Here it is, the BIG list of things to do in Boulder in December! Get ready for a fun-filled month of parades, festivals, handmade markets, visits with Santa, Chanukah celebrations and so much more. If you are looking for places to visit Santa near Boulder, check out our list here.
Louisville WinterSkate
Photo Courtesy Boulder Creek Events
When: Thanksgiving week ’til the end of February
Located at the Steinbaugh Pavilion in Historic Downtown Louisville WinterSkate is an old-fashioned ice skating rink complete with skate rental, concessions, and traditional holiday music. Celebrating its thirteenth year as the original outdoor ice skating rink in the community, WinterSkate presents the perfect opportunity to enjoy the winter season in a beautiful small-town setting. Louisville WinterSkate is held at the Steinbaugh Pavilion, 824 Front Street in Historic Downtown Louisville. For details, click here.
Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story
Photo Courtesy BDT Stage
When: November 3 – December 23, 2022
This holiday season, BDT Stage presents Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story. In just three short years, Buddy Holly set the music world on fire and forever changed the face and sound of rock and roll. Armed with a Fender Stratocaster guitar, his signature specs, and a charismatic blend of rockabilly swagger, Buddy explodes onto the stage in this jukebox musical fully loaded with classics “Peggy Sue,” “Oh Boy,” “That’ll Be the Day,” “Well…All Right,” “Not Fade Away” and many more with an encore that will have you on your feet and dancing in the aisles.
Friday Night Weird
Photo Courtesy Friday Night Weird
When: Every Friday night from 8:30 – 11:30 PM
Friday Night Weird is a weekly cult film series at the Boedecker Theater of the Dairy Arts Center and we’re here to make Boulder weird again by providing curated access to some the best new and classic genre films and a proper theater experience to enjoy them in. For this week’s Friday Night Weird pick, click here.
St. Nick on the Bricks • Downtown Boulder Holiday Events
Photo Courtesy Downtown Boulder
When: Friday, November 25, 2022, & Saturdays November 26 – December 24, 2022, from 11 AM – 2 PM
Head to Pearl Street where kids of all ages can visit with Santa at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center for FREE. Bring your list and a camera to capture priceless holiday memories. Find Santa at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center, 1301 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302. Another free event on our BIG list of things to do in Boulder in December!
Open Studio at Boulder Public Library’s Markerspace
Sewing Rebellion, Photo All Things Boulder
When: Every Tuesday & Wednesday from 1 PM – 7 PM
Boulder Public Library and Building 61 offer Open Studio every week, giving free access to: 3D Printers, Sewing Machines, Electronics bench, Design Laptops, Vinyl Cutter, Screen Printing Equipment and more are available for use at this time. More info here. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in December!
Erie Parade of Lights
Photo Courtesy Erie Chamber
When: December 2, 2022, from 5 – 8 PM
Erie is hosting its annual Parade of Lights, featuring local school choirs, free hayrides, and a Parade of Lights followed by visits with Santa! This event is held in Historic Downtown Erie, Briggs St & Moffat St, Erie, CO 80516. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Louisville Parade of Lights
Photo Courtesy of Louisville Chamber of Commerce
When: December 2, 2022, from 5:30 – 9 PM
Join Louisville in its annual Parade of Lights. Enjoy musical entertainment provided by local schools & churches, a living nativity, a petting zoo, and visits with Santa. The Parade begins at 7:00 PM at the south end of Main Street and ends on South Street. Enjoy live music, the living nativity, visits with Santa, carolers, ice skating, and more! This event will be held at Main St, Louisville, CO 80027. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Scrooge, A Musical
Photo Courtesy Jester’s Dinner Theatre
When: December 2 – 30, 2022, full schedule here.
Jester’s Dinner Theatre presents Scrooge, a musical version of the holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol”. Jester’s has been doing this production every Christmas for over 20 years! Don’t miss this classic. Jester’s Dinner Theatre is located at 224 Main St, Longmont, CO 80501.
Callahan Holiday Open House
Photo Courtesy Callahan House
When: December 2, 2022, from 3:30 – 7:30 PM
Come to the Historic Callahan House for the Holiday Open House to tell Santa what you want for Christmas! Parents, bring your own cameras to capture the memories. The house will be open for tours as well so you have an opportunity to enjoy the holiday decorations. The line for Santa ends at 7:30 PM. The public is welcome and admission is free. This free event will be held at the Historic Callahan House, 312 Terry St, Longmont, CO 80501.
Broomfield Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Photo Courtesy City of Broomfield
When: December 2, 2022, from 6 – 8 PM
All of Broomfield welcomes the arrival of Santa Claus at the George DiCiero City and County Building at the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy children caroling from the local schools, decorated Community Park trees, and the annual lighting of the community holiday tree by the Mayor. You can also ride the holiday wagon ride and talk to Santa. Bundle up and share in the Holiday Cheer! George DiCiero City and County Building is located at 1 Descombes Dr, Broomfield, CO 80020. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
The Nutcracker with the Longmont Symphony Orchestra
Photo Courtesy Longmont Symphony Orchestra
When: December 3 – 4, 2022, full schedule here.
This December, the curtain rises for America’s favorite ballet, The Nutcracker, brought to life by the Boulder Ballet and the Longmont Symphony. Make your plans now for this thrilling and heart-warming spectacle, all performed to Tchaikovsky’s masterful score. A holiday tradition with exciting choreography and a full, live orchestra! There will also be a sensory-friendly concert, The Gentle Nutcracker, on December 3, held to accommodate individuals with special needs and their families. This event is held at the Vance Brand Civic Auditorium, 600 E Mountain View Ave, Longmont, CO 80504.
CU Holiday Festival
Photo Courtesy CU Presents
When: December 2 – 4, 2022, full schedule here.
Delight in the twinkling lights, seasonal greenery and beautiful music at CU Boulder’s Holiday Festival, an annual tradition that’s enchanting for all ages. 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. Performance at Macky Auditorium on the CU Boulder campus. Single tickets start at $20. More information here.
Boulder Lights of December Parade • Downtown Boulder Holiday Events
Photo Courtesy Downtown Boulder
When: Saturday, December 3, 2022, from 6 – 8 PM
Head downtown for Boulder’s annual tradition, the Lights of December Parade. The parade features floats decorated by local businesses and organizations, as well as marching bands, fire engines, holiday carolers, and of course – Santa! The parade of lights is held on the Pearl Street Mall, Pearl Street, Boulder CO 80302. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Lyons Holiday Parade of Lights
When: December 3, 2022, from 6:30 – 8:30 PM
The bright glow of the holidays is once again coming to the Town of Lyons for the Lyons Holiday Parade of Lights. The parade will be filled with illuminated, colorful floats, many of which will be decorated in the theme of this year’s parade — Winter Wonderland. Live music and entertainment will follow the parade as well as a fireworks display! The Holiday Parade of Lights will be held at Sandstone Park, Lyons, CO 80540. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Charlie Brown goes to the Nutcracker
Photo Courtesy St. Julien Hotel & Spa
When: Saturdays, December 3 – December 23, 2022, from 6 – 9 PM
Jazz up your holiday season at St Julien Hotel & Spa with this complimentary performance. The show blends the music from “Charlie Brown Christmas” show, composed by Vince Guaraldi, with the jazz versions of “The Nutcracker,” written by Duke Ellington, features the Ron LeGault Trio. Curl up by the fireplace, sip a seasonal cocktail, and spread holiday cheer. See the performance at the St. Julien Hotel & Spa Great Room, 900 Walnut St, Boulder, Colorado 80302. Open to the public. No reservations are required.
Ugly Sweater 5k at Left Hand Brewing | Colorado Brewery Running Series
Photo Courtesy Left Hand Brewing Company
When: December 3, 2022, from 10 AM – 1 PM
Join the Colorado Brewery Running Series for the Ugly Sweater 5k at Left Hand Brewing on December 4th, beginning at 10 AM for a 5k-ish course that starts and ends at this awesome brewery. Weave through the surrounding area at whatever pace you like, no matter what there’s a beer waiting for you at the finish line! Be sure to wear your tackiest ugly sweater for a chance to win prizes! More info here.
Winter Market at Boulder County Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy Boulder County Farmer’s Market
When: December 3 – 4, 2022 from 9 AM – 3 PM
Winter Market is Boulder County Farmers Markets’ free, non-ticketed winter market includes over 100 Colorado local vendors selling fresh produce, specialty meats, eggs, baked goods, preserves, cheese, hot sauces, wine, prepared food, coffee, kombucha, jewelry, skincare, woodwork, home goods, and so much more. The Market will be held in the Exhibit Building at the Boulder County Fairgrounds in Longmont. To view a map of the Fairgrounds and parking lots, visit www.bouldercounty.org.
Lyons Holiday Artisan Market
When: December 3 – 4, 2022 from 10 AM -4 PM
Mark your calendars! Artisan crafters will sell their handmade wares at the Lyons Holiday Craft Bazaar. A wide variety of quality crafts, jewelry, photography, pottery, glass, and textile arts will be found at this event. What’s more, it’s a great opportunity to find unique holiday gifts and accessories. This is a Lyons tradition not to be missed! The 2021 Holiday Artisan Market will be held in the Lyons Elementary School gym and masks will be required for all in attendance. All attendees will follow current Boulder County and school district Covid-19 guidelines. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Longmont Museum Holiday Show
Photo Courtesy Longmont Museum and Cultural Center
When: December 3, 2022 at 3 PM & 7 PM
The Longmont Museum’s holiday tradition continues with the Holiday Show. Join the Longmont Museum for songs of the season and holiday cheer from some of the finest musicians and performers in the region. Featuring the Rocky Mountain Ringers, Hazel Miller & the Collective and the Klezmer Consort. Matinee ONLY: Special Santa reception with complimentary cookies and hot chocolate before matinee performance only, beginning at 3 PM. Matinee begins at 3 PM, evening performance begins at 7 PM. Longmont Museum & Cultural Center is located at 400 Quail Rd, Longmont, Colorado 80501.
Village at the Peaks Annual Tree Lighting
Photo Courtesy Village at the Peaks
When: December 3, 2022, from 4 – 7 PM
Join Village at the Peaks for some old-fashioned holiday fun at the Annual Tree Lighting Experience. The Free festivities include carriage rides, Santa and elves, photo ops, live music, Santa’s Grand Entrance, and of course, the lighting of the tree. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Artisan Holiday Craft Fair at The Museum of Boulder
Photo Courtesy Museum of Boulder
When: December 4, 2022, from 10 AM – 5 PM
Join the Museum of Boulder for a fun, festive winter day at the Artisan Holiday Craft Fair! Come support local artists and their crafts while sipping on OZO provided coffee and hot chocolate. The admission fee includes one warm beverage, a seat at our custom ornament crafting station and access to all Museum exhibits.
COLDERBolder 5K 2021
Photo Courtesy ColderBolder
Jeff and Paige Chanukah Concert
Photo Courtesy Jeff and Paige
When: December 11, 2022, at 10:30 AM
Please the Boulder JCC for an interactive musical celebration of Chanukah with Jeff and Paige! With elaborate costumes and songs, Jeff and Paige use storytelling to explore Chanukah and celebrate its many traditions. This is a family-friendly event and all ages are welcome. The Village Nosh will be at the event selling potato latkes and sufganiyot (jelly donuts). Register here.
Boulder Holiday Gift Festival
When: December 11, 2022, from 11 AM – 5 PM
The Boulder Holiday Gift Festival is Boulder’s biggest and best holiday shopping extravaganza. Featuring over 100 exhibitors, you’ll find high quality, locally made gifts. Experience a cornucopia of exhibitors selling fine arts, crafts, delectable food, home décor, and holiday gifts. This fun and unique shopping experience can be enjoyed by the whole family. Admission is free and there is a holiday concert starting at noon.
Longmont Lights Holiday Festival & Parade
Photo Courtesy City of Longmont
When: December 9 & 10, 2022, schedule of events here.
Join Longmont in its annual weekend holiday celebration, Longmont Lights! The festival begins on Friday at Roosevelt Park with Santa’s Workshop, a free craft area for kids and visits with Santa, a holiday ice show, hot cocoa carts, fire pits, live music, and hot air balloon lights. On Saturday, enjoy the Merry & Bright Parade down Main Street. For the full schedule of events, click here. Roosevelt Park & Downtown Longmont, 700 Longs Peak Ave, Longmont, CO 80501. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Friday Night Jazz at Hotel Boulderado
Photo Courtesy Hotel Boulderado
When: Fridays throughout November from 5 – 8 PM
Spend your Friday night listening to Jazz in the historic lobby of the Hotel Boulderado. Sip on refreshing cocktails and enjoy small bites with a special happy hour menu available for Jazz in the lobby.
Chautauqua Festival of Lights
Photo Courtesy Colorado Chautauqua
When: December 9 – 11, 2022, full schedule here.
Chautauqua is transformed into a glistening wonderland with the help of Colorado Christmas Lights for WinterFest 2022’s Festival of Lights! Free Activity. Meet at the Community House.
Santa Visits at The Bee Hugger
Photo Courtesy The Bee Hugger
When: December 10, 11, 17, & 18, 2022, full schedule here.
The Bee Hugger Farm is hosting Santa again this year! Visit with Santa in a simple, sweet, and vintage farm setting. Children can choose whether to hand their letter to Santa, put it in his mailbox, sit on a tractor or toy horse nearby, or climb up onto his wagon. He welcomes smiles, high-fives, hugs, shy friends, and even tears. Children and their family can take their time while they visit with him and enjoy the moment. There is also animal feeding, pony rides, Christmas trees, hot cocoa, cookies, fresh honey and more! For more info and tickets, click here.
Holiday Craft Bazaar at Junkyard Social Club
Photo Courtesy Junkyard Social Club
When: Saturday, December 10, 2022, from 1 – 5 PM
Junkyard Social Club will be hosting a Holiday Craft Bazaar, featuring arts, crafts, entertainment, & snacks! Bring the whole family and join us for a festive Saturday Open Play. Come find all of your holiday gifts from local artists and enjoy a fun Saturday at the Junkyard Social Club.
Freezie Fest • Downtown Boulder Holiday Events
Photo Courtesy Downtown Boulder
When: December 10, 2022, from 11 AM – 3 PM
Downtown Boulder is hosting the Freezie Fest, a snowman extravaganza that includes train rides, visits with Santa, carolers, and free Reindeer Games (crafts and other activities for all)! During Freezie Fest, find Freezie for a chance to win prizes! This free event will be held in Downtown Boulder. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
8th Annual St Vrain Christmas Walk
Photo Courtesy St. Vrain Christmas Walk
Break out those Christmas sweaters, and put your bells on and enjoy the 8th Annual Christmas Walk. The St. Vrain Ranch Subdivision will offer hot chocolate and apple cider as you marvel at miles of lights.
Holiday Mountain Market in Nederland
When: December 10 from 10 AM – 5 PM & December 11, 2022 from 10 AM – 4 PM
Visit Nederland’s Holiday Mountain Market, held the first weekend in December at the Nederland Community Center. In addition to photos with Santa, this annual arts and crafts festival features local mountain artists, unique gifts, festive food, a silent auction, and holiday music. Photos with Santa 12 PM – 3 PM each day. Nederland Community Center is located at 750 CO-72, Nederland, CO 80466. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
A Winter’s Eve with David Arkenstone & Friends
Photo Courtesy David Arkenstone
Join 5-time Grammy® Nominee David Arkenstone for an enchanting candlelit performance with his special friends at eTown Hall. With genre-bending compositions and uplifting melodies, David’s music has long been synonymous with the holidays, taking concertgoers on a winter odyssey, feeling right at home amongst the falling snowflakes and energy of the season. Along with songs from his classic albums Christmas Spirit, Celtic Christmas, and Christmas Lounge, David will delight us with holiday fan favorites to warm the heart and spark the holiday spirit. Tickets available here.
Superior Holiday Bazaar
When: Saturday, December 10, 2022, from 10 AM – 3 PM
The Superior Khandbari Sister City project is hosting the Superior Bazaar at the Superior Community Center (1500 Coalton Road). Vendors will feature handmade jewelry & ornaments, art prints, original acrylic paintings, crocheted baby blankets, bath products, and lotions, quilted bags, candles, note cards, handmade pottery, knit hats, food products, and much more. Additionally, there will be several Nepalese products for sale. A portion of the sales at the Superior Bazaar will benefit the Superior Khanbari Sister City Project.
Holiday Celebration at Broomfield Plaza
Photo Courtesy Broomfield Plaza
When: December 10, 2022, from 12 – 2 PM
It’s the most wonderful time of the year at Broomfield Plaza! Bring the whole family for some festive holiday cheer at the Holiday Celebration. FREE activities include carriage rides, Santa and his elves, photo ops, live music & entertainment, carolers, holiday crafts, and holiday train rides. Broomfield Plaza is located at 5015 W 120th Ave, Broomfield, CO 80020. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Santa Story Time & Brunch
Photo Courtesy Longmont Museum and Cultural Center
When: December 10, 2022, full schedule here.
Celebrate the holidays at Story Time and Brunch with Santa at Longmont Museum. We will be serving yummy food and cheer as Santa entertains your whole family with stories. Make sure to bring your holiday wish lists and a camera for this special event designed for children accompanied by an adult. (Tickets required for all attendees age 2 and older.) This event sells out; get your tickets early. Tickets here.
The Boulder Holiday Gift Festival
When: Sunday, December 11, 2022, from 11 AM – 5 PM
The 17th annual Boulder Holiday Gift Festival is Boulder’s biggest holiday market, held at the Mapleton YMCA. With over 100 local vendors, you will find an array of amazing high-quality gifts that are locally made. Admission is free, including the concert starting at noon with Kenny Lee Young.
Holiday Tea at Hotel Boulderado
Photo Courtesy Hotel Boulderado
When: Fridays & Saturdays in December, full schedule here.
Hotel Boulderado’s Tea service is offered every holiday season to guests set on the historic Mezzanine overlooking the hotel lobby. With beautiful views of the hotel’s famous renovated stained glass canopy ceiling and irresistible menus, the tea service at Hotel Boulderado will quickly become an annual tradition for you and your loved ones. More information here.
Holiday Vegan Pop-Up Market
Photo Courtesy Best One Yet
When: Saturday, December 17, 2022, from 11 AM – 3 PM
Looking for vegan gifts? Look no further! The Holiday Vegan Pop-Up Market is back at the Avalon Ballroom on December 4. Details and vendor list here.
Last Chance Gift Fest At Boulder County Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy Last Chance Gift Fest
When: Saturday, December 17 &18, 2022
The Last Chance Gift Fest is an annual Holiday shopping Extravaganza. Find the perfect gift at this Colossal Sale, featuring a vast assortment of art, crafts, toys, home decor, delicious food, unique items and much more! This Free event features over 150 of Colorado’s finest vendors offering a tremendous selection of unique holiday gifts. There is also be free live music on both days and lots of fun for all ages. Held at the Boulder County Fairgrounds.
Superior Skate with Santa
Photo Courtesy Superior Chamber of Commerce
When: Saturday, December 17, 2022, from 3 – 5 PM
It’s a Superior Holiday Tradition! Bring the whole family to the Superior Chamber’s Skate with Santa presented by Downtown Superior! Bring the whole family and enjoy some time on the ice at the Sport Stable! There will be a craft area for the little ones. Hot cocoa and cookies will be available and an opportunity to have your photo with Santa. Free event.
Free Winter Solstice Celebration at Wild Bear Nature Center
Photo Courtesy Wild Bear Nature Center
When: Sunday, December 18, 2002, from 10 AM – 5 PM
Join Wild Bear and the whole community to celebrate the beginning of winter and the slow return of the light with live music, owl guests, crafts, art demonstrations, and more at the Winter Solstice Celebration.
Chanukah on Pearl • Downtown Boulder Holiday Events
Photo Courtesy Boulder JCC
Photo Courtesy Boulder JCC
When: December 19, 2022, from 5:30 – 7 PM
The annual Menorah Lighting on Pearl Street attracts over 300 parents, children, grandparents, couples, singles, and passers-by each year, and has become a holiday ritual for numerous local Jewish families. The event features live music, Chanukah Favors, plenty of fresh sufganiot, Menorah Lighting under the stars with the Participation of Community Leaders and Dignitaries, hot chocolate, and more. This event is jointly sponsored by the Boulder County Center for Judaism, the Boulder JCC, the Boulder Jewish News, JEWISHcolorado, the Oreg Foundation, Audrey and Andy Franklin and Rhonda and Bruce Wildman. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Chanukah on Ice
Photo Courtesy Boulder JCC
When: December 22, 2022, from 4:30 – 6:30 PM
Celebrate the third night of Chanukah as a community with the Boulder JCC at Chanukah on Ice. Skate with family and friends to Chanukah music at the Winter Skate Rink in downtown Louisville. At 5:30 PM the giant menorah will be lit as a community. Participants will enjoy delicious sufganiyot (jelly donuts) and hot drinks. Co-sponsored by Boulder County Center for Judaism.
Christmas Revels: Les Temps des Fetes – French Canadian Solstice Celebration
Photo Courtesy Rocky Mountain Revels
When: December 21 – 23, 2022, full schedule here.
Celebrate the season through music, dance, and drama with the Rocky Mountain Revels. An eagerly awaited holiday tradition, The Christmas Revels returns with a show steeped in Irish music, dance, and story-telling. This spirited chorus of adults and children will capture your hearts and set the stage for the holidays! This year’s Christmas Revels will draw you into the celebration with audience sing-alongs, Mummer’s Play, and Lord of the Dance. Popular local Irish musicians and award-winning step dancers set your blood pumping and your heart singing!
