Denver supports a cultural scene that has matured significantly over the past two decades, anchored by major institutions in visual arts, performing arts, and a rapidly evolving culinary culture. The Scientific and Cultural Facilities District provides ongoing public funding to more than 300 local arts organizations, which has produced an unusual depth of cultural programming for a city of its size.
Denver's culinary scene has earned several James Beard Award winners and continues to grow. Local strengths include:
Denver supports a wide range of faith communities reflecting the diversity of its population. The metro is home to active Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, and other religious communities, with multiple congregations available across most denominations. Interfaith dialogue is active, and several institutions host regular community events and dialogue programs.
Denver has a long-established Jewish community with deep ties to the city's history. National Jewish Health was originally founded in 1899 as a Jewish-supported hospital for tuberculosis patients, and the broader Jewish community remains active.
