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.
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…