Each day grows shorter than the last, the Flagstaff Star glows on the mountain, and the weather goes from sun to snow in the course of an afternoon—must be nearly winter in Boulder! If you’re looking for a fun diversion or two to stave off those winter blahs at the end of the year, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best events Boulder has to offer in December 2017.
Art Opening – “Begin Anywhere” by Michael Hollenbach
When: Friday, December 1; 6 – 9pm
Where: Rising Tide Tattoo Emporium
Join the folks at Rising Tide for the opening night of Michael Hollenbach’s “Begin Anywhere” art show, including refreshments and a chance to meet the artist himself. His thought-provoking pieces use paint and tissue paper to create texture and fluidity, transcending traditional form.
Boulder Conversations with Extraordinary People
When: Wednesday, December 6; 5:30 – 7:30pm
Where: madelife
The Museum of Boulder and The Unseen Bean present this month’s installment of Boulder Conversations with Extraordinary People, featuring Gerry Leary, the world’s only blind coffee roaster. Blind since birth, Gerry will share experiences from his 40 years as a car mechanic, as well as speak about his path to becoming a master coffee roaster and small business owner.
When: Wednesday, December 6
Where: Mateo
It was a sad day for Boulder in 2013 when Ristorante L, formerly known as Laudisio, closed down after almost 25 years in business. Now, for one night only, Mateo is hosting an evening with chef Antonio Laudisio, serving up favorite dishes from the bygone restaurant.
TAP by Todd Pownell Trunk Show
When: Saturday, December 9 & Sunday, December 10
Where: Art + Soul Gallery
The first of Art + Soul’s trunk shows this month features the handmade jewelry of Todd Pownell. Todd’s one-of-a-kind pieces are produced using sustainable practices, and will be available for perusal and purchase all weekend.
When: Sunday, December 10; 11am – 5pm
Where: Mapleton YMCA
In case you need to do some last-minute holiday shopping, come explore the work of 100 local artists at the Boulder Holiday Gift Festival. This family-friendly event will also have live music beginning at noon.
One Big Yes Productions: The Ridiculous and the Sublime
When: Friday, December 15 – Sunday, December 17
Where: Gordon Gamm Theater
One Big Yes Productions will deliver a memorable evening of theater and dance with The Ridiculous and the Sublime. Funny, moving, and powerful, this performance features the inaugural work of Seattle choreographer Wade Madsen.
Adel Chefridi Holiday Trunk Show
When: Saturday, December 16 & Sunday, December 17
Where: Art + Soul Gallery
Art + Soul’s second trunk show exhibits the jewelry of Adel Chefridi, whose work showcases natural gemstones and solid precious metals. His designs are formed from various wax and resin molds, giving his creations a free-form, organic feel.
Hotel Boulderado New Year’s Eve 2018
When: Sunday, December 31; 8pm – 1am
Where: Hotel Boulderado
This year, ring in the New Year in style at one of the Hotel Boulderado’s NYE 2018 parties. With two themes to choose from—Casino Royale and Great Gatsby—each featuring food, live music, party favors, champagne, and more, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better way to welcome 2018.
Any of these activities would make for an excellent way to spend some time this December. Whether you’re in the mood for a holiday event or just an entertaining night out, Boulder’s the place to be.