Summer in Boulder
Summer is the perfect season for enrichment both on and off campus. Attend a Shakespearean production on a warm summer evening, hike or bike in the foothills just west of town, or participate in one of the numerous events that take place around Boulder throughout the season. Get the most out of your summer experience!
Here are a few ways to enjoy your summer in Boulder:
1300 block of Pearl Street
This summer tradition takes place on the popular Pearl Street Mall. Enjoy a variety of performances from some of the best local musicians during this outdoor summer concert series.
30th Street and Walnut
Take part in this annual community tradition. Enjoy beautiful local scenery and roadside entertainment, then finish strong at Folsom Field at CU Boulder as part of this annual Memorial Day weekend 10-kilometer race.
Downtown Boulder along Boulder Creek from 9th Street to 14th Street
For over a quarter century, this annual festival acts as the unofficial kickoff to summer in Boulder. Held on Memorial Day weekend, this three-day festival is free and open to the public, and includes music, food, carnival rides, and the signature Great Rubber Duck Race.
Next to Central Park, Downtown Boulder
Enjoy unique foods and crafts at the local farmers’ market every week in summer. Sample locally produced meats, cheeses, breads and pastries, fruits, vegetables, body products and more.
900 Baseline Road
Engage in nature, culture, and heritage at the Chautauqua National Historic Landmark. Since 1898, activities and events have been offered to anyone seeking an escape. Enjoy the sights and sounds of summer, take a hike within the park’s 40 acres, or attend a local presentation or performance.
Chautauqua Auditorium
Experience classical favorites, chamber music, and world music at this internationally acclaimed festival held four nights a week for seven weeks at the historic Chautauqua Auditorium.
CU Boulder Campus
For 60 seasons, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival has delighted audiences with classic theatre under the stars. A summer of love and ambition under the stars kicks off in June. Epic love stories, family dramas and laugh-out-loud fun are coming to the Colorado Shakespeare Festival this summer.
​By the time an opera production hits the floorboards, composers and performers have spent years transforming theatrical ideas and music for the stage. The College of Music’s CU NOW program gives Boulder audiences the rare opportunity to observe this process and share suggestions with composers themselves. Interactive, workshop-style performances feature acclaimed opera composers working with CU singers on new operas ahead of world premieres at some of the top opera companies in the country. You'll leave with exciting insights into the creative process when you experience opera from the ground up at CU NOW!
Folsom Field
Since 1941, Boulder residents have gathered at Folsom Field to celebrate Independence Day. In addition to a spectacular fireworks show, the event features pre-fireworks activities and unique musical entertainment.