Things to Do Downtown
August is a great time to experience the energy of downtown Boulder. Summer is still in full swing with live music, busy patios, local shopping and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the heart of the city.
Tonight, we’re closing out the Bands on the Bricks summer concert series with a final performance from Sempar. The fun continues with the Summer Sidewalk Sale starting July 31, when downtown businesses bring out special deals, summer favorites and unique finds. Plus, there’s still time to hop aboard the Tebo Train before the season comes to an end, with the final ride happening September 4.
Make the most of these last weeks of summer by exploring downtown Boulder and supporting the local businesses that make our community special. Don’t forget your Downtown Boulder Gift Card, the easiest way to enjoy a meal, pick up something new or treat yourself while supporting downtown businesses.
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 August 2026
FINAL Bands on the Bricks of the Season
Don’t miss the LAST Bands on the Bricks concert of the summer! After seven weeks of free live music on the Pearl Street Mall, Downtown Boulder’s favorite summer concert series is ending the season with one last Wednesday night celebration with Sempar headlining the finale.
The beer garden opens at 5:30 PM, with the opening act starting at 6:00 PM and Sempar taking the stage from 7:00–9:00 PM. Happy hour runs from 5:30–6:30 PM with $2 off beverages.
After the show, keep the celebration going at The Velvet Elk Lounge for the official afterparty with late-night specials.
Summer Sidewalk Sales
Ready to refresh your summer wardrobe, find something new or score a great deal? The Summer Sidewalk Sale returns July 31, bringing sizzling savings to downtown Boulder as shops across the district roll out special offers and seasonal finds.
Grab your shopping crew and spend the day exploring more than 150 downtown retailers, where you’ll discover everything from unique gifts and local favorites to must-have summer styles. Every purchase helps support the businesses that make downtown Boulder such a vibrant place to shop, explore and spend time.
Tulip Bulb Giveaway
Bring a little piece of the Pearl Street Mall home with the annual Tulip Bulb Giveaway! Each year, the City of Boulder Parks & Recreation department shares free tulip bulbs with the community, giving residents the chance to plant the same varieties that brighten the Pearl Street Mall each spring.
Starting Wednesday, August 19, stop by one of the participating downtown Boulder businesses to pick up one free bag of tulip bulbs while supplies last. Bulbs are available on a first-come, first-served basis and limited to one bag per family, so plan to visit early before they’re gone.
A donation to the PLAY Boulder Foundation is encouraged and helps support recreation opportunities in the community.
Boulder Taco Fest
Tacos, tequila and a little Lucha Libre are coming back to downtown Boulder! Boulder Taco Fest returns Saturday, August 22, bringing an afternoon of award-winning tacos, live music, creekside fun and high-flying wrestling to the Boulder Creek Park area.
Don’t miss one of Boulder’s favorite summer traditions featuring tacos from local restaurants and food trucks, margaritas by the creek, four Lucha Libre matches and entertainment all afternoon. Early bird wristband pricing ends August 1, so purchase your wristband now and save $5 before the deal is gone.
Tulagi (formerly known as Roots Music Festival)
Love live music? Make your ticket go even further! Tulagi (formerly known as Roots Music Festival) returns August 27–30 with four days of live music, community and culture across venues throughout Boulder.
Downtown Boulder Partnership is proud to support this year’s festival as an Ecosystem Partner. When you purchase your ticket, be sure to use the partner code
DOWNTOWNBOULDERPARTNERSHIP2026 after checkout with the link in your email. Using this code sends 50% of your ticket purchase back to Downtown Boulder through the Caruso Foundation’s Incentive Grant Program.
First Friday Artwalk
First Friday is getting bigger! On August 7, Downtown First Friday expands into a citywide celebration connecting downtown Boulder with the NoBo Art District for an evening of art, live music and community.
Start your evening at The New Local Annex on West Pearl and explore exhibitions, local artists and creative spaces throughout downtown.
With galleries opening their doors, live performances popping up and special activations happening throughout the night, it’s the perfect opportunity to discover Boulder’s vibrant arts scene.
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