Saturday-Sunday. The Civic Center Park summer season begins with one of the year’s biggest fiestas: Cinco de Mayo. The 25th annual celebration is as grande as ever, kicking off with a Saturday morning parade – the best spots for viewing will be along Welton Street, 17th Street and Lincoln Street. After that, the party in the park is the main attraction, featuring three stages of live music and dancing, vendor booths, rides and more. Food is a big lure, too, including a wide selection of Mexican delicacies and carnival treats. Food vendors will take cash; bring some or use one of the ATMs onsite. Ride tickets come with a separate charge, too. Parade: 10 a.m. Saturday, stepping off from Colfax Avenue and Welton Street. Festival: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Civic Center Park, Broadway and Colfax Avenue. Admission is free. cincodemayodenver.com
Friday. “May the fourth be with you” when Wings Over the Rockies presents “‘Star Wars’ at the Hangar,” a family friendly “Star Wars” fan fair. Check out an X-Wing fighter ship signed by members of the movie cast, and take a turn in the cockpit. Train for combat with the Jedi Lightsaber Academy and snag a foam saber to take home–or join the Dark Side at the Stormtrooper Training School. Art projects will keep little hands busy, too, including a “Galactic Zoology Nursery” for creating Wookiees and Ewoks. Bust out that Darth Vader helmet: Costumes are encouraged. 5-9 p.m. Friday. Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum, 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver; 303-360-5360. Admission is $13 for adults ages 13 to 64; $9 for seniors, military and veterans; $6 for kids ages 4 to 12. wingsmuseum.org
Kathleen St. John
Author: Mile High Mamas
