotel and many more will all be dishing samples at DISH.
The Last Light- Zombie Shoot @ Flat Acres Farm
7 PM - 10 PM
11321 Dransfeldt Rd, Parker, Colorado 80134
30$
Come on out to enjoy the ride through the field and maze while shooting live Zombies. Admission includes the Gun, ammunitions and protective face gear provided by Fox Airsoft.
Tickets here.
Adrift Tiki | Transports You to a Tropical Time
We had the honor of attending the newly revamped Adrift Tiki Lounge on South Broadway last weekend to try their new menu and see the updated interior that we were promised would keep the Tiki theme intact. Marketing Director Basha Cohen talks about Adrift's newly enhanced authenticity, "Unlike kitsch, Tiki-tacky bars, Adrift is focused on authenticity, a welcoming spirit and an invitation to escape. The island speakeasy is set in a rich backdrop of starry night, majestic Tiki totems, bamboo walls, twine, decorative blowfish lighting, and a back patio fire pit, all evoking the spirit of a Polynesian lifestyle, with a thoroughly modern twist."
The new interior did keep much of the previous space's charm and tropical flair and we felt transported far off of Denver's busy Broadway. New owners Paul Tamburello (of Little Man Ice Cream) and Loren Martinez have been interested in bringing an immersive dining experience to Denver for some time and are excited to explore and share the mystery of Polynesian culture with Denver diners through their new restaurant. And knowing Tamburello's other projects, we can count on this one to be progressive and expansive as well. Adding to the authenticity of it all, at the culinary helm is native Hawaiian Chef, Shaun Motata. We were excited to dive deeper and try a couple of cocktails and the exotic flavors off the food menu.
The menu consists of small plates, a Hawaiian mix plate with choice of protein, Pu Pu Platters and three burgers. We were surprised the revamp didn't bring forth a larger menu and was focused more on burgers than on fish dishes. We didn't try any of the burgers, but stuck with what we thought were the most authentically Hawaiian/Polynesian dishes like the Guava glazed ribs, Ahi Tuna Poke, and an Miso butternut soup. All of these starters were delicious and had subtle hints of tropical fruits and/or exotic spices and garnished with fresh herbs. We especially loved the volcano-esque presentation of the Ahi Tuna Poke. For the main course we went with the Hawaiian mix plate with chicken, pork and tofu were the other options, and got a traditional taste of the Island.
The cocktails were what stood out and set Adrift apart as a destination for us. The list of cocktails was double in size of the food, which was surprising but also kept it more of a Tiki Bar/Lounge than restaurant, which it was never known as anyway. The popular Tiki cocktails were all listed, however their ingredients were not, and as we discovered by asking, were not quite what we American's are used to. They are considering reprinting the menu with more ingredients but originally chose not to list them to maintain the mystery of Polynesian culture as was customary in the original Tiki bars from the late 30s. Nonetheless, they were all beautiful, liquor-laden and interesting.
As we enjoyed our food and our beverages and chatted with the staff, "Tropical Time" seemed to set in as we stayed nearly three hours! The drinks, presentation and ambiance truly transported us and proved to (still) be the reasons to come to Adrift. However, we could tell it has been revitalized with a bit more class, culture and room to grow that it didn't have previously.