Have you seen the signs along Pearl Street for Snow Much Fun while strolling around downtown? Our incredible self-guided AR tour that offers an interactive holiday experience for all is back and better than ever!
Snow Much Fun Virtual AR Experiences is a joint production in partnership with the City of Boulder Parks & Recreation department! Friends from “ARctic” can be found on each block of the Pearl Street Mall, as well as the East End and the West End (in addition to the Civic Area near the library). Each area features signage containing a special QR code that opens a wintery experience with fun filters via Instagram. There are 9 installations total - from dancing gingerbread cookies to polar bears, penguins and even an ARctic orca!
These fun installations are available through January 31, 2024! To help you get started, I’ve created a guide to enjoying the tour downtown…
Start on the West End to find Jack Frost’s friend, Frosty kARen. Look out for signs outside and window posters in business to find kARen and grab a selfie!
While on the West End, grab a quick bite to eat at Nick-N-Willy’s Pizza to fuel your adventure or a warm beverage at Ozo Coffee Company!
Next, head over to the 1100 block of the Pearl Street Mall to find the ARtic Orca jumping up through the air. Stop into the Boulder Book Store and pick out the perfect gift for your loved ones with thousands of books to choose from.
Then check out the 1200 block to find the family of penguins marching up and over a patch of ice. Check out Art Source International for unique print pieces to spruce up your home decor!
Next, the 1300 block is ready to welcome you with the Breaking Bread gingerbread dance team. With moves that can’t be missed, record a video and join in on the fun. After this dance party, grab a delicious bite to eat at Falafel King and enjoy it on the go for more AR-ing!
As you continue to stroll down the mall, stop on the 1400 block to meet the family of friendly Polar Bears! Scale their size with your fingertips and hop in for some family photos!
Keep exploring as you make your way to the East End. Browse around to find a shy Bumble hiding behind a pine tree - we promise he is friendly! A little bit timid, Bumble likes to stay close to his tree for protection. But if you ask nicely for a photo, he might let you take one! Since you’re right there, stop by Bliss for a little something, or check out Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant- did you know that the Bumble is a vegetarian? Leaf is his favorite dining spot!
Once you’ve explored every block of Pearl Street, you’re not done…the fun doesn’t stop there. Make your way to the Civic Area/Library and explore more ARctic finds! Begin your journey towards the Arapahoe entrance of the Boulder Public Library. Swirl and twirl around the virtual ice rink with the talented ice skater, Twinkle Toes! Then, head along the path to the north entrance of the library (towards Canyon) to find a frosty, enchanted forest.
Follow the path east, to the Civic Area and watch the glistening, sparkling snowflakes twinkle around the flatirons. Pinch the snowflake animation to make them as large or small as you desire!
As you loop back to the Boulder Public Library, stop by the Arapahoe side of the Boulder Creek to visit your favorite nosey neighbor, the nARwhal! Drag the AR image towards the creek to get the full ARctic aquatic experience! Don’t forget to tag #downtownboulder on IG and we’ll share your fun with others!
I hope you have the best time exploring our beautiful downtown on this unique, winter tour. Enjoy all that Boulder has to offer this holiday season!
Happy Holidays,
Rebecca
Mentioned in this Post: Art Source International Inc., Bliss, Boulder Book Store, Boulder Public Library, Falafel King, Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant, Nick-N-Willy's Pizza, OZO Coffee Co. (West Pearl)