5-BULLET FRIDAY – September 5, 2025

Great news! This week’s edition of 5-Bullet Friday is here! Enjoy….

#1 – QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe

#2 – FALLING FOR HOME: COZY TOUCHES AND SEASONAL UPKEEP TO BOOST COMFORT AND VALUE

As fall settles into Colorado, it’s the perfect season to make your home feel warmer, cozier, and more inviting. Buyers often fall in love with homes that highlight seasonal charm, so small touches can make a big impact—think autumn wreaths on the front door, a few pumpkins on the porch, or cozy throws layered inside. The cooler months are also a great time to schedule home maintenance like cleaning gutters, checking the furnace, and sealing windows to keep heating costs down. Whether you’re preparing to sell or just want to enjoy your space, leaning into fall’s natural warmth and comfort creates a welcoming environment that feels like home.

#3 – DENVER INVESTS $31.5M TO CONVERT HISTORIC OFFICES INTO HOUSING AND ATTRACT MORE FAMILIES DOWNTOWN

Denver leaders are pushing to bring more families downtown, where only 4% of households currently have children compared to 23% citywide, by converting historic office space into housing. The Downtown Development Authority approved $31.5 million to help transform the vacant Symes and University Buildings at 16th and Champa into residential units—120 affordable apartments in the University Building and 116 mostly market-rate apartments with retail and patio space in the Symes. Officials say expanding housing options for both low- and middle-income residents is key to revitalizing downtown, which was hit hard by the pandemic’s impact on offices and retail. Construction is expected to begin next year, with the first residents moving in by 2027.

#4 – SEAN PAYTON LOOKS TO LEVERAGE MILE HIGH ADVANTAGE AS BRONCOS OPEN 2025 SEASON

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton, who opened his Denver tenure in 2023 with a narrow 17-16 loss to the Raiders, emphasized the unique home-field edge the team has heading into Sunday’s Week 1 matchup against the Tennessee Titans. Payton noted that visiting teams can’t realistically adjust to Denver’s altitude, which combined with the energy of Broncos Country, makes Empower Field a tough place to play. Drawing a parallel to Olympic athletes training at elevation, he stressed that the altitude is a real, physical factor—not just mental—and urged his players to make Denver the hardest place to play. With nine home games this season, Payton knows capitalizing on their Mile High advantage could be the key to a special year.

#5- 5 CAN’T MISS THINGS TO DO ACROSS THE FRONT RANGE THIS LABOR DAY WEEKEND

Looking for fun plans in and around Denver this weekend? We’ve got you covered! From sips and bites to art, culture, and wildlife experiences, here are five exciting events you shouldn’t miss. Dive in and click through to learn more!

Grand Tasting at the Denver Food + Wine Festival
Indulge in Colorado’s largest outdoor culinary showcase at the Auraria Campus (Tivoli Quad). Sample bites from 50+ local restaurants, enjoy carefully curated wine, spirits, and cocktail pop-ups—and support the Colorado Restaurant Foundation’s efforts to uplift hospitality professionals. Tickets start at $150.
Visit the official event page for more details and ticket info. Click Here for more information.
Denver Zoo’s Flock Party
Shake your tailfeather at this vibrant, tropical-themed evening benefit featuring live music, artisanal eats, exclusive animal experiences, and craft cocktails—all in support of wildlife conservation. Held on the Zoo’s beautiful 80-acre campus, this is one wild party you won’t forget. Click Here for more information.
Next Stop Colfax Bar Crawl
Join Denver’s iconic street for a bar-to-bar party kicking off at Bruz Off Fax and spanning favorites like Illegal Pete’s, Tight End Bar, 1UP Arcade & Bar, with a finale concert at The Squire Lounge. Expect drinks, music, and serious City pride vibes. Tickets begin around $12–$13, with VIP options that include a shirt and concert pass. Click Here for more information.
Denver Art Museum’s 36th Annual Friendship Powwow
Celebrate Native American art, music, dance, and traditions in this free, family-friendly cultural gathering. From 10 am–5 pm, enjoy performances (including the 11 am Grand Entry), hands-on artmaking, fry bread and Indian tacos, jewelry, crafts, and more. Click Here for more information.
Castle Rock Artfest (Downtown Castle Rock)
Venture a short drive south for this free, two-day juried art festival featuring 110+ exhibitors, live music, interactive exhibits for kids, and a fun, creative atmosphere downtown at Festival Park. Open Saturday 9 am–6 pm and Sunday 10 am–5 pm. Click Here for more information.

Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet feasting, a festive wild night, lively cultural celebration, or an artistic adventure, Denver’s got your weekend covered. Don’t forget to check each event’s site for the latest info, tickets, and any potential updates.

Have an awesome weekend exploring—and let us know if you’d like ideas for family-friendly, budget-friendly, or indoor activities next time!