Excited for the holidays? Get ready for a fun-filled season of parades, festivals, handmade markets, visits with Santa, Chanukah celebrations and so much more! Downtown Boulder holiday events like Freezie Fest, St. Nick on the Bricks, Chanukah on Pearl, and the Boulder Lights of December Parade have returned. Here is your complete guide to over 50 holiday events in Boulder Colorado and beyond. If you are looking for places to visit Santa near Boulder, check out our list here.
Mollie McGees Holiday Market
Photo Courtesy Mollie McGee’s Craft Market
When: November 19 & 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 150 booths at each show. The market will be held at Boulder County Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Rd, Longmont, Colorado 80501.
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.
Multiple Piano Festival
Photo Courtesy Boulder Area Music Teachers Association
When: November 19, 2022 from 3 – 7 PM
Multiple Piano Festival is a very exciting event that has delighted audiences for over 25 years! 9 grand pianos, 140 performers playing duet/trio pieces in unison led by a conductor. Performances feature a wonderful variety of music, from Mozart to Movie Themes, with some holiday favorites as well. The Multiple Piano Festival will be held at Niwot High School. Check out the promo video for this event here.
Natural Highs Presents: Community Holiday Gift Market
Photo Courtesy Museum of Boulder
Support teens, mental health, and healthy alternatives to substance abuse in Boulder at the Community Holiday Gift Market at the Museum of Boulder. Learn about self-care practices for yourself and your family to help you get through the chaos of the holiday season. Come and enjoy your time with us while exploring Museum exhibits, sampling from a Yerba Mate & Herb Bar as well as a free AcuDetox station. For more information and tickets, click here.
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 Boulder holiday events list!
Estes Park Tree Lighting Ceremony
Photo Courtesy Estes Park, CO Facebook Page
When: Saturday, November 19, 2022, from 3:30 PM – 6 PM
Light up the season in Estes Park at the 10th 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 Boulder holiday events list!
Switch on the Holidays • Downtown Boulder Holiday Events
Photo Courtesy Downtown Boulder
When: Sunday, November 20, 2022, at 5 PM
Switch on the Holidays is back with the grand illumination of the Boulder County Courthouse and the Pearl Street Mall. Usher in the holidays with youth and adult members of the Boulder Ballet, Santa, Mrs. Claus and downtown’s very own Freezie the Snowman! 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 Boulder holiday events list!
Longmont Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Photo courtesy Downtown Longmont
When: November 25, 2022, from 5:30 PM – 7 PM
Join Downtown Longmont for the Longmont Tree Lighting Ceremony featuring giveaway bags, holiday music, a capella performances, hot drinks & treats, craft activities, and Santa! New location at the Library and Civic Center, 530 Kimbark St., Longmont CO 80501. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Boulder Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Photo Courtesy Boulder Ballet
When: November 25 – 27, 2021
Thanksgiving weekend, the curtain rises for America’s favorite ballet, brought to life by Boulder Ballet and the Boulder Philharmonic. 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.
Hazel Miller & The Collective Holiday Show
Photo Courtesy Hazel Miller Band
When: November 25, 2022, at 7 PM
Colorado favorite Hazel Miller, the most sought-after performer in Colorado for the past 30 years, will kick off the holiday season with arrangements of seasonal favorite tunes infused with jazz, swing, gospel, Latin and pop flavors at Hazel Miller & The Collective’s Holiday Show. Dairy Arts Center, 2590 Walnut St, Boulder, Colorado 80302.
Boulder SantaCon • Downtown Boulder Holiday Events
Photo Courtesy Boulder SantaCon
When: Friday, November 25, 2022, from 6 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 Boulder holiday events list!
Niwot’s Enchanted Evening
Photo Courtesy of Niwot
When: Friday, November 25, 2022, from 6 – 9 PM
Every year on the day after Thanksgiving, the community of Niwot officially ushers in the holiday season with Enchanted Evening. The community will light the community tree, welcome Santa to town, sing holiday carols, and enjoy the evening with our local stores and vendors ready to kick off the gift-giving in spades. Santa arrives in a horse-drawn sleigh at 6 PM. Live Musical Entertainment throughout Old Town & Cottonwood Square. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Estes Park Catch the Glow Christmas Celebration
When: November 25, 2022, from 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Each year as many as 20,000 people line Elkhorn Avenue to “Catch the Glow” of this whimsical holiday parade, as well as spend the afternoon visiting Santa and strolling through downtown Estes Park. The parade features more than 40 units, including hand-crafted floats from the Town of Estes Park and nonprofits, marching bands, fire trucks, and other specialty vehicles. This FREE event will be held in Downtown Estes Park. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer Jr. at Longmont Theater Company
Photo Courtesy Longmont Theatre Company
When: November 26 – December 11, 2021
Longmont Theater Company presents Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr., featuring all of your favorite characters including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius, and, of course, Rudolph. It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special. Don’t miss this wonderful holiday musical tradition that speaks to the misfit in all of us. All people including children must have a purchased ticket and be able to sit in a seat. Please consider bringing a pillow as a booster seat for your little one.
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 Boulder holiday events list!
Niwot Holiday Parade
Photo Courtesy Niwot, Colorado
When: November 26, 2022, from 11 AM – 1 PM
Santa returns to Niwot to join in on the Holiday Parade. The parade starts at 11:00 AM. Participants will march down 2nd Ave from Murray Street to Niwot Road. When the parade finishes Santa will be in the Grange until 1:00 PM to take the children’s Christmas gift wish list. The local business will be open with additional craft vendors in the Grange. Another free event on our Boulder holiday events list!
Centennial Ballet’s Sugar Plum Tea Party
Photo Courtesy Centennial Ballet
When: November 26 & 27, 2022, full schedule here.
Centennial State Ballet’s fundraiser, the Sugar Plum Tea Party includes a delightful afternoon of warm tea, sweet and savory edibles, and harp accompaniment as well as a souvenir photo taken with the Sugar Plum Fairy character. Centennial State Ballet invites both young and old to join them in a wonderful afternoon at the start of the holiday season. The event is the perfect introduction to the classic tale of Clara and her prince with a mini Nutcracker performance that includes interactive portions for young audience members. A Nutcracker boutique with whimsical gifts for sale will also be on display during the event.
FACE Vocal Band Holiday Shows
Photo Courtesy FACE Vocal Band
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.
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.
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!
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
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!
Boulder Holiday Events: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best holiday events in Boulder Colorado?
There are a ton of fun holiday events in Boulder and the surrounding areas including Switch on the Holidays, Freezie Fest, Chautauqua Winterfest, Boulder Lights of December Parade, Chanukah on Pearl, CU Holiday Festival, Nutcracker performances, live music, holiday markets and more.
What is there to do in Boulder at Christmas?
Boulder celebrates Christmas with annual events like: St. Nick on the Bricks, Boulder Santa House, Boulder SantaCon, Boulder Lights of December Parade and many other fun events.
What is there to do in Boulder for Hanukkah?
Boulder has several Hanukkah celebrations including: Chanukah on Pearl, Chanukah on Ice, and the Jeff and Paige Outdoor Chanukah Concert.
Are there holiday markets in Boulder?
Yes! Holiday markets begin before Thanksgiving and run through December. Popular events include: Winter Market at Boulder County Fairgrounds, Sister City Holiday Bazaar in Superior, Holiday Mountain Market in Nederland and the Lyons Holiday Artisan Market.
Where can I see a holiday parade in Boulder?
Boulder and the surrounding area have some really fun parades during the holiday season including: Boulder Lights of December Parade, the Niwot Holiday Parade, Erie Parade of Lights, Louisville Parade of Lights, Longmont Lights Parade and more.
Where are the Christmas lights in Boulder CO?
Boulder gets decked out for the holidays every year! The best place to stroll and enjoy Christmas lights is Pearl Street, but there are Christmas lights all over downtown. Colorado Chautauqua has beautiful lights display as well. The Boulder Star shines over the city throughout December.
