Frequently Asked Questions
If you have additional questions about Fall Fest that are not addressed below, please contact us.
Where do I park?
Downtown Boulder is home to 6 parking structures and 5 parking lots, along with on-street metered spaces -- over 4,000 parking spaces! Parking in City of Boulder Garages is FREE on Saturday and Sundays, and metered parking is FREE on Sunday. Please see the Getting Here page for additional information, maps and details on alternative modes. Even though parking in garages is free on weekends please make sure you hang on to your ticket as you'll need that to exit the garage. The lost ticket fee is $50.00.
Is Fall Fest free?
Yes, Fall Fest is free and open to the public. The children's inflatables provided on Saturday and Sunday on the Courthouse Lawn are also free. There is a cost for food and drinks.
What are the Fall Fest hours?
Fall Fest is from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Friday, September 22nd, 10:00 am to 9:00 pm on Saturday, September 23rd, and from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sunday, September 24th. Check out the Schedule for complete details.
Where do I get food and beverages?
The Fall Fest Beer Garden hosts a variety of great food vendors - and we have plenty of tables to sit and enjoy it on the lawn. Options include Boulder Bowls (Cuban-style rice and beans), Chiri's Momo Delights (momo's) Rae's & Kay's (wings, mac and cheese and more), Kingcomo Quesadillas, and Big Wheel Beverages (a fun make your own sno-cone machine!). There are also a variety of take away options on the 1300 block - from pizza to falafel - not to mention dozens of restaurants throughout downtown who offer some great take-out options!
Or, if you'd rather take a break from the outdoors, stop by one of over 100 great downtown restaurants. Check out our Dining Listings or stop by the Visitor Information Center at 13th and Pearl streets for a recommendation.
Is there alcohol at the Fest?
Absolutely. The Fall Fest Beer Garden, sponsored by Bank of Colorado, is located on the 1300 block of Pearl Street in front of the Boulder County Courthouse Lawn. Offerings include beer from Avery Brewing Company, Wood Chuck hard cider, margaritas and wine. Beer, Wine and Hard Cider is $8 and Margaritas are $10. Non-alcoholic drink options are also available.
Where are the bathrooms?
Public Restrooms are located to the north of the Visitor Information Center on the Northeast corner of 13th and Pearl streets, including a portable restroom just north of that location. There is also a portable restroom located inside the beer garden on the Northwest side of the Courthouse Lawn.
What if it rains?
Fall Fest will be held rain or shine. We only close down when the weather presents a safety hazard to patrons, artists and staff.
What should I wear and should I bring anything with me?
Mid-September tends to be a nice, warm time in Boulder, so we recommend simply wearing comfortable clothing for your visit to Fall Fest.
Keep in mind it can get chilly after dark so layers are a must. If it's sunny when you head out, bring a hat, plenty of sunscreen and a reusable water bottle!
Are there kids' activities?
There are lots of things happening at Fall Fest to entertain the kids - check out our Family Activities page. Be sure to check out the Schedule for timing on activities, classes and live performances the whole family can enjoy. Thanks to our Children's Activity sponsor, Eldora Mountain Resort, the bounce activities on Saturday and Sunday are all FREE!
Do you have a lost and found?
We do - stop by the Visitor Information Center on the northeast corner of 13th and Pearl streets for assistance with lost items.
Are pets allowed at Fall Fest?
The City of Boulder prohibits pets on the Pearl Street Mall - so please leave your furry friends at home!
What kind of music is there at Fall Fest?
Throughout each day of the Festival, visitors will be entertained with a wide range of musical performances by bands including Monoverde Collective, Los Mocochetes, Rolling Harvest and more! The Performance Stage, sponsored by Quantum Fiber, is located in front of the courthouse on the 1300 block of Pearl.
Check out the Music page to see the full line-up and hear samples of the music.
How do I find a specific artisan at Firefly Handmade?
Stop by the Firefly Handmade information booth on the southeast corner of 13th and Pearl streets and their staff and volunteers will help you find them.
What type of art will be at the Fest?
Firefly Handmade will feature home goods, art, ceramics, skin care, children's and adult apparel, jewelry, home goods, pet goods, artisanal food and beverages and more.
What is the price range of the artisan goods?
Items range from $25 - $500 or more. Most artisans have a variety of items and pricing.
I'm an artist - how do I apply to be a part of the Firefly Handmade at Fall Fest in the future?
Applications for the 2024 Firefly Handmade at Fall Fest will be available in Summer 2024 on their website. Subscribe to their email newsletter on their website for the latest news and visit Downtown Boulder's site for up-to-date information.
How do you choose the artisans?
Artisans are selected each year by an independent jury of artists and arts professionals. Approximately 200 artisans apply to the Firefly Handmade each year for around 100 spots.
Is photography of the artwork allowed?
No photography of the artwork is allowed without the permission of the artisan.
What else is there to do at the Fest?
Fall Fest takes place on the historic Pearl Street Mall, in the middle of vibrant Downtown Boulder! Filled with amazing shopping, dining and entertainment options – there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. Eighty-five percent locally owned and operated with over 1,000 businesses, Downtown Boulder is well-maintained with a clean, inviting and delightfully charming atmosphere.
When you're done exploring all that Fall Fest has to offer - get some ideas from A Day in Downtown - or stop by the Visitor Information Center on the Northeast corner of 13th and Pearl streets and ask our staff for some ideas!
How can I become a Volunteer?
Fall Fest relies on the help and support of over 100 volunteers to make this popular community festival a success. Please join us by visiting our Volunteer Page for more detail and information on how to sign up.
Still have questions about Fall Fest? Contact Us.