Labor Day Traditions
Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894 and since then it has signaled the end of summer. Although we’re sad to see summer leave us, there is still much fun to be had over the long weekend in Denver to wrap up the summer memories and create a few more memories.
Host BBQs and Picnics–
What honors the summer season more than a good ol’ BBQ or picnic? Gather up your friends and family and fire up the grill for one last outdoor hurrah with this tasty on-the-grill recipe:
Grilled Grapes: Marinate halved grapes in ½ cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon crushed red-chili flakes, 2 crushed garlic cloves for 10 minutes. Place grapes in a grill basket and pop on medium heat to grill for no more than 2 minutes. Eat as is for a Denver brunch or place atop some toasted bread with brie for a sophisticated, quick and creamy sweet appetizer at dinner.
Splish-Splash—
The weather is still nice enough to take one (or two) last dives in the pool or lake. It’s also a great time for a boating or fishing trip. Soak up the summer rays and spend time on or in the water! Anyone up for a little Marco Polo?
Last Day to Wear White—
Fashionistas say not to wear white clothing after Labor Day given the cooler weather coming in and historical fashion rules. But old habits die hard, so for many of you, this weekend is your last chance to sparkle in white before perusing your closet for those warmer fall colors.
Travel—
A somewhat atypical way to spend Labor Day - but how often do you get a three day weekend, eh? Many find it the perfect time to travel around. Enjoy the beauty of Colorado by escaping to the mountains or enjoying all that the Mile High city has to offer. See the sights and sounds
of a new environment and maybe do some shopping, restaurant-hopping, and outdoor activities with the family.
Community Festivals—
Colorado is packed full of festivals this time of year offering food, music and lots of excitement. Some popular events sure to satisfy your inner foodie, sports fan and artsy side include:
- A Taste of Colorado happening August 29-September 1 at Civic Center Park in Denver.
- Rocky Mountain Showdown happening August 29 at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver.
- Chihuly at the Denver Botanic Gardens exhibit taking place through November 30th.
When thinking about the literal meaning of Labor Day, it doesn’t sound all that appealing but knowing these traditions are celebrated across the country makes celebrating the value of work by taking time off, a little more enjoyable, don’t you think? So whether you’re spending time around the pool or maybe enjoying a yummy Denver breakfast with us at the Original Pancake House Denver Tech Center restaurant or Cherry Hills Village restaurant, we hope you enjoy it!
End of Summer Family Bucket List
With the start of a new school year fast approaching, consider heading out for a family fun day before the end of vacation. To make the day special, start with a hearty breakfast in Denver at Original Pancake House. With menu favorites such as Chocolate Chip Pancakes or OPH Smiley Cakes for the kids, and a plethora of egg dishes and more for the parents, everyone will leave full, happy, and ready to enjoy a day of adventure. Read on to learn about a few of our favorite local spots to spend the day with the family.
Dinosaur Ridge
A part of the Morrison Fossil Area National Park, Dinosaur Ridge is a great place for families to see actual dinosaur footprints sealed by time. Dinosaur Ridge is famous for its Exhibit Hall and summer camps where young people can learn more about paleontology.
Cherry Creek State Park
A perfect spot for nature lovers, Cherry Creek State Park offers families a relaxing spot to spend the day. Enjoy hiking, biking, or horseback riding on the many trails throughout the park. If it is a hot day, rent a canoe or kayak from the marina and picnic on the sandy beaches surrounding the reservoir. Cherry Creek Park even offers an “airstrip” for flying model airplanes and a family shooting range.
Elitch Gardens
Summer vacation isn’t complete until you spend a day at Elitch Gardens. Ride the slides to cool off in the water park and then test your adventurous spirit on the roller coasters and thrill rides. There are attractions, rides, concerts and entertainment for kids ages 4 -100 which means the whole family will enjoy the day.
Tiny Town
Open to the public since 1920, Tiny Town, is a miniature collection of houses, buildings, and railroads to entertain kids of all ages. With more than 90 buildings on display, visitors enjoy stepping back in time with a ride on the railroad and marveling at all of the creations. Located close to Morrison, you get the added bonus of enjoying mountain surroundings on this trip!
The Children’s Museum
If you have younger children, Denver’s Children’s Museum is the place to go to “learn through play.” With interactive exhibits, educational programs, and play areas, the kids will enjoy explorative play with everything from rockets, to bubbles, nature, and painting.
We hope you enjoy these last few weeks of summer, Denver!