University of Colorado Boulder parents weekend is approaching quickly and your schedule is still empty. Students who have spent a few months in Boulder know how easy it is to find great entertainment, but it can be intimidating to find perfect activities for the whole family. While there are plenty of entertaining activities available on campus, the opportunities throughout the city shouldn’t be missed. Boulder is filled with activities for the whole family to enjoy at any time of the year. Try some of these ideas for a great CU Boulder parents weekend in 2019.
Enjoyable Activities in Boulder
University of Colorado students might already be accustomed to the beautiful weather and practically unlimited ways to enjoy unique events in Boulder which is why these activities are usually overlooked. Some of the most memorable outings in Boulder are filled with attractions that are always available and cost little or nothing to enjoy. During all the excitement of scheduled events during CU Boulder parents weekend, it can be nice to take some downtime with a more relaxed style of family time. Consider making these popular attractions part of your family weekend.
Visit the Flatirons
These sandstone slabs provide more than a beautiful backdrop for Boulder. The Flatirons are a great place for picnics, hikes, and a relaxing day outdoors. Enjoy beautiful views, hiking trails, rock climbing, or a simple picnic at Chautauqua Park. Take advantage of free shuttle bus rides to avoid traffic hassles, and just relax at Boulder’s most iconic landmark.
Catch a Show at Boulder Theater
This iconic theater has provided a place for talented musicians and film stars to thrill audiences since 1906. Today, Boulder Theater is a local treasure that still welcomes top talent and eager audiences. Enjoy Boulder’s most historic art deco architecture along with a modern show. Events scheduled during the upcoming parent weekend include:
- Teton Gravity Research: Winterland – Oct 3, early show: 6:45 pm, late show 9:15 pm
- Ride with the Spirit of the Bee Hive (live music from indie band Ride) – Oct. 4 8:30 pm
- Welcome – A Ski Movie Premiere – Oct. 5 9:00 pm
- Cold War Kids with Slow Caves (live music from band Cold War Kids) – Oct. 6 8:00 pm
Take a Tour with Banjo Billy
For a unique way to see the city, schedule one of Banjo Billy’s Bus Tours for the whole family. Ride in an altered school bus through the city while learning another side of Boulder’s history. Tales of historic crimes, ghosts, and other historical facts will ensure you never forget this unique view of Boulder. Tours are available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and last about an hour and a half.
Local Events During Parent Week 2019
There’s always something going on in Boulder, and parent weekend will be no exception. While your parents are in town, treat them (and yourself!) to some off-campus local events. Here are a few events scheduled in Boulder during CU Boulder parents weekend 2019.
Open Studios
For the first three weeks in October, artists open their studios to the public to showcase their talent. The Open Studios fall studio tour for 2019 consists of 140 artists. It is a free self-guided tour that allows art lovers to get acquainted with artists and learn more about the process behind these beautiful creations.
Handmade in Colorado Expo
The 12th annual Handmade in Colorado Expo will be held in Boulder Central Park on October 5th and 6th. Talented designers will be showcasing unique items created from metal, glass, paper, wax, gem, and a lot more. Browse through breathtaking handmade items, start some early Christmas shopping, or grab a unique find for yourself that you couldn’t get anywhere else.
Pearl Street Stampede
This event is the official kickoff celebration for CU Boulder football games. The night before each home game, CU fans line Pearl Street Mall to build hometown spirit with the Pearl Street Stampede. The stampede begins on Friday at 7 pm in front of the county courthouse and moves west, stopping at each block of the mall to perform. The Golden Buffalo Marching Band is led by a Stephen Tebo’s vintage 1948 firetruck for the performance. Cheer on the football team members and coaches, enjoy the band, and bolster school spirit for the big game.
These popular events aren’t the only thing happening in Boulder during parent’s weekend. Local shops always have something fun going on. Be sure to check out local restaurants for amazing food, enjoy live music in various establishments, and grab some souvenirs in local shops along Pearl Street. Don’t forget to drop by the Boulder Farmer’s Market for delicious fresh food, music, and friendly faces.
Campus Events for CU Boulder Parents Weekend
The University of Colorado Boulder is prepared for parent weekend with many school-hosted events. While your family might not have time to squeeze in every activity, some events aren’t to be missed. CU Boulder administrators prepare for different levels of interest with three package choices to suit every taste. The $90 Gold Package provides access to all family weekend events, the $76 Silver Package provided access to all family weekend events except those occurring on Friday, and the $60 Black Package provides access to activities on Saturday and Sunday only. Some exciting events on the campus schedule include:
- Laser Music Show, Stranger Things – Oct 3 at 8:30 pm
- Education Abroad – Oct 4 at 9:00 am
- Off-Campus Housing (Learn important information about resources and student housing in Boulder.) – Oct 4 at 10:00 am
- Architecture Tour – Oct. 4 at 1:00 pm
- Fiske Planetarium Show: Liquid Sky U2 – Oct 4 at 10:00 pm
- CU Family Tailgate – Oct 5 preceding the big game between the Colorado Buffaloes and the University of Arizona.
- Buffalo Family Stampede 5K Fun Run – Oct 6 at 9:00 to 11:00 am
- Grab and Go Breakfast – Oct 6 at 11:00 am
Finding a place for everyone to stay can be difficult during a crowded CU Boulder parents weekend. Contact Boulder Property Management for more information about affordable rental opportunities in the Boulder, Colorado area.