Things to Do Downtown
July is when downtown Boulder is at its liveliest. Patios are full, live music is in the air, and the calendar is packed with events, local shopping, outdoor dining and ways to enjoy summer in the heart of Boulder.
This month brings many community favorites like Bands on the Bricks, along with the 49th Annual Pearl Street Arts Fest, when Pearl Street transforms into an open-air gallery featuring hundreds of artists, live entertainment, and interactive experiences. It's the perfect time to spend an afternoon exploring downtown and discovering something new around every corner.
While you're here, don't forget your Downtown Boulder Gift Card! The gift card is the easiest way to support the local businesses that make downtown so special. Pick up a treat, enjoy a meal on the patio, browse the Arts Fest, or stop into your favorite shop. However you spend the day, July is a great time to experience downtown Boulder.
For even more events and updates, visit our online event calendar for daily updates and additional details in our Things To Do blog.
~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 youjoin 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 July 2026
Pearl Street Arts Fest
The 49th Annual Pearl Street Arts Fest returns to downtown Boulder July 17-19, transforming the historic Pearl Street Mall into a vibrant outdoor gallery featuring work from more than 100 juried artists across 13 artistic disciplines and 22 states. Stroll the festival to discover paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry, mixed media and more, along with family-friendly activities, live entertainment and opportunities to explore downtown shopping and dining.
Festival hours:
- Friday (7/17): 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday (7/18): 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday (7/19): 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Presented by Bank of America and supported by the City of Boulder, Eldorado Natural Spring Water, Three Leaf Concepts, Daily Camera, Boulder Magazine and KUNC.
Bands on the Bricks
Downtown Boulder’s summer concert series Bands on the Bricks continues on the Pearl Street Mall with free Wednesday night shows featuring local bands across rock, funk, reggae, and more.
July's lineup:
- July 1: The Long Run (Opening Act: Dylan Kishner)
- July 8: The Dirty Turkeys (Opening Act: Derek & Co)
- July 15: The Saint Cecilia (Opening Act: Eramis Fontenot)
- July 22: Ritmo Cascabel (Opening Act: Denver Metro Jazz)
- July 29: Sempar (Opening Act: Coming Soon)
The beer garden opens at 5:30 PM, with opening acts at 6:00 PM and headliners from 7:00–9:00 PM. Happy hour runs from 5:30–6:30 PM with $2 off beverages.
After the show, head to The Velvet Elk Lounge for the official afterparty.
Bands on the Bricks is co-presented by FNBO and The W.W. Reynolds Companies, with support from sponsors City of Boulder, Eldorado Natural Spring Water and the Daily Camera.
Tebo Train
All aboard the Tebo Train, downtown Boulder’s free, all-electric ride along the Pearl Street Mall. Designed especially for kids and families, the train offers a one-of-a-kind summer experience through the heart of downtown.
Summer rides run Monday through Friday mornings through September 4, boarding in front of Wells Fargo at 13th and Pearl. Trains depart at 9:30 AM with the final ride leaving promptly at 11:00 AM.
Please note there are no rides on Friday, July 17.
Summer Sidewalk Sale
Downtown Boulder’s Summer Sidewalk Sale kicks off July 31, bringing sunshine, seasonal deals and open-air shopping to the Pearl Street Mall and beyond. This is your chance to explore downtown boutiques, discover new favorites, and enjoy limited-time savings across the district.
From longtime local favorites to new additions, this is a chance to explore downtown boutiques, discover something new and support the businesses that make downtown Boulder unique.
Keep an eye on the website as more participating retailers and deals are added leading up to the event.
Los Lo Los Live @ BMoCA
Experience an intimate evening of live music and contemporary art at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art on Friday, July 11 at 6:00 PM. Denver-based band Los Lo Los brings their signature “Low Rock Blues” sound, blending blues, jazz and rock into a raw, minimalist performance set within the museum’s exhibition space.
Presented in conjunction with Tres Voces, Un Corazón, this special performance explores the intersection of music, identity, and visual art in a unique gallery setting.
Use code LOSLOLOS50 for a discounted ticket offer to this one-night performance.
First Friday Artwalk
Downtown First Friday Artwalk returns on Friday, July 3 from 4:00–7:00 PM, bringing an evening of art, music, and interactive experiences across downtown Boulder.
Start at The New Local Annex for “Women of the Living West,” a group exhibition sponsored by the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission, along with live music from Singing Bones. Pick up a map and explore participating galleries, studios, and local businesses throughout the district.
Stops include exhibitions, hands-on art activities, live demonstrations, and immersive installations spanning downtown.
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