Embracing the Unbelievable: Denver International Airport Addresses Conspiracy Theories by Celebrating Them in October

From tunnels that connect the airport with secret military installations, to lizard people lurking below baggage claim, no airport in the world has been the subject of such persistent and widespread conspiracy theories as DEN.

“Whether it’s because of our impressive size, expansive infrastructure or robust public art program, Denver International Airport has long heard the rumors, innuendo and internet chatter about being the center of conspiracies – from the absurd to the entertaining,” airport CEO Kim Day said. “Former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura even asserted in his 2010 show Conspiracy Theory that, ‘There’s a lot of strange things about this airport.’ So, we are dedicating the month of October to embracing that strangeness and sharing in the fun. Because, after all, we couldn’t really hide all of these happenings from the millions of people who visit this airport each year.”

Toward that end, DEN will host a variety of conspiracy-theory themed events in October:

“Conspiracy Theories Uncovered” Art Exhibit (Photos)

“Conspiracy Theories Uncovered” is a new, temporary art gallery located on level 5 west of the Jeppesen Terminal near the north security checkpoint. The exhibit, which is now open, features video, artwork, props and more explaining some of the most pervasive airport conspiracy theories and the “real” explanations behind them. Visitors will enjoy a compilation of all things mysterious, sinister and strange having to do with DEN. This free exhibit is open 24-hours a day.

Conspiracy Art Tours

The airport also will host free conspiracy theory art tours for the public. These hour-long tours will be provided by members of DEN’s public art program and will take visitors on a journey through the most talked about public art installations at DEN and how they have become connected with the Illuminati, aliens and more. These tours will take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays through Oct. 29. Participants must RSVP online to reserve a spot by using the link here. Spaces are limited and will be filled on a first-come basis.

Conspiracy Costume Party and Film on the Fly

On Oct. 20, DEN will host a free screening of Close Encounters of the Third Kind on the airport’s open-air plaza. The event will begin at 5 p.m. with a conspiracy-themed costume party, so come dressed as your favorite conspiracy characters or other out-of-this-world costumes (no full masks or weapons, real or not, please – we are an “airport” after all). Enjoy music and more on the plaza adjacent to the Westin Denver International Airport, followed by the movie after dark. Additional details will be made available ahead of this event.

“What’s Under DEN?” Facebook Contest

DEN will hold a social media contest on the airport’s official Facebook page. One lucky person will be selected at random to bring a friend or family member on an exclusive, behind-the-scenes expedition to explore the airport’s underground facilities in search of evidence of a conspiracy. Visit www.Facebook.com/DenverInternationalAirport to learn more and enter to win. Participants must be able to pass a criminal background check and take an oath of eternal secrecy. The winner will be announced during the movie screening on Oct. 20 and online.