Drink It Up

It’s no secret that the Brown Palace Hotel’s annual Champagne Cascade is the most lavish, spectacular way to kick off the holidays. And this year will be even grander: Not only is the Brown Palace cascading earlier than ever in honor of Denver’s 150th birthday, but there will also be celebratory cake so that all may en-joy the anniversary of the city’s beginnings.

First, the bottles of champagne must be opened. A master swordsman will do the honors, using an antique Napoleonic saber to sever the necks of Moët et Chandon champagne bottles. The bottles are then used to fill the 6,000-glass pyramid in the hotel’s atrium lobby, which is almost two stories tall, accompanied by a special brass quintet from the Colorado Symphony Orchestra.

The cascade begins at noon; it’s free to watch, but why not splurge on a table for premier viewing in the VIP area? That costs $250 for a table of four, with all proceeds benefiting the CSO. Complimentary photos will be taken for guests from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in front of the cascade, and you can always indulge in the Brown Palace’s famous Dom Perignon Sunday Brunch before or after; with four brunch tiers to choose from, you’re certain to find a package your wallet can ac-commodate. The Brown Palace is at 321 17th Street; visit www.brownpalace.com or call 303-297-3111 for information and reservations.
Sun., Nov. 9, 12:30-1:30 p.m., 2008