Weekend Things to Do Around Denver: Cripple Creek Ice Festival and More

From an immersive LEGO art exhibit to a Lunar New Year celebration, there's plenty to experience in and around the Mile High City.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Denver Gazette has curated a list of the top weekend events happening in and around Denver, including the Cripple Creek Ice Festival, Mardi Gras 4Paws parade in Frisco, the Winterfest & Ice Climbing World Cup 2026 in Longmont, and the Lunar New Year 2026 celebration at the Far East Center.

Why it matters

Denver's vibrant cultural scene offers a diverse array of events and activities to suit all interests, from art and outdoor adventures to family-friendly celebrations. These weekend happenings provide opportunities for locals and visitors alike to explore the city's rich cultural offerings.

The details

The Brick Planet exhibit at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science features LEGO sculptures depicting the beauty of nature. The Cripple Creek Ice Festival showcases ice carving battles and family fun, while the Mardi Gras 4Paws parade in Frisco celebrates our furry friends. Winterfest in Longmont combines craft beer, local food, and an ice climbing competition, and the Lunar New Year celebration at the Far East Center in Denver offers traditional dances, abundant food, and vibrant markets.

  • The Brick Planet exhibit is open now through May 3.
  • The Cripple Creek Ice Festival runs from February 14-22.
  • The Mardi Gras 4Paws parade in Frisco takes place on Saturday, February 21 from noon to 2 p.m.
  • Winterfest in Longmont is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, February 21-22 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • The Lunar New Year 2026 celebration at the Far East Center in Denver is on Saturday and Sunday, February 21-22 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The players

Sean Kenney

An artist who has created sculptures made with LEGO bricks for the Brick Planet exhibit at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

Hope For Animals

A nonprofit organization that helps abandoned, lost and suffering pets through rescue, shelter and public education, and is the beneficiary of the Mardi Gras 4Paws parade in Frisco.

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The takeaway

Denver's vibrant cultural scene offers a diverse array of events and activities to suit all interests, from art and outdoor adventures to family-friendly celebrations. These weekend happenings provide opportunities for locals and visitors alike to explore the city's rich cultural offerings and create lasting memories.