Our growing city consistently hosts exciting events at a variety of locations around town. Live music lovers and comedy enthusiasts don’t have to travel far to experience original performances from local artists. This fall, step out of the ordinary and spice up the week by attending an open mic night at any one of downtown Boulder’s beloved venues. Here are our favorite open mic nights around town.
License No. 1
When: Monday nights, 7:30 pm
This historic Boulder bar, located beneath Hotel Boulderado, is famous for its prohibition-era success. License No. 1 has long been pouring tasty craft cocktails and frothy beers in the basement and remains a lively watering hole for locals and tourists alike. Now, this underground bar boasts a plethora of events, including a renowned open mic night each Monday. From jazz to hip hop to folk, there’s no shortage of musicians stopping by to entertain. Come by to see some of Boulder’s best flex their pipes in this tucked away locale.
Oskar Blues Boulder Taproom
When: Tuesday nights, 7:30 – 9:30 pm
Join Danny Shafer as he hosts open mic night each Tuesday at this treasured Pearl Street taproom. As one of the longest-running open mic nights in Boulder, this stage always draws talented local musicians, from novices to professionals. See newcomers and long-tenured acts each Tuesday at Oskar Blues Boulder Taproom.
Outback Saloon
When: Thursday nights, 8:00 pm
Each Thursday, this local watering hole opens its doors to bands from around Boulder, providing a full set-up. Outback Saloon welcomes all musical genres, which gives patrons the chance to hear anything from country music to hip-hop. Musicians and live music lovers will enjoy this ever-changing open mic night.
The Tune Up
When: Saturday, 6:30 pm
This celebrated Pearl Street bike shop is also widely recognized for its lively espresso counter and full-service bar. The low-key, sports-oriented atmosphere attracts cycling enthusiasts from around Boulder and gives them a comfortable space to catch up over a pint, or toast to a successful ride. Saturday nights welcome local comedians and invite them to the stage to perform their most belly-busting routines. If you’re in need of a laugh, look no further than this treasured comedy open mic night.
The Attic Bar and Bistro
When: Tuesday nights, 8:30 – 11:00 pm
This upstairs bar is a favorite among local musicians because of its welcoming atmosphere. Musicians take the stage starting at 8:30, where they are each given the chance to perform for fifteen minutes. Tables are set up in a family-style orientation to help encourage artists and fans to connect while listening to some sweet tunes.
Aspiring musicians and comedians can dip their toes into the entertainment industry at any of these nearby open mic nights and engage with fellow music lovers. Shake up a typical night on the town by attending any of these open mic nights and you may discover your next favorite artist.