Every year, downtown Boulder’s historic Pearl Street Mall transforms into a candy-filled carnival for the beloved Munchkin Masquerade. From 3 to 6 p.m. on Halloween, children ages twelve and under fill the streets dressed as superheroes, princesses, witches, and creatures of every kind. The event has become one of Boulder’s favorite family traditions—an afternoon dedicated to laughter, imagination, and community.

The Munchkin Masquerade is organized by Downtown Boulder Community Initiatives in collaboration with local businesses that open their doors as “Treat Stops.” As trick-or-treaters move along the Pearl Street Mall, they’re greeted by friendly shop owners handing out candy, stickers, and smiles. Parents stroll alongside, capturing memories while soaking up the crisp fall air, the golden leaves, and the pure joy of the moment.

Pearl Street Mall – Boulder, CO: One of the most beautiful and top-rated outdoor malls in the U.S., with the Flatirons of the Rocky Mountains as a stunning backdrop.

It’s more than a Halloween event—it’s a snapshot of Boulder at its best. The pedestrian-friendly streets offer a safe, relaxed environment for families to explore, and the downtown setting provides the perfect backdrop for this colorful celebration. Musicians play festive tunes, shop windows glow with decorations, and laughter echoes between the buildings as costumed kids show off their creative outfits.

The Munchkin Masquerade brings the community together in a way few events can. It’s where local business owners connect with residents, where new families meet longtime neighbors, and where everyone—young or old—gets a reminder of why Boulder feels like home. The event’s success year after year reflects the city’s shared values: family, creativity, and connection.

For many locals, this is the highlight of the Halloween season—a moment when the heart of downtown feels alive with joy and childlike wonder. From toddlers dressed as bumblebees to older kids proudly showing off handmade costumes, every face tells a story of excitement and belonging.

That’s what makes today’s Faces of Boulder edition so special: it celebrates the people behind the masks, the families that make this community shine, and the spirit of Boulder that turns one simple afternoon into a lasting tradition.

For more local highlights and community stories and events, visit this local site and discover why Boulder continues to inspire connection, creativity, and community pride.

AboutBoulder-admin