If you're staying in Boulder this summer, be it for classes, work or just to hang out, here are some ideas to help you to have a great summer.
Swim in the Buff pool
For CU Boulder Rec Center members, enjoy the warm summer months by the nice, refreshing Buffalo pool! All summer long you can come sunbathe, swim and play volleyball at our coolest pool. Pool hours.
Hike beautiful Colorado’s many trails
We live in the most beautiful state for walking in bountiful and breath-taking natural scenery, so get out and take advantage of one of the endless hiking trails all around us. There are tons of options for undertaking a long-distance backpacking trip and even more short day trips. There are trails for everyone, no matter what level of difficulty or distance you’re looking for. Whatever you’re looking for, go hike and remember why it’s great to live in Colorado! Outdoor activities guide.
Boulder Creek Festival, May 26–28
The Boulder Creek Festival is an annual celebration of imminent summer, spanning a fun three days. It features food and drink, live music and dancing, art, local vendors and carnival rides and covers ground along the Boulder Creek from 9th Street to 13th Street. The festival is free and open to the public.
Bolder Boulder, May 28
As one of the nation’s largest races, the Bolder Boulder is every Boulderite’s favorite Memorial Day activity. Whether you choose to run, jog, walk or simply watch, the popular 10K race is a ton of fun. The course snakes all over Boulder and finishes in Folsom Stadium. Register soon if you want to race, otherwise find a shady street corner to watch the most impressive pros and the goofiest, costumed amateurs alike.
Bands on the Bricks, June 6–Aug. 8
From oldies to alternative and everything in between, Bands on the Bricks is Boulder County's premier outdoor summer concert series taking place in the heart of the city on the bricks of the Pearl Street Mall. Every Wednesday June 6–Aug. 8, you can watch some incredible local bands play live music. Six o'clock in front of the Boulder Court House heralds the openers, followed by the main performance at 7 p.m.
Colorado Shakespeare Festival, June 11–Aug. 13
If you’re a Shakespeare aficionado, then this is the event you’ve been waiting for all year. The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is a huge annual celebration and performance of some of your favorite Shakespeare plays, including Love's Labour's Lost, Richard III and You Can't Take it With You. Many are performed outside in the Mary Rippon Theater, which is a fantastic venue on a beautiful midsummer night’s eve to view a theatrical production. College students can get tickets as cheaply as $15.
Colorado Music Festival, June 28–Aug. 4
If you live for music, then come and take advantage of this fantastic collection of live musical performances in the famous Chautauqua Music Hall at the foot of the Flatirons. All summer long Colorado Music Festival will feature a plethora of talented musicians, wowing you with their beautiful tunes.
Ralphie’s Independence Day Blast, July 4
Folsom Field is the place to be on the night of July 4. As soon as it gets dark, you’ll witness the best fireworks display in the area to celebrate Independence Day, as well as some great live music and performances. Admission is free of charge, and whether you sit inside the stadium itself or camp out on the Norlin Quad or Rec Center field, you won’t be disappointed.
Dead and Company at Folsom Field, July 13–14
Back again this year for another super fun concert, Dead and Company will be at Folsom Field on both Friday and Saturday night. Ticket and parking information.
Boulder International Fringe Festival, Aug.15–26
Combining all of the best aspects of theater and the experimental arts, the Boulder International Fringe Festival is a jewel in this town. Featuring artists from Boulder and beyond, the festival boasts an awesome and extensive lineup this year, so get in on the action and check out Fringe Festival site for the schedule. Don’t miss these amazing performances coming to you from all over the country.
Throughout the summer, there also will be numerous weekend events on The Hill.
