📰 Boulder Beat – February 5, 2025

☀️ Boulder Weather

High: 61°F ☀️ | Low: 35°F 🌙 | Wind: Up to 40 mph 🌬️

Boulder’s treating us to an early taste of spring with sunshine and a high of 61°F, but don't get too comfortable—winds up to 40 mph will make sure your hat doesn’t stay on for long.

• Sunrise/Sunset: 🌅 7:04 AM | 🌇 5:24 PM

• Moon: 🌔 Waxing Gibbous | 🌙 Moonrise 10:51 AM, Moonset 1:03 AM

If you're biking, consider a west-to-east route unless you want an unplanned leg day.

🔥 Top Stories

🚍 Free Boulder Canyon Bus Extended Through May

The fare-free shuttle between Boulder and Nederland has been extended through May 23, giving locals and mountain commuters more time to take advantage. Whether you're heading up to Eldora for skiing or just skipping canyon traffic, this is a win for anyone who loves a free ride up or down the Canyon. ➡️ BoulderCounty.gov

🏈 CU Buffs 2025 Football Schedule is Out!

Start planning your Saturdays now—the CU Buffs' 2025 schedule has dropped, featuring home games against Utah, Arizona State, and Texas Tech. Expect a packed Folsom Field and plenty of Ralphie runs. If you're a die-hard fan, grab those tickets early. ➡️ CU Buffs

🦉 Rare Northern Pygmy Owl Spotted at Heil Ranch

A Northern Pygmy Owl—one of the smallest owls in North America—was spotted in a photo at Heil Ranch this week. These tiny predators can take down prey twice their size despite being only 6 inches tall. If you’re hiking, keep an eye out—you might just catch a glimpse. ➡️ Reddit

🚗 Bring Back West Pearl Street – Sign the Petition

A new petition is circulating to close West Pearl Street to traffic live it was during Covid times. Supporters say it will help local businesses, while opponents want to keep the area pedestrian-friendly. What do you think? ➡️ Sign the Petition

🔥 Homeowners Insurance & Wildfire Risk – What You Need to Know

With wildfire risks increasing, insurance companies are reassessing Boulder homeowners' coverage. A new report warns of rising premiums and possible policy cancellations for high-risk areas. If you own property in Boulder County, now might be the time to check your coverage. ➡️ KUNC

🥗 CU Boulder Named #1 University for Plant-Based Dining

CU Boulder just took the top spot in the nation for plant-based dining. Whether you’re a committed vegan or just like the occasional jackfruit taco, the dining halls are leading the way in sustainable, plant-forward eating. ➡️ Denver7

🏗️ What’s Next for Broadway & Iris?

Boulder County is selling the North Broadway Complex, moving services to 28th Street, and clearing the way for potential redevelopment. No firm plans yet, but expect mixed-use proposals with possible housing and retail. ➡️ Boulder County

📚 Bookstores Are Struggling—Here’s How They’re Adapting

Independent bookstores are fighting to survive against rising rents, online competition, and shifting reading habits. Many are turning to events, book clubs, and subscription models to stay open. Support your local bookstore before it's too late. ➡️ KGNU

🎉 Things To Do

🎶 Ladies’ Night Vinyl Party @ Velvet Elk Lounge

🕔 5:00 PM | 📍 2037 13th St, Boulder, CO
Half-off bottles of wine 🍷 and 2-for-1 cocktails 🍹 while DJs spin classic vinyl records—sounds like the perfect midweek unwind. Grab your friends, sip, vibe, and let the music take you back. ➡️ Event Info

🎭 A Traveler’s Needs @ Dairy Arts Center

🕗 8:00 PM | 📍 2590 Walnut St, Boulder, CO
This theatrical exploration of movement and storytelling takes audiences on a journey across cultures, landscapes, and human experiences. Expect visually stunning performances and thought-provoking narratives. ➡️ EventDetails

🎻 Behind the Music: Josh Halpern & Friends

🕖 7:00 PM | 📍 Dairy Arts Center
Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at classical music storytelling with acclaimed cellist Josh Halpern. Enjoy live performances while learning about the history, technique, and passion behind the music. ➡️ Event Details

🥾 Boulder Wilderness Hike (40+)

🕐 1:00 PM | 📍 Davidson Mesa Trailhead
Join a social hike for ages 40+ with breathtaking views of the Flatirons. It’s an easy-to-moderate trek that’s perfect for meeting new people while getting in your steps. ➡️ Meetup Info

😂 Improv Comedy Night @ Avalon Ballroom

🕖 7:00 PM | 📍 6185 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO
A hilarious night of improv where anything goes! Whether you're an aspiring comedian or just want to laugh your stress away, this event is full of spontaneous, unpredictable fun. ➡️ Event Details

🎣 Boulder Flycasters Monthly Meeting

🕕 6:00 PM | 📍 TBA
Love fly fishing? Join Boulder Flycasters for their monthly meeting, where local experts discuss fishing techniques, conservation efforts, and upcoming outings. Open to all skill levels. ➡️ Meetup Info

🍻 Trivia & Games – Multiple Locations!

• Twisted Pine Brewing (Geeks Who Drink) – 🕕 6:00 PM | 📍 3201 Walnut St

• Full Cycle Café & Bar Trivia – 🕖 7:00 PM | 📍 2355 30th St

• Brain Food Trivia @ Finkel & Garf – 🕠 6:30 PM | 📍 5455 Spine Road

• Boulder Board Games Meetup – 🕕 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 📍 Sanitas Brewing Company

• Bluegrass Pick Jam @ Beyond the Mountain Brewing – 🕕 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 📍 6035 Longbow Drive

🍕 Restaurant Deals

🍹 Happy Hour @ My Neighbor Felix

📍 901 Pearl St, Boulder | 3-6 PM Daily
Sip on $7 margaritas, grab $3 street tacos, and enjoy $5 draft beers at one of Boulder’s best Mexican spots. ➡️ Menu Here

🥃 Wings and Whiskey Wednesdays @ West End Tavern

📍 926 Pearl St, Boulder | All Day
Half-off whiskey pours and $5 old fashioneds, $1 wings. With 150+ whiskeys to choose from, you’ll never run out of options. ➡️ More Info

🍕 Pizza Colóre – Best Budget Slice in Town

📍 1336 Pearl St, Boulder
A Boulder classic. $6 personal pizzas, massive calzones, and sandwiches under $10—perfect for a quick, delicious, and affordable meal. ➡️ Menu & Info