Boulder's Holiday Gift Guide

Holiday shopping in Boulder is a little different than anywhere else. You'll meander through a historic, brick-paved downtown under twinkling lights, chatting with independent shopkeepers and local makers along the way, or take in fresh mountain views from an open-air shopping center. It sure beats powering through a mega-mall under the glare of fluorescent lights. 

Fresh-Picked Gifts

Every item in this carefully curated gift guide has a special tie to Boulder. There are made-right-here art pieces, cool Boulder-branded items, and unique experiences.

Boulder Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Gift Set ($52)

Boulder Olive Oil Company brings top-quality oils and vinegars from around the world and customizes them to Boulderites' discerning palates. With labels that depict a colorful mountain scene, this pair makes an aesthetically pleasing set. 

Where to Buy It: Boulder Olive Oil Company, 2014 Broadway

Contemporary Carved Wood Trivet ($120)

This gorgeous trivet is hand-shaped from elm or cypress by a Boulder artist and will look stunningly sculptural on your loved one's countertop.

Where to Buy It: Cedar & Hyde Mercantile, 2015 10th St, Boulder

Lemuria candles ($60)

In cozy scents tinged with cloves, pine and pumpkin, these clay-like concrete pot candles by Lemuria are hand-poured in Boulder and have a wooden wick for maximum burn time.   

Where to Buy It: Suti + Co, 2031 16th St.

Afternoon Tea ($40 and up, per person)

The clink of teacups, frilly tiers of finger sandwiches and cakes, holiday music playing in the background…afternoon tea is a timeless tradition worth sharing. There are several places to enjoy high tea in Boulder. Reservations required.

Where to Buy It: Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, Alice and Rose, Chautauqua Dining Hall or Hotel Boulderado

Mountain Blanket ($168)

This Boulder-based company, Trek Light, is on a mission to inspire happiness from America's Happiest City. Their unique, handwoven blankets feature mountain-inspired designs and are soft, comfy and sure to bring smiles to your recipient. 

Where to Buy It: Bliss, 1643 Pearl St.

E-Bike Tour ($89 and up, per person)

On an e-bike, your loved one will feel like you've given them the gift of superpowers as they zoom up hills with the greatest of ease. In our e-biking guide, find a selection of fun tours on topics ranging from Boulder's history to its vibrant murals.

Where to Buy It: Boulder Bike Tours, Electric Cruiser Bike Tours, Beyond Boulder Bike Adventures, Pedego, JD’s Joyrides or Boulder's Best Guided Ebike Tour

"Rabbits in Driveway" Book ($45)

Take a stroll through Boulder's most off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods as photographer Karen Jacot shows you the details that make Boulder...Boulder! This beautifully produced photography book makes a great display book and keepsake.

Where to Buy It: Boulder Book Store, 1107 Pearl St.

Mushroom Wood Carving ($40-230)

A delicate troop of fungi emerges from a natural log, as carved by a local Boulder artist with amazing detail. Great for any nature lover, these beauties require no watering or care and last forever. 

Where to Buy It: Paper Doll, 2021 Broadway

Ralphie Charm Bracelet ($17.50)

This bangle bracelet with CU Buffs mascot Ralphie adorning one of the charms says "Skobuffs!" in the most stylish of ways. 

Where to Buy It: Elison Rd., 1110 Pearl St.

Fiber Arts Class ($25 and up)

This fiber shop is the absolute cutest, and they have a full slate of fiber arts classes each month, from Intro to Knitting to a crocheted cardigan workshop. Give the gift of a new skill with a gift card for a class.   

Where to Buy It: Lula Faye Fiber, 2017 17th St.

Mala Beaded Necklaces ($80 and up)

Gorgeous gemstones adorn these delicate beaded necklaces. Each mala has 108 stones and can be used to "heal, protect, cleanse and manifest," according to the Boulder-makers at Radiant Malas.

Where to Buy It: Island Farm, 1122 Pearl St.

Live Radio Show Taping at eTown ($43 and up, per person)

eTown is a weekly radio broadcast heard on NPR and commercial stations. The shows are taped in front of a live audience at eTown Hall in Boulder, with performances from musicians as well as conversations about the world. Being in the audience is a peek behind the scenes (you'll see how soundcheck works and be part of the audience responses). The show draws big names like Rufus Wainwright, The Milk Carton Kids, Billy Strings and many more.

Where to Buy It: eTown Tickets

Silk Blouse ($210)

These exquisite velvet wrap tops by Studio Ora are hand-dyed with flowers gathered from the artist's own Boulder garden.  

Where to Buy It: The New Local, 741 Pearl St.

Flatirons Card ($7.25)

These frame-worthy cards by local artist Rebecca Bhanu Harris are a thoughtful depiction of Boulder that's easy to ship or get home.  

Where to Buy It: Sweet Ruckus, 607 S. Broadway

Himali Men's Jetsetter Ultra-Vent Shirt ($80)

Boulder-based Himali was founded by mountaineers Dave Schaeffer and Tendi Sherpa, who met at the base of Aconcagua. Their clothing line has made-for-the-elements gear like down puffers, mountaineering suits and this breathable, moisture-wicking travel button-down. 

Where to Buy It: Himali, 1418 Pearl

Restaurant Gift Card 

Boulder's restaurant scene is hotter than ever, with the esteemed MICHELIN Guide taking note most recently. Choose from a farm-to-table experience, a fine dining splurge that your loved one will never forget, or somewhere with views that you can only get in Boulder. 

Where to Buy: Restaurant of Your Choice

Buffalo Plush, $24.99

This CU Buffs' Ralphie-inspired stuffy gives surprisingly soft hugs. She's sure to bring cheers when found under the tree by your favorite little person.  

Where to Buy: Jackalope, 1126 Pearl 

Vinyl Record and Tote Bag (record $28 new + $5 tote)

Paradise Found is Boulder's new and used record store, with fresh vinyl arriving all the time. Might we suggest the latest by Boulder musician Gregory Alan Isakov, paired with a Boulder-themed tote bag?

Where to Buy: Paradise Found, 1646 Pearl 

Farmers Market Gift Basket ($98)

All the amazing gift baskets from Boulder in a Basket have Boulder flair and flavor. This one has delicious snacks and gourmet items you can find at the Boulder Farmers Market.

Where to Buy: Boulder in a Basket