Mark your calendars for these special holiday events in 2024.
Winter Events
Switch on the Holidays
Date: Sunday, Nov. 24
Location: 1300 Block of Pearl Street
Help us kick off the holiday season as we flip the switch that illuminates lights along the Pearl Street Mall, Civic Area and around the Boulder County Courthouse during Switch on the Holidays! Program starts at 5 pm and concludes with the flip of the switch at approximately 5:20 pm. Visits with Santa at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center until 7 pm. More information about Switch on the Holidays
Small Business Saturday (Weekend)
Date: Friday, Nov. 29 through Sunday, Dec. 1
Location: Participating small businesses in downtown Boulder
Tie up your holiday season with a bow by visiting downtown Boulder during the most wonderful time of the year. Find that perfect gift as you stroll throughout the district to shop at over 100 specialty retailers and enjoy some holiday cheer and a variety of restaurants! Remember that downtown Boulder is made up of over 70% locally owned and operated businesses...that's a BIG reason to Shop Small! More information about Small Business Saturday
St. Nick on the Bricks
Dates: Friday, Nov. 29, and every Saturday from Nov. 30 through Dec. 14
Location: Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center
Kids of all ages can visit with Santa outside at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center for free. Bring your list and a camera to capture priceless holiday memories. Tired of waiting in line? Take a ride on the 100% Electric Tebo Train aka Snowflake Express for $3 per person. Children ages 10 and under (along with accompanying adults) will chug along Pearl Street in this one-of-a-kind experience. The Snowflake Express boards in front of Wells Fargo (1242 Pearl St). More information about St. Nick on the Bricks
Lights of December Parade
Date: Saturday, Dec. 7
Location: Parade starts at 6 p.m. at 15th and Walnut streets and heads west to Broadway
Spectators are invited to enjoy floats created and decorated by local businesses, churches, schools, community groups and nonprofits. The grand finale includes an appearance by the jolly old man himself - Santa Claus! More information about the Lights of December Parade
WinterFest at Chautauqua
Dates: Thursday, Dec. 5 through Saturday, Dec. 7
Location: Colorado Chautauqua
Create unforgettable memories at Winterfest, Chautauqua’s annual holiday celebration! Enjoy festive food and drinks, live music, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a variety of family-friendly activities. From exploring the holiday market to crafting ornaments, there’s something for everyone. More information about Chautauqua WinterFest
Freezie Fest
Date: Saturday, Dec. 14
Location: Pearl Street Mall and beyond
A celebration of winter and all things snowmen! This snowman extravaganza includes free train rides (weather permitting), visits with Santa and Reindeer Games (crafts and other activities) for all. More information about Freezie Fest
Chanukah on Pearl
Date: Monday, Dec. 30
Location: 1300 Block on Pearl Street
This annual outdoor event on the 1300 block of Pearl Street Mall is open to the entire community and has become a holiday ritual for many local families. The festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. and include the Menorah lighting, music, traditional food, hot chocolate and Chanukah favors. This event is co-sponsored by the Boulder Jewish Community Center and the Boulder County Center for Judaism. More information about Chanukah on Pearl
Learn about other local events by visiting boulderdowntown.com and bouldercolorado.gov/events.