Halloween is here, Denver Arts Week launches with hundreds of free and discounted events, and the holiday shopping season officially kicks off this weekend. Whether you're trick-or-treating, gallery hopping, or getting a head start on your gift list, we've got the inside track on everything happening in your city.

Inside this issue: A spotlight on Denver's dining scene evolution, weekend events you won't want to miss, a cozy fall recipe perfect for chilly evenings, and the local buzz worth knowing about.

What iconic amusement park in Denver, Colorado features a historic wooden roller coaster that opened in 1940 and is still in operation today?

*Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

If you've been paying attention to Denver's food scene lately, you've noticed something: we're in the middle of a genuine culinary renaissance. Despite economic headwinds, September alone saw 27 new restaurants, bars, and coffee shops open across the metro area—far outpacing the 13 closures.

What's driving this? A combination of chef-driven concepts, neighborhood-first thinking, and a city that genuinely supports local business.

The New Guard: Lady Nomada just opened its third location in Central Park, bringing Baja-inspired cuisine to a neighborhood hungry for quality Mexican food. Over on Colfax, Ma's Kitchen is serving dim sum and noodles, while Cap Hill Confidential is bringing new energy to a space that's seen too much turnover.

The Coming Attractions: Blossom by SYC is set to open in LoHi late this month with high-end Chinese cuisine. Molino Chido is taking over the former Comida space at Stanley Marketplace with Mexico City-inspired tacos. And the highly anticipated Uchiko in Cherry Creek aims to finally open by year's end after three years in the making.

Why This Matters: When neighborhoods get new, quality restaurants, it's not just about having another place to eat—it's about community building, job creation, and the kind of third spaces that make cities feel alive. Every time you choose local over chains, you're investing in the independent businesses that make Denver unique.

Your Move: This weekend, skip your usual spot and try somewhere new. Lady Nomada, Ma's Kitchen, or any of the dozens of locally-owned gems are waiting to become your new favorite.

As the holiday shopping season kicks off, Denver's small businesses are banding together to remind us that the best gifts come in small packages—and from small businesses. This year is bigger than ever, with dozens of holiday markets, passport programs, and special events designed to keep your dollars local.

Why shop local matters: According to the Small Business Administration, when you spend $100 at a local business, $70 stays in your community. That means your holiday shopping directly supports local jobs, schools, and services. Plus, you'll find one-of-a-kind gifts you can't get anywhere else.

Upcoming Holiday Markets & Events:

Insider tip: Download your Small Business Passport ahead of time and plan your route—each stamp equals an entry to win a $1,600 gift basket filled with products from participating businesses.

Colorado's commitment: With March 3 now officially designated as "Buy Colorado Day" (303 Day), our state is making it easier than ever to find and support local businesses year-round.

Brought to you by James Brown Real Estate

Market Update: Denver's real estate market has shifted decisively in favor of buyers this fall. With mortgage rates in the low-to-mid 6% range and sellers increasingly willing to negotiate, it's the best buying environment we've seen in years.

For the first time in years, Denver's housing market has officially become a buyer's market, with inventory at a 14-year high. The median home is taking 35 days to sell (up from 30 in August), and about 50% of sellers are providing concessions to buyers.

💡 The numbers: There are now 57.1% more sellers than buyers active in the market, compared to a 7.9% gap in favor of sellers a year earlier.

Notable Sale: Denver recorded its highest-priced home sale in two years—a new-built property at 1860 E. Cedar Avenue (south of Denver Country Club) sold for $8.35 million.

Insider Intel: If you're thinking of buying, now's your moment. With inventory up and negotiation power on your side, you have options you didn't have six months ago.

Looking Ahead: Experts predict moderate growth of 3-4% annually through 2026. Denver's strong economic fundamentals—driven by tech, healthcare, and energy sectors—continue to support the market. The rental market remains robust with low vacancy rates, making Denver attractive for long-term investment.

Get a personalized market analysis and expert guidance

Mac and cheese gets a fall upgrade with this recipe that sneaks in nutrition without sacrificing the creamy, cheesy goodness we all crave.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Why We Love It: The butternut squash adds natural sweetness and body while cutting the cream and butter content. Plus, that gorgeous orange color makes it feel extra festive for fall gatherings.

Make it ahead: The sauce can be made 2 days in advance and reheated gently before tossing with pasta.

Fri-Sun, multiple showtimes

Disney's crown jewel musical continues its Denver run. Still one of the most spectacular shows on earth.

Thursday, October 31 (Halloween)

Historic haunted house with new thrills and Victorian-era spooky delights. Perfect for Halloween night.

Friday, November 1

French electronic duo Justice with special guest Kaytranada. High-energy dance night.

Friday-Saturday, November 1-2

Boettcher Concert Hall | Colorado Symphony performs the full film score live. Multiple showtimes.

Saturday, November 1

Dance party under the stars at the world's best venue. Layer up—November nights get chilly.

Friday-Sunday, November 1-3

Multiple venues | Week 2 of Denver's 48th annual film festival showcasing diverse, thought-provoking films from around the world.

Friday, November 7 - Sunday, November 16

Citywide | Hundreds of free and discounted events celebrating Denver's arts scene, including First Friday Art Walks (Nov 7) and Night at the Museum (Nov 8).

Saturday, November 8

City Park | 16th annual 5K and 10K benefiting Colorado veterans. In-person and virtual options available.

📌 Pro Tip: Denver Arts Week is one of the best times all year to explore museums, galleries, and performances. Many venues offer free admission or special deals—check denverartsweek.com for the complete schedule.

Best Arts Week Events 🎨 → First Friday Art Walk (Nov 7), Night at the Museum (Nov 8), Denver Art Museum free day

Trusted Photography Pro 📸 → Illumine Photography—because your business image should reflect your soul

Weekend Must-Do 🎃 → Halloween festivities Thursday, then transition straight into Arts Week planning

Holiday Market Preview 🎁 → Mark your calendar for the Small Business Passport (Nov 29-30) on Tennyson Street

Enjoyed this issue? Hit “forward” or share with someone who loves Denver (or should). Every new Insider helps amplify local voices and strengthen our community.

📬 Have a local tip, business spotlight suggestion, or event we should know about? Hit reply—we read every message.

This newsletter was crafted with ❤️ for Denver's engaged residents and local business supporters.

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