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A Bright Tradition: Discover the Boulder Star This Week
Learn about the history of Boulder’s iconic star, the best spots to see it, and all the events to kick off your week.
What's Happenin' Team
November 25, 2024
A Sparkling Tradition: The Boulder Star
Hey Boulder! 🌞
The Boulder Star is back, lighting up the season with its iconic glow from Flagstaff Mountain. A cherished tradition since 1947, this shining symbol of Boulder’s community and resilience is a must-see during the winter months. Whether you’re a long-time local or visiting for the first time, there’s magic in its light.
In today’s issue:
🌟 Boulder Star History – Discover the story behind this beloved symbol.
👀 Best Viewing Spots – Where to catch the perfect view of the star.
📅 Events for the Week – Plan your days with these local happenings.
🌤️ Weather Forecast – Stay ahead with this week’s outlook.
— The Boulder Buzz Team 🕸️
The History and Magic of the Boulder Star ✨
 | The Boulder Star, perched on Flagstaff Mountain, has been a guiding light for the community since 1947. This beloved symbol marks the beginning of the holiday season, shining brightly from Veterans Day through the new year. Over the decades, the star has weathered pranks, political debates, and even vandalism, but its light continues to inspire hope and generosity in Boulder. Originally created as a holiday decoration, the star has seen many transformations, from a peace sign to a cross, reflecting the times and the community’s spirit. Today, thanks to environmentally-friendly upgrades, the 365 bulbs are powered by wind energy and shine with energy-efficient LEDs. While the area surrounding the Boulder Star is closed to protect sensitive wildlife habitats and prevent further damage to the landscape, there are plenty of places to view its glow safely. Scroll down for a list of open space locations offering the best vantage points to see the star in all its glory. |
Enjoy the Boulder Star—From Afar 🌟
The Boulder Star is a cherished tradition, but enjoying its beauty comes with a responsibility to protect the environment and ensure safety. While hiking to the star on Flagstaff Mountain might sound tempting, the area is officially closed, and here’s why:
No Designated Trail: The star is located in steep terrain without proper trails, making access both challenging and unsafe.
Wildlife Protection: The area surrounds sensitive habitats, including golden eagle nesting zones that require seasonal closures to preserve these majestic birds.
Environmental Damage: Years of off-trail visitation have caused significant harm, including de-vegetation, erosion, and the creation of unauthorized trails.
Safety Risks: Loose soil on the steep slope poses a serious danger of slips and falls for those attempting to reach the star.
Illegal Activities: Rangers have had to address issues such as littering, smoking, vandalism, and alcohol use near the site.
To safeguard this iconic landmark and its surroundings, the City of Boulder reminds everyone that hiking to the star is prohibited. Rangers will be patrolling the area, and violations of city ordinances may result in citations.
Best Spots to View the Star
You don’t need to get up close to admire the star’s brilliance. Instead, enjoy its glow from these open and accessible locations:
Let’s celebrate the holiday season responsibly by admiring the Boulder Star from a safe distance. Together, we can preserve this beloved tradition for generations to come! 🌟
🎶 Weekend Events: Nov. 25–27 🎉
 Puzzling Adventures Scavenger Hunt 📍 Various Locations |  Monday Pub Runs at Sanitas Brewing 📍 Sanitas Brewing Co, 3550 Frontier Ave |  Flow Jam at Junkyard Social Club 📍 Junkyard Social Club, 2525 Frontier Ave |
 Velvet Vinyl at The Velvet Elk Lounge 📍 The Velvet Elk Lounge, 2037 13th St. |  Board Game Night at The Rayback Collective 📍 Rayback Collective, 2775 Valmont Road, Unit 3 |
Boulder Weather: Plan Your Week 🌤️❄️
Monday, Nov 25
☀️ Day: 47°F | Partly cloudy with light SE winds at 5 mph.
🌙 Night: 31°F | Partly cloudy with WSW winds at 3 mph.
Tuesday, Nov 26
☀️ Day: 49°F | Partly cloudy in the morning, becoming overcast by afternoon. Light NE winds at 4 mph.
🌙 Night: 30°F | Rain and snow mix expected overnight. Chance of precipitation: 70%.
Wednesday, Nov 27
☀️ Day: 35°F | Morning snow turning to scattered snow showers. 1-3 inches expected. Winds NNE at 6 mph.
🌙 Night: 20°F | Clearing skies with WSW winds at 5 mph.
Thursday, Nov 28
☀️ Day: 37°F | Sunny skies and light NW winds at 4 mph.
🌙 Night: 20°F | Clear and calm, perfect for stargazing!
Friday, Nov 29
☀️ Day: 42°F | Morning clouds giving way to sunshine. Light W winds at 5 mph.
🌙 Night: 21°F | Crisp and clear with gentle W winds at 6 mph.
Heads-Up: Snow and icy conditions are expected midweek, so bundle up and tread carefully! Keep your plans flexible for Tuesday night into Wednesday.
Wishing on Boulder’s Star 🌟
 | Whether you're soaking in the glow of the Boulder Star from afar, enjoying the crisp winter air on a scenic trail, or joining a fun local event this week, Boulder has something magical for everyone. As we gear up for the holiday season, let the spirit of community and connection light up your days—just like the star on Flagstaff Mountain. Stay warm, stay curious, and keep exploring! See you out there, Boulderites. 💫 — The Boulder Buzz Team 🐝 |
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