💌 Welcome, Insiders
This is THE week Denver transforms into an arts lover's paradise. With Denver Arts Week kicking off tomorrow (November 7-16), over 600 events across 220 organizations will light up every corner of the city. Add in the Broncos hosting the Raiders on Thursday night, First Friday art walks, and the most anticipated FREE museum night of the year, and you've got a week that defines what makes Denver special.
Inside this issue: Why art is actually good for your health (science-backed!), your complete guide to the weekend's best events, a soul-warming butternut squash soup recipe, and the local updates you need to know.
Let's dive in.
—Toby Hanson
Trivia Question❓
How many museums and cultural institutions participate in Denver Arts Week's FREE Night at the Museums event?
(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter)
Featured Story
Art Is Medicine—Denver's Radical New Approach to Community Wellness
NIKKI A. RAE PHOTOGRAPHY
Why This Year's Denver Arts Week Could Actually Improve Your Health
Here's something you probably didn't know: engaging with art can lower your blood pressure, reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and help manage chronic pain. It's not New Age theory—it's science.
This year, Denver Arts Week (November 7-16) is doing something unprecedented. For the first time, the 19-year-old celebration is partnering with the Flourishing Through Arts & Science Council to highlight "Art & Well-Being"—a citywide initiative proving that creativity isn't a luxury, it's a necessity for human health.
The Science Behind It: Studies show that participating in visual arts, music, dance, singing, and creative writing improves physical, mental, social, and spiritual health. Cognitive abilities improve. Life skills improve. Loneliness decreases.
Why This Matters Now: "We've fallen into this myth that the arts are a luxury, not a necessity," explains Shannon Robinson, chairperson of the Flourishing Through Arts & Science Council. "It's always the very first thing that gets cut."
Denver is pushing back against that narrative—hard.
What's Happening: Over 600 events across 220 participating organizations will take over the city for 10 days. This isn't just gallery openings and theater performances (though there are plenty of those). It's:
Sound healing journeys with 432 Hz frequencies (known as "the gratitude frequency")
Meditative pottery nights where you unplug, unwind, and make something with your hands
Outdoor art walks combining nature, creativity, and mindfulness
Dance and movement workshops demonstrating how physical art forms change our bodies and behavior
The Crown Jewel: FREE Night at the Museums on Saturday, November 8 (5-10 PM). Twenty of Denver's best museums and cultural institutions—including the Denver Art Museum, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, and Wings Over the Rockies—will offer completely free admission and extended hours. Free shuttles run between locations.
Denver's Secret Weapon: As Caroline Campbell, communications manager for Visit Denver, notes: "As a city defined by health and wellness through outdoor adventure and mindful living, Denver also recognizes arts and culture as a vital part of community well-being."
Your Move: This isn't about forcing yourself to "appreciate art." It's about feeding a different part of yourself—the part that needs beauty, creativity, and connection as much as it needs hiking trails and healthy food.
Pick one event. Just one. Whether it's a gallery walk, a sound bath, a pottery class, or museum night—show up and see what happens. Your body (and brain) will thank you.
Joke Of The Day
Why did the artist bring a ladder to Denver Arts Week?
Because they wanted to take their creativity to new heights!
🏡 Real Estate Market Update
Brought to you by James Brown Real Estate
Market Momentum Shifts as We Close 2025
As we navigate the final stretch of 2025, the real estate market is showing clear signs of recalibration. After years of unprecedented activity, we're seeing a more balanced environment emerge—one that offers both challenges and opportunities for buyers and sellers alike.
The Numbers Tell the Story
Mortgage rates remain in the 6-7% range but are gradually easing, with forecasters predicting they could settle into the 5.9-6.2% range by late 2026. Meanwhile, home prices continue steady growth of approximately 3% year-over-year, with the national median home value around $410,800. The biggest shift? Inventory levels have climbed to their highest point in four years, with active listings up 23% year-over-year—gradually tipping the scales in favor of buyers.
What This Means for You
For Buyers: Increased inventory and more balanced conditions mean more choices and less bidding war pressure than we've seen in years. If you're financially ready with a solid down payment and emergency fund, now is a strategic time to act.
For Sellers: While it's still a favorable market, expectations need adjustment. Price your home competitively from day one and be prepared to offer concessions. Sharp pricing and marketing strategies are more critical than ever.
Looking Ahead
As we move into 2026, continued economic stability and gradually declining rates should support healthy, sustainable market activity. It won't be the frenzy of 2021-2022, but a more measured market benefits everyone in the long run.
Whether you're considering buying, selling, or investing, having expert guidance through these market shifts is more valuable than ever.
James Brown is a real estate professional specializing in expert home buying and selling services. For personalized market insights
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Secret Little Hack
🎨 Many Denver galleries offer wine and snacks at First Friday openings—you can essentially bar hop through art galleries for free while discovering new artists. Start in Santa Fe Art District around 6 PM.
🥣 Recipe Section: Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup
The Hearty Fall Comfort Bowl That Warms From the Inside Out
This is my go-to soup when the temperatures drop and I want something substantial and nourishing. Wild rice adds a nutty, hearty base, while seasonal vegetables and a creamy broth create layers of fall flavor. The best part? It's incredibly versatile—make it vegan with coconut milk or keep it traditional with cream.
Ingredients:
1 cup wild rice, uncooked
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or baby bella work great)
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 cups kale or spinach, roughly chopped
1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the wild rice: In a medium pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the wild rice, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 40-45 minutes until tender but still slightly chewy. Drain any excess water and set aside.
Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more until fragrant.
Add mushrooms and sweet potato: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and diced sweet potato. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing mushrooms to release their moisture and begin to brown slightly.
Build the soup base: Pour in the broth and add thyme, sage, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover partially and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potato is fork-tender.
Add greens and rice: Stir in the cooked wild rice and chopped kale. Let simmer for 5 minutes until kale wilts and becomes tender.
Finish with cream: Remove from heat and stir in coconut milk or heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. The soup should be thick and hearty—if it's too thick, add a bit more broth. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and an extra grind of black pepper.
Why This Works: Wild rice is packed with protein and fiber, making this soup incredibly filling. The combination of earthy mushrooms, sweet potato, and aromatic herbs creates a complex flavor profile that tastes like autumn in a bowl. The creamy finish balances all the savory elements perfectly.
Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Note that wild rice will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so you may need to add more broth when reheating. Store in the fridge for 4-5 days or freeze (without the cream—add that fresh when reheating) for up to 3 months.
Variations:
Add protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked Italian sausage
Make it vegan: Use olive oil and coconut milk instead of butter and cream
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
Different greens: Swap kale for Swiss chard, collards, or baby spinach
Pairing Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad with apple cider vinaigrette.
🏆 Broncos Update
Record: 7-2 (1st place, AFC West)
This Week: vs. Las Vegas Raiders, Thursday Nov 6, 7:00 PM
TV: Prime Video (Streaming)
Line: Broncos -9.5
After years of disappointment, the Broncos are legitimate playoff contenders. Bo Nix is developing into exactly what Sean Payton hoped for, and the defense is one of the league's best. Thursday's game against the division rival Raiders is a chance to put an exclamation point on the first half of the season.
Fun Fact: The Broncos haven't started a season 8-2 or better since 2015. A win Thursday changes the entire narrative around this team.
The Weekend Pulse (Top Things to Do)
🎶 The Weekend Pulse (Nov 6-10 Highlights)
Here's what's happening around Denver this week:
🏈 Denver Broncos vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Thursday, Nov 6, 7:00 PM | Empower Field at Mile High
Broncos are 7-2 and in first place in the AFC West! Thursday Night Football under the lights—this is playoff football energy. The atmosphere will be electric as Denver looks to extend their winning streak.
🎨 Denver Arts Week Kickoff + First Friday
Friday, Nov 7, evening | Art Districts across Denver
Expanded First Friday art walks in Santa Fe Art District, RiNo, 40 West Arts District, Tennyson Street, and more. The perfect way to launch Arts Week with gallery openings, live music, and street performances.
🏛️ FREE Night at the Museums
Saturday, Nov 8, 5-10 PM | 20 Museums across Denver
Free admission and extended hours at Denver Art Museum, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Wings Over the Rockies, History Colorado Center, and 16 others. Free shuttles run between locations all night!
🥟 Pepsi Denver Local Eats Fest
Saturday, Nov 8, 3-7 PM | Bao Tennyson, 3973 Tennyson St
Free dumpling samples (while supplies last), Asian street food, live painting by local artists, DJs JD Manos and VAVO, and family-friendly games. First 500 guests receive a surprise gift.
🎵 Deadmau5
Friday, Nov 7, 7:00 PM | Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison
Electronic music legend returns to the Rocks for an unforgettable night of beats and lights. One of the year's most anticipated Red Rocks shows.
😂 Kathleen Madigan
Friday & Saturday, Nov 7-8 | Paramount Theatre
Stand-up comedy from one of the best in the business. Two nights of laughs from this comedy veteran who's been making audiences roar for decades.
💀 Día de Muertos Celebration
Friday, Nov 7, 5-9 PM | Various Denver locations
Free general admission to honor Day of the Dead with sugar skull decorating, Aztec dance performances, art installations, and food trucks. Major celebrations at 40 West Arts District and Art District on Santa Fe, with special programming at Museo de las Americas.
🎻 Colorado Symphony: Mozart Violin Concerto No. 4
Friday-Sunday, Nov 7-9 | Boettcher Concert Hall
Violinist Paul Huang performs Mozart with conductor Rune Bergmann leading the orchestra. Classical music at its finest in one of Denver's most acoustically perfect venues.
🏀 Denver Nuggets vs. Indiana Pacers
Saturday, Nov 8, 7:00 PM | Ball Arena
NBA action returns to Denver as the defending champions host the Pacers. Always a great atmosphere at Ball Arena.
🎤 Jesse McCartney
Thursday, Nov 6, 8:00 PM | Fillmore Auditorium
The pop star brings his catalog of hits back to Denver. Perfect for anyone who grew up on early 2000s pop music.
💡 Insider Tip: Download the Denver Arts Week app or grab a printed guide at any participating venue. With 600+ events, you'll want a game plan to hit your must-sees.
💡 Pulse Picks (Quick Recs)
Best Free Event 🎨 → FREE Night at the Museums (Saturday 5-10 PM)—20 museums, free admission, free shuttles
Date Night Idea 💑 → First Friday art walk + dinner at a local Santa Fe District restaurant—romantic, cultural, and completely Denver
Weekend Activity 🍜 → Pepsi Denver Local Eats Fest at Bao Tennyson (Saturday 3-7 PM)—free dumplings and Asian street food
Sports Experience 🏈 → Broncos vs. Raiders Thursday night—nothing says Denver like Thursday Night Football at Mile High
Soul Food 🎭 → Pick ANY Denver Arts Week event—meditative pottery, sound bath, gallery walk—feed a different part of yourself
That’s it for this week.
"Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time."
— Thomas Merton
💡 Answer to Trivia Question:
Twenty (20) museums and cultural institutions participate in FREE Night at the Museums on Saturday, November 8, from 5-10 PM, including the Denver Art Museum, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Wings Over the Rockies, History Colorado Center, and many more.
📣 Share the Pulse
Know someone who needs to discover Denver Arts Week? Forward them this newsletter—600 events means there's something for everyone, and FREE museum night is too good to miss.
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This newsletter was crafted with ❤️ for Denver's engaged residents and local business supporters.
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