The holiday season is in full swing in Boulder, Colorado! Looking for seasonal festivities or enriching events to fill your calendar? Here’s an overview of what’s happening this month.
CU Presents’ Holiday Festival
When: 12/5-7
Where: Macky Auditorium
Macky Auditorium has hosted our city’s most cherished holiday concert for over 40 years. Proudly presented by the CU Presents program, the Holiday Festival will showcase the talented choirs, orchestras, ensembles, and soloists from The College of Music in a joyful celebration of the season. You won’t want to miss it! Get your tickets here.
WinterFest at Chautauqua Park
When: 12/12-13
Where: Chautauqua Park
Each December, the historic Colorado Chautauqua hosts a lively winter celebration. This year, the festivities will take place on December 12th and 13th from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. At WinterFest, you’ll find a wide variety of activities, including carriage rides on the Chautauqua Green, a winter fairy forest in the Picnic Shelter, Santa’s Cottage, craft making, and much more. Passes are available here.
Lights of December Parade
When: 12/13
Where: Historic Downtown Boulder
If you’re looking for a classic holiday gathering, the Lights of December Parade is for you! This parade starts at 6:00 pm on the 15th at 15th and Walnut, where floats created by local businesses and community groups will parade down the streets. While you’re here, enjoy live musical performances by marching bands, beautiful twinkling lights, and even a visit from Santa Claus.
Chanukah on Pearl
When: 12/15
Where: 1300 Block of Pearl Street
The Boulder JCC and Boulder County Center for Judaism invite you to the annual Chanukah Menorah Lighting on Pearl. This lively and festive event welcomes people from all backgrounds, where you’ll enjoy live music, traditional Chanukah food, and the Menorah lighting ceremony. Advanced registration is highly recommended for an accurate headcount purposes! If you’d like to attend, register here.
Roaring 20s NYE Party
When: 12/31
Where: St Julien Hotel & Spa
St Julien is the ideal spot for New Year’s Eve festivities! On December 31st, you’re invited to welcome 2026 with a glamorous night at our city’s premier hotel. Don your best 1920s garb and soak up the live entertainment by Top Shelf 5280 as you sample tray-passed appetizers and enjoy the open premium bar. Interested in attending? Get your tickets here.
The holiday season in Boulder is truly spectacular. This December, I hope you’ll explore everything our city has to offer. Happy holidays!