Lavender Festival, Pearl Street Arts Fest, Water World’s newest expansion and more | What’s Up, Colorado

Water World’s Summit Canyon is open! 

The floor literally drops out from under you. That’s the vibe at Water World’s brand-new Summit Canyon… the park’s biggest expansion in over 40 years, and it is officially open! We’re talking four new waterslides (Runoff Rapids, Marmot Mayhem, Columbine Cascade and Aspen Falls), Colorado’s first-ever drop-capsule slide (yes, a trapdoor), the adorable Critter Cove kids’ area, and even 21+ “Sunset Swim” after-hours events coming soon. Get details here

Denver Summit FC Hosts Portland Thorns on Saturday 

History is happening in Centennial! Denver Summit FC makes its debut at its new temporary home, Centennial Stadium, when they take on the Portland Thorns at noon Saturday. Colorado native Lindsey Heaps is eligible to play for the Summit for the first time. So bring the energy, Denver! Get info here.

Lavender Festival at Chatfield Farms on Saturday and Sunday 

Can you smell the weekend? More than 2,000 lavender plants are in peak bloom at Denver Botanic Gardens’ Chatfield Farms, and the annual Lavender Festival runs Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Live music, artisan vendors, farm tours, kids’ activities and all the lavender goodies your heart desires. Heads up…tickets must be purchased in advance (no walk-ups!). Details here.

Pearl Street Arts Fest on Friday on Saturday and Sunday 

Boulder’s iconic Pearl Street Mall transforms into a gorgeous outdoor gallery for the 49th Annual Pearl Street Arts Fest! Over 100 artists from 22 states are showing everything from whimsical sculptures to stunning watercolors. It’s free, it’s beautiful and it’s the perfect summer stroll.
Friday 3–8 p.m. | Saturday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. | Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Get info here.

One World Festival at Union Station on Saturday and Sunday 

Formerly the Mile High Global Bazaar, the One World Festival is back at Wynkoop Plaza at Denver Union Station with a new name and even bigger vibes for its 18th year. Explore an open-air marketplace packed with international artisans, handcrafted treasures, cultural exhibits, live music and unique gifts from around the globe. Noon – 6 p.m. both days. Free admission! Get info here.

Donor Dash 5K at Wash Park on Sunday 

Lace up for a cause! The 27th Annual Donor Dash 5K returns to Washington Park on Sunday at 8 a.m. Hosted by Donor Alliance, this run/walk honors organ, eye and tissue donors, celebrates transplant recipients, and raises awareness about the lifesaving impact of donation. Stick around for the community ribbon ceremony at 9:30 a.m. It’ll give you all the feels. Get info here.

That’s your weekend, Colorado! Now get out there and make some memories.