Fun Things to Do in Boulder: Music, Markets & Game Days

One of the things I love most about living in Boulder — and something that consistently surprises people who are considering a move here — is just how much there is to do. This isn't a quiet mountain town where you run out of things to explore. It's a vibrant, culturally rich community with a calendar full of events, markets, music, and sports.

Here are a few of my favorite things to do in Boulder:

The Boulder Farmers Market

Every Saturday morning from April through November, 13th Street transforms into one of the best farmers markets in Colorado. Local farmers, bakers, and artisans line the street with fresh produce, handmade goods, and prepared foods. It's a community gathering place as much as a market — you'll run into neighbors, discover new restaurants, and leave with bags of the freshest produce you've ever tasted.

Boulder Farmers Market · 13th Street, Boulder

Live Music Scene

Boulder punches well above its weight when it comes to live music. The Fox Theatre is one of Colorado's most iconic music venues — an intimate space on the Hill that has hosted everyone from emerging indie bands to major touring acts since 1939. The Boulder Theater on 14th Street offers a bigger room with an incredible historic atmosphere. And eTown Hall on Spruce Street combines live music with environmental sustainability in a truly unique community space.

The Fox Theatre · Boulder Theater · eTown Hall

CU Buffs Football

Fall Saturdays in Boulder mean Folsom Field. Whether you're a lifelong Buffs fan or just love the energy of a college football game day, there's nothing quite like it. The pre-game tailgating, the Ralphie Run, the marching band, and 50,000 fans in black and gold — it's a tradition that brings the whole community together. And with the Buffs competing in the Big 12, the games just keep getting bigger.

CU Buffs Athletics

Denver Broncos Game Days

Just 30 minutes down the road, Broncos game days are a Colorado religion. Whether you're at Empower Field at Mile High or watching at one of Boulder's many sports bars, the energy is electric. The season runs September through January, and the communal experience of cheering on the Broncos is something that bonds Colorado residents like nothing else.

Pearl Street & Beyond

Pearl Street Mall is Boulder's living room — a four-block pedestrian stretch of locally-owned restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and street performers. From farm-to-table dining to craft cocktails to world-class people-watching, Pearl Street delivers. And beyond downtown, you'll find everything from climbing gyms to cycling groups to the 42-mile Boulder Creek Path for running, biking, and walking.