Free Summer Activities in Aurora, CO

Havana Street Global Night Market 
When: Last Saturdays of the Month
Where: Leezakaya | Directions

Prepare to savor spring and summer flavors as a beloved market returns! Make your way to Aurora’s premier street to celebrate the city’s diverse culinary scene! Indulge in a culinary adventure along Aurora’s best foodie block, sampling the best global cuisine from local vendors at Havana’s Global Night Market. Explore various handcrafted artisanal goods and more, adding a touch of flair to your summer nights.

Global Fest
When: June 14
Where: Aurora Municipal Center | Directions

Global Fest is Aurora’s signature celebration of international cultures, returning to the Aurora Municipal Center Great Lawn on Saturday, June 14. This free, family-friendly festival brings together the sights, sounds, and flavors of more than 60 cultures from around the world. Attendees can experience the vibrant Parade of Nations, enjoy captivating live performances across two stages, including a crowd-favorite Selena tribute, and sample authentic global cuisine from dozens of food vendors. From the colorful International Fashion Show to engaging cultural exhibits and kid-friendly activities, Global Fest is a joyful showcase of Aurora’s diversity and unity. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this is your passport to a world of celebration, all in one unforgettable day.

Summer at Stanley Marketplace | Directions 

Arts & Culture

First Fridays: (June 6, July 4, August 1): An evening of local art, music, and community.

Shoe Shine Exhibition + Competition: (June 7): A basketball-themed art exhibition and sneaker competition. 

Jazz at Stanley (June 29, July 27): Enjoy the sounds of Darryl Gott’s Jazz Jam and Groovilization.

Juneteenth Community Paint (June 19): Band together and paint with the community to celebrate Juneteenth.

Pride Pawty (June 21): Celebrate Pride with Bonez 4 Budz and Iron & Resin (furry friends welcome)

Summer Sidewalk Sale (June 20–22): Shop for deals at all your favorite local retailers. 

Wear the Resistance: A Radical Lifestyle (June 20): A conversation about upcycling with Recovering Hipster Goods and Michael Sullivan from Haus.

Learn more about Stanley Marketplace Events Here

Summer at Town Center at Aurora | Directions 

Build Up Aurora – Flagship Community Event

Saturday, June 7 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Help shape Aurora's future! The City of Aurora is hosting this interactive event where residents can learn more about local infrastructure plans, share feedback, and enjoy family-friendly fun. Expect snacks, giveaways, games, and more—all right inside the Town Center.

Wright’s Carnival

June 19 – July 6 |  Weekdays 5–11 PM, Weekends 1–11 PM

Located in the JCPenney parking lot, Wright’s Carnival is back with all your favorite rides, midway games, and classic carnival treats. Admission is free, and while ride wristbands are available for purchase, you can still soak up the festive atmosphere at no cost.

Juneteenth Celebration

Saturday, June 21 | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Join us in honoring Juneteenth with live music, powerful speakers, engaging activities, and local vendors. This free community celebration in front of the food court is a chance to reflect, rejoice, and recognize the importance of this historic holiday.

Aurora “Mallapalooza” – 50th Anniversary Celebration

September 13–14 | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
This two-day music festival is a can't-miss event! Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Town Center at Aurora with live bands, DJs, food trucks, and community activities. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for an unforgettable weekend of free entertainment in the west parking lot.

Learn more about Town Center at Aurora Events Here

Summer at Southlands | Directions

Sounds of Southlands | Every Thursday until August 7th

Sounds of Southlands is back for the summer season! Occurring every Thursday of the month, sounds of Southlands is a fun event to sit back and enjoy local talent while enjoying the summer breeze. Don't forget to bring your lawn chair or picnic blankets! 

Southland's Farmer's Market | Every Saturday until September 27th

Embrace the summer season with a trip to Southland's weekly Farmer's Market. Shop local with fresh produce, handmade artisan goods, and more!

4th of July Spectacular
When: July 4th, 6 pm-10 pm
Where: Aurora Municipal Center | Directions

Celebrate the Fourth of July with the 4th of July Spectacular presented by the City of Aurora! This free event is open to the entire community to enjoy. Spend the holiday on the Great Lawn by viewing a variety of musical performances, savoring delicious bites from food trucks, and spending the evening under the sky viewing a fireworks show for the grand event!

Rebel Marketplace 
When: Every 1st and 3rd Saturdays 

Rebel Marketplace is a community-driven farmers market in Aurora, Colorado, dedicated to fostering local food sovereignty and economic opportunity. Founded in 2015 by James Grevious as an extension of the “Rebels In The Garden” youth gardening initiative, the market has evolved into a vibrant hub for neighborhood-grown produce, artisan goods, and cultural connection.

Soak in the Sun at a Spray Park

Great Plains Park | Directions | 

Sizzling summer days call for a trip to the playgrounds! Bring the kiddos to refresh from the heat at Great Plains Park. The park features an outdoor waterpark, picnic area, baseball diamonds, sports field, and hiking trails. Whether you want to get out and stretch your legs or let the kiddos cool off, Great Plains Park is the perfect free activity to add to your summer itinerary. 

Red-tailed Hawk Park | Directions 

This multi-use park boasts a playground, walking trails, and impressive soccer and sports fields, and it is also a playground in the summer! It is a definite spot to check out this summer!

Southlands Splash Pad | Directions

Keep the kiddos cool with a trip to Southlands Splash Pad! After a successful shopping day, check out the water fountains at Town Square. Relax in the shaded areas while the kids keep busy and entertained. 

2025 Aurora Rhythms

The 2025 Aurora Rhythms concert series is a vibrant celebration of music and theater, running from May through December across various venues in Aurora, Colorado. Hosted by the City of Aurora's Cultural Services Division, this eclectic series features free and ticketed performances, including live music, theatrical productions, and cultural showcases. Events at locations like the Mission Viejo Library, Aurora Fox Arts Center, and The People's Building offer audiences intimate and engaging experiences. Get the schedule and details here. 

COLORADO FREEDOM MEMORIAL

The Colorado Freedom Memorial pays tribute to our country's heroes. This free-to-enter memorial is unique in that it honors all Colorado veterans, regardless of rank or conflict. Look for names or take a tour around the grounds; you might even catch a glimpse of the F-16 fighter jets passing by.

Aurora History Museum

The Aurora History Museum houses some of the city's earliest antiquities and the historical components that make the city great. From Tuesday to Sunday, visitors can take self-guided tours while seeing rotating and permanent exhibits. The fully restored 1913 railway trolley is a must-see!

Looking for more events in Aurora? Check out Visit Aurora’s Events Page