April 30, 2026
Parents’ Night Out, Farmers’ Markets and a Mini-Derby!
May is bursting with reasons to get outside and celebrate — farmer’s markets are opening for the season, Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and the performance calendar is absolutely stacked! From the Colorado Symphony and Broadway hits like Hadestown and MJ to ballet, circus, and local theater productions, Looking Glass residents have front-row access to some of the best live entertainment in the metro. Add in Derby Day festivities, trail races, author events, and brand-new farmer’s markets in Parker and Highlands Ranch, and this is shaping up to be one of the best months of the year. Here’s everything happening this May.
TONIGHT, Thursday, April 30
VENARDOS CIRCUS PRESENTS “ALICE”
Step through the looking glass and under the iconic red-and-white striped big top as Venardos Circus brings its Broadway-style, animal-free production to Aspen Grove in Littleton! World-class acrobats, fearless aerialists, lightning-fast jugglers, and laugh-out-loud comedians come together in a seamless, immersive show where gravity is optional and imagination takes center ring. Multiple showtimes available through May 10 — doors open one hour before showtime!
Aspen Grove, 7301 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton
Wed./Thurs./Fri., 7:00 p.m.; Sat., 11:00 a.m.; Sat./Sun. 2:00 & 5:00 p.m.
Tickets: Children from $19.99 | Adults from $28.95
ENGLISH
This Pulitzer Prize-winning play is a disarmingly funny and tender exploration of language, miscommunication, and what gets lost in translation. Called “undeniably one of the best plays of the decade” by Variety, this production at the intimate Singleton Theatre is a must-see. Recommended for ages 13 and up — show times vary by date. Through May 31
Denver Center for the Performing Arts–Singleton Theatre, 1101 13th St., Denver
Tues.–Sun. 7:00 p.m.; Sat./Sun. 1:30 p.m.
TOMORROW, Friday, May 1
SENSORY FRIENDLY OPEN GYM
The Kidz Gym invites children with IDD, autism spectrum disorder, and other neurodivergent kids to a specially designed open gym session in a calm, welcoming environment! With overhead lights kept off, low instrumental music, a maximum of six participants, and an activity table for breaks, this 90-minute session is built for comfort and connection. Parents and guardians accompany children on the floor — space is limited so register early!
FREE DAY — MUSEO DE LAS AMERICAS
On the first Friday of every month, Museo de las Americas throws open its doors for free admission and an evening of art, culture, and community! Explore exhibitions celebrating Latin American art and culture and connect with the vibrant creative spirit of the museum. Just show up — no registration needed, and kids 13 and under are always free!
PAY WHAT YOU WISH DAY — CLYFFORD STILL MUSEUM
One of Denver’s most distinctive art museums opens its doors for a pay-what-you-wish day — admission can be as little as one penny! Explore the permanent collection and current exhibitions at your own pace in this stunning museum dedicated entirely to the work of abstract expressionist Clyfford Still. Online registration opens one week before — ages 17 and under always free!
PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: MOVIE NIGHT — ZOOTOPIA
Drop the kids off for a cozy movie night while you enjoy a well-deserved evening to yourself! Children bring their favorite blankets and pillows to watch Zootopia with popcorn, pizza, and supervision from trained childcare staff. Register online under Child Care/Licensed
Camps/Parents Night Out!
Lone Tree Recreation Center, 10249 Ridgegate Cir., Lone Tree
5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $20 SSPRD residents | $25 non-residents
CODE NINJAS CASTLE ROCK — PARENT’S NIGHT OUT
Give the kids an epic game night while you take the evening for yourself! Kids enjoy pizza, wings, Minecraft, Roblox, Nintendo Switch, VR, and board games in a safe and secure environment led by Code Ninjas Senseis. It’s a win-win for the whole family!
Code Ninjas Castle Rock, 3855 Ambrosia St., Suite 102, Castle Rock
5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $39–$59
WILLY WONKA JR. BY PAA PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY
Roald Dahl’s timeless chocolate factory adventure comes to life on stage with enchanting songs from the 1971 film plus fun new additions! Follow Charlie Bucket as he wins a golden ticket to tour Willy Wonka’s magical factory, where imagination runs wild and the rules must be followed — or else. A scrumdidilyumptious show the whole family will love!
AN EVENING WITH NYT BESTSELLING AUTHOR ALKA JOSHI
NYT bestselling author Alka Joshi comes to Douglas County Libraries to discuss her newest novel, Six Days in Bombay, in an intimate evening of conversation, light bites, and book signing! General admission includes a seat for the presentation and a place in the signing line, with several of her books available for advance purchase. Coffee, tea, and light bites provided — a perfect Friday night for book lovers!
Douglas County Libraries–Highlands Ranch, 9292 Ridgeline Blvd., Highlands Ranch
7:00 p.m.
AN EVENING WITH TJ KLUNE
#1 New York Times bestselling author TJ Klune comes to Denver to celebrate his latest novel, We Burned So Bright — a heart-wrenching end-of-the-world road trip following a queer couple racing against the clock before a wandering black hole ends it all! TJ will be in conversation with local book influencer Frank Socha and will sign books following the presentation. Doors open at 6:15 p.m.!
Wellshire Presbyterian Church, 2999 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver
7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Tickets: Price varies
THIS WEEKEND, Friday–Sunday, May 1–3
SOMEWHERE
From the Tony Award-winning writer of The Inheritance comes a music and dance-filled portrait of a tight-knit Puerto Rican family striving to make it in show business! Playing at the Kilstrom Theatre, this vibrant new production is full of heart, rhythm, and rich storytelling. Recommended for ages 12 and up — show times vary by date.
Denver Center for the Performing Arts–Kilstrom Theatre, 1101 13th St., Denver
Tues.–Sun. 7:00 p.m.; Sat./Sun. 1:30 p.m.
Tickets: $41–$99
LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL PRESENTS: YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU
Lutheran High School’s talented performers take the stage with this beloved American comedy classic about a delightfully eccentric family and the young woman who fears they’ll never measure up to her Wall Street beau’s family! Heartwarming, hilarious, and full of charm, this production is a wonderful way to wrap up the school year. Multiple showtimes across the weekend!
The Schoolhouse, 19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker
Fri./Sat., 7:30 p.m. | Sat./Sun., May 2, 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: $10
COLORADO SYMPHONY: RITE OF SPRING
The Colorado Symphony delivers a thrilling program featuring Anna Clyne’s bold new saxophone concerto Glasslands performed by acclaimed soloist Jess Gillam, plus Beethoven’s Coriolan Overture and Stravinsky’s electrifying Rite of Spring! Multiple performances available — check the schedule for your preferred date and time. Pre-concert Prelude and Talkback events available for an enhanced experience.
Boettcher Concert Hall, 1000 14th Street, Denver
Fri./Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 2
GREENLAND TRAIL RACES
Lace up and head to Greenland Open Space in southern Douglas County for one of Colorado’s most scenic trail races, with Pikes Peak as your backdrop! Choose from four distances — a 4-mile run, 8-miler, 25K, or Colorado’s fastest 50K ultramarathon — all on soft dirt trails with chip timing, a technical running shirt, food, and beer at the finish. Register before waves sell out!
Greenland Open Space, 1532 E. Noe Rd., Larkspur
7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Tickets: Price varies by distance
CINCO DE MAYO RUN 5K/10K/13.1
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo by lacing up for this stress-free, community-focused run through beautiful Piney Creek Hollow Park! All paces and ages are welcome for the 5K, 10K, or half-marathon, and every registered runner receives a swag bag with a T-shirt, finisher’s medal, and more. Choose your wave time and run at your own pace!
Piney Creek Hollow Park, 6140 S. Tower Road, Aurora
Starting at 7:30 a.m.
Tickets: Price varies by distance
PENNY ADMISSION DAY — MCA DENVER
Explore world-class contemporary art for just one penny on the first Saturday of the month at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver! Take in current exhibitions and experience one of Denver’s most vibrant and forward-thinking cultural spaces for next to nothing. Reserve your entry time online — ages 18 and under always free!
VOLUNTEERS ROCK! EXPO
Explore meaningful volunteer opportunities with 20 nonprofits under one roof at this free, family-friendly expo for ages 8 and up! Pick up free swag bags, make mini-crafts, and have real conversations with passionate organizations representing causes like animal rescue, homelessness, food insecurity, and more. No commitment required — just come curious and leave inspired!
East Community Center, 5933 S. Fairfield St., Littleton
10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free — RSVP requested
DENVER BALLET THEATRE: DON QUIXOTE
Denver Ballet Theatre brings the full spectacle of classical ballet to the PACE Center with Don Quixote — a colorful, humor-filled vision of Spain filled with dazzling solos, intricate pas de deux, and lively ensemble pieces! Follow the romantic adventures of Kitri and Basilio as Don Quixote’s chivalrous fantasies set the stage for an afternoon or evening of theatrical delight. Two performances available!
PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
1:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Tickets: Adults $50 | Seniors/Children $40–$45
2026 DENVER MINI DERBY
Southern charm meets Rocky Mountain energy at Denver’s most stylish Kentucky Derby celebration at Denargo Market! Watch the Run for the Roses on a massive screen, cheer on live mini horse and Corgi races, enjoy an open bar, BBQ, live music, and compete in the best-dressed contest. Ages 21+ only — dress to impress!
COLORADO NONPROFIT MINI DERBY
Head out to Sky View Farm in Castle Rock for a fun, casual afternoon benefiting three local nonprofits! Doors open at 1:00 p.m. with a mini horse parade at 3:00 p.m. and charity races at 3:30 p.m. — a family-friendly Derby Day event with heart right in your own backyard!
NEXT WEEK: Monday, May 4
WINGS AEROSPACE EXPLORATION PARENT/FAMILY INFO NIGHT
Curious about aerospace education for your middle or high schooler? Join the Wings Over the Rockies team for an informational evening covering their Wings Aerospace Exploration programs for grades 6–12! Hear from educators, meet current students, and learn about hands-on opportunities including RC airplanes, drones, robotics, rocketry, coding, and more. Free — register to secure your spot!
Wings Over the Rockies Exploration of Flight, 13005 Wings Way, Englewood
6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Free — registration required
Tuesday, May 5
TARAB — BEYOND TIME, AN EVENING WITH THE NATIONAL ARAB ORCHESTRA
Following the success of Echoes of Zaman, Mohra Events and the National Arab Orchestra return to the PACE Center with a breathtaking new experience! Directed by Maestro Michael Ibrahim and featuring vocalists Usama Baalbaki and Mona Miari, this immersive evening weaves ancient Arab melodies with contemporary orchestration on instruments including the oud, qanun, and ney. A vibrant celebration of heritage, rhythm, and human connection — not to be missed!
HADESTOWN
Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Hadestown is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience set in an underworld where a song can change your fate! This stunning production weaves together the myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and King Hades and Persephone into a mesmerizing night of music and storytelling at the Buell Theatre. Don’t miss this limited run — grab your tickets before they’re gone!
Denver Center for the Performing Arts–Buell Theatre, 1101 13th St., Denver
Tues.–Sat., 7:30 p.m. Sat., 2:00 p.m.; Sun. 1:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Tickets: $47–$147
Thursday, May 7
THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL (CASTLE PINES CAST)
SpongeBob, Patrick, Sandy, and all of Bikini Bottom leap onto the stage as the American Academy’s Castle Pines cast brings this beloved musical to life! When a nearby volcano threatens to destroy Bikini Bottom, SpongeBob and his friends must discover their own strengths and find hope in the face of disaster. A high-energy, feel-good show packed with humor and heart for the whole family!
The Schoolhouse, 19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker
Thurs./Sat., 7:00 p.m.; Sun., 1:00 p.m.
Tickets: $10–$15
Saturday, May 9
FARM & RANCH DAY
Celebrate agriculture and community at CALF’s annual Farm and Ranch Day in Castle Rock! The day features an annual plant sale, a Mother’s Day Pancake Breakfast, livestock visits, and scenic hayrides around the ranch. Free admission with reservations — a perfect spring morning for the whole family!
CALF’s Lowell Ranch, 2230 I-25, Castle Rock
9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free — reservations required
BREAKFAST FLY-IN
Celebrate National Paper Airplane Day early at Wings Over the Rockies’ monthly Breakfast Fly-In! Create your own paper airplane at the craft table, then enter the competition for a fun prize — plus meet-and-greets with pilots, aircraft on the tarmac, and delicious food. A fun morning of aviation and creativity for all ages!
Wings Over the Rockies Exploration of Flight, 13005 Wings Way, Englewood
9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Tickets: $7–$13
Sunday, May 10
PARKER FARMERS MARKET
Parker’s hottest Sunday morning tradition is back! With over 100 vendors featuring local produce, meats, dairy, food trucks, artwork, and home and body products, the Parker Farmers Market is the perfect way to start your week. Running every Sunday from Mother’s Day through Halloween — just show up and explore!
Downtown Parker, 19565 Mainstreet, Parker
Every Sunday through Oct. 25, 8:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. (no market June 14)
Tickets: Free admission | prices vary by vendor
Tuesday, May 12
SCFD FREE DAY — DENVER ART MUSEUM
Spend a free Tuesday exploring world-class art, onsite activities, and current exhibitions at the Denver Art Museum! Advance ticket reservations are encouraged — and kids 18 and under are free every single day of the year. A wonderful way to soak in creativity and culture!
Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy., Denver
10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free — reservations encouraged
Wednesday, May 13
MJ
The multiple Tony Award-winning musical MJ returns to Denver by overwhelming demand, offering a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse at the making of Michael Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour! Created by Tony Award-winning director/choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, this electrifying production has been wowing sold-out crowds on Broadway, across North America, and in London’s West End. Recommended for ages 8 and up — don’t miss it!
Denver Center for the Performing Arts–Buell Theatre, 1101 13th St., Denver
Wed.–Sat., 7:30 p.m. Sat., 2:00 p.m.; Sun. 1:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. (Through May 17)
Tickets: $57–$192
Discover Looking Glass
May is the perfect time to discover everything Looking Glass in Parker has to offer — from top-rated schools and scenic trails to beautiful parks that are just begging to be explored as the weather warms up! With homes from Richmond American Homes and Dream Finders, this vibrant community puts you right in the heart of it all, with easy access to farmer’s markets, world-class performances, and all the springtime fun the Denver metro has in store. Give mom the gift of a new home this Mother’s Day — homes at Looking Glass are priced starting in the $600s, and we’d love to show you around!