Denver Nuggets NBA NBA Playoffs

 How to celebrate the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche playoffs

Both teams are hosting events to rally fans at Ball Arena and in downtown Denver

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for Denver sports fans, and not because the Colorado Rockies are back on the field. Two of the Mile High City’s blockbuster teams are preparing to enter the playoffs

First is the Denver Nuggets, which clinched its first NBA Championship title in franchise history last year. The team finished this season 57-25, setting them up as the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. Game 1 of the playoffs tips off at Ball Arena on Saturday.

The Colorado Avalanche, which won the Stanley Cup in 2022, enter the playoffs after a lackluster – some might even say embarrassing – finish to the regular season.

Still, there are plenty of reasons to be excited, not the least of which is that playoff sports up the intensity of the game and both teams plan to rally fans with local events during the postseason.

Here’s the skinny on all the action, including a hockey drone show, basketball pep rally and more.

Denver Nuggets happenings

The defending NBA Champions are gearing up for another run at the title. To celebrate, the team is hosting a free playoff pep rally on Wednesday, April 17 at McGregor Square (1901 Wazee St., Denver).

Join the Nuggets’ drumline, dance squads, and the mascot Rocky for an evening of revelry, complete with what’s promised to be the world’s largest bobblehead of Jamal Murray available for photo opps. The event starts at 5:30 p.m. and the first 500 fans that RSVP to attend get a free commemorative T-shirt.

During home games, Ball Arena will be a pre-game hotspot. For two and half hours prior to tip-off, the plaza outside of the Grand Atrium will be transformed into a beer garden with games and other attractions. Additionally, home games will include swag giveaways for ticket holders, including commemorative T-shirts, LED wristbands, cups, rally towels, and more.

Tickets to Nuggets playoff games are now on sale at Ticketmaster, though most dates and opponents have yet to be solidified. The team will also host official watch parties during Round 1 away games at the original Stoney’s Bar & Grill (1111 Lincoln St., Denver). Visit nba.com/nuggets/fans/playoffs for more details.