The scoop on graduation weekend events

Know what to do with family when there is time to kill between ceremonies and parties

Most graduates have lived independently for at least four years now. The freedom to stay out late and sleep well into the afternoon is a privilege many are not willing to give up, especially with the abundance of graduation parties in Boulder next weekend.

So, what do you do with parents and extended family during graduation weekend?

Getting together with out-of-town family is pleasant, but it is advisable to make a few plans for the ‘rents and grandma before they arrive. With activities on the horizon, rest easier knowing freedom will come during this exciting and potentially stressful time.

Here are a few scenarios to consider:

Head to Denver:

Located just north of downtown Denver, Capitol Hill’s buildings have a charm all their own as most of them were built around the 1920s.

“I am going to take my family to the Capitol Hill area because I want to show them where I work, some good restaurants and also the art museum,” said Eric Boxer, a graduating engineering student.

The Denver Art Museum is part of the Civic Center Cultural Complex on 13th Avenue between Broadway and Bannock Street in downtown Denver. It is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday and Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $13 for non-Colorado residents. Visit DAM for more information.

History and political buffs can take a tour of the Colorado State Capital Building. Running Monday through Friday from 9:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the free tour focuses on the historical aspects of the area.

Charlie Brown’s Bar and Grill just up the street at 980 Grant St. is a neighborhood watering hole and a favorite of the road-worn beat poets, Kerouac and Ginsberg. The extensive menu ranges from burritos to lobster tails, providing options for even the pickiest diners.

Around Boulder:

The graduation ceremony is early Friday morning and lasts well into the day. Several events organized by CUs various schools and programs follow the commencement ceremony. For the full list, click here.

There are many events in Boulder on Saturday to entertain the whole family.

The Farmer’s Market is a local favorite for fresh, locally grown produce. The market is located in downtown Boulder next to central park on 13th street between Canyon Boulevard and Arapahoe Avenue and is open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

After getting some fresh food, head to one of the local art museums. The Boulder Contemporary Art Museum is also located on 13th Street, right in the heart of the farmers market. The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. The current exhibits are instillations from international and local artists.

The Boulder Adventure Film Festival will be playing at the Boulder Theater at 2032 14th St. on Saturday night. A family matinee will show short films with a kid friendly focus from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. More short films follow at 7:00 p.m. Price of admission is $13.50 for the 7:00 p.m. showing.

Outside Boulder:

No trip to Boulder is complete without some hiking.

Head out for a short stroll to Chautauqua Park. About half a million visitors come the historic area and it has many hiking trails, ranging from strenuous to easy.

“I might go to Estes Park for a day with my family,” said Scott Chamberlin, a graduating economics major.

After exploring the town of Estes Park, head to Rocky Mountain National Park for a quick hike or scenic drive. Stop by the visitors’ center for more information. Also, visit Rocky Mountain National Park before you leave town.

For more restaurant ideas and guides of Denver and Boulder visit 5280 or Citysearch.

Contact Campus Press staff writer Kathleen Straney at [email protected]