It’s not really summer in Colorado until the Boulder Creek Festival takes place over Memorial Weekend. This year, the beloved community event is back for its 36th year of family-friendly fun.
“The Boulder Creek Festival is a cherished tradition, created by the community, for the community,” says Justin Greenstein, events manager for the City of Boulder.
Hosted by the City of Boulder and Team Player Productions, the festival will take place May 23-26 along Boulder Creek from 9th Street to 14th Street between Canyon Boulevard and Arapahoe Avenue. Last year, more than 150,000 people attended over the course of three days—which just goes to show you how much people love this long-standing gathering.
“Soak in the sunshine and enjoy a delicious cold beer at the Creekside Beer Fest, shop and wander through our market featuring a number of local craftmakers, and enjoy some of the best live music that this state has to offer at Boulder Creek Festival,” says Ryan Slater, Boulder Creek Festival event director.
From jammy live music and artisanal shopping to delicious food truck eats and crisp craft beers, the festival offers something for everyone. Here’s what’s on tap this year—and how to make the most of your time at the Boulder Creek Festival.
Jam Out to Live Music and Enjoy Community Performances
The Boulder Creek Festival always brings a stellar line-up of musicians to town, and this year is no different. Start your weekend by attending the Friday evening kickoff concert with Steely Dead at the Bandshell stage. Other headliners include Magic Beans on Saturday, followed by Boulder Sound Machine on Monday.
But no matter when you choose to attend, you’re sure to catch a musical act. That’s because the festival has more than 30 bands scheduled to perform across three stages throughout the weekend.
You can also catch performances by groups like the Nawaar Dance Company, Colorado Hula, Boulder Karate, the McTeggart McTeggart Irish Dancers and the Boulder Chamber Orchestra. And don’t miss the Teen Music Showcase on Sunday, which shines the spotlight on young adult musicians.
Shop for Artisanal Gifts
More than 200 artisans and local businesses will be on site, offering a farmers market-style shopping experience for festival-goers. It’s never too early to start thinking about holiday gifts, and Father’s Day is coming up on June 15. Peruse local art, apparel, ceramics, home goods, and more.
Enjoy Fun for the Whole Family
Bring the whole family to Boulder Creek Festival, which offers special programming through its Creekside for Kids initiative. Jeff & Paige will be putting on concerts for kids of all ages, and there will also be interactive performances, games and attractions specifically designed for little ones.
Sip Refreshing Craft Beers and Nosh in Local Eats
It’s a festival inside a festival: The Creekside Beer Fest returns for another year of fun in the sun, with more than 20 breweries pouring their tastiest craft beers. Participants include Avery Brewing Co., Bootstrap Brewing. Upslope Brewing Company, Ratio Beerworks and Four Noses Brewing Co., among many others. Ciders, spirits and zero-proof options will also be available.
Just remember that you need to get tickets for the beer fest, which takes place May 24-25. Choose from five all-inclusive tasting sessions throughout the weekend:
- Saturday First Session: 11 a.m to 1 p.m.
- Saturday Second Session: 2 to 4 p.m.
- Saturday Third Session: 5 to 7 p.m.
- Sunday First Session: 12 to 2 p.m.
- Sunday Second Session: 3 to 5 p.m.
Also new this year is a Roots Music Project showcase featuring local musicians and artists. They’ll be performing during each session of the beer fest on Saturday and Sunday.
“Top off your Boulder Creek Festival experience at Creekside Beer Fest, where the hops are popping, Boulder Creek is flowing and everyone is having a great time,” says Slater. “From IPAs and lagers to sour beers, ciders and NA options, there is something for everyone at Creekside Beer Fest.”
If you’re feeling peckish, check out the menus of the more than 20 food trucks and vendors that will be in attendance at Boulder Creek Festival. You’re sure to find a snack for everyone in your crew, with options ranging from vegan and vegetarian to international cuisine and carnival favorites. Enjoy Creole and Cajun fare at Gator Tails, for example, or gourmet glizzies at Urban Hotdog Collective.
Get Inspired at the Street Wise Art Battle
Thanks to a partnership with Street Wise Arts, 10 hand-selected artists will face off in an epic painting competition. Held at the Boulder Creek Festival Art Zone, the battle takes place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. But you’ll find their works of art displayed throughout Boulder for the rest of the year. And if you want to take one home, you can bid on your favorite during an auction that benefits Street Wise Arts. Be sure to vote for your favorite masterpiece, too, as the winning artist will be awarded a cash prize.
“There are so many incredible activities lined up over Memorial Day weekend this year,” says Greenstein. “Boulder Creek Festival is truly Boulder’s weekend where we welcome the community and beyond to experience the best kickoff event of the summer.”
