1. Opt Outside
Hiking in Boulder is great any day of the year, including all through winter (especially on these 5 great winter trails). You likely won't even need snowshoes — just a pair of boots and maybe ice cleats (Yaktrax or similar) if it's icy. The city offers free, guided nature hikes where you can discover winter birds, snowflakes and animal tracks in the snow. Most of the trails are located no more than five minutes from downtown.
Keep an eye on the weather and be prepared for quickly changing conditions. You'll need sunscreen (yep, even in winter), plenty of water, snacks and a few extra layers of clothing.
2. Fuel Up With an Unforgettable Meal
You don't draw MICHELIN Guide accolades or earn the title of America's Foodiest Town (Bon Appétit) without having some of the country's best chefs turning out incredible dishes, starring flavorful local ingredients. Come indulge at dozens of acclaimed restaurants.
3. Ski Like a Local
An easy, 30-minute drive from downtown Boulder, Eldora Mountain Resort offers snowboarding, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Eldora has a laid-back local vibe with enough skiing and riding for skiers and boarders of all levels. (Read about it in the LA Times!) Both Ski and Skiing magazines are based in Boulder, as is Warren Miller's famed ski film production company. So yes, we love to ski!
Please use caution when driving mountain roads. It's best to download a map before you leave in case you go into areas with no cell coverage. In winter, ensure you have snow tires or chains. And if you need to take a moment to enjoy the scenery or consult your map, pull over in a safe, out-of-the-way spot.
4. Have a Spirit-Warming Brew
Boulder has been a craft brewing capital for decades. Cozy up to some hearty winter fare, paired with the perfect brew, at Boulder's breweries.
Croissants at Dry Storage
6. Discover a Cheery Winter Event
See below for winter's greatest hits and visit our full, searchable event calendar for more ideas.
Winterlong Events
Snow Much Fun Light Displays
TBA, 2024-25
Explore holiday lights both real and virtual in downtown Boulder this season. Check out holiday lights near the library and take a self-guided, augmented-reality tour throughout the district. Meet a snowman, an orca, polar bears and more as you scan QR codes and journey from the East End, the Pearl Street Mall, and the West End all the way to the Civic Area and library. Take selfies and use Instagram filters as you follow this winter wonderland trail. Free!
CU Men's Basketball and CU Women's Basketball (Through March)
Watch the Buffs stampede the court at the Coors Events Center on CU's campus.
November
Warren Miller Film Premiere
TBA, 2024
Each year, Warren Miller kicks off winter with a new, groundbreaking ski film in Boulder.
CU Buffs Football Season
August 29-November 29, 2024
Watch the CU Buffs compete on beautiful Folsom Field.
Switch on the Holidays
November 24, 2024
Come see the lighting of downtown in holiday lights and an appearance by Santa Claus, too.
St. Nick on the Bricks
Friday, November 29, and Saturdays, November 20-December 21, 2024
Kids of all ages can visit with Santa at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center for free.
Fresh Air Friday
November 29, 2024
Free access to all 41 Colorado state parks on Fresh Air Friday, including Eldorado Canyon State Park, just 15 minutes from Boulder.
Small Business Saturday
November 30, 2024
Shop great deals at small businesses throughout Boulder.
December
St. Nick on the Bricks
Friday, November 29, and Saturdays, November 20-December 21, 2024
Kids of all ages can visit with Santa at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center for free.
Lights of December Parade
December 7, 2024
Marching bands, floats, fire engines, holiday carolers and more. The grand finale includes an appearance by Santa Claus himself.
CU Presents Holiday Festival
TBA, 2024
The decades-old celebration brings together student choirs, bands and orchestras — along with world-class faculty performers — for a concert of holiday favorites and new surprises.
WinterFest at Colorado Chautauqua
December 5-7, 2024
Each year, at the foot of the Flatirons, the Colorado Chautauqua hosts a classic winter celebration. Enjoy carriage rides, Santa's cottage, historic cottage tours, a family holiday concert with Jeff and Paige, a guided caroling hike and much more.
Freezie Fest
December 14, 2024
Hunt for little stuffed snowmen hidden inside participating shops and you could win big prizes! Plus, enjoy visits with Santa, train rides on the Snowflake Express and loads of holiday crafts and activities along the Pearl Street Mall.
New Year’s Eve Party at License No. 1
December 31, 2024
Ring in the New Year at Hotel Boulderado's speakeasy-style bar starting at 8pm. Dress to impress and enjoy live music, champagne toast and late-night bites.
New Year's Eve Party at St. Julien Hotel
December 31, 2024
Live music, balloon drops, champagne toast, dessert station, cocktail bars and more!
January
First Day Hikes
January 1, 2025
Start the year off right with a fresh-air hike.
February and March
Black Movement Festival
TBA, 2025
Black Movement Festival, presented by Jarrett Rashad Dance Theater in collaboration with the Dairy Art Center and Boulder Ballet, is a celebration of Black History Month. Experience performances by Black artists and speakers, and take classes in visual arts, dance, film, holistic lifestyle, history and more.
Winter Craft Beer Festival
TBA, 2025
A great beer-tasting event at Balch Fieldhouse at Folsom Field, right when you need it: mid-winter!
Boulder International Film Festival
March 13-16, 2025
Films and filmmakers from around the world come to Boulder for a four-day celebration of the art of cinema.
Theater and Classical Music Season
Boulder's theater and orchestra seasons are in full swing in winter. Check out the performing arts listings here.
More Ideas for You
5 Winter Hikes
Rest assured, Boulder's weather is mild — the temperatures are moderate and often there isn't a lot…
Boulder Event Calendar
See what's happening during your visit