Welcome to the Heart of Boulder, where the holidays shine bright!
Light Up the Holidays
Starting November 22, 2026
Downtown Boulder lights up the holidays late November through December with special events, activities, and promotions throughout downtown.
The kick-off event happens Sunday, November 22, 2026 with the Downtown Cookie Crawl (11 am - 2 pm) and Switch on the Holidays (2 - 7 pm) and continues throughout the holiday season.
Downtown Boulder holiday events are produced by Downtown Boulder Community Initiatives (DBCI),
a 501c3 organization.
Give the gift of magical experiences this holiday season by donating to DBCI.
Shop Small
Love the Local when you shop small in downtown Boulder year around!
Upcoming Holiday Experiences
Don't miss these unforgettable holiday activities in the heart of Boulder.
Cookie Crawl
Sunday, Nov 22, 2026
11am - 2pm
Head downtown before Switch on the Holidays to get a jump on your local holiday shopping and enjoy free treats from participating businesses (while supplies last). See the map and full list of participating businesses on the Switch on the Holidays page.
Downtown Dash
Sun, Nov 22, 2026 - Thu, Dec 31, 2026
Shop, dine and explore participating downtown businesses to earn digital stamps with every purchase of $15 or more. Every stamp is an entry into weekly giveaways and the grand prize drawing. All you need is your email to start - no app required!
Switch on the Holidays
Sunday, Nov 22, 2026
11am - 7pm
Head downtown early for the Cookie Crawl from 11 am - 2 pm, then head over to the 1300 block of Pearl Street for TubaChristmas at 3:30 pm. The grand illumination of the Boulder County Courthouse and the Pearl Street Mall program begins at 5 pm.
Small Business Saturday (Weekend)
Fri, Nov 27, 2026 - Sun, Nov 29, 2026
Small businesses are like snowflakes, each one is unique. One small purchase can make a big difference. Please show your support for local businesses by pledging to shop and dine in downtown November 27 - 29 (and throughout the holiday season).
St. Nick on the Bricks
Friday, Nov 27, 2026
11am - 2pm
Kids of all ages can visit with Santa at the Visitor Information Center on the Pearl Street Mall for FREE on Friday, November 27th; Saturday, November 28th; Saturday, December 5th; and Saturday, December 12th. Bring your list and a camera to capture priceless holiday memories. Suggested donation of $10 per group.
Tebo Train's Snowflake Express
Sunday, Nov 29, 2026
11am - 2pm
Come downtown and take a ride on the 100% Electric Tebo Train aka Snowflake Express. Children ages 10 and under (along with accompanying adults) will chug along Pearl Street in this one-of-a-kind experience.
Lights of December Parade
Saturday, Dec 12, 2026
6pm - 7:30pm
Join us for floats created and decorated by local businesses, churches and civic groups. Includes marching bands, lit fire engines, holiday carolers and much more. The grand finale includes an appearance by the jolly old man himself - Santa Claus!