Boulder’s Pumpkin Pride: Ralphie the Buffalo Lights Up CU’s Fall Spirit

When autumn paints Boulder in gold and crimson hues, the University of Colorado campus transforms into a masterpiece of seasonal charm. This Outdoor Picture of the Day captures that magic perfectly — a brilliantly carved pumpkin featuring Ralphie, the beloved CU Boulder buffalo mascot, glowing proudly against a backdrop of fiery red rooftops and crisp fall air. It’s more than just pumpkin art; it’s a celebration of Boulder’s creativity, school pride, and the timeless beauty of the CU campus in October.

The iconic red roofs of CU Boulder shimmer under the autumn sun, a signature feature inspired by Tuscan architecture and designed by Charles Klauder nearly a century ago. Students and visitors stroll beneath the changing trees, snapping photos of the campus framed by the Flatirons, the leaves crunching softly underfoot. And when Halloween arrives, Boulder becomes a scene straight from a fall postcard: pumpkins line porches, costumes fill Pearl Street, and the spirit of the season comes alive in every corner of town.

This pumpkin, featuring Ralphie the buffalo, is more than a festive decoration — it’s a tribute to the powerful traditions that make CU Boulder one of the most spirited campuses in the country. From the roar of the crowd at Folsom Field to the hum of excitement before the Munchkin Masquerade on Pearl Street, Halloween here carries both nostalgia and community pride.

As twilight settles over the campus, pumpkins like this one cast their warm glow against the red roofs, inviting passersby to pause and take in the view. It’s a moment that reminds everyone why Boulder in the fall is simply unforgettable — the perfect mix of mountain magic, collegiate energy, and creative expression.

Halloween at CU Boulder isn’t just about costumes or candy — it’s about connection. From student-run pumpkin carving contests to local harvest festivals like The Great Pumpkin Party, the entire community joins in the fun.

To see more photos that capture the beauty and spirit of Boulder — from fall festivals to iconic CU moments — visit this local site for daily features that celebrate everything that makes this town shine.

AboutBoulder-admin