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Wait… no patios in Olde Town Arvada?! 🍻

4/1/2026 What's Happenin' Team Arvada
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Hold up… what did Arvada just announce?

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Happy Wednesday, Arvada!

For a moment there, it sounded like spring in Arvada was about to feel very different.

People started questioning plans, routines… even their favorite weekend spots.

What’s Happenin’ is growing — want to join us?

Last month our local newsletters across Boulder, Arvada, Fort Collins, Longmont, and Denver were opened 177,000+ times by locals looking for things to do and places to go.

As we continue to grow, I’m looking to add one or two people to help with partnerships with local businesses.

If you love supporting local businesses and want to help grow these newsletters, just reply to this email and tell me a little about yourself.

🍺 Olde Town Arvada “Testing” a No Patio Policy

🍺 Olde Town Arvada “Testing” a No Patio Policy

In a move that has people doing double takes, Olde Town Arvada is reportedly piloting a temporary “no patio” policy this spring.

According to the (very official-sounding) reasoning, the goal is to “encourage more meaningful indoor interactions” and “minimize sun-related distractions during peak hours.” Translation: no outdoor beers, no brunch in the sunshine, and no casually judging outfits while sipping a cold one on the strip.

Early reactions? Confusion. Mild panic. A few group chats already lighting up with “wait… is this real??”

Relax. It’s not.

April Fools 😄

Because let’s be honest, patios in Arvada aren’t optional… they’re basically a lifestyle.

🇺🇸 Welcome Home Veterans Celebration

Some events are just worth slowing down for.

This Thursday, Arvada is hosting a Welcome Home Veterans Celebration at the Community Recreation Center, bringing together veterans from all eras for an afternoon of connection, recognition, and shared stories.

It starts with a complimentary lunch from Mission BBQ (12–1 PM), followed by a military recognition ceremony (1:30–2:30 PM) with a special moment dedicated to Vietnam veterans.

Local veteran organizations will also be on-site with resources, and attendees are welcome to bring a family member or friend.

📍 Community Recreation Center

⏰ 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM

🎟️ Free (registration encouraged)

If you know someone who served, this feels like a meaningful way to spend part of the afternoon.

What's Happenin' in Arvada

Wednesday, April 1

LUKI's Card Circus Season One - LUKI Brewery, Arvada | Wednesday, April 01, 2026 , 6:00pm-9:00pm | Ticketed
Come from Away (Touring) - Arvada Center, Arvada | Wednesday, April 01, 2026 , 1:00pm | Ticketed
You Deserve an Easter Basket - Mermaid Walking Boutique, Arvada | Wednesday, April 01, 2026 | Ticketed

Thursday, April 2

Vinyl Night at Odyssey Beerwerks - Odyssey Beerwerks, Arvada | Thursday, April 02, 2026 , 5:00pm-9:00pm | Ticketed
Come from Away (Touring) - Arvada Center, Arvada | Thursday, April 02, 2026 , 7:30pm | Ticketed
Welcome Home Veterans Celebration - Community Recreation Center, Arvada | Thursday, April 02, 2026 , 12:00pm-2:30pm | Ticketed

Want more? See the full calendar → Arvada Event Calendar

Real Talk ☕

What’s Happenin’ is 100% free and independently run (yep, it’s just us). If this newsletter helps you discover cool things around town, your support helps keep it going and growing. We truly appreciate any and all love. Thank you for being part of the community.

👉 Contribute to What’s Happenin’

💼 Local Jobs Worth Checking Out

We believe great communities connect people to great opportunities.

Local Jobs

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2nd Shift Mechanical Assembly Supervisor at Elwood Staffing | Arvada
Department Assistant at Arc Thrift Stores | Arvada

💘 Date Spot in Arvada

Arvada dates are all about small-town charm with local flavor. Olde Town Arvada is a go-to for strolling, cozy dinners, and dessert stops, while the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities adds a culture-forward twist with shows, exhibits, and open-air vibes. If you’re leaning outdoorsy, sunset views and picnic potential at Majestic View Park never miss.

Vote and we’ll share the top picks—chosen by locals—in an upcoming issue. 💌

🍽 Not sure where to eat tonight?

Our Restaurant Finder takes the guesswork out of dining by showing you the best local restaurants based on real reviews and vibes, not just ratings. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a date-night spot, we’ve got you. No endless scrolling, no decision fatigue...just solid recs.

🧠 Need a brain break?

Play trivia, crosswords, and word searches built just for locals. These games aren’t just fun...they’ll test how well you actually know your city. Great for killing time, learning something new, or proving you’re the true local legend.

🗳 Now Voting: Arvada’s Best Breweries 🍻

Pastries had their moment. Now it’s beer time.

We’re opening voting for Arvada’s best breweries — Olde Town hangouts, hidden gems, and the spots that just feel like your go-to.

Have a place you always end up at?

👉 Vote and help crown Arvada’s best.

Before you go…

April Fools aside, this week has something worth showing up for.

The Welcome Home Veterans Celebration is a reminder that not everything needs a punchline. It’s a chance to connect, listen, and show up for people who’ve given a lot, even if it’s just for an hour or two.

💬 Got ideas for making What’s Happenin’ Arvada even better?

I’d love to hear from you. Hit reply — we’re always building the ultimate local calendar.

See you Friday!

— Ben

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