We were thrilled to welcome Descofar, a dynamic band from Denver’s sister city, Brest, France, for an unforgettable week of music, culture, and international friendship. They arrived at Denver International Airport and we welcomed them with a warm display of all of Denver’s Sister Cities upon exiting customs, setting the tone for their visit. Descofar’s visit was a shining example of citizen diplomacy in action, bringing a taste of Brittany, France to the heart of Denver.
A Night to Remember at the Denver Performing Arts Complex
The highlight of Descofar’s visit was undoubtedly the free concert at the Denver Performing Arts Complex supported by Denver Arts & Venues and Denver Sister Cities International. With additional support from Denver’s sister city, Ville de Brest, Denver International Airport, FirstBank, CatBird Hotel, Aer Lingus, Alliance Francaise, French American Chamber of Commerce, Dazzle Denver, and Spectacle vivant en Bretagne. With 300 attendees, the event was a resounding success. The night was filled with vibrant Breton music, captivating the audience and inviting them to dance under the glass canopy. One lucky attendee walked away with two round trip tickets to Paris, courtesy of Aer Lingus, adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening. Europe is closer to Denver than ever before with Aer Lingus direct flight to Dublin. Experience Irish hospitality in the sky and on your return ease of U.S. preclearance in Dublin airport, the ultimate time-saving service!
Following the concert, 77 guests attended the VIP dinner at Prelude + Post. This dinner supported the Denver Young Ambassador program of Denver Sister Cities International, making it a meaningful evening. The dinner was a delightful blend of fine dining and inspiring stories. High school students shared their experiences from a recent exchange program in Brest, showcasing the impact of such cultural exchanges. Jazz musician Purnell Steen spoke about bringing the sounds of Five Points to Brest, and artists shared their experiences of bringing their murals to life in the French city. The dinner was a testament to the power of citizen diplomacy, leaving everyone inspired and connected.
Enchanting Harp Session at the Catbird Hotel
Descofar’s cultural exchange didn’t stop at the concert. The band also hosted a harp lounge session at the Catbird Hotel, located in Denver’s vibrant RiNo Art District. The intimate setting of the hotel’s rooftop bar, Red Barber, provided the perfect backdrop for an evening of enchanting harp music. Guests enjoyed a relaxing night with breathtaking views of the city, further cementing the bond between Denver and Brest. Their stay at the Catbird Hotel in the RiNo Art District was equally memorable. The hotel’s artistic ambiance and prime location offered the band a perfect home away from home, allowing them to soak in the creative energy of one of Denver’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
Interactive Workshop and Concert at Dazzle
The festivities continued at Dazzle Denver, where Descofar hosted an interactive harp workshop and a concert featuring traditional Breton dancing and Celtic music. This family-friendly event allowed attendees to immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions of Brittany while enjoying delicious food and drinks in an intimate setting. The evening was a beautiful fusion of learning and entertainment, bringing the community together through the universal language of music.
Exploring Denver’s Cultural Gems
Descofar’s visit to Denver wasn’t all about performing. The band had the opportunity to explore some of the city’s iconic spots. City of Brest Park and the mural collab of Denver and Brest artists at Improper City in the RiNo Art District. The band enjoyed an unforgettable night at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where they watched Umphrey’s McGee and were pleasantly surprised by the familiar sounds of opener Cory Wong. Red Rocks provided a unique Colorado experience that Descofar will cherish forever.
A Celebration of Global Cultural Exchange
Descofar’s visit to Denver was more than just a series of concerts; it was a celebration of global cultural exchange and the deep ties between sister cities. From the grand performances to the intimate gatherings, every event highlighted the importance of building bridges through music and art. The week was a testament to the power of citizen diplomacy, bringing people together and creating lasting memories.
We are grateful to everyone who attended the events and supported Denver Sister Cities International. Descofar’s visit has left a lasting impact on our community, reminding us of the beauty of cultural exchange and the connections we share across the globe. We look forward to more events like these that continue to celebrate our diverse and vibrant world.
