If there’s one thing Denverites know how to do it’s brunch – and they do it with style. Now in its 9th year, Denver BrunchFest is right around the corner, promising a full day of indulgence and celebration for brunch enthusiasts across the city. This year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular, with more than 50 local restaurants bringing their best to the table. With an all-inclusive ticket, attendees can discover food sample tastings, bubbly mimosas, mocktails and other curated beverage selections, all while enjoying the ultimate brunch atmosphere. But the fun doesn’t stop at the food and drinks – guests can expect high-energy entertainment all afternoon, from live DJ sets to interactive games and a showstopping drag performance hosted by Champagne Tiger.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 23, when Tivoli Quad at Auraria Campus transforms into Denver’s premier brunch destination from 12 to 4 p.m. With excitement building for what’s expected to be one of the city’s most anticipated social events, we had the chance to connect with Drink Denver co-founder and event organizer Lacey Spruce. Here, Spruce shared a few insider details on what sets this year’s celebration apart – and why missing it simply isn’t an option.
READ: Denver BrunchFest Returns to Tivoli Quad
303 Magazine: Denver’s brunch culture is vibrant, creative and community driven. How does a BrunchFest event capture and elevate that identity?
Denver BrunchFest: Denver BrunchFest is the only event where you’ll find this much of a variety of brunch restaurants, bakeries and coffee shops all in one place. With 50+ food vendors participating this year, we’re guaranteed to see a ton of creativity and unique dishes. Our hope is that you’ll find familiar favorites and discover new places to try.
303: From curating restaurant vendors to managing drink sponsors and entertainment, what does the behind-the-scenes planning process look like?
DBF: It’s a full-on production—months of outreach, coordination and creative planning. Behind the scenes, it’s spreadsheets, lots of meetings, phone calls and site maps, but on event day, it feels effortless—like the best brunch you’ve ever had, but dialed up to eleven.
303: How does Denver BrunchFest contribute to Denver’s food and beverage culture?
DBF: BrunchFest puts a spotlight on the talent that powers Denver’s culinary scene. It gives restaurants a platform to show off their most creative dishes and connect with thousands of engaged, enthusiastic food lovers. For attendees, it’s a discovery opportunity—they try new spots, meet chefs and taste flavors they may not have encountered otherwise. And because everything’s included, there’s no hesitation—they’re diving into bites and sips from everywhere. It’s a celebration, but it’s also a bridge between restaurants and the community. We’ve seen restaurants build loyal followings after participating, and that kind of impact on the local food scene is something we’re really proud of.
303: If you had to describe Denver BrunchFest’s ‘brunch personality,’ how would you define it? How do you make that personality come to life through food, entertainment and overall vibe?
DBF: BrunchFest’s personality is fun, bold and elevated. It’s the kind of event where you’re sipping a spritz or mimosa, dancing to a DJ set and eating a gourmet bite from the top chefs in town. We curate every detail with that energy in mind. The food is indulgent, creative and photo-worthy. The drinks are free-flowing and thoughtfully selected. The entertainment—from drag performances to upbeat DJ sets—keeps the vibe fun, inclusive and celebratory. BrunchFest isn’t quiet and cozy—it’s loud, lively and unmistakably Denver.
303: With 50+ restaurants, bottomless mimosas, Bloody Mary bars, drag performances and DJs, what new additions or standout elements should attendees look out for this year?
DBF: This year we’re leveling up across the board. We have more restaurants than ever before, which means everyone has really stepped up their creativity. I’m so excited about the menu this year – there will be lots of tried and true favorites as well as a ton of newcomers. We are also very excited to partner with Champagne Tiger for our Drag Brunch experience this year. Guests will be treated to two shows from top drag entertainers in town while enjoying bite size duck waffles and jello shots from Champagne Tiger. They are Denver’s most luxurious drag brunch which fits perfectly with BrunchFest. Additionally, The Real Dill will be creating the biggest pop-up Bloody Mary bar featuring their signature locally-made bloody mary mix along with other incredible cocktail mixes that are perfect for both non-alcoholic and alcoholic sipping. DJ Prodigy returns to the DJ booth this year and he always knows how to bring the party, so we’re excited to see his set! Lastly, we are adding new awards categories this year, so there will be even more restaurants taking home the Golden Whisk Award this year. It will definitely be a day you won’t want to miss!
We simply cannot wait to attend this year’s festivities and celebrate a local favorite event at BrunchFest. You can still snag your tickets online through its website and join this year’s celebration. Grab your brunch crew, bring your best appetite and get ready for a Saturday filled with bites, drinks and a whole lot of Denver charm.
Denver BrunchFest will take place on Saturday, August 3 from 12 to 4 p.m. It is located at Tivoli Quad at 1000 Larimer St., Denver. Visit its website for tickets and more information.
See you for brunch, Denver!
All photography by Ryan Cox and Emery Media House