The New Year is nearly here in Boulder, Colorado, and all of our favorite annual events are on the horizon, along with countless others. Whether you just moved to the area, or you’ve been a local longer than some CU students have been alive, you won’t want to miss a thing on this list. Pull up your calendar and get ready to save some dates.
January – Polar Plunge
When: January 1
Where: Boulder Reservoir
Are you brave enough to take the plunge? Every year on January 1st, hundreds of stalwart heroes hurl themselves into the frigid waters of the Boulder Reservoir to raise money for the American Cancer Society.
February – Boulder International Film Festival
When: February 22 – 25
Where: Boulder Theater
One of Boulder’s most anticipated events, BIFF’s annual four-day celebration of cinema features dozens of films and attracts more than 25,000 attendees each year.
March – An Evening with Glen Hansard
When: March 14
Where: Boulder Theater
Join acclaimed Irish singer/songwriter Glen Hansard for a night of captivating and moving music. Since winning an Academy Award for “Falling Slowly” in 2007, Hansard has sold out venues world-wide as both a front-man and a solo artist.
April – Boulder Arts Week
When: March 30 – April 7
Where: Various locations
This citywide celebration promotes Boulder’s vibrant arts and cultural offerings, such as First Friday, Boulder Creative Collective, the Dairy Arts Center, and more.
May – Boulder Creek Festival
When: May 26 – 28
Where: Boulder Civic Area & Central Park
Kick off summertime in Boulder with three days of food, craft beer, carnival rides, local art, live music, and then some. The Creek Fest is widely considered the city’s most beloved community event.
June – IRONMAN Boulder
When: June 10
Where: Various locations
Elite athletes from all over the world gather in Boulder to compete in the legendary IRONMAN triathlon. Ample spectating opportunities and a Pearl Street finish line make this race an exciting one for fans, too.
July – Dead & Company
When: TBA
Where: Folsom Field
For the third year in a row, the fabled Dead & Company returns to Folsom Field to deliver an experience unlike any other. Fans come together to share the love of music that spans generations.
August – Boulder International Fringe Festival
When: August 15 – 26
Where: TBA
While the Boulder Fringe produces events year-round, this 12-day performance arts festival features theater, music, dance, and more.
September – Downtown Boulder Fall Fest
When: TBA
Where: Pearl Street Mall
Welcome the arrival of autumn the best way Boulder knows how: with three whole days of music, art, food, and fun.
October – Burgundy Wine Festival
When: TBA
Where: TBA
Presented by Boulder Wine Merchant, the delectable Burgundy Wine Festival invites guests to sample rare wines at some of Boulder’s finest restaurants.
October – Month of Modern
When: TBA
Where: TBA
Celebrate art, design, architecture, and culture during Month of Modern, featuring four weeks of speakers, panel discussions, film nights, and more.
November – First Bite: Boulder County Restaurant Week
When: TBA
Where: TBA
Indulge your inner gourmand with a week of three course prix-fixe meals from over 40 of Boulder’s best restaurants. Check out this page for a taste of last year’s offerings.
December – Lights of December Parade
When: TBA
Where: Downtown Boulder
In case you missed it in 2017, this delightful holiday parade takes place each year in downtown Boulder.
With festivals, concerts, and more to look forward to each month, it’s easy to understand why Boulder continually ranks among the best places to live in the nation. Here’s to another wonderful year in our vibrant community!