Why Boulder Taco Fest 2025 is the summer party you don’t want to miss
Boulder Taco Fest is back on Saturday, August 23 — a creekside celebration of tacos, tequila, live music, and high-flying Lucha Libre right in downtown Boulder at the Boulder Civic Center & Library (1001 Arapahoe Ave). Gates open at 12:00–5:00 pm, and the vibe is pure summer fun.
What makes it awesome
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Tacos + drinks galore: Dozens of creative taco options, fresh margaritas, and craft beer, all in the shade along Boulder Creek.
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Live entertainment all day: Expect energetic bands, crowd-pleasing Lucha Libre matches, and kid-friendly fun like piñatas.
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Easy downtown location: Walk, bike, bus, or park nearby; the festival spans both sides of the creek in the civic area.
Tickets & how it works
Boulder Taco Fest uses wristbands plus tickets for food and drinks. General Admission wristbands include entry to the festival and 3 tickets (good for a taco, beer, marg, or NA drink). You can buy more onsite ($5 each or 5 for $23). VIP wristbands add perks like premier Lucha viewing, tequila tastings, a nacho bar, express entry, and 10 tickets.
Come early for the Boulder 5K Taco Run
Kick off the day with the Boulder 5K Taco Run (late morning), then roll straight into the fest when the gates open at noon. Registration for the run even includes a GA wristband for the festival — one of the best deals of the day.
Handy schedule snapshot (Saturday 8/23)
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~11:00 am: 5K Taco Run start
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12:00 pm: Festival gates open
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All afternoon: Live DJ/bands, Lucha Libre matches, piñatas, and plenty of tacos & drinks
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5:00 pm: Festival ends
Tips to have the best time
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Grab your wristbands early or use Friday evening pickup to skip lines.
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Bring sun protection (it’s outdoors, creekside) and an appetite — there’s a lot to sample.
My thoughts
I’m genuinely excited to join this year — tacos by the creek, live music, and Lucha Libre is such a fun combo. I’ll be there early to cheer on the 5K, then spend the afternoon taste-testing tacos and catching the wrestling matches. If you’re around Boulder, this is an easy “yes.”
P.S. For wristbands, schedule updates, and vendor lists, check the official site.
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