Laid-Off - Living the Free Life

I was laid off from my job last week. It was both a good and bad situation, but ultimately I think it was one of the best things that ever happened to me. So much opportunity has presented itself and honestly, I look forward to seeing where I land! I had started this blog a while back (i.e. 2007), but got so busy I never really got it going. A shame I think, as I love to travel, explore and rejoice in all that is around me. So I got to thinking today; this blog is one of those "opportunities" that I haven't followed through on in the past. So here I go! Step one in my new life.

One of my first projects as a laid-off lass was to sit down and create a calendar of all the things to do in the Denver Metro area for free - or super cheap. Summer is a wonderful time in Colorado - the hiking, camping and cultural events abound, so what better time to take advantage of all there is to offer and save my funds for the doldrums of Oct.?

Below is a collection of some of my favorite free things to do in the Denver area during the summer months. I will continue to add to this list, but this will get you started! Please let me know if you have other activities you recommend - I'd love to add it to the mix.

City Park Jazz - http://www.cityparkjazz.org/- City Park Jazz has been the highlight of my week for the past 3 summers. There is nothing better than wrapping up a wonderful Colorado weekend - as you prepare for a busy week ahead - with some jazz in the park. I love packing a picnic, grabbing our camp chairs and heading off to join one of the most culturally diverse events in Denver.

Everyone comes out for City Park Jazz - the wealthy, the poor, Caucasians, Hispanics, African Americans, the healthy, the frail, the young and the old. Even the dogs! I have always felt there is a sense of unity in music and this event proves that point to me repeatedly. So clear your Sunday evening calendar and join us by the Pavilion in the City Park! I promise, you will only regret not doing it sooner.
Cost: Free Location: City Park

Movies in the Park - http://www.denvergov.org/Portals/626/documents/MIP2009%20(2).pdf - My first Movies in the Park experience left quite an impression on me. We took off one night to join a friend and her niece and nephews, expecting my boyfriend's daughter to hang out with the other kids watching "Happy Feet" while the adults got a chance to chat. No go - we all got to enjoy this family experience!

We stretched out on the hillside behind the clock tower in downtown Denver, comfy on our blankets and impressed with the entire set-up, including a huge blow-up movie screen. Then we discovered the free popcorn, sno-cones and cotton candy and we were hooked. This year, there are 10 screenings, additional park locations and a wide variety of movies to view. We'll be joining the community for at least 3 of them! That's a way cheaper experience than paying $40 (including popcorn and drinks) for 2 at a big screen. What a way to spend a weekend night!
Cost: Free Location: Varies

Colorado Free Days - http://www.scfd.org/?page=home&sub=4- There is nothing like being a Colorado resident. I say that for a variety of reasons, but one of my favorite things is the investment in culture! One of those investments includes the SCFD funds used to open up museums, botanic gardens, performances, etc. to the public several times a year free of charge. Summer tends to be a quieter time for the Free Days, but the Denver Museum of Nature and Science has several free days approaching, so check out the schedule and we'll see you there!
Cost: Free on designated days Location: Varies

Colorado Symphony Orchestra - http://www.coloradosymphony.org/ - I fell in love with the CSO experience a few years ago when they played at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. They were my first concert at Red Rocks and I swear, the 1812 Overture will never be the same for me. They take pity on souls like mine during the summer month and bring classical music to the masses with a series of free events. There are two events still scheduled in the Denver Metro area, so I highly recommend checking it out and coming out to embrace a unique musical experience! P.S. Want to get the schedule earlier next year? Sign up for their free newsletter!
Cost: Free on designated Days Location: Varies

Colorado Dragon Boat Festival - http://www.cdbf.org/ - If you can handle the heat, the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival is one of the most unique cultural events I have attended in the Denver Metro area. There's nothing quite like sitting by Sloan's Lake and joining the crowd cheering their favorite dragon boat team across the finish line. There's food, store vendors, performers and of course the infamous dragon boats - totally worth checking out if you are looking to do something different at the end of July!
Cost: Free to attend Location: Sloan's Lake Park

I love Colorado. And Living the Free Life here is a great way to spend the summer in my beloved state!