The Bolder Life: I Love Boulder in the Spring →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: March 6th, 2012

Today—is beautiful. The sun is shining. The slight breeze is a welcome change from the terrible winds ripping through the area lately. Local restaurants and bars have their patios open and people all around the Boulder County area counting down the seconds until they can shut down their computers and soak up some happy hour sun.

I love spring. Spring means festival season is just around the corner and event calendars everywhere are brimming with awesome activities.

This week, Downtown Boulder’s calendar is packed with some great events that I had a tough time picking out my top 4—but like a true professional, I pulled through.

Here’s my list of events that you should definitely check out this week! Take a trip to downtown Boulder, park for free in the parking garages on Saturday and Sunday, save time for a cocktail or two, and have a wonderful, fun-filled week in Boulder!

Denver Restaurant Week
Participating Restaurants |Now through March 9th
Restaurant Week… is almost over. And this is definitely an event that you shouldn’t miss. Some of Denver and Boulder County’s most popular restaurant are offering up 3 to 4-course menus for $26.40 per person. That’s an insane price for some of the specialty courses prepared by top local chefs. I have reservations at SALT tonight and I can’t wait get down on some Orange Buttermilk Panna Cotta. Come on, you know that sounds good! Check here for a list of participating restaurants and do no miss this special deal!

Beyond 127 Hours: An Evening with Aron Ralston
The Boulder Theater | Thursday, March 8th
You saw 127 Hours. Your heart probably broke a little bit every time you saw poor James Franco screaming in agony. But what you probably didn’t know, is the main character of this award-winning film actually lives in Boulder. Aron Ralston is a Boulderite, an avid hiker and climber and a conservation activities for the wild lands of Utah and Colorado. Hear Aron’s story live and for free this Thursday at the Boulder Theater. The event is free but the extensive and adventurous stories that Aron has are priceless.

Food as Art bARTer Collective: Foodlore
BMoCA | March 8 & 9
Let’s be real, you consider yourself a foodie, and living in a shining culinary hub like Boulder County, I would consider you a foodie too. Which is why you should check out this unique event at Boulder’s beloved BMoCA. Send in a recipe with a special or personal story attached to it. Stories will be included in special food-centric performances done over two days at the museum. Check out installations, performances and events all centered around food and since there isn’t a charge for these events, you’ll still have money in your pocket to take your friends out for dinner to show off your exceptional foodie knowledge.

Boulder’s Best Mixologist Contest
BMoCA | Sunday, March 11
I’m sure you’ve heard some buzz about this special event going on in downtown Boulder. The art of cocktails is quickly becoming just as revered as the art of food, with several of Boulder’s most familiar bartenders competing in contest all over the state and the nation to show off their unique mixology skills. This mixology contest will bring the cream of the crop in mixologists into one room and for the price of $45.00 per person, you’ll have the opportunity to sample their special cocktails as they compete against each other for the coveted title of Boulder’s Best Mixologist. Vote on your favorite cocktail and see who takes this crown in this battle of the bartenders.

The Bolder Life: It’s a Dead Man’s Party →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: March 2nd, 2012

There are a ton of strange and unique festivals that happen year-round in Colorado, but the Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival pretty much takes the cake!

For one weekend, every spring, Nederland throws an awesome party to celebrate life, death and the afterlife of one super famous dead guy who spends his days in a really cold Tuff Shed tucked in the hills of Nederland. I mean really, it doesn’t get much cooler than that. (Pun totally intended). This year, the highly anticipated festival is in new hands, but the traditions are  staying the same. Pay tribute to Grandpa Bredo, Nederland’s most popular resident, with a weekend filled with live music, craft beer, coffin races, polar plunges, tours of Grandpa Bredo’s resting place, costume contests, a parade of hearses, a cryogenic workshop, pancake breakfast, icy turkey bowling, brain freeze contest and a one of the shortest pub crawls you’ll ever attend! I mean really, it is a dead man’s party. Who could ask for more?

So here’s the skinny. A breakdown of events by day. And be sure to check out the list of bands performing at Dead Guys Days. They’re all pretty much to-die-for.

Get bundled up, grab your friends and don’t miss this awesomely ridiculous festival going on March 2-4th!

Friday, March 2nd

  • Beer Tent featuring brews by Avery Brewing and Left Hand Brewing will be open from 3:00-8:00 p.m.
  • Live Music starts at 3:00 p.m. with Mekanizm followed by Longest Day of the Year at from 4:45 – 6:00 p.m. and Fried Grease closing out the musical entertainment for the night.
  • Take a tour of Tuff Shed where Grandpa Bredo resides between 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
  • Opening Ceremony at 7:00 p.m. will feature the famous Skelton Dancers and the unveiling of a snow sculpture by Cool Hand Carvers.
  • Finish the night at Grandpa’s Blue Ball and enter the Ice Queen and Grandpa look-a-like contest. Listen to tunes by Nederland’s own, The Big Blue Ball Band. Doors open at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door and $10 to enter the costume contest.

Saturday, March 3rd

  • Pancake Breakfast from 8:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the Community Center
  • Tours of Grandpa’s Tuff Shed run at 10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m.
  • Learn all about Cryogenics at a workshop being held at the Wild Bear Mountain Ecology Center at 10:30 & 2:30 p.m.
  • The Brain Freezer tent opens and starts selling Avery and Left Hand beers from 11:00 – 8:00 p.m. Catch tunes by the Acoustic Mining Company, Blackdog and the Psycho Horns, Bread and Circus, Smooth Money Gesture and Bread and Circus between 11:00 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. at Chipeta Park.
  • Kort McCumber, the Jeff Brinkman Band, Lesley Kernochan, Jet Edison and Ground up will be playing in the Brain Freezer tent throughout the day. Click here for a complete schedule of music going on around town.
  • Charity Polar Plunge happening from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. in Chipeta Park. $20 entry fee.
  • Coffin Races. Watch teams race their coffins through an obstacle course full of mud, snow, playground slides and other ridiculousness from 2 – 3:30 p.m.
  • Bowling with frozen turkeys from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.
  • Show off your tough skills at the Brain Freeze Contest from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
  • And jump in on possibly the shortest Pub Crawl ever from 6:30 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.

Sunday, March 4th

  • If you didn’t get your fill of pancakes on Saturday, then stop by Pancake Breakfast at the Community Center and fuel up for the day.
  • The awesome ReAnimate Yourself Beer Tent will be serving up Avery and Left Hand brews along with a stream of live music from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Click here for a complete list of Sunday live music.
  • Test your salmon tossing skills at the Salmon Toss & Sunday Brunch at the Sundance Café from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • If you didn’t get hypothermia at the Polar Plunge on Saturday, then sign up forSnowy Beach Volleyball from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Chiptea Park. Eight teams. First come, first serve.
  • If you believe in that Big Foot exists, like my darling father, God bless his heart—then don’t miss the Sasquatch Investigations talk at from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. in the lower level of the Shopping Center.
  • And if you’re into yoga, then learn how to do the corpse pose at Tadasana Mountian Yoga. Drop in any time between noon and 1:00 p.m. for $5.00.
  • Catch Turkey Bowling again from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. and enter the crazy Brain Freeze Contest from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
  • The Cool Hand Ice Carving Demonstration from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. sounds pretty cool… contestants of the Newly “Dead” Game at 2:00 p.m. can find out just how well they know their partner’s last wishes.
  • An Extreme Air Guitar Competition at 2:30 p.m. and a 3:00 p.m. Rocky Mountain Oyster Eating Competition at the First Street Pub put an end to the scheduled festival events for the day.
  • The Closing Ceremony at 5:00 p.m. puts the nail in the coffin of this crazy weekend, and planning begins for next year!

The Bolder Life: 5,280 Reasons to Love Denver Restaurant Week →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: February 23rd, 2012

Okay.

So 5,280 reasons is pretty excessive—and incredibly time consuming for the author; but the fact of the matter is that Denver Restaurant Week starts this Sunday! It’s time to put a game plan together and get serious about making reservations at the participating restaurants that you are dying to indulge at.

If you aren’t familiar with the specific details behind this tasty, budget-friendly event—you better get familiar. Restaurant week embodies all that is good about being a food fanatic for the low price of $52.80 per couple or $26.40 per person. StartingFebruary 25 – March 9th, diners will enjoy multi-course meals composed of regular and specialty menu items brought to you by the creative minds behind many of the most successful eateries in the 303 area code. What’s even better is Restaurant Week is actually two weeks of dining fun! That means that you’ll have plenty of time to eat your way through the participating restaurants list while still leaving time to digest and sleep in between. I’m salivating just thinking about it.

Hundreds of local restaurants are participating in this food fest and a special web page created for the most organized and serious foodie allows diners to find participating restaurants by neighborhood and by cuisine. Do you love, love Italian? Awesome, because these restaurants love making Italian food. Can’t get enough sushi? That’s great, because these restaurants have plenty of sticky rice and raw fish to prepare your favorite rolls. Easy and convenient.

Not a fan of leaving the comfort of the Boulder County bubble? I don’t blame you, it’s nice here– and fortunately, you don’t have to leave the bubble to get in on the Restaurant Week fun. Check out this list of the Boulder County restaurants offering up delicious deals.

Personally—I can’t wait to try the Octopus Carpaccio and Gorgonzola Gnocchi atArugula. And I’ve been itching to check out John’s Restaurant that has a Black Angus New York Strip Steak on their menu that alone is worth almost as much as the bill for two diners to enjoy a 3-course Restaurant Week meal!

And if you’re feeling adventurous and want to venture outside of Boulder County, check out Freshcraft in downtown Denver. The Sweetbreads will leave you speechless and their huge selection of craft beer will validate the trip alone.

Click here for a complete list of participating restaurants.

Break out the stretchy pants and anti-acids.

And remember that tax, gratuity and accompanying libations are not included.

The Bolder Life: Bourbon Street Meets BoCo →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: February 21st, 2012

Happy Mardi Gras, y’all!

Today is Fat Tuesday, and history and tradition state that today is the day to eat richer and indulge in your favorite fatty foods before tomorrow comes along and Ash Wednesday guilts everyone into giving up the things they love—like “sweets” and “gluten”.

Even though Colorado is a long way from the French Quarter, some of your favorite local restaurants and bars are celebrating Mardi Gras in style tonight! With menus filled with everything from crawfish, Andouille sausage and shrimp to frog legs, roasted hog and even alligator! Spend your gluttonous day indulging in some traditional N’awlins cuisine, sipping on Hurricanes, and stomping your feet along to the sounds of a washboard and some classic Zydeco music!

Check out these Boulder County locations tonight and get your Mardi Gras on Bourbon St. Style!

Oskar Blues Homemade Liquids and Solids
1555 S. Hover Rd. | Longmont | 7-10 pm
Oskar Blues is serving up traditional down-home cooking all year round, but you can always count on them go big for Mardi Gras. Get your purple, green and gold beads here and catch one of the best Bluesania Zydeco bands that will be sure to have you on your feet all night! Get your Whole Roasted Hog, Alligator, traditional Gumbo, Oysters on the half-shell, Hurricane’s, Abita Amber Ale, Zydeco music and face painting for the kids—here.

Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar
928 Pearl St. | Boulder
Two words: Crawfish. Boil. I love a good Cajun Crawfish Boil, and Jax Fish House knows just how to do ‘em right! Live gulf crawfish and shrimp, a little spicy Andouille sausage, some red skin potatoes, old bay seasoning, fresh lemon and a little bit of love. Jax is also serving up some crispy Bayou Frog Legs served with blackened aioli and house slaw along with some fried oyster and shaved tasso ham Po’ Boys. Cajun cuisine at its finest!

Lyons Fork
450 Main St. | Lyons | Dinner at 4 pm, Music at 7 pm
Join the Lyons Fork for Fat Tuesday and the last day of their Feasts of New Orleans! Food specials include:  Sausage Jambalaya, Trout Ponchetrain, Begnets and King Cakes. Live music starts at 7 pm with some collaborative blues by local boys, Ash Ganley and Terry Kishiyama. And while you’re there, celebrate National Margarita Day one day early with some tequila goodness whipped up by the friendly Fork bartenders.

Lucky Pie 
637 Front St. | Louisville
Louisville gem, Lucky Pie is throwing a Fat Tuesday party filled with drink specials and a unique take on Cajun food. Order a Lucky Pie Cajun Pizza and wash it down with a $3 Polestar Pilsner or a $5 Sazerac! LP will also be serving up some Andouille and Chicken Gumbo along with their regular delicious menu and 21 tap handles of craft beer love.

The Bolder Life: Movies, Music and More! →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: February 16th, 2012

Last year, the Boulder International Film Festival brought heartthrob, James Franco to the streets of downtown Boulder —and although you definitely won’t be finding the famous actors attending this year’s festival on the cover of People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive issue, you get a chance to catch a glimpse of Will Flanders’ real-life doppelganger, and get the opportunity to chat with the man that taught Charlie Sheen how to win.

BIFF (Boulder International Film Festival) kicks off tonight at 6 p.m. with the Colorado Film Society’s Opening Night Gala, followed by three days of films, workshops and events including A Conversation with William H. Macy at 7:15 pm at the Boulder Theater on Friday, and A Conversation with Martin Sheenat the same location at 2:30 p.m. the following day.  Click here for a complete schedule of the festival. Ticket prices range from $10 to $25 and discounts for students are available.

If music is more your thing, then check out these popular live bands playing Boulder County venues this weekend. Kick off your Friday night with some rockin’ blues by crowd favorite, the Johnny O Band at Oskar Blues Homemade Liquids and Solids —or keep it mellow at Waterloo in Louisville with the sweet sounds of theIdlewhile Band as they keep you entertained with a unique blend of folk, pop, country and bluegrass music brought to you by a group of incredibly talented musicians.

If you’re like a very good friend of mine, reaching adulthood didn’t really phase that childhood obsession you had with trains. If this sounds like you, then check out the15th Annual Rails on the Rockies happening February 18-19 at the Conference Center in Estes Park. This working exhibit includes a variety of types of model trains roaring along model railroad rails. This is a kid-friendly event where children under the age of 12 get in for free, and can operate some of the model trains themselves! Admission is $5 per person and exhibit hours for the show run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

And if you’re just plain nuts, like most of the wacky members of the Lyons Polar Bear Club, then you’ll probably be jumping in the freezing February waters of the Boulder Reservoir this Saturday for the Boulder Polar Plunge! If you’re interested in “freezing for a reason”, then visit this info page, sign up a team and pledge a donation! Plungers are encouraged to dress in their craziest garb and all teams are eligible to win prizes and invited to get warm at the after party. The money raised for this event will benefit the Special Olympics of Colorado, and if you’re like me, and enjoy keeping your feet on dry land, then register yourself as a chicken, make your donation, put on your warmest down jacket and cheer on the those crazy people taking the Boulder Polar Plunge.

The Bolder Life: Be My Valentine →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: February 13th, 2012

Valentine’s Day is tomorrow—which is a real shame, because Tuesday is one of my favorite days of the week. Now I wouldn’t necessarily say that I take home the honors for being the biggest “Grinch” of this sugar-soaked holiday, but I probably do deserve top ten status.

What can I say? I guess Cupid missed when he shot his arrow my way!

So whether you’re one half of a gushy couple, or eating boxes of those heart-shaped chocolate all by yourself, there’s a little something for everyone going on the 14th day of this love-filled month.

So grab the one you love, or grab that one that’ll do for now, and check out one of these events.

Happy Valentine’s Day! Boxes of Sweetheart candies for everyone!

For the Beer Lover
Avery Beer Lovers’ Dinner | The West End Tavern | 6:00 pm | $100 per Person
Your significant other loves beer. And you love your significant other. So why not treat them to a beer-centric event hosted by one of Boulder County’s best craft beer producers and most-likeable craft beer bars? Check out this 5-course menu paired with a slew of Avery brews.  This dinner might be $100 per person, but let’s face it—can you really put a price on love?

For the Special Wookiee in Your Life:
Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace 3D | Show Times Vary | $13 (ish) per Ticket
If your other half believes in Wookiee and galaxies far, far away, then I would definitely suggest taking them to see this classic film in the theater. Plus—it’s in the 3D. Really, when is the last time that you saw Star Wars Episode I… and while you’re at it, try to remember the last time you saw a movie in 3D? (If, by chance, you’ve already seen this release… just disregard this message entirely).

For the Mellow Valentine in Your Life
Wendy Woo Live Music | Rock & Soul Café | 7:30 pm | $10 advance/$12 at the door
Wendy Woo is one of my favorite local artists. She delicately captures the balance between rock ‘n roll and soft songwriting. The Rock & Soul Café is the perfect intimate venue to watch this show at—and will be serving sweet desserts as well as hot drinks and beer and wine. Capture your Valentine’s heart with songs from the heart. (Awww!)

For the Music Lover
Valentine’s Evening Dinner and Dancing| Nissi’s | 7:30 pm | $60 per Person
Live jazz tunes by local band, Alive on Arrival, plus a four-course menu is definitely a romantic way to celebrate with your special someone. Make it a date night filled with the perfect mood music and an elegant menu filled with items like Oysters Rockefeller, Prime Rib and Angel Food Cake.

For the Valentine in the Friend Zone
Anti-Valentine’s Day Party | Oskar Blues Grill and Brew | 7:00 pm | Free Show
Did you get “Best Friend” candy heart from your crush this Valentine’s Day? If you answered yes, then this event is for you. The motto of the Jameson Co-Dependent Country Band is, “lying, cheating, drinking and loving it”, which makes them the perfect band to play at the Oskar Blues Anti-Valentine’s Day party at the Oskar Blues Lyons location. Grab your friends and celebrate your single status with this high energy band and some delicious Oskar Blues brews.

The Bolder Life: Sweet Treats for Valentine’s Day →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: February 7th, 2012

Valentine’s Day is coming up. I know, I know—I’m not a fan of Cupid and his half-naked, chubby backside either, but this sugar-filled February holiday is kind of hard to avoid. Right this second, love birds from all over are finalizing their orders with the florist, confirming dinner reservations for two at expensive restaurants and trolling liquor store isles for the perfect bottle of bubbly.

To each their own.

But if you really want to get your sweetheart something special this year, consider showing your love by ordering some sweet treats from one of the three local specialty dessert companies below. Give the gift of a beautifully decorated, tasty treat made with love, for the ones you love. (Insert ridiculously corny ‘awww-ing’ sounds here).

Place your sweet treats orders today!

Piece Love and Chocolate
805 Pearl St. | Boulder | 303.449.4804
I’ve never really been much of a sweets person, but on the occasion that a sugar craving sneaks up on me, one dessert always comes to mind: A gluten-free, mouse-filled, vanilla cupcake from Piece, Love and Chocolate. I’ve been known to drive at least thirty minutes out of my way for a taste of this delicious cupcake. And let’s be real, who doesn’t like cupcakes. And since I lack a lot of self-control, I usually end up leaving this sweet-smelling chocolate shop with a bag filled with white chocolate truffles and other assorted desserts as well. To. Die. For. And right now Piece, Love and Chocolate’s display cases are filled with the colors of love and edible hearts. Fantastic place to find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift.

The Tasterie Truck
Mobile Food Truck | Boulder County | 303.550.6111
One of the best cupcakes that I’ve ever tried came from a food truck. Sometimes I dream about their melt-in-your-mouth pomegranate frosting and white cake cupcake. So yummy—and the Tasterie Truck is offering a special Valentine Day menu to help you find the perfect treat for the one you love. Pay $16/half-dozen or $28/dozen and choose from one of these heart-melting flavors: Strawberries and Champagne, Stuffed Triple Chocolate, Red Velvet and more! And this eatery on wheels also has the hook up on chocolate-covered strawberries…  So place your order today. And if you’re having trouble deciding which cupcakes to order, then follow the Tasterie Truck onFacebook and Twitter and sample their goodies at a BoCo location near you!

The Daily Cake
Web-Based | Longmont | 303.250.1752 or 303.946.3256
This up-and-coming, local cupcakery is quickly gaining fans by making craft beer a popular ingredient in their unique and tasty cupcakes. Try a Chocolate (Left Hand Brewing) Milk Stout Cake topped with a Salted Butter Cream, or create your own cupcake and craft beer infusion using one of the award-winning brews from Oskar Blues Brewery. Call or order online today to customize your own cupcake from their extensive list of flavors and frostings– or order a dozen of their specialty seasonal cupcakes! Either way, The Daily Cake is the one-stop-shop to find a Valentine’s gift for the craft beer lover and the sugar addict in your life!

The Bolder Life: Super Saturday →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: February 2nd, 2012

This week has been busy. So busy, I didn’t even see February wiggle its way on to my daily calendar. For those of you that don’t know—February is actually a pretty awesome month. When I think of the month of February, I think of an old saying that my Grandma used to tell me:

“Good things come in small packages.” (I’m only 5’1’’. Enough said).

February is a pretty small package compared to the rest of the months, but it’s jam-packed with awesomeness. Did you know that February is Stout Month? Who doesn’t love a good stout. And the Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery couldn’t be more excited about Stout Month. Check out this awesome list of locally produced stouts they put together for you. Rate your favorite stout beers and keep track of the ones you’ve triedhere.

February also plays host to fun holidays like Groundhog Day (February 2nd), and Fat Tuesday (February 21st), and for those of you with a significant other—Valentine’s Day. (If I have to list the date of this classic Hallmark holiday, you probably shouldn’t be celebrating it). February is also Chocolate Lovers Month, and my personal favorite, National Bird Feeding Month. Who doesn’t like feeding birds, right?

So show February some appreciation by seriously indulging in the first weekend of this often overlooked month! Check out this line-up of events for Saturday. There’s a little something for everyone.

So everyone—enjoy!

CU Men’s Basketball vs. Oregon | Coors Event Center | Boulder | 7:00 p.m.
Go Buffs! Show my (yes, I said my) Buffs some support against the Oregon Ducks this Saturday at home. Enjoy game day drinks specials at Zolo Grill or grab a beer at Blues and Greens in the Outlook Hotel before you make you make your way over to the game. Remember, cheer loudly for the half-time Tuba Twirlers—they totally deserve it.

Super Firkin Saturday | Lucky Pie Pizza & Tap House | Louisville | 2 p.m.- 5 p.m.
February is the month of love, and there really isn’t anything that I love more than I beer-centric event hosted by my friends at Lucky Pie. What exactly is a firkin? In my opinion, it’s a great way to experiment with craft beer, but check out this Beer Advocate article for the technicalities behind it. This Saturday, Lucky Pie is featuring specialty firkins from Avery Brewing, Left Hand Brewing, Bristol Brewing and Black Fox Brewing—along with Lucky Pie munchies and the opportunity to rub elbows with representatives from each of these four, fantastic Colorado breweries. $20 gets you:  In, a glass of each firkin beer, the munchies and the rub elbows bit.

Interstate Stash Express and the Grant Farm | The Dicken’s Opera House | Longmont | 8:00 p.m.
I might be a little biased. I’ve been listening to Terry Kishiyama and the Interstate Stash Express band for years. They’re local. They’re fantastic. They’re going to make your foot twitch. Seriously. And I’ve heard fantastic things about The Grant Farm from fellow bluegrass enthusiasts. This show is a real one-two punch of all things revered in the local music scene.

Second Annual Bob Marley Birthday Party Benefit | The Shine Restaurant and Gathering Place | Boulder | 8:00 p.m.
Did you know that Bob Marley was an Aquarius? He totally was, and the new-kid-on-the-block, Shine, is celebrating Bob in style this Saturday at 8 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Colorado Jamaica Project and will feature the musical stylings of DJ Uplifter along with MC Black Rhino. Tickets are $10 and doors open at 8 p.m. Don’t worry about a thing, because every little thing at this event is going to be alright.

Playback Theater West: A Night of Improvisational Theater | The Dairy Center for the Arts | Boulder | 8 p.m.
If you are one of those exceptionally shy people—that’s okay—but I wouldn’t recommend going to this show. For this improve show, audience participation is a must, and performer’s will perform skits based on stories from the audience to “entertain, enrich and enlighten” audience members. This show is PG-13, which the rating everyone wants from an improv comedy show.

The Bolder Life: And So it Begins →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: January 31st, 2012

And so it begins. We had our first 60-degree temp reading in Boulder County last weekend, and you know what that means. Your social life is about to explode. Soon, restaurants will be opening up their patios. You’ll be buying your groceries at the Farmers’ Market (or Trader Joe’s, whichever comes first) in no time. Your weekends will be consumed by outdoor festivals and live music and your weekdays will be filled with happy hours and dinner dates.

You’re so excited.

I am too.

And the first week in February is a fantastic precursor to all of the warm weather event madness to come.

Check out these upcoming events through Friday of this week, and stay tuned for my next post solely dedicated to the awesomeness that is this Saturday. Get your calendars out, because you’re going to want to be sure that these events on there!

Wednesday, February 1st
Hump Day at the Fish House | Jax Fish House | Boulder
Aside from the awkward name, this event sounds pretty spectacular. Dine on a tasting menu created especially for the evening by Jax’s head chef, Adam Watts, and enjoy happy hour prices at the bar all night. Voted ‘Best Seafood in Boulder County’ in 2011, this unique weekly menu will be sure to satisfy your appetite. ($35 per person).

Thursday, February 2nd
Groundhog Day Luau and Pig Roast | The Lyons Fork | Lyons
Get your party on Punxsutawney style this Groundhog Day and celebrate the little critter and the beginning of spring with a luau and a pig roast at the Lyons Fork. Break out your lei and grass skirt, catch some live tunes by Joe Kukla, indulge in a few of the Fork’s sinful margaritas or sip on some craft beer from Maui Brewing Co.

Thursday, February 2nd
Satellite Tap Room | West End Tavern | Boulder
The idea of the Satellite Tap Room is genius, and the West End Tavern in Boulder is the perfect host for an event like this. This month’s guest brewery that will be taking over the West End taps on Thursday night is none other than the top Colorado craft beer producer, New Belgium. The Fort Collins brewery will be bringing in twenty-two beers, including favorites such as Fat Tire and Sunshine Wheat, along with several specialty beers. Two New Belgium reps will be on hand to chat about the beer, and word on the street is that customers will have a chance to win one of the obnoxiously cool, red cruiser bikes.

Friday, February 3rd
1st Friday Art Walk | Old Town | Niwot
You drive by the tiny town of Niwot all of the time, but never take that turn and pull over to tour the quaint and inviting section of Old Town. Well, here’s your chance. Niwot is definitely a places that knows how to hold community events right. Every first Friday of the month, Old Town is packed with people wandering in out of the participating shops, snacking on refreshments, perusing local artwork and listening to live music. Take advantage of discounts offered by local stores along the way, and end your night with a glass of wine and dinner at Colterra.

 

Friday, February 3rd
Hazel Miller | The Dicken’s Opera House | Longmont
This lady rocks. Seriously. Hazel Miller is known all over Colorado and the country for having a set of killer pipes and for putting on one hell-of-a show! If you’ve been waiting for a chance to put your dancing shoes on and hit the town—here’s your chance. This high energy blend of jazz, blues, pop and soul will have you on your feet all night!

The Bolder Life: I Dream in Triple Berry →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: January 24th, 2012

Everyone has a local watering hole.

A place where they can show up after not showering for two days—wearing stretchy pants, a holey t-shirt and muddy hiking boots. A place where the bartenders know your full name, drink order, birth date, and how many drinks you can handle before it’s time to switch you to water. It’s your favorite place.

Luckily for us Boulder County folks, our local watering holes are making their own drinks—literally. Our favorite hang outs are brewing up nationally acclaimed craft beers and award-winning wines—and serving them fresh from the source in their packed taprooms and tasting rooms, decorated with plenty of medals and awards to validate their successes.

But what if (heaven forbid), you’re not a beer drinker? And what if you’re kind of picky about wine?

Then I just found the perfect place for you.

The Boulder Distillery and Clear Spirit Company is still a rookie in the BoCo beverage scene, but their uniquely crafted gin, potato whiskey and potato vodkas are steamrolling their way into liquor stores and restaurants all over Colorado. I’m sure you’ve seen the “303” logo on the side of those refreshingly clear bottles filled with some of the most potent alcohol smells to ever make contact with your nostrils. You may have seen their products used in local mixology competitions. If you spent your New Year’s Eve at BMoCA, chances are you were sipping on a deliciously crisp, 303 Vodka and soda with a fresh squeeze of lime. But if you haven’t been to the 303 Tasting Room, then you have no idea the level of awesomeness that these guys are putting out.

Tucked at the back of one of the strangest business/industrial parks in Boulder, the Boulder Distillery finds itself in good company, with neighbors like the Green Guru andBoulder Ice Cream. In a building painted an interesting shade of Oscar the Grouch Green, a giant “303” logo designates the entrance to the quirky tasting room, filled with comfy couches, one TV for watching sports, a partition made of random doors, and a plethora of other odd knick-knacks decorating everything from the walls to the ceiling. In the summer, guests can take advantage of the make-shift outdoor patio the faces the Goose Creek Bike Path. On sunny days, the Distillery opens their huge garage door giving their indoor guests a taste of the beautiful weather. Dogs are welcome and the occasional food truck can be found parked outside.

At the bar, you’ll find a very knowledgeable mixologist, several infused vodkas and a list of popular drink recipes that you can choose from. The Boulder Creek martini is made with olive-infused vodka. The Pickletini is just the right amount of pickle-y—and the Vootbeer, topped with a healthy dollop of whipped cream, will hold up conversation as you savor the sweet tasting drink and try to the find the appropriate words to explain the deliciousness of the drink to your friends.

But at night, when I lay down to go to sleep, I dream of the Triple Berry. A crisp, smooth vodka infused with three different kinds of berries, a little bit of happiness and just the right amount of danger. Pick up a bottle of any of the infused vodkas during your visit, or purchase a regular bottle of vodka, whiskey or gin—if it happens to be in stock. With products as drinkable as the ones coming out of this local distillery, it’s no wonder they are consistently flying off the shelves.

The Boulder Distillery and Clear Spirit Company is located at 2500 47th St., Suite 10 in Boulder, CO. Click here for Tasting Room Hours. Click here for a list of upcoming 303 Events. And click here for a list of tasty 303 Vodka recipes that you can make at home.

The Bolder Life: It’s All About Tonight! →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: January 19th, 2012

It’s probably been a pretty rough week for you. A lot of you had Monday off, which was cool, but put you behind at work for the rest of the week! Some of you braved the wind and the cold and hit the icy Boulder trails to participate in Winter Bike to Work Day yesterday. Everyone has been hard at work trying to figure out what SOPA and PIPA stand for, along with how exactly to get that “STOP SOPA” tag to run along the bottom of their Twitter avatar. But most importantly, most of you have been really hard at work betting on which 29th St. Mall store Trader Joe’s will be taking over when they make their first appearance in Colorado.

Seriously. I get it. Hard week all around.

So take a load off tonight. You deserve it. Check out one of the events happening near you, and celebrate all of your hard work this week.

The Infamous String Dusters | Fox Theater – Boulder | 9 PM | $18
Any band that has the word ‘infamous’ in their name is probably worth checking out. This band has toured the country playing their unique blend of bluegrass—always making time for a trip to Boulder to cater to the enthusiastic bluegrass scene in the area. Tickets are only $18 and live music is a fantastic treat after a hard week.

Arts & Ales | Left Hand Brewing Tap Room | Longmont | 5-7 PM
Craft beer goes with just about everything, but has a special bond with art. Check out this monthly event at Left Hand’s buzzing tap room in collaboration with Longmont’s, Muse Gallery.  Rub elbows with local artists, chat about arty stuff, and sip on the much-buzzed-about Fade to Black Ale by the popular brewery.

 

Backcountry Film Festival | Neptune Mountaineering | Boulder | 8 PM | $10
Even though the snow isn’t falling outside today, you can still get your snow fix by checking out the winter-centric films being shown at the 2nd Annual Backcountry Film Fest. Get together with like-minded backcountry enthusiasts, and “oh” and “ah” at the beautiful wintery scenes that have been a little scarce in Colorado this year.

 

Oskar Blues Beer Dinner @ Morning Glory Café | Lafayette | 6 PM | $25/person
In the craft beer world, ordering five beers will typically end up costing you well over $25. (The things we do for good beer). So imagine spending $25, and not only getting five beers from one of Colorado’s fastest growing breweries, but some delicious food to go along with it! If spending $50-$60 on a beer dinner is a little out of your budget, then this awesomely low-priced beer dinner is perfect for you! Make your reservations ASAP, and knock an additional $5 off of your bill by mentioning that you saw their saw their beer dinner post on Facebook!

Road to Winter X Games Aspen 2012 Grand Prize Giveaway | Avery Brewing|Boulder | 7-9 PM
Avery Brewing has been hyping locals up for this year’s Winter X Games in Aspen for the past few weeks now. Tonight, they are giving away the ultimate grand prize that includes: Two tickets to the Winter X Games Kick-Off Bash, 1-night stay for two at the St. Regis Hotel in Aspen, two cases of amazing beer for the room,  two lift tickets to Buttermilk Mountain, and two X Games Events Passes for Thursday, January 26th. Whoa. All you have to do is visit the Avery Tap Room this evening, post up with a pint of delicious beer and wait for your chance to win this skier/snowboarders dream trip!

Date Night | Zolo Grill | Boulder | $50 per couple (tax & gratuity not included)
Yum. Comfort food and tequila could perhaps be the best way to reward yourself for a tough work week. Stop by Zolo Grill for dinner tonight, and dine on a seasonal two-course dinner paired with drinks for just $50 per couple. Just remember, you still have one day left in the work week… and although tequila does pair well with Zolo’s mouth-watering menu—it does not pair well with a 6 am wake-up call the next morning.

The Bolder Life: Perfect Pairings →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: January 12th, 2012

Boulder County’s buzz-worthy craft beer culture, and highly respected restaurant scene are constantly appearing in headlines all over the nation.  With a string of new awards settling in in our neighborhood breweries and dining rooms every month, it’s no wonder that food and beer connoisseurs travel from all over to visit our favorite local hangouts each year.

Thankfully for us local folk, we’re always on hand when our favorite food and beverage locations pair up to throw some ridiculously good, mouth-watering meals complimented by some of the best craft beer and wine in the nation!

I’ve always been a huge sucker when it comes to a good Beer/Wine Dinner. Putting your dining experience in the hands of creative chefs and noshing your way through a five-course meal paired with your favorite alcoholic beverage is a fantastic way to spend an evening.

Check out this list of upcoming local beer/wine events and be sure to make reservations. You’ll be so happy you did.

Tuesday, January 17th 
Supper Club
Pizzeria Locale | Boulder | 6:30 pm
Price: $59 (tax and gratuity included)
The creative minds of the Culinary Connectors bring you the latest installment of the Tuesday evening, Boulder “Supper Club” hosted by one of Boulder’s favorite pizzerias! Pizzeria Locale is one of Pearl Street’s most popular restaurants, and $59 is an absolute steal for the opportunity to dine on some delicious cuisine and sip on some exceptional wines. (Note that tax and gratuity are included in the price per person, which means that this deal is definitely not one to be missed!)

 

Wednesday, January 18th
Our Favorite Things Beer Dinner
Lucky Pie | Louisville | 6:30 pm
Price: $50 (tax and gratuity not included)
I love Lucky Pie. This craft beer/foodie gem is located in the heart of Old Town Louisville and is one of my favorite local spots to stop in for a pint and a bite. This popular Tap House has thrown some killer beer dinners in the past, but the staff is running the show this time around, and sharing some of their “favorite things” in this mid-week beer dinner. Enjoy five of the staff’s favorite beer picks paired with a menu that will make you drool.

Thursday, January 19th
Piedmont Wine Dinner
Colterra | Niwot | 6:30 pm
Price: $65 (tax and gratuity not included)
I’ve found myself finding excuses to visit the tiny town of Niwot lately, just so that I can end up in the delicious-smelling dining room at Salt the Bistro’s sister restaurant, Colterra. I can still taste the melt-in-your mouth gnocchi that I sampled at my last visit. Make your reservation for next Thursday’s collaborative dinner and sample wines from the Piedmont region paired with a mouth-watering menu from the creative culinary minds of Colterra’s chefs.

Thursday, January 19th
CAN CAN Girls Kick-Off Beer Dinner
Oskar Blues Homemade Liquids & Solids | Longmont | 6:00 pm
Price: $50 (tax and gratuity included)
This event might be at the top of my wish list. Not only is Oskar Blues a powerhouse in the local brewery scene, but the OB kitchen is constantly receiving rave reviews as well. With a five-course menu paired with five OB beers, this dinner is a steal at $50—including tax and gratuity! If the amazing menu, live music, raffle prizes and low price for this event isn’t enough to make you rush out and buy your ticket today—then maybe the fact that a huge chunk of the proceeds for the event will be donated to breast cancer research, will. Do the right thing. Make a reservation today. I’ll see you there.

Thursday, January 19th
Andrew Rich Winemaker Dinner
Terroir Restaurant | Longmont | 6:30 pm
Price: $55 (tax and gratuity not included)
Terroir hit the Boulder County restaurant scene hard when it opened in 2007, and it’s been providing local patrons a top-notch selection of beer and wine to wash down their New-American style cuisine ever since. Next week, Terroir will be hosting Andrew Rich of Andrew Rich Wines, and pairing his deliciously smashed and aged grapes with menu items such as: organic salmon, beef tenderloin, and potato ravioli. Don’t miss this dinner and the opportunity to get a little taste of downtown Longmont’s restaurant scene.

Thursday, January 26th
Wine & Food Pairing Featuring Erik Skokan of Black Cat Bistro
Bookcliff Vineyards | Boulder | 6:00 pm
Price: $65 (tax and gratuity not included)
I took a mini-wine tour of Boulder County wineries last summer, and spent the majority of the day touring, sampling, buying bottles, and learning about wine at Bookcliff Vineyards. This Boulder winery is offering a series of wine and food pairings featuring a menu prepared by local chef’s to go along with Bookcliff’s selection of award winning wines. Chef Erik Skokan of the Black Cat Farm Bistro will be serving up a five-course dinner at the winery at the end of January. Do not—I repeat, do not miss this dinner. I’m sure you’ll be

The Bolder Life: Something for Everyone →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: January 9th, 2012

There’s a little something for everyone in this week’s The Bolder Life! Whether you’re catching amazing dinner deals at popular local restaurants, busting out your best 80’s dance moves, or downing a bowl of oatmeal followed by running a chilly 5K—you’ll be sure to find something to keep you entertained all week long!

Monday, January 9th
Monday Night First Bite | Arugula Bar e Ristorante | 2785 Iris Ave. | Boulder
Arugula is hands down one of my favorite restaurants in Boulder. From the rustic décor, to the old-school style dinner service to the amazing selection of hand-crafted cocktails and mouth-watering dishes, Arugula definitely plays a part in helping Boulder maintain its foodie status. Every Monday night, Arugula offers a menu and pricing based off of the week-long “First Bite Boulder” menus and pricing offered in the fall. Dine on a 3-course meal for only $26 per person, every Monday night. (Don’t miss out on this deal! You’ll definitely thank me for it!)

Tuesday, January 10th
BMoCA Scavenger Hunt | BMoCA | 1750 13th St. | Boulder
Need some daytime activities to keep you or your half-pints occupied this week? Check out BMoCA’s “Scavenger Hunt”, and scour the museum and Downtown Boulder for clues for a chance to win prizes from local businesses. BMoCA is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Tuesday – Friday. Request a special “Just for Kids” map for the little ones, and start your hunt today!

Wednesday, January 11th
80’s Dance Party | Nissi’s | 2675 N. Park Dr. | Lafayette
I love the 80’s—well, at least the five years that I actually spent in them. Whether you were rocking pacifiers or mohawks in the 80’s, check out the 80’s Dance Party happening at Nissi’s on Wednesday night. Break out your neon-colored wardrobe, stock up on eye shadow and leggings and hit the dance floor to a remix of your favorite 80’s songs brought to you by popular 80’s cover band, Kelli Said. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door.

Thursday, January 12th
Art Opening | Open Arts @ Rembrandt Yard | 1301 Spruce St. | Boulder
Most people like a good art opening, but everyone likes a good free art opening! Stop by Rembrandt Yard and view exceptional new artwork by Pam Simich, Astrid Paustin and Calvin Whitehall. Make a trip over to nearby Shine Restaurant, Pearl Street’s newest dining addition, and get a taste of what everyone is buzzing about!

Friday, January 13th
3rd Annual Winter Festival | Stanley Fairgrounds | 1209 Manford Ave. | Estes Park
Three days of: Irish Barn Dances, free hot cocoa, star gazing, live music, Colorado beer and wine tastings, ice carving, snowshoe lessons and a sample yummy entries to the chili cook-off. Seriously—tell me that doesn’t sound like a good time? And there’s more—this event is super friendly on your wallet. $5 gets you into the festival and all-you-can-taste chili and $25 gets you festival entry plus all-you-can-taste beer and wine complimented by a decorative tasting glass for you take home as a souvenir of your very first trip to the Winter Festival! Click here for a full festival schedule.

Saturday, January 14th
16th Annual Quaker Oatmeal Festival and 5K Run | Lafayette
Were your New Year’s resolutions to sign up for a 5K and eat more oatmeal? Yes? Awesome. This event is perfect for you. Start the morning with an oatmeal breakfast at Pioneer Elementary School, make a stop at the Health Fair, run/walk a 5K, and finish your day with an oatmeal baking contest followed by a trip to the Bonfils Community Blood Drive to give some blood and get some good karma.

Sunday, January 15th
Split Lip Rayfield | The Fox Theater | 1135 13th St. | Boulder
Finish out your event-filled week with some live music courtesy of Split Lip Rayfield and the Fox Theater. This band boasts a rhythmic blend of bluegrass, country and metal. (Yep, I said metal). Tickets for this unique and popular blend are only $10, so finish your week off right with some rockin’ live music and a few bucks left in your pocket.

The Bolder Life: School of Rock →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: January 6th, 2012

It’s Friday! Friday is everyone’s favorite weekday day of the week—and why shouldn’t it be? You all worked hard this week. You bravely suffered through the first work-week back from your hangover of a holiday vacation. You’ve officially fully digested all of the holiday food, booze and regret that comes along with this time of the year. I’m proud of you. You deserve a weekend filled with snow, relaxation and rock.

Yep. I said rock—and I don’t know too many bands that rock harder than the bands making music at The School of Rock in Boulder.

This “afterschool” school offers music lessons for kids from second grade through high school, and it’s not just music lessons that are being offered here. The School of Rock is a great, safe place to send your kids as part of an extra-curricular, afterschool program where they can learn different instruments and meet new friends with similar interests and the same Green Day poster hanging up on their bedroom wall. Instructors at this rockin’ school teach their students how to play everything from the guitar, to the keyboard, to the drums along with getting their vocals in top shape, learning the art of the headbang and how to rile up their adoring fans, (a.k.a. – their adoring parents).

There really isn’t anything cooler than being in a band in your teenage years—except being in a band in your teenage years and playing live gigs at local bars and clubs.  Now that’s cool. But playing huge venues that have played host to some of your favorite bands and idols in the past is kind of the ultimate awesome if you’re a teenager playing live gigs with your awesome band.

So, that being said, you know the kids performing in The Boulder School of Rock Drum Wars at the Fox Theater this Saturday are going to bring it. Imagine watching a ten-year-old rock a drum solo harder than Tommy Lee and Travis Barker combined. Now that’s the ultimate awesome!

Support local youth programs and make these kids feel like Rock Stars by buying a ticket and checking out the show at 12:30 pm on Saturday afternoon.

And if one live show on Saturday isn’t enough for you, then stick around for local musician, Pete Kartsounes and his band at 9 o’clock. Finish off your evening with a trip to nearby restaurant, Café Aion for some tapas and libations and try to make it home at a decent hour. You’ll want to hit road early if you’re going to catch some of the fresh powder expected to fall this weekend.

Rock on, BoCo, Rock on.

The Bolder Life: A Bigger, Bolder New Year →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: January 3rd, 2012

Here we are. We made it! We all survived another year—and with the crazy shenanigans of New Year’s Eve behind us, it’s time to start thinking about the next 364 days. I’m not much of a resolution maker but I do have some tips on how to make this year bigger, bolder and better than the last!

May the New Year be filled with happiness, success, good food, fun shoes and a ton of snow days.

Take it Outside
Workouts, busy-work, coffee dates, play dates, date dates—you name it. It’s a well-known fact that sunshine makes you happy. And who are we kidding—we live in a ridiculously beautiful state that is home to so many hiking, biking and walking trails that it’d be silly not to take advantage of the beautiful scenery on our own backyards. Get outside, soak up some Vitamin D, and bask in the beautiful Colorado sunshine.

Love the Local
Boulder County is stacked with locally owned businesses looking for your support. Next time you go shopping, take a second, think about the community that you love so, and choose to put your hard-earned dollars back into the local economy. It’s pretty much a win-win for everyone—and, we are fortunate to have some pretty cool locally owned stores in Boulder County. From local produce, to clothing, to pet shops—Boulder County has plenty of stores to take care of it all. And next time you need a caffeine boost, check out your nearest locally-owned coffee shop to get some delicious coffee or a steaming cup of Bhakti Chai. If you need a little help tracking down some locally owned stores that meet your needs, check out this awesome guideby Downtown Boulder. You can even search for the store that meets your specific needs! Love the local.

Eat Like a Foodie
Local restaurants are constantly winning awards and putting Boulder County and Denver on the foodie map. Sometimes, being a foodie is expensive. To dine on some of the best locally-grown food made by some of the most respected Chef’s in the area—isn’t exactly cheap. Keep an eye out for happy hour discounts, nightly specials and lunch menus to help stretch your budget. And be sure to follow all of your favorite eateries on Facebook and Twitter to get the latest scoop on any special offerings. Your tummy and your wallet will be glad you did.

Get Serious About Your Hobbies
So maybe you love to cycle. Or maybe you’re a runner, and can’t live without that morning or evening run each day. Maybe you’re a budding artist dabbling in a new medium. Get serious about it! If you cycle and run, consider entering a race. Sign up for a local bike race or 10K and start training. Not only will it give you a goal to chase, but I’m sure you’ll find some like-minded friends and training partners along the way. If you’re an artist, get serious about your work and make a trip to your local coffee shop. Chances are, the owner will not only display your work, but you’ll make a few extra bucks off of any art that you sell. What do you have to lose? Accomplishing goals feels great and spending time doing the things that you love feels even better.

Get Rid of Dead Weight
I’ve been holding on to some serious dead weight for over a year. I had no idea how heavy it was until I finally got rid of it! In a society where extra weight is scorned, why not get rid of the kind of weight that can easily be dropped. Forget about that ex-significant other that’s been weighing you down. Worried about those last five pounds? Let ‘em go. The stress alone will add another five pounds and we all know that number doubles the second you step in front of a camera! Let go of any hard feelings and grudges that are dragging you down and start 2012 on a much lighter note.

The Bolder Life: Must-See Music →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: December 27th, 2011

“Music speaks what cannot be expressed, soothes the mind and gives it rest, heals the heart and makes it whole, flows from heaven to the soul.”
-Unknown

It’s so true. Music really does make the world go ‘round. Whether I’m reminiscing to my over-played Counting Crows Pandora station at work, belting out country drinkin’ songs in the car or foot-stomping along with a live bluegrass band or one of the many local blues/funk groups—I pretty much live my life in stereo. Which is why I’m so jazzed (see what I did there?) for the line-up of live music around Boulder County this week. A mix of some of the most popular bands to come out of Colorado and some of the most popular bands to play in Colorado are booked and ready to put on a hot, local show near you.

Check out this local line-up, mark these shows on your calendars and pick up your tickets now!

Yonder Mountain String Band
The Boulder Theater | Wednesday, December 28| $35 | 9 PM
Colorado loves Yonder Mountain String Band. These Nederland, CO natives have been selling out shows all around the nation, but are coming home to play The Boulder Theater for five nights this week, including a jammin’ show on New Year’s Eve. The Thursday-Saturday shows are completely sold-out; however, tickets are still available for Wednesday night. If you love bluegrass and haven’t seen these guys live—what are you waiting for?! Tickets are only $35. Get to the Boulder Theater website and buy your tickets now!

Singer Songwriter Night
Oskar Blues Liquids & Solids | Wednesday, December 28 | Free | 7-10 PM
This Longmont-based open mic night is one of the best in Boulder County. Hosted to by three talented Oskar Blues employees on the last Wednesday of ever month, this event draws in a variety of singers, songwriters and musicians from all over BoCo. Grab some OB grub and delicious microbrew and check out some great local performers.

Elephant Revival
The Stage Stop | Thursday, December 29 | $20 | Doors at 7:30 PM – Show Starts at 8:30 PM
Residents of Boulder County love this band almost as much as they love staying in shape. The Colorado-based, Indie Acoustic band will be playing the Stage Stop’s final event of the season. This show will be packed. And awesome. Purchase your tickets now and guarantee yourself a front row seat for some home-grown live music.

She Grooves
Nissi’s | Friday, December 30 | $8 advance/$10 door | 7:30-11 PM
She Grooves rocks. There’s no doubt about it. This all-female band usually brings the house down every time they play. If you’re looking for a high-energy show, this is it.  This R&B/Dance group is playing Nissi’s “New Year’s Eve Eve” show on Friday and is a great band to get you revived up and excited the following nights NYE shenanigans.

G. Love & Special Sauce
Fox Theater | Saturday, December 31 | $69.50 | 9:30 PM
Even though this band doesn’t hail from the 303 area code, they’ve played in Colorado so many times they’re basically honorary Coloradans. NYE tickets are still available for this popular blues band. And really—what better way to welcome the New Year? Good tunes, good friends, and a full bar. Buy your tickets, like now. Like 5 minutes ago. And make sure you get into this show.

The Bolder Life: Triple Salchow Style →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: December 20th, 2011

You’re no Nancy Kerrigan. It’s okay, neither am I. But every once in a while I still like to bust out my pretty white ice skates and pretend I am. The outcome usually involves a lot of Tylenol, icing and band-aids, but that’s all part of the fun!

The Boulder County/North Denver Metro region happens to be home to a lot of different ice skating rinks on which you can practice your axel jumps and your camel spins. (I might have googled “ice skating terms” for this post…)

Grab some cocoa, some string to tie padded pillows around your butt and elbows, and check out these local ice skating rinks.

P.S.- Did you know that you can burn over 300 calories in one hour of ice skating? I’m just saying. Great workout. Fun winter sport. Great place to take the kids and still friendly on your wallet.

Check it out.

Lyons Meadow Park Ice Rink
Meadow Park in Lyons | Open Daily
Tucked into the beautiful Lyons scenery, this rink is a great place to spend a weekend afternoon. No admission fee and skate rentals on-site.
Skate Rental Fee: Resident- $5 | Non-resident – $6

Ice Centre @ The Promenade
The Promenade Westminster |Click Here for a Schedule of Public Sessions
Skate for just an hour at this rink and you won’t feel so guilty about indulging at one of the many restaurants located in the Promenade. Although this rink isn’t open to the public all day, they do offer skating for the public, and cheap skates sessions throughout the week. Visit the rink from 2-4 p.m. on December 23rd, and you’ll be skating with Santa himself. (Now that sounds interesting!)
Admission: Resident – $4 | Non-Resident – $5 | Kids 4 & Younger – Free
Skate Rental Fee: $3

Longmont Ice Pavilion
Roosevelt Park in Longmont | Click Here for a Schedule of Public Sessions
The Ice Pavilion in Roosevelt Park is huge. Perfect for showing off some tricks if you got ‘em. And if you visit this rink at night, you’ll get to see the beautiful Christmas lights that decorate the surrounding park.
Admission for Residents: Ages 2-5 – $4.50 | Ages 6-17 – $5 | Ages 18+ – $5.50
Admission for Non-Residents: Ages 2-5 – $5.50 | Ages 6-17 – $6 | Ages 18+ – $6.50
Skate Rental Fee: $3

Winter Skate by Boulder Creek Productions
Pricing for All Winter Skate locations:
Admissions: Ages 12+ – $5 | Ages 4-12 – $4 |Ages 3 & Under – Free
Skate Rental Fee: $3

Winter Skate – Louisville 
Steinbaugh Pavilion in Old Town Louisville | Open Daily
Old Town Louisville brings the small-town charm with their ice rink, located in Old Town Louisville. With concessions, holiday music, free horse-drawn carriage rides, and free parking. This is the perfect place to take a date… but only if you’ve got the basics in skating covered. No one looks good when they fall down on the ice!
Click Here for Winter Skate Louisville Hours.

Winter Skate – Broomfield
Flatiron Crossing Mall | Open Daily
This location is a great location to bring the entire family. With so many restaurants located in the mall, it should be easy to find one that the whole family can agree on. Plus, it’s a great way to distract the kids while one of you sneaks off to finish the Christmas shopping.
Click Here for Winter Skate Broomfield Hours.

Winter Skate – Boulder
Twenty-Ninth St. Mall | Open Daily
This year marks the first year that the Twenty-Ninth Street Mall plays host to Winter Skate. Take in the beautiful decorations and lights on the mall this time of year and get your winter skate on.
Click Here for Winter Skate Boulder Hours.

The Bolder Life: A Rockin’ New Year’s Eve →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: December 15th, 2011

Wow. Where does the time go? Here we are, knee-deep in December, so focused on buying presents for and making plans with our loved ones that we completely spaced that New Year’s Eve is just around the corner.

Everyone has their own idea of “the perfect New Year’s Eve”. For some, the cliché kiss at midnight is key. For others, a steady stream of cocktails and champagne is the main attraction; and for most, the chance to bust out that Little Black Dress or polished suit and don a selection of sparkly party favors while breaking it down on the dance floor all night is the only way to welcome another year.

So whether you’re looking for live music, an open bar or to dress up in your best party outfit and dine on decadent desserts all evening, there’s a little something for everyone in this week’s The Bolder Life.

Cheers to you all for surviving another year, best health & wealth wishes to you, and best of luck with those hard-to-keep resolutions!

And as always, remember to make reservations!

It’s so last year to buy tickets the day of…

Boulder


The Hotel Boulderado | New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball
$50 Entry Fee | $49 Optional Buffet | Live Music | Drink Specials


BMoCA | Black +/- White Party
$25 Non-Members | $20 Members |DJ Music | Tarot Card Readings |Complimentary Champagne Toast @ Midnight | Desserts | Event sponsored by Elephant Journal

Absinthe House | Intrigue New Year’s Eve Party
$55 Cover Charge | Includes an Open Bar All Night | Multiple DJ’s & Party Favors

The Kitchen | New Year’s Eve Special Celebratory Seasonal Prix Fixe Dinner
$85 Per Person | $120 Per Person with the Addition of a Wine Pairing | 5-Course Prix Fixe Menu

The Kitchen [Next Door] | NYE DJ Dance Party
$10 Cover | Cover Charge Includes 1 Drink | Special Menu Offered ‘til Midnight for and Addition Price

Bacaro Venetian Tavern | NUDE NYE
$10 Cover | DJ Music | Champagne Toast | Libations by NUDE Vodka & Dinner Menu by Bacaro Available for Additional Charge

**Click Here for a Complete List of Downtown Boulder’s NYE Events

Lafayette


Nissi’s | New Year’s Eve w/ the Homeslice Band
$65 Per Person | Live Music | 4-Course Dinner | Champagne Toast | Appetizer & Dessert Buffet | Includes Gratuity 


Longmont

Dicken’s Opera House | New Year’s Eve Party
$15 Cover Charge | Live Music by Novus Folium w/ Special Guests ACIDIC & Your Own Medicine | Complimentary Champagne Toast Included

Oskar Blues Homemade Liquids & Solids
$ Cover Charge TBD | Live Music | Optional NYE Dinner + Show + Marriott Hotel Room Discounts | Stay Tuned to http://www.oskarblues.com/ for details

Louisville

Waterloo | Fully Belly NYE Extravaganza
No cover charge | Live Music by Fully Belly | Drink Specials | Champagne Toast | Party Favors

Lyons

The Lyons Fork | New Year’s Eve Gala & Blowout
$100 Per Person | White Tablecloth Dinner | Bottle of Wine | Champagne Toast | Live Music 

Oskar Blues Bar & Grill
$15 Cover Charge for Music Only | $20 Cover Charge Includes Buffet & Champagne Toast | Live Music by Halden Wofford & the High Beams | Party Favors

The Bolder Life: The 12 Days of Christmas →

 

Tyra Sutak

Published on: December 12th, 2011

As I kid—well, like every other kid in America, I believed in Santa. Up until my older sister maliciously spilled the beans about the true identity of Santa Claus, I spent every December, and most of October and November counting down the days until the fat man in red would visit our house with his giant red bag full of presents and candy canes in tow.

One of my favorite pre-Christmas traditions was started by my mom as an easy and relatively safe  project that was guaranteed to entertain me and my sister’s long enough for my mom to hide our Christmas presents throughout the house. She would lay out stacks of red and green construction paper, a few pairs of those ridiculously-hard-to-actually-cut-anything-with child-proof scissors and a few rolls of scotch tape and let us go to town. My sister’s and I would carefully cut, loop and tape 25 red and green rings together and hang our “countdown to Christmas” chains all around the house.

Each morning, the number of rings got smaller until only one remained. For a kid, there’s nothing  more exciting than watching that chain get smaller.

As an adult, it’s no longer cool to count down the days until Christmas by creating a craft project that you would find in a preschool classroom. Thankfully, the folks atLucky Pie Pizza and Taphouse in Louisville came up with a great way for adults to keep their childhood tradition alive and keep the countdown to Christmas fun!

Starting tomorrow, Lucky Pie kicks off “12 Beers of Christmas” by tapping a new holiday seasonal beer each day for the next twelve days. Five of those days will include a special tapping of the highlighted beer complete with an appearance by someone from the specific brewery who will be on hand to chat about their holiday seasonal and hand out some swag.

Christmas craft beer and swag presents = Awesome.

Check out the “12 Beers of Christmas” calendar below and enjoy your grown up countdown to Christmas!

Dec. 12 – SPECIAL TAPPING 7-9 Breckenridge Brewery’s Christmas Ale
Dec. 13 – Skip day, Lucky Pie will be closed at 5:30 for a private event.
Dec. 14 – Brouwerij Huyghe’s Delirium Noel
Dec. 15 – SPECIAL TAPPING 7-9 Great Divide’s Hibernation
Dec. 16 – Brouwerij Het Anker’s Gouden Carolus Noel
Dec. 17 – Full Sail’s Wassail
Dec. 18 – SPECIAL TAPPING 7-9 Avery’s Old Jubilation
Dec. 19 – SPECIAL TAPPING 7-9 Upslope’s Christmas Ale
Dec. 20 – He’Brew’s Jewbelation 15
Dec. 21 – SPECIAL TAPPING 7-9 Bristol Brewing’s Christmas Ale
Dec. 22 – Anderson Valley’s Winter Solstice
Dec. 23 – Brewery Ommegang’s Adoration
Dec. 24 – Rouge’s Santa’s Private Reserve