Why it matters: The lineup of local events comes as critics say the Trump administration has taken steps that downplay King's legacy — including removing MLK Day from the National Park Service's list of free days.
State of play: There's no shortage of opportunities to commemorate King in Denver. Here are three not to miss on Monday:
The annual Dr. Martin Luther King Marade (march and parade) begins with a 10am opening ceremony at City Park. The march starts at 11:45am near the MLK Jr. statue and heads down Colfax Avenue to the Colorado State Capitol. Free.
The MLK Jr. African-American Heritage Rodeo returns to the Denver Coliseum, spotlighting the history and culture of Black cowboys. The show starts at 6pm. Tickets are $46.
The Denver Botanic Gardens will offer free admission for the holiday. The same goes for Chatfield Farms' location in Littleton.
✊ The bottom line: While Washington hedges on how — or whether — to honor King, Denver marches on.
