The big day is here—Boulder’s legendary 10K is less than 24 hours away! Whether it’s your first BOLDERBoulder or you’re a seasoned vet, having a race-day game plan is key to making the most of this iconic event. Here’s your morning-of checklist to keep things smooth, energized, and fun from start to finish.

1. Hydrate, But Don’t Overdo It

Start sipping water early, but don’t chug a gallon at the starting line. Aim to hydrate gradually the night before and drink 8–16 oz when you wake up. If you’re used to it, an electrolyte mix can be a good boost—but nothing new on race day!

2. Get There Early

Races begin as early as 6:55 AM, so give yourself plenty of time to park, stretch, and find your wave. Boulder will be buzzing, and streets near the start line (30th and Walnut) will be packed. Try to arrive at least an hour before your scheduled wave.

Check your wave start time on the official BOLDERBoulder FAQ and plan ahead.

3. Know Where to Park

Parking near the start can be tricky, so consider using public transportation, biking, or rideshare. There’s free parking available at CU lots, with shuttles to the start. Check out City of Boulder event parking info for detailed maps and recommendations.

4. What to Bring

Keep it simple but smart. Here’s your race-morning go-bag:

• Race bib and safety pins

• ID and a little cash

• Water bottle

• Light jacket or long sleeve you can toss post-start

• Sunscreen and sunglasses

• Positive vibes

Leave valuables at home—there’s plenty of free energy on the course!

5. Plan a Post-Race Meet-Up Spot

The CU stadium is crowded and loud—in the best way—but it can be hard to find your crew. Agree on a meet-up spot ahead of time. Good choices include:

• The big buffalo statue

• Specific sections inside the stands

• The stadium entrance near Gate 2

6. Get Motivated

You’ve trained, prepped, and now it’s showtime. Remember: this race is more than a run—it’s a celebration. From bands and belly dancers to barefoot runners and banana costumes, the BOLDERBoulder is pure Boulder magic.

Soak it in. Smile at the sidelines. Run your race—your way.

7. Don’t Forget to Cool Down

Once you cross the finish line, keep walking to avoid cramping. Stretch, hydrate again, and consider a recovery smoothieor light breakfast (check out our guide to Boulder’s best post-race eats on AboutBoulder).

Final Tip: Enjoy the Moment

No matter your pace or finish time, you’re part of a tradition that brings together 50,000+ runners and fans from all over the world. You earned this.

High five a stranger. Thank the volunteers. Take it all in.

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