Alumni Stories

CU Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little

Anna Tolette — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 15:37:42 +0000

CU Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little Anna Tolette Wed, 10/08/2025 - 09:37

Kate Jordan Little is a fourth-generation Buff, making her the 23rd member of her family to attend CU Boulder. A junior from Denver, Colorado, she is pursuing a dual major in management and entrepreneurship and marketing, with a minor in leadership. Her academic distinction sets her apart. She is a U.S. Presidential Scholar and a Boettcher Scholar, complemented by her involvement in the President’s Leadership Class and the Leeds Scholars Program.

Beyond academics, Kate’s commitment extends to campus engagement, including her roles as the New Member Educator and former Foundation Ambassador for Chi Omega, as well as being active in CU Sports Information and competing with Club CU Swimming and Diving. Little currently serves as the Homecoming Coalition Spirit Chair for CU Student Government and is excited for all that is in store for the upcoming Homecoming festivities.

What does CU Boulder Homecoming mean to you?

Homecoming means so much to me because it celebrates family and tradition.

I am a fifth-generation Coloradan, a fourth-generation Buff and the 23rd member of my family to attend CU. My parents, sister, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins have all shared this same journey, and we have each felt the magic of being a Buff in our own way.

My grandfather is remembered through the Zack Jordan Award that honors the CU Football Most Valuable Player each year, and my family has never missed a home game.

Homecoming is a time to gather, celebrate the love and pride we all feel for CU, and carry forward a legacy that has shaped my family for generations. It reminds us that CU is not just where we go to school but part of who we are.

What is your favorite part of your role as Homecoming Spirit Chair?

Kate, pictured with her parents and sister, is the baby on the right!

My favorite part of being the Homecoming Chair is seeing people light up with Buff pride. Helping create the parade and pep rally feels meaningful because I know how much joy those moments bring to students, alumni and families. I think about my family filling the stands and how often we have experienced that same excitement together.

Being Spirit Chair is a way of giving back to a community that has been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember. Whenever I see people laughing, singing the fight song, and cheering together in black and gold, I feel connected to something bigger: a CU family we all belong to.

If you had the attention of every Forever Buff for one minute, how would you convince them to attend Homecoming?

I would tell them that Homecoming is not just about events but about being part of a story stretching across generations. It is laughter with friends, the traditions we pass down and the memories we create together.

When you come back for Homecoming, you are not just celebrating a weekend; you are celebrating the pride, the joy and the love that make CU a family. Every voice in the fight song, every smile in the crowd and every cheer from the stands matters.

We are all Buffs, and Homecoming is our chance to remember that and celebrate it shoulder to shoulder.

What is special about Homecoming this year?

Homecoming 2024

This year feels extra special because it focuses on community and connection.

Whether you are a student experiencing your very first Homecoming, an alum returning to the place that shaped you or a Forever Buff family member who has loved CU for decades, there is a place for you here. The parade, the pep rally and the game bring us all together in one place where generations of Buffs can stand side by side and celebrate what we share.

For me, it is not just about carrying forward my family’s traditions; it is about being part of the bigger CU family and knowing that we are all Buffs.

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Top 8 CU-themed Halloween costumes

Anna Tolette — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 20:14:26 +0000

Top 8 CU-themed Halloween costumes Anna Tolette Fri, 09/26/2025 - 14:14

This Homecoming, Buffs on Tap invites CU Boulder alumni to BOO-ze their way through Halloween. And what better way to celebrate than a CU-themed costume contest? Grab your buffalo horns, chill your pint glass and join us from 3 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31, at Koenig Alumni Center for a scary good time.

Here are eight costume ideas to conjure your excitement:

Ralphie

They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, so welcome Ralphie VII to the herd by dressing as her! Rock a monochrome brown outfit, then top it with an iconic buffalo headband.

Ralphie Handler

No Ralphie is complete without a handler. Skip the sprinting, but sport a classic black cowboy hat, black button-down shirt, eye-catching belt buckle and blue jeans to channel your inner student-athlete.

Coach Prime

Halloween is Prime Time to wear your flashiest chain, biggest sunglasses and best gameday headset. If you match that with a CU hoodie and hat, you might be stopped on the street for a picture. Don’t forget to give your fans a motivational speech while you’re at it.

Superfan Peggy

Superfan Peggy Coppom never misses a game. Dig in your closet for an oversized CU vintage crewneck, fluffy pom-poms and a gray wig. Bonus points if you wear her signature glasses and a 100th Birthday sash.

Banana Buff

Pay homage to the dedicated students who dress in banana costumes every football game. Wear the silliest banana costume and pair of sunglasses you can find. If you’re lucky, you might just end up on the Jumbotron.

Sleep-Deprived Student

Remember those long nights spent studying in Norlin Library? Sorry to remind you! But for a funny costume, throw on your comfiest sweatpants, mess your hair to make it look like you just rolled out of bed, smudge dark circles under your eyes and tow your old textbooks or a mug of coffee around.

Sporty Buff

Choose your own game plan! Wear your favorite CU jersey and smear on some eye-black to be a football player. Pull that hair into a ponytail, ruffle those pom-poms and practice those high kicks in a classic CU uniform to be a spirit squad member. You could even carry around a custom pair of CU skis while wearing a warm jacket and ski goggles to be one of CU’s nationally ranked student skiers

Brainy Buffs

Dress as your degree! For STEM majors, experiment with wearing a lab coat and carrying a beaker full of a “mysterious potion.” Art majors can draw on a goatee, splatter paint on a black-and-white striped shirt and craft a palette and brush out of paper. A fun money-printed suit would be perfect for business majors. The options are endless!

Whatever you wear, we hope to see you at this year’s Buffs on Tap!

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Top 10 facts about Chip, CU Boulder’s mascot

Anna Tolette — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 18:11:32 +0000

Top 10 facts about Chip, CU Boulder’s mascot Anna Tolette Fri, 09/05/2025 - 12:11

Julia MacLean

Chip, CU Boulder’s beloved buffalo mascot, has been entertaining fans at games and campus events since the 1980s. Known for his playful dancing and quick humor, Chip brings energy and spirit wherever he goes.

Here are 10 fun facts about Chip, the heart of every CU Boulder celebration:

Chip can be found at CU Boulder football, basketball, soccer, volleyball and select lacrosse games, as well as at other community, campus and charity events.

Chip and his friends are trained at summer camp to ensure he performs at the highest quality for CU Boulder.

Chip is a part of the University of Colorado Spirit Program, which also includes the dance team and cheer team.

In a normal year, Chip makes anywhere from 300 to 400 appearances. You can request him for an appearance by completing the Spirit Appearance Request Form

The head of the Chip costume is a hockey helmet with foam and steel added to create Chip’s likeness. It weighs somewhere between 7 and 8 pounds.

Chip once conducted an orchestra at Macky Auditorium.

Children who join the Chip Kid’s Club can get a special personalized note on their birthdays from the mascot himself.

Chip has won three first-place Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championships. He took home back-to-back wins in 2009 and 2010, and he most recently won in 2020.

Chip’s birthday is in February.

Chip attends football and basketball media days with the other Big 12 Mascots.

Explore ways to get involved with CU Boulder Athletics and support the Buffs.

Join the Buff Club

Chip, CU Boulder’s beloved buffalo mascot, brings energy and pride to events on and off campus. From game days to cheer competitions, he represents Buffs spirit. Check out 10 fun facts about Chip.

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Volunteering brings Buffs together

Anna Tolette — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 21:51:03 +0000

Volunteering brings Buffs together Anna Tolette Mon, 09/01/2025 - 15:51

Volunteering isn’t just about giving back — it’s about growing connections and showing Buffs pride. When you share your time and talent with the CU Boulder Alumni Association, you strengthen the Forever Buffs community while opening the door to new relationships, skills and experiences that can benefit you personally and professionally. Whether you live in Boulder or across the country, there are meaningful ways to get involved that fit your schedule and interests.

Make memories through one-time opportunities

If you’re looking for a fun, low-commitment way to give back, consider volunteering at CU Boulder events like Homecoming, Alumni Weekend or Grad Bash. These one-time opportunities are a great way to reconnect with campus, cheer on the Buffs and meet other alumni while making the event experience even more special.

Bring Buffs together where you live

Volunteering also means creating community for other alumni. Whether hosting a Game Watch, planning a networking mixer or organizing a fun local event, volunteers play a key role in helping Buffs connect across the country. These gatherings spark friendships, build professional networks and keep the CU spirit thriving wherever alumni call home.

Mentor the next generation of Buffs

One of the most meaningful ways to give back is mentoring through the Forever Buffs Network Mentorship Program. You can share career advice with a student, offer insight to a recent grad or connect with another alum in your field. Alumni, faculty, staff and friends are welcome to participate — anyone who joins the Forever Buffs Network can apply. It’s an easy way to make a difference in someone’s journey while gaining fresh connections.

Give back to your community with Buffs Give Back

Each April, alumni around the country come together for Buffs Give Back — a day of service dedicated to making a difference in your local communities. By hosting or joining a project in your area, you can help showcase Forever Buffs’ positive impact. From park cleanups to food bank drives, it’s a powerful way to carry CU’s spirit of service far beyond campus.

What’s in it for you?

No matter how you choose to get involved, volunteering through the Alumni Association offers rewards beyond the experience itself.

Expand your professional network and make meaningful connections.

Gain leadership, communication and event-planning skills that look great on a resume.

Stay connected to the university you love while creating opportunities for future Forever Buffs.

At CU Boulder, volunteering is flexible, fun and impactful. Whether you give a few hours once a year or take on a bigger role in your alumni community, there’s a place for you.

Join us. Discover how giving back can give back to you. Feel free to reach out with questions to alumnivolunteers@colorado.edu.

Volunteer with CU Boulder Alumni Association. From mentoring and service projects to local events and one-time opportunities, volunteering connects Forever Buffs everywhere while building community, friendships and professional networks.

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Top 10 most popular majors at CU Boulder

Anna Tolette — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 20:18:31 +0000

Top 10 most popular majors at CU Boulder Anna Tolette Mon, 08/11/2025 - 14:18

Julia MacLean

Choosing a major is one of the biggest decisions college students make, and at CU Boulder, certain programs consistently lead the pack. Here are CU Boulder’s Fall 2024 most popular undergraduate majors by enrollment, which shows where students focus their time.

1. Psychology

Provides a fundamental understanding of the principles of human cognition, emotion, behavior, social interactions and mind-brain relationships.

2. Integrative Physiology

Includes the study of organisms as functioning systems of molecules, cells, tissues and organs. Focuses on whole-body function and its applications to human health and disease.

3. Finance

Emphasizes financial management, money and capital markets, investments and derivative securities, and financial institutions.

4. Aerospace Engineering

Teaches how to design, test and operate complex aerospace and related systems. Develops new technologies for use in commercial aviation, defense systems and space exploration.

5. Mechanical Engineering

Encompasses the general areas of design and manufacturing, fluid and solid mechanics, and thermal and materials science.

6. Marketing

Focuses on identifying customer needs and wants, developing products and services to meet those demands, establishing communications to promote products and services, and monitoring transactions and customer responses to guide future activities.

7. Computer Science

Emphasizes knowledge of computing at all levels, including circuits and computer architecture through operating systems, programming languages and large application systems.

8. Management

Focuses on business leadership and technical disciplines like sustainability, supply chains, operations, analytics, strategy and talent management.

9. Strategic Communications

Teaches students to be forward-looking communicators with the analytic, strategic, creative, critical thinking and tactical skills necessary to identify and solve problems.

10. Political Science

Includes how public policy is formulated, how laws are made, and the social and economic impact of those laws and policies.

As alumni, you can make a powerful impact on the success of students through mentoring, career talks or student networking events. Your support helps students in every major reach their fullest potential and navigate their futures with confidence.

Learn about volunteer opportunities

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We Did the Planning, You Do the Cheering!

Anna Tolette — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 19:57:54 +0000

We Did the Planning, You Do the Cheering! Anna Tolette Fri, 08/08/2025 - 13:57

Homecoming Weekend 2025

There’s no better time to come together as Buffs than Homecoming Weekend. We’ve mapped out all the key events to help you make the most of your return to campus. Here’s everything you need to plan an unforgettable experience filled with tradition, celebration and CU pride.

The Weekend Itinerary

Thursday, Oct. 30

Arrive in town: Whether you’re from the Front Range or out of town, there are many wonderful places to stay.

11 a.m.–2 p.m. | Stop by Spirit Day

Join the fun at Spirit Day on Farrand Field! Show your CU pride and celebrate campus traditions with free food, Buffs gear and lawn games. It’s a great chance to connect with fellow students and alumni in the heart of campus. Admission is free, so bring your Buff spirit and come enjoy the festivities!

Dinner in Boulder

After hours of celebrating, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Check out local favorites near campus, with options for every appetite.

Friday, Oct. 31

If you wake up ready for an adventure, slip on your hiking shoes and discover the stunning Flatirons rising from the edge of the Rockies. Boulder is known for its iconic hiking trails. For suggestions, visit this list of 10 scenic hikes near Boulder.

3–6 p.m. | Buffs on Tap

Kick off your Halloween weekend at Buffs on Tap at the Koenig Alumni Center. Unwind while sampling some of Colorado’s finest beer and wine. Dress up in your best Ralphie-themed costume to show off your Buffs and Halloween spirit! Your $30 early registration or $45 at the door ticket includes tastings, fun giveaways and a commemorative pint glass to remember the occasion. Cheers to good times and great company!

Time TBD | Homecoming parade and pep rally

Get in the gameday spirit at the Homecoming Stampede and Pep Rally. Join fellow Buffs fans for a lively parade and pep rally featuring the Golden Buffs Marching Band, Spirit Squad and Chip. It’s a free way to show your Buff pride and get energized before the big game.

Saturday, November 1

3 hours before kickoff | Homecoming Tailgate

Start your game day right at the Homecoming Tailgate at the Koenig Alumni Center, beginning three hours before kickoff. Get hyped to cheer on the Buffs as they face off against the Arizona Wildcats with a fun-filled event featuring music, photo ops, giveaways and more. Concession-style food and drinks will be available for purchase, and while admission is free, registration is required. All ages are welcome!

Time TBD | CU vs. Arizona Homecoming game

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! The Colorado Buffaloes take on the Arizona Wildcats at the Homecoming football game. Sko Buffs!

Pre-Game Checklist

Mark your calendars! Homecoming Weekend is Oct. 30–Nov. 1 in Boulder.

Plan your stay. Reserve a hotel or rental as early as possible; game weekends fill fast.

Tailgate checklist. Think tent, chairs, coolers, tailgate games and of course, your black and gold gear.

Get game day ready. Check out the Buffs football 2025 alumni guide for links to the team roster, fight song and tips for an exciting season.

Be part of the tradition at Homecoming Weekend, and let’s make it one to remember!

There’s no better time to come together as Buffs than Homecoming Weekend. We’ve mapped out all the key events to help you make the most of your return to campus.

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How Buff are you? Take the CU Boulder bucket list quiz

Anna Tolette — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 17:16:19 +0000

How Buff are you? Take the CU Boulder bucket list quiz Anna Tolette Thu, 08/07/2025 - 11:16

Julia MacLean

Think you’ve done it all at CU Boulder? From Ralphie runs to Flatiron hikes, it’s time to find out how Buff you are. Track your CU Boulder adventures with this ultimate Forever Buffs bucket list!

Scroll through the list below and tally your points for each experience you’ve had. Then, check your score to see your Buff status — and challenge your friends and fellow alumni to beat it!

Forever Buffs Quiz

Watched Ralphie run at a home game – 3 points

Attended a Homecoming event – 3 points

Had a Class Note published in the Coloradan alumni magazine – 3 points

Spent your whole day in Norlin library – 3 points

Took a plunge in the Buff Pool, not just tanning! – 2 points

Sat on Farrand Field on a sunny day – 2 points

Attended a concert at Red Rocks with CU friends – 3 points

Participated in a snowball fight or snowman building on campus – 2 points

Hiked from Chautauqua to the first Flatiron – 2 points

Touched the buffalo statue outside Folsom Field for good luck – 1 point

Took a class in Old Main – 2 points

Rode the Buff Bus – 1 point

Signed The Sink ceiling at graduation – 2 points

Joined the Forever Buffs Network – 2 points

Climbed at the Rec Center climbing wall – 2 points

Celebrated a Buffs win on The Hill – 2 points

Attended a Fiske Planetarium show – 2 points

Participated in the Bolder Boulder 10k – 2 points

Used the Flatirons as your Zoom or LinkedIn background – 3 points

Tubed or walked along Boulder Creek – 2 points

Forever Buffs Score Breakdown

0-15 points: Newbie Buff

16-25 points: Hill-Wanderer

26-35 points: Flatiron Fanatic

36+ points: Forever Buff Legend!

No matter your score, you’re always a Forever Buff! Ready to make more memories? Join us at Homecoming Weekend 2025.

Learn more about Homecoming Weekend

Think you’ve done it all at CU Boulder? From Ralphie runs to Flatiron hikes, it’s time to find out how Buff you are. Track your CU Boulder adventures with this ultimate Forever Buffs bucket list!

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Forever Buffs Impact: Q&A with Amanda Giguere (MThtr'06; PhD'10)

Anna Tolette — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:43:16 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact: Q&A with Amanda Giguere (MThtr'06; PhD'10) Anna Tolette Thu, 07/31/2025 - 14:43

What can one of history’s most famous playwrights teach us about preventing violence? Forever Buff Amanda Giguere’s work as the Director of Outreach at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival (CSF) has turned this idea into a mission for change through theatre.

Amanda leads education programs that bring Shakespeare to life for thousands of Colorado students each year, using the power of theater to build empathy, foster dialogue and create safer communities.

Since joining CSF as a graduate student in 2004, Amanda has helped the theatre education program reach more than 300 Colorado schools and nearly 140,000 students. Her latest project, Shakespeare & Violence Prevention: A Practical Handbook for Educators, shares this innovative work with a national audience.

Read more about how Amanda’s time at CU Boulder helped inspire her and how you can help bring the transformative power of Shakespeare to even more communities.

What is your favorite part of your role as the Director of Outreach for the Colorado Shakespeare Festival?

I love the variety of this work. I get many opportunities to interact with people of all ages and varying experience levels with Shakespeare. No matter how many times I encounter the plays, I always learn something new from watching others encounter them. We all bring our unique perspectives to the plays. 

Reflecting on your theatre studies at CU and becoming a full-time staff member, what experiences helped shape the path you’re on now?

I encountered Shakespeare as a child (around 10 or 11) in a Shakespeare camp, and I was hooked.

I began teaching for the same Shakespeare camp when I was in college. After college, I taught for a couple of years in Hong Kong and then felt the pull of graduate school. I wanted to expand my knowledge of theatre, and I applied to one school – CU Boulder – because of its connection to CSF. I knew I wanted to do something with Shakespeare and children, though I didn’t have a clear career path. Even as I pursued my MA and PhD, I never felt the traditional academic path of a tenure-track position was for me. I began working at CSF as a graduate student, and after completing my doctorate, I returned to CSF as a full staff member. I feel lucky to be doing work I’m passionate about and that aligns with my skill set.

Now, when people tell me, “Your job is so cool, I want it!” I smile, thinking, “I agree! This job is VERY cool.”

Thinking about your new book, what part are you most proud of, and what do you hope readers will walk away thinking or feeling?

I wrote the book because, after many years of running a Shakespeare & Violence Prevention program in K-12 schools, I realized that teachers across the country could be doing this work. So many educators already teach Shakespeare. But they may not realize that teaching Shakespeare can also teach violence prevention – I saw an opportunity to share this work beyond the limits of where our CSF van could travel. I hope readers walk away feeling they play a part in preventing violence. Maybe it’s through encountering Shakespeare, or perhaps it’s through connecting with their fellow humans in ways that light them up.

I also hope it debunks the myth that Shakespeare is too hard, too fancy, too far out of our reach to grasp the meaning. These plays have so much to teach us about our world. 

How do you see the arts as an agent for social change? Where do you see potential for more change?

The area of change I think about most frequently is funding for the arts, particularly arts education. We are seeing the impact of federal funding cuts and the increasing difficulty of grants. We at CSF are relying more heavily on philanthropic support.

I see the value of these programs firsthand – exposure to theatre as a child can help build confidence, improve public speaking and heighten a child’s social-emotional competencies. It’s not just about training actors. If more young people had access to arts education, I imagine we’d see an increase in those skills that also prevent violence: empathy, teamwork, connectedness.

That’s why I decided to donate all the royalties from the book sales to the CSF Education Endowment. This fund helps provide operational support to CSF’s education programs. 

How can Forever Buffs support your work?

Please tell a language arts teacher, a Shakespeare fan or a school administrator about this book! Buy them a copy for their classroom.

And support your local arts organizations — see a play, attend a concert. The arts help connect us to our fellow humans in vital ways. 

Support the Colorado Shakespeare Festival

Forever Buff Amanda Giguere’s work as the Director of Outreach at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival (CSF) has turned this idea into a mission for change through theatre.

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The ultimate alumni guide to Buffs football 2025

Anna Tolette — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 20:37:02 +0000

The ultimate alumni guide to Buffs football 2025 Anna Tolette Wed, 07/23/2025 - 14:37

Julia MacLean

Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a proud alum or simply love the spirited atmosphere of college football, there’s nothing quite like game day in Boulder. From tailgates at Folsom Field to game watches across the country, CU knows how to turn football weekends into full-blown celebrations. Here’s your all-in-one guide to making the most of the 2025 season — no matter where you’re cheering from.

Plan ahead

Start by checking out the 2025 CU Buffs football schedule and get familiar with the team roster. Get to know our opponents with this Big 12 infographic to see all the conference teams, their mascots and how far each stadium is from Boulder. Whether you’re mapping out your travel plans or scheduling weekends to gather with fellow Buffs, knowing the key matchups is step one to a winning season.

Away game Buffs Bashes

Kick off your game day at a Buffs Bash, CU’s official pregame parties. Hosted in select cities, these spirited events are perfect for any CU football fan. With live music, giveaways, food trucks, drinks and appearances from the Spirit Squad and marching band, there’s no better place to turn up the energy before cheering on the Buffs.

Game watches nationwide

Can’t make it to Boulder? You can still cheer on the Buffs in style. Game watches bring Forever Buffs and CU football fans together wherever they roam. Find an official alumni chapter near you through the CU Boulder Alumni Association and cheer on the Buffs with fellow fans. It’s the next best thing to being at Folsom Field.

Connect with fellow Buff fans

Want the latest news, exclusive access to giveaways and a place to talk Buffs football all season long? Join the Forever Buffs Football Fans group on the Forever Buffs Network. It’s your go-to hub for connecting with CU fans near or far.

Pearl Street Stampedes

If you’re in Boulder on a Friday night before a home game, don’t miss the Pearl Street Stampede. This tradition features the Golden Buffalo Marching Band, the Spirit Squad, student-athletes and Chip parading down Pearl Street. Starting at 7 p.m., the parade winds through downtown Boulder and gets the community pumped for the big game.

Homecoming Weekend

Homecoming Weekend is a can’t-miss experience. Mark your calendars for the Homecoming game against Arizona on Nov. 1. Expect a weekend packed with tradition, including tailgates and other festivities. Whether you’re returning to relive old memories or make new ones, Homecoming is a season highlight.

Buffs gear and game day tips

Wear your black and gold, or check out Colorado Buffaloes social media posts for specific game day colors. Be sure to bring layers, as Boulder weather can be unpredictable. You’ll also want to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Arrive early if you're going to explore campus or tailgate before kickoff. And take time to learn the CU fight song — it’ll come in handy after touchdowns.

Support the Buffs all season long

No matter how you choose to celebrate, Buffs football is more than just a game. It’s a tradition of pride, community and connection that brings alumni together year after year. Check out ways you can get more involved with CU Boulder Athletics.

Sko Buffs!

Join the Buff Club

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10 Boulder dining favorites: From $.99 mimosas to Michelin stars

Anna Tolette — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 15:47:40 +0000

10 Boulder dining favorites: From $.99 mimosas to Michelin stars Anna Tolette Tue, 07/22/2025 - 09:47

Julia MacLean

Boulder’s food scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From budget-friendly bites near campus to globally inspired dishes and laid-back spots brimming with local character, there's something here for every craving and occasion. Here are 10 standout restaurants that showcase the best of what Boulder has to offer.

1. The Sink

One of Boulder’s most iconic restaurants, The Sink is known for its graffiti-covered walls, delicious burgers, which it claims are the “best in Boulder,” and quirky charm. A local favorite since 1923, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving great food and a true taste of Boulder history.

2. The Buff

The Buff is a beloved Boulder brunch spot just minutes from the CU Boulder campus, known for its hearty breakfasts, house-made green chili and cozy, welcoming vibe. Family-owned since 1995, it's famous for generous portions, 99-cent mimosas and dishes like the Saddlebags pancakes.

3. Frasca Food and Wine

If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, this Michelin-starred restaurant recently won the prestigious 2025 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant. Known for its Northern Italian cuisine, Frasca Food and Wine is consistently excellent with exceptional hospitality.

4. Avanti

Avanti Boulder is a stylish food hall with multiple distinct restaurants offering diverse cuisine from pizza to arepas, all under one roof. With rooftop views of the Flatirons, two full bars and a lively, communal vibe, it's perfect for groups, dates or solo diners seeking variety and atmosphere.

5. Japango

If you’re in the mood for top-notch sushi and a vibrant atmosphere, Japango is a Pearl Street standout. With its creative rolls, patio seating and friendly service, it’s perfect for everything from a casual night out to a special date.

6. Gemini

Inspired by Barcelona and San Sebastián, Gemini’s seasonal menu features tapas and larger dishes made with sustainably sourced Colorado ingredients. With a great selection of Spanish wines, craft cocktails and local brews, Gemini combines quality food and a warm atmosphere.

7. Dushanbe Teahouse

The only authentic Persian teahouse in the Western Hemisphere, the Dushanbe Teahouse was handcrafted by Tajik artisans, then disassembled, shipped and reassembled along Boulder Creek. Guests enjoy global cuisine sourced from the teahouse’s own Three Leaf Farm, along with refined afternoon tea services with over 100 teas to choose from.

8. Bartaco

Bartaco offers freshly made, flavorful tacos and small plates in a fun, coastal-inspired setting with outdoor seating. With fresh ingredients, great cocktails and easy app-based ordering, it’s perfect for a casual meal or lively night in downtown Boulder.

9. The Corner

Located on The Hill, The Corner is an affordable, go-to spot near campus known for its fresh, all-natural menu with options like breakfast burritos, paleo bowls, burgers and salads. With fast, friendly service, generous portions and a sunny patio, it’s a favorite for students and locals alike.

10. Freddie’s Hot Dog Stand

If you’re looking for extremely casual and affordable, this iconic hot dog stand is located at the corner of Broadway and Pearl. Open daily and late on weekends, Freddie’s serves up Vienna Beef hot dogs, pork brats, Polish sausages, turkey and veggie dogs, plus nitrate-free elk and buffalo brats.

Whether you’re planning your Homecoming Weekend or just stopping by for a campus visit, this list can fuel your Boulder adventures and help you discover new local favorites.

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Alumni Stories

CU Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little

What does CU Boulder Homecoming mean to you?

What is your favorite part of your role as Homecoming Spirit Chair?

If you had the attention of every Forever Buff for one minute, how would you convince them to attend Homecoming?

What is special about Homecoming this year?

Related Articles

Top 8 CU-themed Halloween costumes

Ralphie

Ralphie Handler

Coach Prime

Superfan Peggy

Banana Buff

Sleep-Deprived Student

Sporty Buff

Brainy Buffs

Related Articles

Top 10 facts about Chip, CU Boulder’s mascot

Related Articles

Volunteering brings Buffs together

Make memories through one-time opportunities

Bring Buffs together where you live

Mentor the next generation of Buffs

Give back to your community with Buffs Give Back

What’s in it for you?

Related Articles

Top 10 most popular majors at CU Boulder

1. Psychology

2. Integrative Physiology

3. Finance

4. Aerospace Engineering

5. Mechanical Engineering

6. Marketing

7. Computer Science

8. Management

9. Strategic Communications

10. Political Science

Related Articles

We Did the Planning, You Do the Cheering!

Homecoming Weekend 2025

The Weekend Itinerary

Thursday, Oct. 30

Friday, Oct. 31

Saturday, November 1

Pre-Game Checklist

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How Buff are you? Take the CU Boulder bucket list quiz

Forever Buffs Quiz

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Forever Buffs Impact: Q&A with Amanda Giguere (MThtr'06; PhD'10)

What is your favorite part of your role as the Director of Outreach for the Colorado Shakespeare Festival?

Reflecting on your theatre studies at CU and becoming a full-time staff member, what experiences helped shape the path you’re on now?

Thinking about your new book, what part are you most proud of, and what do you hope readers will walk away thinking or feeling?

How do you see the arts as an agent for social change? Where do you see potential for more change?

How can Forever Buffs support your work?

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The ultimate alumni guide to Buffs football 2025

Plan ahead

Away game Buffs Bashes

Game watches nationwide

Connect with fellow Buff fans

Pearl Street Stampedes

Homecoming Weekend

Buffs gear and game day tips

Support the Buffs all season long

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10 Boulder dining favorites: From $.99 mimosas to Michelin stars

1. The Sink

2. The Buff

3. Frasca Food and Wine

4. Avanti

5. Japango

6. Gemini

7. Dushanbe Teahouse

8. Bartaco

9. The Corner

10. Freddie’s Hot Dog Stand

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