3 things to do for free in Denver this week, December 31-January 3

Start off the New Year right by saving money this week. Whether you attend a screening of The Dead Zone, a poetry open mic or a short film festival, soaking up some culture won't cost you a cent, so you can head into 2013 feeling fiscally responsible. For more events, check out the Westword calendar, and share more bargains in the comments section below.

See also:
- Speak up! Freedom of Speech at Gypsy House tonight
- Denver's ten best men's street styles of 2012
- Ten most interesting interviews of 2012: Artists, feminist scientists, comedians and queens

The Dead Zone at Crash 45 (Tuesday)
The Cruel Winter Horror Film Series continues today with the David Cronenberg adaptation of Stephen King's The Dead Zone. See a young Christopher Walken as schoolteacher Johnny Smith, who wakes up from a coma with psychic powers. Blood-Thirsty Theresa is the host for this series of horror movies that deal with the themes of isolation and cold.

Freedom of Speech at Gypsy House (Tuesday)
Kick off the new year with an evening of thought-provoking poetry at Freedom of Speech. The night will feature spoken word from recently returned local favorite Lesley Perceval, as well as an open mic. Bring your poetry and songs to share on stage and enjoy hookah and hot beverages from Gypsy House at this gathering hosted by LadySpeech Sankofa.

The Five Minute Film Fest at the Deer Pile (Thursday)
Instead of sitting through nearly three hours of Les Mis, hit a film event that's sure to be way more stimulating. The Five Minute Film Festival is a monthly collection of eclectic short films shown at the Deer Pile, complete with popcorn and beverages. Come prepared to watch some bizarre shorts -- and if you have a short film to share with the world, bring it on DVD to be screened. The event is free, but there is a suggested donation of $5 if you're feeling generous and want to support future film events at the Deer Pile.

---

Follow @WestwordCulture