Things to Do Downtown
September has officially arrived, and downtown Boulder is buzzing (literally and figuratively) with things to see, do, and savor. The golden late-summer light, bustling patios, and hints of cooler evenings make this one of the most magical times to be out and about. Whether you’re people-watching along Pearl Street, grabbing your favorite iced latte before the Farmers Market, or sneaking in one last al fresco happy hour, the city has a way of turning everyday moments into something a little more special.
Of course, September isn’t just about soaking in the scenery, it’s about celebration. Downtown will be alive with music, art, food, and community spirit all month long. No matter your vibe, laid-back weekend wandering or an arts-and-culture deep dive, you’ll find plenty happening just steps away.
It’s the kind of month where you can stroll from a vibrant community festival in Central Park to an inspiring museum reception and still have time to squeeze in dinner under the string lights at your favorite downtown spot. The best part? Every corner seems to hold something unexpected: pop-up performances, local makers, or simply running into friends you didn’t plan to see. September downtown is about those little discoveries that add up to big memories.
Read on for things to do and check out our upcoming events calendar for September!
~Downtown Boulder Community Initiatives is a 501c3 organization that works to continue to provide free and accessible experiences to Boulder's community through annual events and experiences. We humbly request that you join us in our fundraising efforts to further support our cherished community events. We remain eternally grateful for your support. Looking for more information? Explore Downtown Boulder Community Initiatives.~
Highlights for September 2025
Special Anniversary Celebration: Re-Elect Tate
Join the Museum of Boulder on September 10 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Penfield Tate II’s re-election following the 1974 recall effort, a pivotal moment in Boulder’s political and civil rights history.
To celebrate this milestone, the Museum of Boulder is offering FREE admission for guests who purchase a limited-edition “Re-Elect Tate” tee from their gift shop. This is your chance to honor a historic leader who stood firm in the face of adversity and helped lay the groundwork for future LGBTQ+ rights advocacy in our community.
BMoCA MediaLive Opening Reception
The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA) galleries reopen on Thursday, September 11, for the MediaLive: Dirt Poor, Data Rich opening reception. Explore how value and values are constructed environmentally, culturally, and archivally, while enjoying light snacks and a cash bar. 5–6 PM: Members Preview | 6–8 PM: Open to the Public, Pay From Your Heart.
3rd Annual Melanin Funk Festival
Get ready to groove- the 3rd Annual Melanin Funk Festival is back on Friday, September 12 from 5:30 – 9:00 PM on 13th Street next to the Dushanbe Teahouse. This free, open-air celebration is one of Boulder’s most anticipated cultural events, bringing music, art, and community together in the heart of downtown.
This year’s lineup features high-energy sets from DJ Berry, the Afro-Reggae fusion of Selasee & the FaFa Family, and a powerful closing performance by internationally acclaimed duo The Reminders. From beats to spoken word, the night promises to be an unforgettable celebration of culture, unity, and joy.
Founded by Yvette Rollins of YJR Events, the festival has grown from a grassroots gathering into a citywide tradition.
Admission is free, but space is limited—RSVP is encouraged.
Bee Boulder Festival
Join Cool Boulder and Boulder Parks and Rec for the 11th Annual Bee Boulder Festival on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM in Central Park, next to the Boulder Farmers Market. Enjoy performances by Jeff & Paige, kids’ crafts, and interactive activities with nearly 30 local organizations supporting pollinators and the environment.
The festival runs alongside the Boulder Farmers Market and Artisan Market, making it a perfect way to spend a fall Saturday—shop, explore, and learn how to make a positive impact.
Pearl Street Stampedes
Let's continue celebrating football season with the next Pearl Street Stampedes on September 19 at 7 PM! Head to the 1300 block of Pearl Street and celebrate with the Golden Buffalo Marching Band, Spirit Squad, and CU athletes as they parade through downtown Boulder. Don’t miss the energy, pride, and tradition that starts it all!
- Upcoming Dates:
Friday, September 19
Friday, September 26
Friday, October 10
Friday, October 31 (Homecoming Stampede, Parade and Pep Rally)*
*Will be held on campus! More details to come.
Friday, November 21
Street Wise Arts Mural Festival Tours
Experience Boulder’s vibrant street art up close during docent-guided walking and biking tours on Friday, September 26, and Saturday, September 27 with the Street Wise Mural Festival. Watch murals come to life, chat with the artists, and learn more about street art culture and our programs. Multiple tour times are available, but spots are limited—sign up today! Tickets are donation-based, supporting the festival and education initiatives.
Boulderthon Weekend, Starting 09/28
Boulderthon was created by an avid New York Road Runners runner to share the power & joy of marathons. They believe Boulder, one of the great running hubs of the country, deserves a world-class marathon series. This year, Boulderthon, which is now the premier fall race series in Colorado and one of the fastest-growing marathons in the country, drew 7,000 runners from all 50 states and 18 countries to the beautiful running mecca of Boulder.
Live Music & Outdoor Dining
Spend your Sundays soaking up the sun on the outdoor wrap-around patio at The Corner Bar. Enjoy live performances from talented local musicians, sip on refreshing drinks, and take in the lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to unwind, catch up with friends, and savor the best of downtown Boulder before the week begins.
Looking for more outdoor dining options? Check out all of our downtown patio spaces.
Fall Festival
Mark your calendars and come celebrate autumn in the heart of downtown at Fall Fest, October 3-5. This 3-day festival along the historic Pearl Street Mall features local food, a beer, wine, and margarita garden, live music (including a Battle of the Bands!), and family-friendly activities including free bounce attractions and inflatables. Browse Firefly Handmade, discover unique local makers, and soak in the festive fall atmosphere. Don’t miss this weekend of food, fun, and community spirit!
Boulder Farmers Market
Saturdays, 8 AM - 2 PM & Wednesdays, 3:30 PM - 7:30 PM | 13th Street (between Arapahoe Avenue & Canyon Boulevard)
Grab your reusable totes and get ready to stock up on fresh finds! Every Saturday from 8 AM - 2 PM (through November 22nd) and Wednesdays from 3:30 PM - 7:30 PM, enjoy strolling through an array of vendors on 13th Street (between Canyon Boulevard & Arapahoe Avenue). Live music, food trucks and children's activities are available throughout the day.
Looking to ditch the drive? Consider biking to the farmers market and using their new, secured bike valet!
*Please remember this a humans-only event, kindly leave your four-legged friends at home!
Boulder Out to Lunch Day
Boulder's new tradition, Go Out to Lunch Day occurs on the last Monday of each month! It’s time to show downtown restaurants some extra love during lunchtime while also enjoying a midday pick me up with your coworkers, friends, family or just yourself! Step away from your phone screens and phones and get back to your community. Check out additional details on their website.
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