Boulder Beat - Thursday December 12, 2024

🌄 Good Morning, Boulder!

Happy Thursday! The sun is out, the snow has melted, and it’s the perfect day to explore all the exciting things happening in town. Whether you’re enjoying no wind at Eldora, learning about Mars’ dust storms, or enjoying the expanding Asian dining scene on West Pearl, there’s something for everyone. And don’t miss out on today’s dining deals—who can say no to a discounted superfood smoothie or a farm-fresh pizza?

Let’s dive in. 👇

☀️ Weather

🌤️ Today:

• High: 51°F

• Forecast: Mostly sunny skies with light west-southwest winds calming by the afternoon. It’s a great day to enjoy Boulder’s scenic outdoor spots, or finish up your shopping on Pearl Street.

🌥️ Tonight:

• Low: 26°F

• Forecast: Clouds will roll in as temperatures drop, but calm winds will make for a peaceful night.

📸 Pro Tip: Bring your camera if you’re heading out—tonight’s cloud cover could make for a spectacular sunset.

📰 Boulder Buzz

🏢 Downtown Office Vacancy

Boulder’s downtown is known for its vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and offices, but remote work is changing the game. Office spaces are sitting empty as businesses downsize or opt for flexible work arrangements. This trend is raising questions about the future of one of Boulder’s most iconic areas. Will we see these spaces repurposed, or could new industries move in? Learn more about how this shift could shape the city’s downtown landscape.
👉 Read the full story at Boulder Weekly

💰 Understanding Boulder’s $708M Budget

Boulder County has unveiled its $708 million budget, and it’s a lot to unpack. Where do our tax dollars go? This breakdown explains how the money is distributed across public safety, infrastructure, and community services. It’s a fascinating look at the priorities shaping Boulder’s future. If you’re interested in understanding the big picture of local government, this is a must-read.
👉 Learn more at Boulder County

🛒 Grocery Merger Falls Through

The Kroger-Albertsons merger has officially been called off, affecting 105 stores statewide, including several in Boulder. Albertsons is now suing Kroger, claiming the deal’s collapse was due to mismanagement. This shake-up could have significant implications for grocery prices, local employees, and shoppers. It’s a story that will continue to evolve as the two companies face off in court.
👉 Read the full story at CPR News

🍣 Boulder’s Asian Dining Scene Expands

West Pearl Street has become a culinary destination, with a wave of new Asian restaurants opening in the past year. From the iconic Hapa Sushi to the homestyle charm of Zoe Ma Ma and the cozy flavors of Busaba, the area offers a diverse array of options for food lovers. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, noodles, or classic Thai dishes, this stretch of Boulder has something to satisfy your cravings.
👉 Read more at Boulder Reporting Lab

🌌 Mars Dust Storms Explained

CU Boulder researchers are taking an in-depth look at Mars’ infamous dust storms, which can grow large enough to cover the entire planet. These storms are not only a fascinating weather phenomenon but also a challenge for future exploration missions. This groundbreaking research sheds light on how these storms form, why they grow so massive, and what we can learn from them to prepare for human exploration of the Red Planet.
👉 Explore the study at CU Boulder

🐾 Seasonal Wildlife Closures Announced

Boulder is implementing seasonal wildlife closures in 2025 to protect its diverse and sensitive species during critical periods. Trails and open spaces will be temporarily closed in areas where wildlife is most vulnerable, allowing ecosystems to thrive without disturbance. If you’re planning hikes or outdoor adventures next year, it’s worth checking out which areas will be impacted to avoid surprises.
👉 Learn more from Boulder City News

🎟️ Things to Do Today

🎶 Beggars Union at Fox Theatre

🕖 Time: 7 PM | 📍 Location: Fox Theatre
Get ready for a night of rock and roll with Beggars Union at one of Boulder’s most iconic venues. Known for their high-energy performances and electric stage presence, this band is sure to deliver a memorable evening. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just looking for live music to spice up your Thursday night, this is the place to be.
👉 Get Tickets Here

🤖 PickNik Robotics Open House

🕒 Time: All day | 📍 Location: PickNik Robotics HQ
Step into the future at PickNik Robotics’ open house! Discover cutting-edge innovations, meet the brilliant minds behind the technology, and explore what’s next in robotics. This is a rare opportunity to see behind the scenes of one of Boulder’s most innovative companies, so don’t miss it.
👉 Event Details Here

🌊 Drifting North: The Arctic Pulse

🕖 Time: 7 PM | 📍 Location: Boulder Theater
This breathtaking documentary takes you on a journey to the Arctic, exploring its unique ecosystems and their role in our planet’s climate. Through stunning visuals and compelling storytelling, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for one of Earth’s most fragile regions. Perfect for nature lovers and documentary enthusiasts.
👉 Reserve Your Spot Here

✨ Stars and Laser Winter Lights

🕗 Time: 8:30 PM | 📍 Location: Fiske Planetarium
Experience the magic of winter through a dazzling laser light show. This immersive event combines stunning visuals with a cozy holiday vibe, making it a fantastic option for families, friends, or even a solo night out.
👉 Get Tickets Here

🎨 Lisa Siciliano Rock & Roll Art Show

🕖 Time: 7 PM | 📍 Location: OZO Coffee
Explore the world of rock and roll through Lisa Siciliano’s lens. This art show features a collection of powerful and intimate photography, capturing the raw energy and emotion of music legends. A must-see for art and music lovers alike.
👉 More Details Here

🍴 Dining Deals

🥗 The Corner

📍 Location: Pearl Street
Fresh, local flavors with unbeatable discounts make The Corner a great choice for a casual bite. Whether you’re craving a hearty sandwich, a fresh salad, or a coffee to-go, this Boulder staple has something for everyone.
👉 See Today’s Deal

🍓 Vitality Bowls Boulder

📍 Location: 29th Street Mall
Craving something healthy and delicious? Vitality Bowls offers superfood-packed smoothie bowls, wraps, and other nutritious options that are perfect for fueling your day.
👉 Grab This Deal

🍕 Mod Market

📍 Location: 29th Street Mall
Known for its fresh, farm-to-table dishes, Mod Market serves up creative pizzas, salads, and soups made with the finest ingredients. Take advantage of today’s specials to enjoy a delicious and wholesome meal.
👉 Get Your Coupon Here

📩 That’s a Wrap!

Thanks for tuning in! Whether you’re exploring new dining options, attending an event, or just enjoying Boulder’s sunny day, we hope you make the most of your Thursday. See you tomorrow with more news, events, and deals!