Safe Play: KINK Denver Rewrites Narratives

(Photo/Juli Yanai — @jbelle.photo)

On Friday, Feb. 9th the annual KINK Denver event took place at Tracks nightclub in the Rino Arts District in Denver, Colo. The event boasts being “Denver’s largest fetish ball” and hosts an eclectic array of vendors and performers, ranging from fire dancers to stands selling 3D-printed sex toy paraphernalia. 

Performances included but were not limited to live roleplay, burlesque dancers and an aerial performance done on hanging chains. 

Attendees were also invited to take part in interactive stands, experiencing “shibari”, a type of rope play originated in Japan where individuals are tied up in elaborate ways, or they could also opt to be vacuum sealed. Exploration was at the forefront, and KINK was unashamed to hold space for all kinds of funfare. 

Most importantly, the space created open dialogue for people to enjoy themselves in a liberated manner and explore with an emphasis on ethical practices. While the fetish community has a tendency to be infamous for its portrayal in the media, KINK Denver hopes to change that narrative through creating a space for safe sexual exploration that promotes emphatic consent. 

Throughout the night there were announcements, as well as scattered signage promoting inclusivity and ethical sexual practices that highlighted the energy of KINK Denver, and how it continues to educate and serve the community in a fun, engaging manner. 

KINK Denver is hosted by Tracks at Reelworks, among many other events. Tickets for upcoming events can be found at their website, linked below. 

https://tracksdenver.com/events/ 

Denver's First-Ever Sneaker Bar | Sneekeazy

Calling all cocktail enthusiasts and sneakerheads, Denver’s first cocktail lounge paired with specialty sneaker store, Sneekeazy, is now open. Located above Element Kitchen & Cocktail in an expansive second floor loft, the Sneekeazy offers a combined boutique and bar experience where you can sip on expertly crafted cocktails, shop the world’s most coveted shoes and enjoy a unique take on Denver’s downtown nightlife scene.

Sneekeazy showcases Jordans, Yeezys and rare footwear and in addition will utilize its network of collectors to track down one-of-a-kind pieces for the public. The store also boasts a “SneakerSom” who serves as the resident sneaker expert and will offer cobbler services and specialized custom footwear. Once you’re done shopping, continue to a saloon-style lounge offering specialty cocktails, small bites, and live music and DJs every night. The cocktails are complimented with a lofty lounge atmosphere, complete with free-to-play pool tables, shuffleboard and classic arcade games! Enjoy the lounge areas and cozy up with comfortable living room furniture to retreat for a little privacy and intimate conversation. The small bites menu was created by celebrity Chef John Tesar and is available until 1 a.m., satisfying late-night cravings and featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Each dish is priced at $10.

“We’re really excited to bring a fresh and exciting concept with another late-night option to Denver’s nightlife scene,” says Element Hospitality’s Jon Spadafora. “The speakeasy is much larger than typical hidden bars and boasts several different lounges. We’re also featuring Colorado beer and spirits, as well as a rooftop deck offering views of both the state capitol and downtown skyline.”

Catering towards the late-night crowd, Sneekeazy will be open Wednesday - Saturday from 7 p.m. until 2 a.m., with DJs starting every night at 8 p.m. The space also features art from local Denver creatives that will rotate through on a regular basis. Upcoming happenings include custom designed sneaker giveaways by local tattoo artists, acoustic nights on with local musicians, and more.