'Twas The Weekend Before Christmas: 5 Things To Do In Boulder

BOULDER, CO -- There's only one more weekend remaining in the 2018 Christmas season — how will you spend it? Our guide to the weekend has something for everyone — the outdoor adventurer, the shopper, the kids, and anyone who needs a cold pint of beer. Read on for our top five picks.

1) Hike to the star - The lighting of the Flagstaff Star is one of the most beloved traditions, and its light can be seen all the way across the county. The star can be celebrated at any level of adventure — it's a quick walk from the parking lot on the second switchback of Flagstaff Road, or you can strap on your headlamp and Microspikes and take a night run all the way to the top of the mountain.

2) Visit Santa - Still have a message for the big guy? Maybe you just need a hug? There are several different choices around the county of places to hear a "Ho, ho, ho!" this weekend.

- St Nick on the Bricks - Downtown Boulder Visitor Center, Saturday 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

- Santa's House - Village at the Peaks Mall, Longmont, Friday and Saturday, 12 p.m.-4 p.m. next to Regal Cinema.

- Santa HQ - Flatiron Crossing Mall by the grand staircase. Every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m, Christmas Eve until 6 p.m.

3) Check out the Holiday Winter Market in Louisville - Located at the Bittersweet at 836 Main Street in Louisville, the Holiday Market features homemade, handmade, and local vendors. Open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

4) Celebrate the Darkest Day with Oskar Blues - Oskar Blues presents a Winter Solstice of imperial stouts, a celebration of dark, barrel aged beer. Taste a variety of winter beers at Oskar Blues' Longmont taproom.

5) Go ice skating - Ice skating this weekend is a two-for-one special: Get some exercise and fresh air while still playing along with the friends and family who want to get into the Christmas spirit. Check out our guide to ice skating rinks in Boulder County.

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Photo Credit: Jenna Fisher/Patch