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
Mid-November through mid-January
Hundreds of thousands of colorful LED lights adorn Boulder’s Civic Area near the Boulder Public Library. Grab a cup of hot cocoa on nearby Pearl Street and enjoy a wonder-filled stroll outside.
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
November TBD, 2026
Each year, Warren Miller kicks off winter with a new, groundbreaking ski film in Boulder.
CU Buffs Football Season
August-November, 2026
Watch the CU Buffs compete on beautiful Folsom Field.
Switch on the Holidays
November TBD, 2026
The festivities begin at 11am with the Downtown Boulder Cookie Crawl — get a jump on your local holiday shopping and enjoy delicious treats along the way. The switch that illuminates lights along the Pearl Street Mall flips on at 5pm, followed by performances by Boulder Ballet and Boulder Chorale, and free visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center until 7pm.
St. Nick on the Bricks
Dates TBD
Kids of all ages can visit with Santa at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center for free.
Fresh Air Friday
November 27, 2026
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 28, 2026
Shop great deals at small businesses throughout Boulder.
December
CU Presents Holiday Festival
December 4-6, 2026
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.
St. Nick on the Bricks
Dates TBD
Kids of all ages can visit with Santa at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center for free.
WinterFest at Colorado Chautauqua
December TBD, 2026
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.
Lights of December Parade
December TBD, 2026
Marching bands, floats, fire engines, holiday carolers and more. The grand finale includes an appearance by Santa Claus himself.
Chanukah on Pearl
December TBD, 2026
Join the Boulder Jewish Community Center and the Boulder County Center for Judaism for the community Menorah lighting on the 1300 block of Pearl Street Mall. This annual, all-ages, outdoor event is open to the entire community and has become a fun holiday tradition for many local families.
Jingle Jam at Roots Music Project
December TBD, 2026
Bluegrass, Americana and country musicians celebrate the spirit of the season. All ticket sales support Sister Carmen, assisting residents of Lafayette, Louisville, Superior and Erie who are in need.
New Year’s Eve Party at License No. 1
December 31, 2026
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, 2026
Live music, balloon drops, champagne toast, dessert station, cocktail bars and more!
January
First Day Hikes
January 1, 2027
Start the year off right with a fresh-air hike.
Sundance Film Festival
January 21-31, 2027
The 2027 Sundance Film Festival brings eleven days of acclaimed screenings, filmmaker talks and special events to venues across Boulder.
February and March
Flatiron Freddy: A Groundhog Day Tradition
February 2, 2027
Meet the famous Flatiron Freddy and find out his prediction for the year. Freddy has historically appeared in many amazing ways, including by canoe, fire engine, bobsled, skis and even zip line. Event is held in person at the Chautauqua Ranger Cottage and available virtually through a livestream.
Subaru WinterFest
March TBD, 2027
A one-of-a-kind music and mountain lifestyle tour for skiers, snowboarders, music fans and dog-lovers. Listen to tunes, demo gear and mingle on the mountain at Eldora Mountain Resort.
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