A shared history.
A lasting friendship.
Denver’s first sister city relationship began with compassion and continues through culture, education, and personal connection.
- Sister cities since
- 1948
- Region
- Brittany, France
- Historic connection
- Denver’s first sister city
Meet Brest, France.
Brest is a historic port city on France’s Atlantic coast. Its harbor, naval heritage, and connection to the sea have shaped its development for centuries.
The city reflects Brittany’s coastal beauty, Celtic heritage, strong regional identity, and traditions in music and cuisine. Its story of rebuilding after World War II remains closely connected to its friendship with Denver.
It began with an act of kindness.
In 1947, Denver schoolchildren responded to the hardships facing children in war-torn Brest by organizing aid. Their generosity helped establish a relationship between the two communities.
Denver and Brest formally became sister cities in 1948, making Brest Denver’s first sister city.
Over the decades, the partnership has brought together students, families, educators, civic leaders, and volunteers through youth exchanges, cultural programs, delegation visits, and shared remembrance.
Youth & Education
Student and youth exchanges, educational presentations, and classroom connections encourage international understanding.
Culture & Community
French and Breton heritage programs, cultural celebrations, and community partnerships build local connections.
Delegations & Remembrance
Visits and exchanges deepen friendships while exploring the history and values that connect Denver and Brest.
Understanding history through connection.
Past delegation experiences in Brest and the surrounding regions of Brittany and Normandy have included visits to historic sites, cultural landmarks, community gatherings, and places of remembrance.
These experiences honor the history that brought the communities together while creating new friendships through service, travel, and shared learning.
Every connection has a story.
Discover community stories from our international network. For upcoming activities, visit the current DSCI events calendar.
Bring your curiosity.
Find your community.
Share your interests in the Denver–Brest relationship, explore volunteer opportunities, or support international friendship through membership.