October is here! Boulder’s calendar is bursting with fall festivals, pumpkin patches, Halloween parades, costume contests, concerts and so much more! Scroll down to discover 40+ fun and festive events happening in the Boulder area in October 2021. Looking for something to do in Boulder today? Check out our new events calendar!
Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch
Photo Courtesy Rock Creek Farm
Visiting local pumpkin patches is one of our favorite things to do in Boulder in October! Check out this article listing the best pumpkin patches near Boulder. The list includes an interactive map as well as detailed descriptions of each pumpkin patch and their fall festivities.
Benefit Colorado Chautauqua + Cal-Wood Education Center
Photo Courtesy Colorado Chautauqua
When: September 10 – October 17, 2021
Colorado Chautauqua will be hosting a special Art In The Park exhibit and auction September 10-October 17 to help raise funds for Colorado Chautauqua and Cal-Wood Education Center’s fire protection and recovery efforts. Cal-Wood has offered environmental education to hundreds of thousands of Front Range schoolchildren over the years, as well as offering Latino Family Camps for 38 years. Their staff and volunteers built 35 beautiful benches after sourcing and milling lumber from their trees burned in the Cal-Wood Fire. Local artists have been selected to add their creative touches to the benches to make works of art for all to enjoy. The benches will be auctioned off and the proceeds will benefit the artists, Chautauqua’s critical wildfire mitigation efforts and Cal-Wood’s extensive wildfire recovery campaign.
Avenue Q at BDT Stage
Photo Courtesy BDT Stage
When: August 13 – October 17, 2021
Looking for a break from the straight and narrow path of the Broadway classics? Need to reboot your theatre habit slightly off-kilter? Well, look no further! Avenue Q is part flesh, part felt and packed with heart – all the ingredients needed to create a laugh out loud musical comedy featuring puppets! Yes, PUPPETS! Bring your husband, bring your wife, bring your sister, bring your friends – but leave your younger kids at home with a sitter because this show is full of mature content. Tickets $65+, available here.
Anderson Farms Fall Festival
Barrel Train, Fall Festival at Anderson Farms
When: September 22 – October 31, 2021
Anderson Farms is hosting its annual Fall Festival, complete with a pumpkin patch, hayrides and so much more! Admission includes a ton of fun activities such as Colorado’s longest-running 30-acre corn maze, hayride to the pumpkin patch, pumpkin launching, mine cars, barrel train, farm animals, farm lights and more. Click here for a full list of activities. For those who enjoy a fright, after dark Anderson Farms hosts Zombie Paintball Hunt, a unique paintball experience where you shoot zombies throughout the cornfield while riding on a zombie wagon or check out Terror in the Corn, Anderson Farms’ haunted hayride, cornfield & ghost town experience. Pricing: Admission to Fall Festival – Monday – Thursday, $15, Friday, Saturday & Sunday $23. Kids 3 & Under are FREE. Tickets available here. Pricing for Terror in the Corn and Zombie Paintball Hunt here. Anderson Farms is located at 6728 County Rd 3 1/4, Erie, CO 80516.
Wall to Wall Boulder eBike Tour
When: Throughout the fall, book a time here.
On the Wall To Wall Boulder eBike Mural Ride you’ll see dozens of murals and other sights/sites while touring Boulder in fine style and ease on a Rad Power Bike. Your guide, Joel (JD), is a long-time local with a passion for Boulder, art and showing people a good time on two wheels. The leisurely 2 & 3 hour rides (your choice!) covers 10-20(ish) miles (eBikes make it easy!) and uses murals as our map to an insider’s view of what Boulder’s about. Through the prism of street art, you’ll learn a little something about this magical town that you won’t read in the guidebooks. The Wall To Wall Boulder eBike Mural Ride includes Rad Power Bike, helmet, water and snacks — and a real good time. 2 hour rides $72, 3 hour rides $89. More information here.
Dracula: The Death of Nosferatu
Photo Courtesy Arts in the Park
When: Throughout October, Complete Dates Here.
The Gothic classic, Dracula: The Death of Nosferatu, tells the complete story of the romantic monster from the Carpathian Mountains near the Borgo Pass. The action is continuous and the excitement is nonstop after Van Helsing’s entrance at the opening. The old professor has come to the aid of his friend and student, Dr. Seward, at Whitby Asylum in England. Mina Murray is suffering from a mysterious ailment which threatens to postpone her marriage to Jonathan Harker. Van Helsing has come fresh from scientific detective work in London investigating a frighteningly similar case. Very soon the beast joins them, and he is most serious about his plans for Mina. But the unholy vampire has met his final match in Van Helsing and friends.
Longmont Dia de los Muertos Family Celebration & Exhibition
Photo Courtesy Longmont Museum and Cultural Center
When: October 9 – November 7, 2021
This year, the Día de los Muertos Family Celebration will open the season in downtown Longmont! We are bringing back the street festival, including music and dance performances, arts and craft activities, cultural education, delicious food, downtown business altars, and the Gigantes Procession. Día de los Muertos exhibitions at both the Longmont Museum and Firehouse will also be open and free. Park downtown or at the Longmont Museum and take the free shuttle between locations so you can enjoy all the activities of the day. Family Fiesta will be held in Downtown Longmont at 4th Avenue & Main Street. Gigantes Procession will be held from 6–6:30 pm. This event is free. The Día de los Muertos Exhibition returns to the Longmont Museum’s Swan Atrium this fall featuring ofrendas (altars) built by community members and the work of Longmont artist, Mario Olvera. Olvera’s artistic lens has become an inseparable part of both his professional and personal life, beautifully woven into his endeavors as a visual artist, educator, youth mentor, Aztec dancer, and father. Using art as a vessel to foster self-acceptance and respect among marginalized populations, Mario has become an influential teacher in Longmont and the surrounding region.
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 October!
Youth Center Pop-up at Roger’s Grove
Photo Courtesy City of Longmont
When: Tuesdays in October from 3:30 – 5:30 PM
Every Tuesday in October, a Youth Center pop-up will be at Roger’s Grove from 3:30-5:30 pm. Pop-ups bring youth center activities for middle- and high-school aged students to neighborhood and community parks. Activities will include a variety of crafts and sports, food, team-building exercises and opportunities to develop life and social skills. Families interested in receiving additional details and updates about upcoming Youth Center events can subscribe via text by sending the word “fun” to (833) 436-1350. Updates will also be posted at facebook.com/longmontyouthcenter. For more information, please visit bit.ly/cyflongmont or call the Youth Center at 303-651-8580.
Boulder County Farmers Markets
Photo Courtesy Boulder County Farmer’s Market
When: In Downtown Boulder on 13th& Canyon Blvd every Saturday from 8 AM – 2 PM & every Wednesday from 4 PM – 8 PM; In Longmont every Saturday at the Boulder County Fairgrounds from 8 AM – 1 PM.
Boulder County Farmers Markets are running a little differently, but they are still a great place to source local foods. Read through BCFM’s safety precautions to help you plan your market experience during these times, or to make a shopping reservation. You can find that information here.
Growing Gardens Farm Stand
Photo Courtesy Growing Gardens
When: Wednesdays throughout September & October from 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Join Growing Gardens every Wednesday at the Farm Stand! There will be a variety of items for sale from beautiful organically grown produce from our farm to tasty good for our local purveyors. More information here.
Paws in the Park
Photo Courtesy Longmont Humane Society
When: October 1 – 10, 2021
Help support the work of Longmont Humane Society and walk, run, stroll or hike for the animals, October 1 – 10! Multiple registration and fundraising categories to suit various interests. First 200 registrants will receive a Paws in the Park 2021 t-shirt and a goody-bag full of fun tricks and treats. Help us reach our goal of raising $30,000 toward our mission of caring, serving and educating to improve the lives of companion animals. Purchase tickets, learn more about how to show your support through collecting pledges as an individual or team participant and find information about joining us as a virtual vendor by visiting our event website link below. Don’t forget, you can also donate to your favorite fundraising team or individual! *Event update! Paws in the Park has gone virtual, more info here.
NoBo First Friday
Photo Courtesy NoBo Art District
When: Friday, October 1, 2021 from 6 – 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 October!
WOW! On Tap
Photo Courtesy WOW! Children’s Museum
When: October 1, 2021 from 6 – 9 PM
Join WOW! Children’s Museum for a memorable night of fun and festivities celebrating WOW!’s 25th birthday. The annual WOW! On Tap fundraising event will be held on Friday, October 1st 6-9pm. The event will feature live music, food and wine tastings, a silent auction, games and more! Tickets here.
Pearl Street Stampede
Photo Courtesy Downtown Boulder
When: October 1 & 15, 2021 from 7 – 9 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 moves west, stopping on each block of the Pearl Street Mall To perform. More info here. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
Boulder Ballet Fall Concert
Photo Courtesy Boulder Ballet
When: October 1 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Boulder Ballet’s Opening Performance of the 2021/22 Season will explore the wide range of creative styles by today’s foremost choreographers. From American modern dance in Paul Taylor’s mesmerizing Airs to Christopher Wheeldon’s intricate partnering work in The American, Boulder Ballet continues to challenge limitations and boundaries in artwork. Don’t miss the company premiere of renowned choreographer Amy Seiwert’s The Devil Ties My Tongue in this fantastic fall program. Join Boulder Ballet on October 1st at Chautauqua Auditorium to kick off the season!
CU Boulder Theatre & Dance’s Climate Cabaret
Photo Courtesy CU Presents
When: September 30 – October 3, schedule here.
Enacting climate is in the spotlight. CU Theatre & Dance partners with Climate Change Theatre Action 2021 in New York City to produce ten brief climate plays by authors from around the world interspersed with fun Cabaret-style musical numbers. Humor, passion and imagination are put to work envisioning an equitable, survivable and thriving future for all life and the ecosystems upon which life depends. The Climate Cabaret is a joint production between the CU Boulder Department of Theatre & Dance and Climate Change Theatre Action 2021 in New York City.
Golden Cemetery Tour 2021
Photo Courtesy Golden History Museum & Park
Visit the graves of legendary Golden characters during the Golden Cemetery Tour. Hear stories about their lives from famous storyteller, Dennis Potter, Museum volunteer since 2008 and retired Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department Captain. Tours begin and end at the Golden Cemetery. This program sells out every year, so get your tickets early. This is a rain-or-shine event; weather will not force a cancellation. Tickets here.
Estes Park Elk Fest
When: October 2 – 3, 2021
To celebrate the annual elk rut and learn about the “wapiti,” the Native American name for elk, Estes Park hosts the annual Elk Fest in Bond Park. The free festival features bugling contests, elk exhibits, the Rocky Mountain Raptor Program, elk seminars, elk-inspired arts and crafts, live music, dancing and storytelling, a children’s area with elk-themed activities, and a craft beer garden. For safe & respectful elk viewing tips, please visit Estes Park’s Wildlife Watching page. Vendors will display artwork, handmade elk-ivory jewelry, and food trucks will be on site. Elk Fest is held at Bond Park. The event is FREE.
Erie Miner’s Blast
When: October 2, 2021 from 12 – 4 PM
The Town of Erie‘s Miner’s Blast features activities for the children, more crafts, more “treasures”, more equipment for Touch-A-Truck! Kids will enjoy jumping in the inflatables, riding the hayride, gdecorating pumpkins and much more. Free pumpkins for the first 1,000 children. In addition to fun kids activities, adults will love the seasonal food vendors and beer garden. Erie Miner’s Blast is held at Coal Creek Park, 575 Kattell Street, Erie. Admission is $10/child 3 years+. Adults are FREE.
Fall Fest at YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park
Photo Courtesy YMCA of the Rockies
When: October 2, 2021 from 1 – 4:30 PM
Celebrate the fall season with traditional autumn activities! Enjoy pumpkin painting and crafts, make pinecone bird feeders, hay rides to view the fall foliage and a delicious caramel apple bar. Gather the family for a fun afternoon of live music by Cowboy Brad from 2:00 – 3:00 pm and line dancing from 3:30 – 4:30 pm!
Modern Makers Market
Photo Courtesy Orchard Town Center
When: October 2, 2021 from 12 – 7 PM
Fall in love with all things handmade at The Orchard’s first Modern Makers Market by Firsthand. We’re bringing together an amazing collection of local artisans, crafters and fine artists to showcase and sell their work in a lively atmosphere of art, music and shopping! Join in on the fun with 40 different vendors on Town Center Drive from 12-7pm on October 2nd.
Autumn’s Soiree at Metacarbon Organic Farm
Photo Courtesy Metacarbon Organic Farm
When: October 2, 2021 from 2 – 9:30 PM
Metacarbon Organic Farm is hosting the Autumn Soiree, a three course meal and a day of fun! Zach, who graduated the Institute of Culinary Education based in NYC in 2010, went on to work in prominent restaurants on the NJ shore and NYC. He’s here to bring the comfort of east coast Italian food with a flair of fine dining to the mountains with a locally resourced 3 course meal. (Vegetarian Friendly) to top the night off with a full belly. Musicians include Pioneer Mother, Danny Evans and Cory Simmons. More info and tickets here.
Catrina Painting Days
Photo Courtesy Firehouse Art Center
When: October 2, 2021 from 5 – 8 PM
Join Firehouse Art Center to create your own Catrina! The term Catrina refers to the Calavera Catrina – a 1910–1913 zinc etching by the Mexican printmaker, cartoon illustrator and lithographer José Guadalupe Posada. She is offered as a satirical portrait of those Mexican natives who, Posada felt, were aspiring to adopt European aristocratic traditions in the pre-revolution era. La Catrina has become an icon of the Mexican Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. For more information, click here.
Golden’s Autumn Fest
Photo Courtesy Golden History Museum
When: October 3, 2021 from 11 AM – 4 PM
Golden History Museum & Park is hosting its first Autumn Fest to celebrate all of the things that make Golden a bright and shining community. Rush down to the Golden History Museum (923 10th St.) from 11 – 4 for a packed afternoon of fun, proudly sponsored by Golden Kids Dental and Orthodontics. Free family activities include incredible chalk art, hourly puppet shows (plus hands-on stations to make your own show), make-your-own-bubbles station, silent movie viewing, 4-H petting zoo, craft stations, BIG TRUCK demo (Streets, Fire, and Police Departments), costumed Civil War interpretation, Westernaires pony rides ($3 per ride), CODA Brewing Company beer garden and more. Held at Golden History Park, admission is free.
Growing Gardens Community Harvest Festival
Photo Courtesy Growing Gardens
When: October 6, 2021 from 4 – 7 PM
Join Growing Gardens for its FREE fall celebration at the urban farm! Featuring fun activities like pumpkin and face painting, lawn games, dairy goats and more. A bluegrass band will be performing while you enjoy delicious food from local food trucks and grab a drink from the Biergarten. There will also be pumpkins, fall perennials, and Long’s Gardens Iris bulbs for sale! Walk, bus, bike, or carpool and be entered to win an alternative transportation prize. No dogs at this event, please, they might scare the goats. This is a free event with a suggested donation of $5-$10/family. Rain Date: October 13th. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
Joni Mitchell “Blue” tribute concert with Katie Boeck
Photo Courtesy Dairy Arts Center
When: October 6, 2021 from 7:30 – 9 PM
In June of 1971 Joni Mitchell released what would go on to be her most beloved work, the now legendary album “Blue”. A deeply honest and vulnerable collection of songs, Blue has been the soundtrack to the lives of so many throughout the past 5 decades as they’ve navigated their own tumultuous relationships, joys and sorrows, or as Joni put it, “love so naughty it makes you weak in the knees.” In celebration of 50 years since its release, Broadway songstress Katie Boeck (Voice of Wendla in the Tony-Nominated Revival of Spring Awakening, The Newsroom), is playing and singing the album from start to finish, offering a chance to hear the songs as performed on the record, honoring their original arrangements while interpreting them through her own musical lens and connecting the themes to her own life. From the lonely roads of “All I Want” to the winds of Africa in “Carey” and the “Acid, booze and ass” of the titular track, Katie’s voice echoes the soaring emotional range, playful textures and haunting hues of Joni’s “Blue” in a way that few can emulate. The show features Katie on Piano, Guitar and Dulcimer, Michael Gannon (Guitar, Vocals), Chris Benelli (Percussion), and Makenna Hartlin (Background Vocals). ($25 adult, $23 member). Presented by Dairy Arts Center.
Boulder Contemporary Dance Festival
Photo Courtesy Cindy Brandle Dance Company
When: October 8, 2021 at 7:30 PM
Cindy Brandle Dance Company is thrilled to produce the 5th annual Boulder Contemporary Dance Festival where giving space to the participating artists is what it’s all about! This year Boulder Contemporary Dance Festival is proud to announce the amazing artists: Evolving Doors Dance, VisKosity Dance Collective, jk-co, Moraporvida Contemporary Dance, Industrial Dance Alliance, Nosilla Dance Project, Nu-World Contemporary Danse Theatre and Cindy Brandle Dance Company. You won’t want to miss this collection of beautiful artists for a 1-night-only event!! Tickets available now! https://thedairy.org/…/cbdc-presents-boulder…/.
[un]WRAP: Emerging Global Citizenship in Transcultural Fusion Dance
Photo Courtesy CU Presents
When: October 8 – October 10, 2021
What might global citizenship look like in the dancing body? Tune in from home for a virtual conversation that transcends the spoken word with unWRAP: Emerging Global Citizenship in Transcultural Fusion Dance. Showcasing dance submissions from across the globe, this season’s [un]WRAP embraces Transcultural Fusion Dance (TcFD) to imagine what fair trade cultural exchange should look like. These works ask what it means to let nation-state boundaries fall away and be part of a deliberately and thoughtfully blended global family. Featuring a week of interactive symposiums that culminate in a streamed, virtual performance, [un]WRAP invites audiences to lean in and engage with the ever-evolving landscape of dance. Please note: CU Dance performances contain rigorous research and artistic experimentation. If artists determine specific content warnings are appropriate for the works that are currently in development, this information will be relayed as soon as possible.
Pumpkin Pie Days: Vintage & Antique Market
Photo Courtesy St. Vrain Historical Society
When: October 9, 2021 from 8 AM – 5 PM
Pumpkin Pie Days: Vintage & Antique Market will be held at the Boulder County Fairgrounds. The market features high-end dealers and collectors of furniture, books, primitives, décor, toys, fine jewelry, costume jewelry, vintage clothing, plus much, much more! The show also includes glass grinder, bake sale, and art show. Admissions and café sales benefit The St. Vrain Historical Society‘s mission of historic preservation and education in the community. Admission $5. Pumpkin Pie Days is held at Boulder County Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Rd, Longmont, CO 80501.
Boulder Walk to End Alzheimer’s
Photo Courtesy Boulder Walk to End Alzheimer’s
When: October 9, 2021 from 9 AM – 12 PM
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease! When you participate in Walk, your fundraising dollars fuel our mission, and your participation in the event helps to change the level of Alzheimer’s awareness in your community. Register here.
Creative Nations presents Indigenous Peoples Day Weekend Art Market & More
Photo Courtesy Creative Nations
When: October 9 – 11, 2021 from 9 AM – 6 PM
Creative Nations presents an Indigenous Peoples’ Day Weekend filled with multiple events the weekend leading up to Indigenous Peoples’ Day. We will be having an arts market on October 9-10th from 9am – 6pm each day, traditional dance performances throughout the weekend, a concert by Navajo Blues Rock musician, Levi Platero, a Native American fashion show featuring Red Berry Woman and Aconav, Indigenous food booth with traditional foods from Beanie’s Native Foods (Seneca), Indigenous film festival, plus more! Come check it out and support Indigenous artisans across all genres and share in the spirit of Indigenous Peoples’ Day!
Fall Harvest at Sandstone Ranch
When: October 9, 2021 from 10 AM – 1 PM
Enjoy pumpkin painting, crafts, games, music and more from 10am – 1pm, Saturday, October 9 at the Sandstone Ranch Visitors & Learning Center’ Fall Harvest. Fun for all ages! Bring a snack, sunscreen & bug repellent. Please carpool, and use the upper parking lot if possible. Accessible parking near house. $3/person, $10/family suggested donation, collected at event.
Pumpkins & Pilsners
When: October 9, 2021 from 11 AM – 6 PM
FREE, and super FUN Fall Festival with activities and entertainment for all ages. The perfect place to pick your pumpkins with live music and craft beer for the adults, as well as games, air tattoos and more. Bring the whole family and plan a fall outing around this great Estes Park Festival & Fundraiser! Enjoy additional free children’s activities like pony rides, strider course & bike skills (bikes and helmets provided), air tattoos, balloon twisting and giant lawn games. The pumpkin patch sells pumpkins for $7 each and you can set them aside in the well-guarded ‘sold’ corral while you enjoy the fun. More info here.
Persian Cultural Day | Celebrating Mehregan
Photo Courtesy Museum of Boulder
When: October 9, 2021 from 12 PM – 5 PM
Celebrate Mehregan with the Museum of Boulder and Persian Cultural Circle! Join us at the Museum of Boulder for an afternoon of arts, traditional beverages, performances, and activities celebrating Persian culture! Artisan fair will be available for viewing and purchasing in the lobby. Community engagement art activities will take place in the lower courtyard level. Culinary and Hamman (traditional bath) Persian artifacts to be on display in the Lodge. On the rooftop, come and view traditional Persian dancers and enjoy Sharbat tea and sweets made during live chef demonstrations. Performances will be held on the hour beginning at 1pm through 4pm. A ritual table will be set up in the Lobby beginning a week before the event – come in to learn more about the holiday before attending the celebration! More info here.
NoBo Art District Second Saturdays
Photo Courtesy NoBo Art District
When: October 9, 2021 from 1 – 6 PM
NoBo Second Saturday offers a daytime alternative to the signature event NoBo First Friday. This event provides a socially-distanced outdoor setting featuring the sights and sounds of the Art District with local artists, food vendors, musicians and free family-friendly activities on seven Saturday afternoons from June through December. See this map for location details. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
Boulderthon
Photo Courtesy Boulderthon
When: October 10, 2021 from 8 AM – 2 PM
First-ever Boulder Marathon and Half Marathon with a downtown finish! The Boulderthon™ was created by an avid New York Road Runners runner to spread the joy of marathons. We believe Boulder, one of the great running hubs of the country, deserves a signature, premier marathon.
Boulder County Restaurant Week – First Bite 2021
Photo Courtesy First Bite
First Bite is excited to announce the return of Boulder County Restaurant Week — October 8-17, 2021! First Bite will be showcasing Boulder County’s top restaurants ranging from established favorites and new-to-town eateries. First Bite is evolving to include all menus and offerings from Boulder’s most creative chefs. This is a non-ticketed event. For more info and to view participating restaurants: https://firstbiteboulder.com/2021-restaurant-week/.
World Singing Day Boulder 2021
Photo Courtesy World Singing Day
When: October 16, 2021 from 1 PM – 2:30 PM
The 6th annual World Singing Boulder is a free community sing-along where people of all ages, backgrounds and singing abilities are invited. Sing along to popular songs, from the Beatles to Taylor Swift. Lyric booklets provided. No rehearsals or preparation necessary. Just show up and experience the joy and community of singing together at this favorite annual Boulder event. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
The Hu – The Hun Tour with The Haunt at Boulder Theater
Photo Courtesy Boulder Theater
107.9 KBPI Presents The Hu – The Hun Tour at Boulder Theater with The Haunt. In 2019, an NPR story put a spotlight on “a band from Mongolia that blends the screaming guitars of heavy metal and traditional Mongolian guttural singing,” accurately highlighting the cultural importance and unique musical identity of The HU. Founded in 2016 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, The HU, comprised of producer Dashka along with members Gala, Jaya, Temka, and Enkush, are a modern rock group rooted in the tradition of their homeland. The band’s name translates to the Mongolian root word for human being, and their unique approach blends instruments like the Morin Khuur (horsehead fiddle), Tovshuur (Mongolian guitar), Tumur Khuur (jaw harp) and throat singing with contemporary sounds, creating a unique sonic profile that they call “Hunnu Rock.” More info here.
Gene Hayworth Authors Series: “Yep, We’re Supposed To Be Here!”
Photo Courtesy Dairy Arts Center
When: Friday, October 22, 2021 at 7 PM
“Yep, We’re Supposed To Be Here!” Shining Your Identity Through Writing Graphic novelist and professor R. Alan Brooks will moderate this writers’ panel discussion for Dairy Arts Center, featuring: Olivia Abtahi, author of Perfectly Parvin, Steven Dunn, author of water & power and Potted Meat, Dylan Edwards, writer & artist of Politically InQueerect, and Transposes. We’ll be discussing art as protest, art as “not” protest, and what it means to enter the world of writing with an identity and perspective that isn’t always heard. Bring your questions (and your masks!), and come prepared to check out these authors’ books! This event is FREE, registration is required.
CCA and Collective Speakers Present Brandon Wolf: A Discussion on Gun Violence
Photo Courtesy Colorado Cahautauqua
When: October 20, 2021 7:30 – 9:30 PM
Brandon Wolf will be speaking at Colorado Chautauqua. Brandon is an activist, changemaker, and thought leader on issues of LGBTQ equality, gun safety, and progressive politics. A survivor of the 2016 Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando, Brandon has committed his life to honoring victims of injustice with action. He is a frequent face on MSNBC and CNN and a featured voice in CNN digital, Newsweek, USA Today, and others. Brandon has graced the cover of Dazed Magazine and LGBTQ publications nationwide. He has been recognized as one of Huffington Post’s 30 LGBTQ Influencers under 30, Business Equality Magazine’s 40 LGBTQ Leaders Under 40, and a Monette-Horwitz Trust Awardee. Brandon was a national surrogate for Senator Elizabeth Warren’s Presidential Campaign and an advisory committee member for President Biden’s General Election bid. He is a cofounder, Board Member, and current Vice President of The Dru Project, a nonprofit organization that creates safe spaces in schools for LGBTQ youth, provides college funding, and enables champions in the fight for equality. Colorado Ceasefire has been working for freedom from gun violence since 2000. Ceasefire initiated and was instrumental in the enactment of the 2013 Colorado firearms laws, which included universal background checks, a high-capacity magazine ban, and domestic violence firearms relinquishment. Ceasefire began advocating for Extreme Risk Protection Orders in 2016, which became law in 2019, and was instrumental in introduction and enactment of six gun violence prevention bills in 2021.
Colorado Railroad Museum Boulder County Free Day & The Friday Tour
Photo Courtesy Colorado Railroad Museum
When: October 22, 2021 from 9 AM – 5 PM
The Colorado Railroad Museum and the City of Boulder are excited to offer free general admission to all residents of Boulder County. Also, this Friday, join us for an hour of exploring a different aspect of Colorado’s railroad history. Tours are subject to change and are based on guide availability. Each week’s theme is explored using a variety of museum resources to help bring the subject to life with the understanding that guests are welcome to continue their visit on their own after the tour. The familiar whistle has always promised adventure. The gentle rock of the rails has set the rhythm of our lives. Climb aboard one of our Train Rides, and you can re-live the magic of the rails all over again! Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
Boo! on Briggs Street
When: October 23, 2021 from 4 – 7 PM
The Town of Erie’s Trunk or Treat event has moved downtown and expanded, bring you Boo! on Briggs Street. Trunks will be parked in the parking lots on the southeast corner of Wells and Briggs and the northeast corner of Moffat and Briggs in Erie. Boo! on Briggs Street will feature costume contests (ages 0-8, 9+ ($5) and group/theme ($10). The night will be capped off with a glow-in-the-dark dance party complete with a professional DJ and complimentary glow-in-the-dark giveaways for the kids. This event is held in Downtown Erie, Briggs Street between Moffat and Wells, Erie, CO 80516. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
Pepper’s Paws for A Cause
Photo Courtesy Pepper’s Senior Dog Sanctuary
When: October 23, 2021 from 7:30 – 9:30 PM
Pepper’s Senior Dog Sanctuary is excited to announce their first annual Paws for a Cause benefit concert on October 23, 2021, at the 1stBank Center in Broomfield featuring entertainment by Super Diamond playing all of Neil Diamond’s greatest hits! In addition to world-class entertainment, we’re offering sponsors and VIP donors the opportunity to enjoy a three-course meal, table-side wine service, and an exciting live and silent auction prior to the start of the concert. Just want to attend the concert? General Admission tickets for standing room only are on sale for $50. Or purchase a VIP ticket to enjoy premier stadium seating and two complimentary drink tickets. Purchase tickets here: pepperspaws.cbo.io.
Trick or Treat at Broomfield Plaza
Photo Courtesy Broomfield Plaza
When: Saturday, October 23, 2021 from 12 – 2 PM
Fall is in the air and it’s time for Broomfield Plaza’s spookiest event of the season! Bring all your little ghosts and goblins out to Broomfield Plaza for trick-or-treating and lots of other fun and FREE family activities: arm painting, balloon twisting, goblin train rides, portrait stations, live entertainment and trick-or-treat bag giveaway (while supplies last). Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
Lafayette Fall Festival
When: Sunday, October 23, 2021 from 4 PM – Dusk
The 2021 Lafayette Fall Festival is sure to have something for everyone! Celebrate the season with fun and engaging activities inside the recreation center: pumpkin races, youth activities, an arts and crafts project, glow-stick fun, and STEM fun with pumpkins. Even more fun is awaiting you outside with scarecrow and pumpkin decorating contests. Wrap up the evening by enjoying our holiday-themed cartoons on the big screen in the gymnasium – the corn will be popping! Be sure to get some apple cider and candy before you go! Pumpkin race participation requires pre-registration.
Friday Night Weird at Dairy Arts Center
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.
Halloween Drive-In Movie
When: October 28 & 29, 2021 from 5:30 – 11 PM
The City of Boulder will select four movies (two children’s themed movies and two adult themed movies) for the drive in on Oct. 28 and 29 at Flatirons Golf Course.
Halloween Spooktacular at YMCA of the Rockies
Photo Courtesy YMCA of the Rockies
When: October 29 & 30, 2021
Dress in your Halloween costume, participate in spooky activities, and do some trick or treating to get in the spirit of Halloween with the YMCA of the Rockies! Enter if you dare, the family-friendly haunted forest with creepy surprises sure to bring a smile to your face.
Longmont Halloween Parade
Photo Courtesy Visit Longmont
When: October 30, 2021 9:45 AM – 12 PM
Dress up in your Halloween costume on Saturday, Oct. 30, march down Main Street, and visit Downtown participating merchants for Trick or Treat Street immediately following Longmont’s annual Halloween Parade. Line up at Roosevelt Park, 700 Longs Peak Avenue, at 9:30am. Parade starts at 10am. Click here for more info. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
Spooky Village at Village at the Peaks
Photo Courtesy Village at the Peaks
Fall is in the air and one of our favorite ways to celebrate is Spooky Village! This FREE family fun festival is a Halloween event complete with trick or treating at Village at the Peaks merchants. This year’s free activities include: hay rides, craft stations, arm painting, balloon twisting, goblin train rides, portrait stations, caricature artists, carnival games, live entertainment on Village Stage (Beetle Juice performances and Princess Show),and trick-or-treat bag giveaway (while supplies last). Chuck and Don’s Pet Parade starts at 12:00 PM over at Chuck and Don’s! Bring your pet all dressed up to walk the parade! Professional photographer will be present to capture photos of the pets which will be posted on Facebook as well. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
Eerie Erie (5k or 10k)
Photo Courtesy Optimist Club of Erie
When: Saturday, October 30, 2021
The world famous Eerie Erie is a Halloween themed 5k and 10k race that runs through historic downtown Erie and takes advantage of our beautiful trail system that weaves along Coal Creek open space areas. Eerie Erie is the primary fundraiser for the Optimist Club of Erie, a non-profit organization whose sole mission is to benefit the children of our community by funding youth specific events, programs and activities throughout the year.
The Motet – Halloween 2021 at Boulder Theater
Photo Courtesy Boulder Theater
When: October 30, 2021 at 7:30 PM
7.3 KBCO & Bell’s Brewery Present An Evening with The Motet – Halloween 2021 at Boulder Theater. Since 1998, The Motet have inspired the world with their unique style of dance music. Over the course of nine full-length albums, they’ve traversed the lines between funk, soul, jazz, and rock and built a diehard audience in the process. They’ve headlined Red Rocks Amphitheatre six times and sold out countless legendary venues coast-to-coast. In addition to racking up nearly 20 million total streams and views, they’ve also garnered widespread acclaim from numerous publications including Relix, Glide Magazine, and AXS. The band has also graced the stages of festivals such as Bonnaroo, Bottlerock, Electric Forest, Bumbershoot, Summer Camp, and High Sierra. http://themotet.com/
Boos & Brews 5k at Wibby Brewing
Photo Courtesy Colorado Brewery Running Series
When: October 31, 2021 from 10 AM – 1 PM
Join the Colorado Brewery Running Series for the Boos & Brews Halloween 5k at Wibby Brewing on October 31, beginning at 10 AM for a 5k-ish course that starts and ends at this awesome brewery. Costumes are highly encouraged, and prizes will be awarded for the best male, female, group, and dog costumes! Bring the kids along for the run, as we will have candy buckets with all course volunteers for a unique spin on trick or treating. Weave through the surrounding area at whatever pace you like, no matter what there’s a beer waiting for you at the finish line! More info here.
Munchkin Masquerade
Photo Courtesy Downtown Boulder
When: October 31, 2021 from 3 – 6 PM
The Boulder Fall Festivals list wouldn’t be complete without the Munchkin Masquerade! Each year, Downtown Boulder is invaded by thousands of tiny ghosts & goblins, dinosaurs & dragons, fairies & princes, superheroes and animals of every size trick-or-treating along Pearl Street for the Munchkin Masquerade. There will be over 100 places handing out treats along the Pearl Street Mall. Munchkin Masquerade will be held on the Pearl Street Mall, Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
Boulder Mall Crawl
The Mall Crawl is Boulder’s Halloween tradition where ghastly ghouls crawl Pearl Street Mall and revel in Mall Crawl’s magic. This is a free, unorganized event that goes back to the 1980s. Wear a costume, bring a friend! And keep an eye out for the Thriller Dance. The Boulder Mall Crawl is held on the Pearl Street Mall in downtown Boulder, traditionally the Saturday night before Halloween. Organizers will post details here. Another free event on our list of things to do in Boulder in October!
There it is! Our list of things to do in Boulder in October. Wondering what is happening in Boulder today? Click here for the event calendar. Have an event to add? Submit your event here.
