The crunch of leaves underfoot, that deliciously earthy smell in the crisp air, the embrace of your favorite cozy sweater and the warmth of a hazelnut latte.... Fall is a sensory delight in so many ways, especially in Boulder, where a short hike can lead to spectacularly colorful treetop views and acclaimed chefs are eager for you to taste their favorite harvest-time dishes. If you're visiting during this season of splendor, check out these activities below.
Here are just a few ideas on where to see the fall colors in and around Boulder.
up to Nederland and you’ll hit Hwy. 72, part of the Peak-to-Peak Scenic and Historic Byway. The byway runs from Black Hawk to Estes Park and is one of the best places in Colorado to see fall colors.Boulder has seen an explosion of murals in the last two years, with at least 90 murals popping up in that timeframe. The latest round of 38 in the Street Wise Boulder series all share a theme of social justice. Check out our mural page for maps, grab a hot drink from a coffee shop and hit the streets.
Boulder has over 20 breweries and many of them serve food and are open for limited seating and have outdoor patios. Special seasonal releases are common, so check the latest tap lists for gems like Avery's Rumpkin (pumpkin-infused with rum notes) or Upslope's Pumpkin Ale.
It's also the perfect time for cider, with two fantastic options to try in Boulder: BOCO Cider and Locust Cider.
Boulder is surrounded by acres of farmland, the bounty of which supplies our acclaimed restaurants with the tastiest ingredients. You can go right to the source and shop the following Boulder County farm stands — while enjoying some amazing fall landscapes along the way.
| Explore the Boulder Farm Trail |
Sip a warm, creamy latte or maybe a hazelnut-spiced cappuccino while you relax on a coffeeshop patio and people-watch or read a book. Coffeehouse patios include Ozo Coffee on East Pearl, Alpine Modern, Caffe Sole, Beleza Coffee Bar and Amante Coffee on Baseline.
With mountain views and a canopy of changing trees, Pearl Street is a sight to see in autumn. You'll likely catch street performers, shop sidewalk sales and grab a patio seat for open-air dining on our chefs' incredible fall flavors.
Boulder's chefs are renowned for their ingenious use of ingredients readily available on Boulder County's 800+ farms. Now's the time to grab a table (outside, if that's most comfortable for you) and taste their amazing creations.
| Search Our Restaurants |
September Events | October Events | November Events
Plan your visit around a fall festival or event. Below are a few annual events to get you started, with a complete calendar available here.
Ongoing
CU Buffs Football Season
September 3-November 26, 2021
Watch the Pac-12 CU Buffs compete on beautiful Folsom Field.
Boulder Farmers Market
Every Saturday, April 3-Nov. 20, 2021 (8am-2pm)
Every Wednesday, May 5-Oct. 6, 2021 (4-8pm)
Rated the No. 1 farmers' market in the country by readers of USA Today. Come sample, shop, meet local farmers, smell the flowers, hear live music, sit by the creek and eat great food.
September
Sans Souci Festival of Dance Cinema
September 3-5, 2021
Check out a stellar selection of international dance films, along with workshops, installations and performances.
Boulder Creek Hometown Festival
September 4-6, 2021
Head downtown for entertainment, a chili cook-off, a classic car show and food and drink along the banks of Boulder Creek.
Street Wise Boulder Mural Festival
September 6-12, 2021
Marvel at large-scale murals on walls all over Boulder that have been created in the span of just a few days by talented artists from across the globe.
Downtown Boulder Fall Fest
September 10-12, 2021
This three-day autumn festival features live music, great food, local microbrews, wine and margaritas, with the added excitement of children’s activities and featuring Firefly Handmade Markets.
Firefly Handmade Market
Sept. 10-12, 2021
This exceptional craft fair featuring local artisans was named one of the best craft fairs in the country. The fall market is happening in conjunction with the Downtown Boulder Fall Fest (see above).
Oktoberfest
September 24-26, 2021
The most boisterous German festival comes to Boulder, featuring live music, entertainment, contests and tasty food. Prost!
Bluebird Music Festival
September 25-26, 2021
This is a must-see music fest featuring acts like Jeff Tweedy, Jade Bird, City and Colour, Phoffman and more at the historic Macky Auditorium.
October
First Bite: Boulder County Restaurant Week
Oct. 8-17, 2021
For one full week, more than 50 of Boulder’s top restaurants offer a special three-course, prix-fixe menu.
CU Family Weekend
October 14-17, 2021
This fall, Homecoming and Family Weekends will be combined to offer alumni, students, parents and friends more opportunities to celebrate their Buffs pride together.
Burgundy Wine Festival
Oct. 22-24, 2021
During a four-day extravaganza, guests will taste some of the rarest wines of Burgundy at some of Boulder's most highly acclaimed restaurants.
Munchkin Masquerade
October 31, 2021
Each Halloween, Downtown Boulder is invaded by tiny ghosts and goblins, dinosaurs and dragons, fairies and princes, superheroes and animals of every size for trick-or-treating along Pearl Street.
Open Studios Fall Artist Tour
October TBA, 2021
Boulder artists open their homes and studios to the public for a unique and intimate arts event that spans three weekends.
Boulder Valley Indigenous Peoples Day
October TBA, 2021
Learn about Indigenous culture through artist talks, films, discussions, panels and more.
CU Homecoming
October TBA, 2021
This fall, Homecoming and Family Weekends will be combined to offer alumni, students, parents and friends more opportunities to celebrate their Buffs pride together.
November
Switch on the Holidays
November 21, 2021
Come see the lighting of downtown in holiday lights and an appearance by Santa Claus, too.
"Nutcracker" by Boulder Ballet and Boulder Philharmonic
Nov. 26-28, 2021
Get swept up in this seasonal favorite of classic ballet, accompanied by the Boulder Philharmonic.
St. Nick on the Bricks
Friday, November 26 and Saturdays, November 27-December 18, 2021
Kids of all ages can visit with Santa at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center for free.
Snow Much Fun Light Displays
November TBD, 2021-January TBD, 2022
Thousands of twinkling lights will illuminate Boulder's Civic Area and downtown Boulder. Visit creative, themed displays, with a map to guide you.
Meet some furry friends, pick pumpkins and learn while you're having fun
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