November in Boulder means turkey trots and fall fun and a kick-off to the holiday season! Before the month is over, the calendar will be filled with seasonal festivals, holiday markets, concerts, nights at the ballet and so much more. Here it is, the big list of things to do in Boulder in November 2022.
CU Presents Takács Quartet
Photo Courtesy CU Presents
When: October 31 – November 7, 2022
The Grammy-winning Takács Quartet has moved audiences and sold out halls at CU Boulder for more than three decades and counting. The group’s irresistible dynamic has proven time and again that the members of the Takács are “matchless, their supreme artistry manifests at every level” The Guardian (London).
Longmont Dia de los Muertos Family Celebration & Exhibition
Photo Courtesy Longmont Museum and Cultural Center
When: Exhibition daily from October 8 – November 6, 2022
The Día de los Muertos Family Celebration will open the season in downtown Longmont on October 8. This street festival will include music and dance performances, art and craft activities, cultural education, delicious food, downtown business altars, and the Fire House Art Center Gigantes Procession. Park downtown or at the Longmont Museum and take the free shuttle between locations so you can enjoy all the activities of the day. The Día de los Muertos exhibition returns to the Museum’s Swan Atrium through November 6, featuring ofrendas (altars) built by community members and the work of local artist Marcelo Fernandez.
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.
Bonnie and Taylor Sims & Sturtz
Photo Courtesy Colorado Chautauqua
When: November 3, 2022, at 8 PM
KGNU presents Bonnie and Taylor and Sturz at the Colorado Chautauqua. Tickets here.
NoBo Art District First Friday Art Walk
Photo Courtesy NoBo Art District Facebook Page
Where: Friday, November 4, 2022, from 6 PM – 9 PM
NoBo First Friday is a FREE self-guided tour of artists’ studios and creative businesses in the NoBo Art District. Meet painters, sculptors, photographers, designers and other artists along your stroll through the area. Featuring live music, demos and special activities in many locations. Located along Broadway from Pine Street to Highway 36. Follow the colorful flags to find surprises around every corner. First Friday runs from 6:00 to 9:00 pm on the first Friday of the month. Please be respectful of COVID precautions, wear a mask and keep your distance. Please note that many locations have other opening and closing times, see the map or list to check exact times. Details at NoBoArtDistrict.org Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in November!
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 November!
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.
Pearl Street Stampede
Photo Courtesy Downtown Boulder
When: November 4, 2022, at 7 PM
The Pearl Street Stampedes have become the kickoff celebration for CU home football games for over a decade. The night before each home game, hundreds of Buffs fans line the Pearl Street Mall as members of the Golden Buffalo Marching Band plays to the crowds’ delight. Members of the CU football team and coaching staff are greeted with cheers and high-fives from fans of all ages. The Stampedes are a joint collaboration between the University of Colorado, local businesses, the City of Boulder, and Downtown Boulder. Led by Stephen Tebo’s vintage 1948 fire truck, members of the Golden Buffalo Marching Band start performing at 7 p.m. on the 1300 block of Pearl Street (in front of the County Courthouse). The Stampedes move west, stopping on each block of the Pearl Street Mall To perform. More info here.
2023 Indigenous Arts Market & Festival
Photo Courtesy Creative Nations
When: November 4 – 5, 2023
Join Creative Nations for the Indigenous Arts Market and Festival at the Dairy Arts Center! Artists and community members celebrate Indigenous People’s day weekend by viewing creations from Artisans representing various indigenous communities across the United States. Creative Nations Indigenous Arts Market will feature artists’ booths, traditional/cultural dance performances, live music, a film festival, an indigenous fashion show and more. The Arts Market is free and open to the public. The Film Festival and Earth Surface People’s concert are ticketed events.
Chop Wood | Carry Water | Charge Phone
Photo Courtesy Museum of Boulder
When: November 4, 2022, from 6:30 – 9:30 PM
Eisenberg’s original brand of “Buddhist humor” blends the mundane with the philosophical – inviting listeners to sit back, relax, and laugh at ourselves. Fortunately, drinks are served on this flight. There will be a reception with a cash bar after the show. Eisenberg will share “laughorisms” from his best-selling book “Letting Go Is All We Have to Hold Onto: Mind-Altering Jokes” – and share stories that shaped his unique approach to comedy. For a taste of the Eisenberg Principles performed live, click here. For more information, click here.
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.
Upslope’s 14th Anniversary Party
Photo Courtesy Upslope Brewing Company
When: Saturday, November 5, 2022, from 2 PM – 8 PM
Join Upslope at its Flatiron Park brewery to raise a glass to 14 years at its 14th Anniversary Party! 50+ beers on tap including vintage favorites, collaboration brews, specialty styles, core beer classics, and the 10th Anniversary Ale. Live music includes SuperMagick, Jay Martin & The One Way Flight, MoonCusser, Mike Clark and more. Food trucks will be on site. Silent disco, games and local vendors too! This event is 21+. Anniversary Party held at Upslope Brewing Company, 1898 S Flatiron Ct, Boulder, Colorado 80301. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in November.
Nederland International Film Festival 2022
Photo Courtesy Nederland Film Festival
When: Saturday, November 5, 2022, from 10 AM – 10 PM
The Nederland International Film Festival features out of the ordinary and dramatically different films, we carefully curate a full program of films that make a statement and have a story to tell; past, present & out there in the future. Celebrating the visionaries of film centered around music in this special place; the independent thinkers, creatives, individualists that explore alternative cultures, life styles and visions and all the many ways that can manifest in film. The Backdoor Theatre of Nederland, Colorado is a central focus located within the Community Center. The Backdoor Theatre of Nederland is located at 243 W 4th St, Nederland, CO 80466.
Boulder Farmers Market
Photo Courtesy Boulder County Farmers Market
When: In Downtown Boulder: Saturdays, April 2 – November 19, 2022, 8 AM – 2 PM & Wednesdays, May 4 – October 5, 2022, 4 PM – 8 PM. At the Boulder County Fairgrounds in Longmont on Saturdays 8 AM – 1 PM, April 2 – November 19, 2022.
You can’t have a summer events post without the Boulder County Farmer’s Market! Offering fresh fruit, flowers, veggies, and delicious edibles, the Boulder County Farmers’ Market provides a place for locals to sell their products in a friendly, fun environment. One of the many FREE summer events in Boulder and beyond!
Virtual Boulder Star Lighting Ceremony
When: November 11, 2022 at 6 PM
The Boulder Chamber is kicking off the holiday season with a virtual community lighting of the Boulder Star on Flagstaff Mountain on November 11th. Tune in to the Boulder Chamber’s YouTube channel to commemorate this annual Boulder tradition, while honoring veterans on Veterans Day! Please note: No hiking or gathering is permitted in the area around the Boulder Star, for the protection of the environment and to follow public health recommendations.
Dairy Arts Center’s 30th Birthday Celebration
Photo Courtesy Dairy Arts Center
When: Friday, November 11, 2022, at 7 PM
Join Dairy Arts Center’s for its 30th Birthday BASH – a fun evening honoring the past, present, and future of the Dairy Arts Center! As part of our celebration of the future, we’ll recognize 30 Under 30 individuals who contribute to Colorado’s arts community in exceptional ways! Tickets include drinks, dessert, and a fun night of entertainment!
46th Annual Longmont Turkey Trot 10K & 2 Mile Run/Walk
Photo Courtesy Longmont Recreation Services
When: Saturday, November 12, 2022, from 9 AM – 12 PM
Sign up to run one of the fastest, most scenic, 10K or 2 mile courses around, the Longmont Turkey Trot! Or sign up to take an early November stroll with family and friends, and sample all of the goodies in Vendor Village after the race. Online registration available here.
Orchard Town Center Winterfest
Photo Courtesy The Orchard Town Center
When: Saturday, November 12, 2022, from 3:30 – 5:30 PM
Kick off the holidays at The Orchard’s Winterfest. Experience the magic of the season as Santa and his reindeer visit from the North Pole to light our two-story Christmas tree and take photos inside his workshop. Featuring tree lighting and live performances, free photos with Santa, a visit with Santa’s reindeer, live ice carving, letters to Santa, ornament painting with Whimsy Paint & Sip, hot chocolate + adult beverages from 3 -Margaritas and Windfall Brewing Company, and more!
Miracle on 4th Local Gift Market
Photo Courtesy Longmont Downtown Development Authority
When: Sunday, November 13, 2022, from 11 AM – 4 PM
Longmont’s local gift market Miracle on 4th is back this November! Choose local once again this holiday season and skip the box stores and shop instead from a variety of product-based Colorado businesses. Enjoy 40 Colorado artisans, makers of hand-crafted items, food, gifts, and all locally produced goods in one spot to simplify – and jump-start – your holiday shopping experience! On November 13th, more than 40 product-based vendors will be setting up shop on 4th Avenue in Downtown Longmont from 11 am – 4 pm SNOW OR SHINE! More information here.
CU Philharmonia Orchestra: Recollections of Country Life
Photo Courtesy CU Presents
When: November 14, 2022 from 7:30 – 9 PM
“Recollections on Country Life” is an alternative name given to Ludwig van Beethoven’s Sixth Symphony, but it also encompasses the entire spirit of this CU Philharmonia performance. The concert opens with Errollyn Wallen’s “Mighty River,” written in 2007. The composer describes the piece“as if the perpetual motion of the music, like water, through its sheer momentum, comes across the cries and echoes of human hearts and voices.” This will be followed by Beethoven’s most explicitly programmatic piece, Symphony No. 6, known as his “Pastorale” symphony. From orchestras, bands and choirs to jazz, world music and opera to world-class faculty and guest performances, the CU Boulder College of Music brings hundreds of stunning performances to Boulder audiences throughout the academic year. Tickets here.
FACE Vocal Band Holiday Shows
Photo Courtesy BDT Stage
When: November 28 & 29, 2022
There isn’t a better way to usher in the holiday season than a concert with Boulder’s own celebrity acappella rock band, FACE! Face is an internationally recognized vocal rock band bringing a new edge and attitude to the human voice. Using just four singers and a vocal drummer, Face creates a rock-music phenomenon that has to be seen to be believed. No instruments and no special effects -– just five guys. This show will sell out! Get your tickets early here. FACE holiday concerts will be held at – Boulder Dinner Theater, 5501 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80303.
The Last Waltz Revisited at Boulder Theater
Photo Courtesy Boulder Theater
When: November 18, 2022, at 6 PM
This year marks the 46th Anniversary of the Last Waltz and the 18th anniversary of Polytoxic’s “Last Waltz – Revisited”, and it boasts over 70 guest musicians from across Colorado, a full horn section, and over 30 songs from The Bands extensive catalog, focusing primarily on songs played at The Last Waltz. To celebrate the last 17 years, there will be special guests and additional songs from years past. In addition this year we have added a third performance, which will be our first performance in the Colorado Mountain Town of Beaver Creek, CO (Vilar Performing Arts Center). This year’s performances will be an evening with the Last Waltz – Revisited. This year if fans bring Canned Food Items for our affiliated charity, The Denver Rescue Mission, they receive a FREE Limited Edition Poster commemorating this year’s Last Waltz – Revisited. As always we will be donating the food and a portion of proceeds to the Denver Rescue Mission. Presented by 97.3 KBCO and Westword.
Jingle Bell Craft Fair
When: Saturday, November 19, 2022, from 8 AM – 3 PM
Check out the Jingle Bell Craft Fair, held at the Broomfield Community Center. The annual Craft Fair features five rooms filled with local crafters from Colorado. Santa visits from 10 a.m. until noon! Find something special for everyone on your list. The Ninth Reindeer Cafe will be open during the Craft Fair from 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. for your snacking needs. Located in the Lakeshore Room. Santa’s Cellar will be held at the Broomfield Community Center, 280 Spader Way, Broomfield, CO 80020. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in November.
Estes Park Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: Saturday, November 19, 2022, from 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Light up the season in Estes Park at the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. This event has become an Estes Park tradition with its unique characteristics and community recognition. More information here soon. The ceremony will be held at George Hix Riverside Plaza, 184 W. Elkhorn Ave, George Hix Riverside Plaza, CO. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in November.
Mollie McGees Holiday Market
Photo Courtesy Molly McGee’s Craft Market
When: Saturday, November 19 from 9 AM – 5 PM & Sunday, November 20, 2022, from 10 AM – 4 PM
Mollie McGee’s Craft Markets feature only the highest quality handcrafted items as well as a selection of unique items not found in most malls. Molly McGee’s Fall and Holiday Markets boast over 160 booths at each show. The market will be held at Boulder County Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Rd, Longmont, Colorado 80501.
Switch on the Holidays
Photo Courtesy Downtown Boulder
When: Sunday, November 20, 2022
Switch on the Holidays is back with the grand illumination of the Boulder County Courthouse and the Pearl Street Mall. This event will be held outside the Boulder County Courthouse on the Pearl Street Mall, Pearl Street, Boulder CO 80302. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in November.
Louisville WinterSkate
Photo: All Things Boulder
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.
Alpine Bank Boulder Thanksgiving Day 5K
Photo Courtesy TEAM Boulder
When: Thursday, November 24, 2022, at 9 AM
T.E.A.M. Boulder presents Alpine Bank Boulder Thanksgiving Day 5K and Kids 1K Fun Run, celebrating family and friends and the many aspects in our community that we can be thankful for. It is also a time to think about those who are less fortunate and in keeping with traditions, this event will be supporting Boulder’s Harvest of Hope Pantry with a donation from race proceeds. TEAM-Boulder is asking all participants to donate non-perishable packaged and canned foods on the morning of the event which will be passed on to Harvest of Hope Pantry. The run will be held at 2209 Central Ave, Boulder, CO 80301. Speaking of Thanksgiving, if you are looking for a local bakery for Thanksgiving dessert, check out our guide to Where to Buy Thanksgiving Pie or Cake in Boulder.
The Erie Pilgrimage Run
Photo Courtesy The Pilgrimage Run
When: November 24, 2022, at 9 AM
So you thought Thanksgiving was about Turkey, eh? We’re glad you don’t any longer! Join The Pilgrimage Run by running, walking, pushing a stroller or pulling a wagon on this great 2-mile course. The route is made up of 90% paved trails and 10% streets, making it a fantastic family event and easy for anyone to participate! Both courses are very flat and forgiving! The 4 Mile course is similar to the 2 Mile, but includes an additional out & back portion of paved trail. The run is held in downtown Erie adjacent to the Erie Library, 400 Powers St, Erie, CO 80516.
Avista Adventist Louisville Turkey Trot 5K
Photo Courtesy Louisville Turkey Trot
When: November 24, 2022, from 9 AM – 11 AM
The Avista Adventist Hospital Louisville Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot was created as a means to collect food and donations for our local food bank. As the event grew, the Louisville Turkey Trot became a public benefit corporation, which is a corporation created to generate social and public good, and to operate in a responsible and sustainable manner. Your entry and any other food donation goes to support Community Food Share, whose mission is to eliminate hunger in Boulder and Broomfield Counties through engagement, collaboration, and leadership. So register and invite friends to support a great resource for folks in the community who need our help. The Louisville Turkey Trot has helped collect over 100,000 pounds of food and donate over $15,000 to fight local hunger. The Turkey Trot will be held in Downtown Louisville, Colorado, 951 Spruce St Louisville, CO 80027.
Broomfield Turkey Day 5K & 10K
Photo Courtesy Broomfield Turkey Day 5k
When: November 24, 2022, from 9 AM – 11 AM
The Broomfield Turkey Day 5K/10K is welcoming all runners, walkers, and pumpkin pie eaters! Come on out to this local event benefiting non-profit, Broomfield FISH. The event will kick off with a half mile Kids’ Dash making this an event the whole family can be thankful for! As you’re crossing the finish line of this iconic event, all 5K/10K finishers will receive a commemorative medal. Additionally, all racers get a Winter Knit Running Hat, Souvenir Race Bib, All-you-can-eat Pumpkin Pie, Free Photos and Vendor Shopping Deals! Register today at www.BroomfieldTurkeyDay.com. This event will be held at Broomfield County Commons Park, 13200 Sheridan Boulevard, Broomfield, CO 80020.
Boulder SantaCon
Photo Courtesy Boulder SantaCon
When: Friday, November 25, 2022, from 5:30 PM-Midnight
A SantaCon is simply a gathering of people dressed as Santa. Boulder SantaCon will release more details soon. SantaCon is held in downtown Boulder. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in November.
Boulder Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Photo Courtesy Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra
When: November 25 – 27, 2022
Thanksgiving weekend, the curtain rises for America’s favorite ballet, brought to life by Boulder Ballet and the Boulder Philharmonic (November 26 – 28). Make your plans now for this thrilling and heartwarming spectacle, all performed to Tchaikovsky’s masterful score. This is always a popular event on our list of things to do in Boulder in November. The Nutcracker will be performed at Macky Auditorium, 1595 Pleasant St, Boulder, Colorado 80309. More info here.
St. Nick on the Bricks
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 list of things to do in Boulder in November.
