Blog Posts

A Fab February: Events Sure to Cure Your Holiday Hangover

With the holidays behind us, spring still distant, and the sun setting before the evening news, it can be tough to feel excited about the start of a new year. Fortunately, several local events are sure to make February feel a bit more fabulous. Three of our favorites include the following: 2026 Stout Fest Just in time for stout month, Avery Brewing’s 2nd annual Stout Fest is back on Sunday, February 1st from 4-8 PM. Enjoy barrel-aged favorites like Tweak, food pairings, a deep dive into stouts with Avery’s lead innovation brewer, plus giveaways. Tickets are limited, so grab yours early. Flatiron Freddy Flatiron Freddy is a Groundhog Day tradition held on February 2 at the Chautauqua Ranger Cottage. Join other groundhog fans or watch the livestream online to see if Flatiron Freddy’s shadow shows up. Fun fact: The first Groundhog Day took place in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, on February 2, 1887. Its roots, however, date back to ancient times, particularly Celtic weather rituals. Boozy Bingo Tournament B as in bourbon, I as in IPA, N as in nightcap, G as in gin, and O as in old-fashioned! The Barrel , located in Estes Park, is hosting a boozy bingo tournament every Wednesday night in February. From 6-9pm, these tournaments feature various themes, including the Super Bowl, Be My Valentine, the Rocky Mountains, and Apres Ski. If bingo isn’t your thing, the bar hosts all kinds of other events like tastings and BBQ nights. Disco Skate Night Get ready to sparkle, glide, and groove at Disco Skate Night, the ultimate throwback party where skating meets serious dance-floor energy! Grab your friends, dust off that disco fit, and head to the Avalon Ballroom on Tuesday, February 10th from 7:00-9:30 PM for an adults-only (18+) night of funky fun. Skate your heart out, then take a break to boogie on the elevated dance floor (no wheels allowed there, just pure disco vibes). It’s a sober-friendly event, with limited rental skates available if you reserve ahead, plus multiple ticket options, whether you’re skating, dancing, or doing both. Tickets are available online or at the door, but don’t wait–this glittery night is bound to roll fast! A Very Emo Valentine’s Night Taking place on Valentine’s Day Eve (which happens to be Friday the 13th this year), A Very Emo Valentine’s Night turns the Bounce Empire in Lafayette into an adult playground. Running from 10pm-2am, this 18+ event invites guests to dress in their best emo attire and bring their singing voices. The night will feature crowd favorites, emo anthems, and mosh-pit-worthy hits, along with drink and food specials. Tickets are $15 online. February doesn’t have to feel like dreaduary. These events can help add some excitement to your holiday hangover and give the second month a first-rate feel. The Habitat Apartments is located in Gunbarrel with convenient access to shopping in Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and multiple floor plans to choose from. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots.

What is Dry January?

December might have been all about decorating the halls and raising your champagne glass, but January offers a more sober vibe. In fact, Dry January is embraced by more people each year, giving you (and your liver) a chance to take a break. What Is Dry January? Dry January is a wellness challenge that encourages people to abstain from alcohol for a whole month. Starting January 1st and lasting through the 31st, participants avoid beer, grimace at wine, and take a firm stand against hard liquor. Dry January offers participants a chance to reset after overindulging during the holidays and start the year on a healthy note. It's an initiative that aligns well with New Year’s resolutions, often focused on wellness, making it more appealing to those committed to their goals. How Did Dry January Begin? While many people have made giving up alcohol a New Year's Day tradition for what feels like forever, Dry January officially started in the UK. It began with 4,000 participants in 2013 and has grown each year. Today, it’s believed that millions of people take part, but because there are no official records, the exact number remains unknown. The concept of Dry January also has roots in history. In 1942 , Finland introduced Sober January to aid its war efforts against the Soviets (though this was due to wartime necessity rather than health concerns). Where To Celebrate Dry January in Boulder Nearly every bar, pub, and restaurant offers nonalcoholic options on their menus. Some even have a great mocktail game! In Boulder, a handful of places are known for delicious drinks that blackball Bacardi, void vodka, and dodge Dewar’s without skimping on festivity. These include the following: Avanti Gemini The Rayback Collective The Root Kava Bar OAK at Fourteenth If Dry January feels like too big a commitment, try Damp January instead. With this, you don’t have to completely avoid alcohol; just cut back as much as you’re comfortable with. Even a small break can make a difference! The Habitat Apartments is located in Gunbarrel with convenient access to shopping in Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and multiple floor plans to choose from. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots.

Power Outages in Boulder County And How You Can Prepare

Last week’s strong winds left over 22,000 Boulder County residents without power as Xcel Energy crews worked to restore service amid hazardous conditions. For many locals, this wasn’t unexpected; outages like this have become an all-too-familiar disruption since the Marshall Fire, and each year seems to reveal more vulnerabilities in our infrastructure during extreme weather. While we can’t control windstorms or grid failures, we can control how prepared we are when the lights go out. Why Emergency Preparedness Matters More Than Ever Power outages aren’t just inconvenient. Long-lasting outages can affect heating, food safety, medical devices, communication, and access to reliable information. When outages happen repeatedly, especially during winter or high-wind events, preparation becomes essential rather than optional. Being prepared doesn’t mean panicking or hoarding supplies. It involves having a simple plan and essential items ready so your household can remain safe, warm, and informed until power is back. Bug-Out Bag Basics: What to Have on Hand A bug-out bag (or emergency go-bag) is meant to help you survive the first 72 hours of an emergency, whether you’re sheltering in place or need to evacuate quickly. Here are the essentials every Boulder County household should have: Power & Light Flashlights or headlamps (with extra batteries) Battery-powered or hand-crank radio Portable phone chargers or power banks Warmth & Shelter Blankets or sleeping bags Extra layers, hats, and gloves Hand warmers during the winter months Food & Water Bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day) Non-perishable food (protein bars, canned goods, nut butters) Manual can opener Health & Safety First-aid kit Prescription medications and backups N95 masks (useful for smoke or debris) Communication & Documents Printed emergency contacts Copies of important documents (insurance, ID) Cash (ATMs and card readers may be down) Simple Steps to Prepare Before the Next Outage Beyond an emergency kit, a few preparatory actions can make outages far less stressful: Charge devices early when high winds are forecasted Keep vehicles fueled, especially in winter Sign up for local alerts from Boulder County and Xcel Energy Check on neighbors, especially older adults or those with medical needs Prepared, Not Panicked Extreme weather and power breakdowns are likely to continue, but preparedness doesn’t need to be daunting. A small amount of planning now can reduce risk, discomfort, and uncertainty later. In a place like Boulder County — where wind, fire risk, and infrastructure issues intersect — being ready is simply part of living well and looking out for one another.

Events In Boulder, Colorado To Get Your January Started

January isn’t always the most cheerful month. Due to the inevitable holiday hangover, many of us experience the winter blues, realizing that bears, with their habit of hibernating until spring, have the right idea. But starting 2026 doesn’t have to feel disappointing. There are many fun activities in Boulder to welcome the New Year. Consider getting out of the house and heading to the following: The Gunbarrel Library Curliing up with a page-turning novel is certainly attractive to bookworms hoping to wait out Old Man Winter, but the Gunbarrel Library goes beyond the binding to thicken the plot. It’s hosting Family Board Games & Hot Cocoa by the Fire on Saturday, January 3rd, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. This event will include classic and modern board games, a relaxed atmosphere, and a cozy vibe. Avery Brewery Tours Raise a glass to health and wealth in 2026 with an Avery Brewery Tour. This Gunbarrel-based brewery offers tours every week on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Get a firsthand look at ingredients, yeast science, the brewing process, barrel-aging, and more. Each tour includes three beer tastings, so you can leave hoppy and happy! Versatility Dance Festival The Versatility Dance Festival takes place on January 17th at the Dairy Arts Center. In its eighth year, this event features both emerging and established dance companies and filmmakers. It provides a unique and diverse art experience that includes contemporary dance, tradition, and culture. If you’re part of the arts community or aspiring to be, you can also benefit from the networking opportunities. Hiking the Hills The snowy season isn’t just for skiing and sledding; the foothills of Boulder offer plenty of trail hiking opportunities. January hiking provides a rare glimpse of winter birds, animal tracks, and natural ice sculptures. Check trail conditions before you go (to see if you need ice cleats, boots, or snowshoes), and always keep an eye on the ever-changing Colorado weather. Mother Nature is a wild woman this time of year! CU Basketball The CU football season might be over, limping off into the sunset with the Colorado Rockies. Basketball season, on the other hand, is just getting started. Both the CU Men’s and Women’s teams play throughout January and suit up until March. Take in a game at the CU Event Center and cheer on our local athletes. January doesn’t have to feel like Bland-uary; there are many events around Boulder. Of course, you can also enjoy watching the Denver Broncos in the NFL playoffs at a local bar and experience the pure joy of having a good football team again! The Habitat Apartments is located in Gunbarrel with convenient access to shopping in Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and multiple floor plans to choose from. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots.

What Are The Best Volunteer Opportunities Near Boulder, Colorado?

Boulder is known for its breathtaking landscapes, eco-minded community, and strong spirit of service. Whether you're new to the area or a longtime local looking to give back, there’s no shortage of meaningful ways to make a difference. From helping animals to restoring natural habitats, here are some of the best volunteer opportunities near Boulder, each offering something unique for every kind of changemaker. Humane Society of Boulder Valley If you’re an animal lover, this is one of Boulder’s most rewarding volunteer experiences. The Humane Society welcomes volunteers ages 15 and up to serve in various roles, including animal care, greeting visitors, and performing administrative tasks. With flexible schedules, including evenings and weekends, it's perfect for busy professionals or students. Harvest of Hope Pantry Hunger relief remains a critical issue even in prosperous communities, and Harvest of Hope Pantry plays a crucial role in assisting Boulder residents facing food insecurity. Right now, there is an unprecedented need for food. Volunteers help sort, organize, and distribute food to those in need. Whether you're interested in a one-time shift or a regular position, this pantry provides a hands-on, meaningful way to support your local community. Wildlands Restoration Volunteers (WRV) For outdoor enthusiasts, WRV offers some of the most invigorating volunteer opportunities in the area. Volunteers participate in ecological restoration projects, including trail building, planting native species, and removing invasive plants. Expect physical activity, fresh air, and a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie. Boulder Community Health Boulder Community Health offers a variety of volunteer roles, from assisting patients and families to working in physical therapy or medical/surgical units, and even handling administrative/office tasks. You’ll join a caring, professional environment and can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Individuals who want to give their time in a healthcare setting, particularly volunteers aged 15 and older, will find this option to be a great fit. It’s ideal for those who feel comfortable working indoors in a structured environment and are looking for a recurring volunteer role or a more consistent time commitment. University of Colorado Boulder Volunteer Programs CU Boulder Volunteer Programs offer a wide range of opportunities that extend far beyond the student body. While many initiatives focus on students, several community programs actively invite local residents to get involved. Volunteers can join efforts like sustainability projects, environmental cleanups, mentoring programs, community service partnerships, and event support. These opportunities are well-organized, mission-driven, and often align with long-term campus and community goals, making them perfect for volunteers who prefer structured involvement and want to make a meaningful, ongoing difference in the Boulder area. How to Choose the Right Volunteer Opportunity Before jumping in, consider the following: Your schedule: Do you prefer weekly commitments or occasional events? Your passions: Animals, nature, food justice, youth, sustainability, or admin support? Your activity level: Looking for hands-on physical work or something lower impact? Your goals: Skills for your résumé? Connecting with the community? Outdoor adventure? With so many impactful ways to serve, Boulder makes it easy to turn your passions into purpose. Whether you want to help care for animals, protect our natural landscapes, or support neighbors in need, there's a meaningful opportunity waiting for you right here in our backyard. The Habitat Apartments are located in Gunbarrel, offering convenient access to shopping in Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and multiple floor plans to choose from. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots.

How Can I Create a Cozy Apartment Retreat for the Holidays?

The holidays are the perfect time to slow down, reflect, and fill your home with warmth and joy. But if you live in an apartment, you might wonder how to transform a smaller space into a cozy retreat that still feels festive and inviting. The good news? You don’t need a big home or a huge budget — just a few intentional touches to make your apartment feel like a winter haven. Here’s how to create that cozy, holiday-ready atmosphere: Start with Warm Lighting Soft lighting instantly sets a cozy tone. Swap out bright white bulbs for warm-toned ones, and layer your lighting with lamps, string lights, and candles. Fairy lights around windows or bookshelves create a gentle glow. Battery-operated candles are a safe option for adding flicker and warmth. Dimmer switches or smart bulbs can help you easily adjust the ambiance. Add Layers of Texture Cozy means comfort — and that starts with texture. Pile on the plush: Throw blankets draped over the couch or bed. Oversized knit pillows for lounging. A soft area rug to add warmth underfoot. Mix materials like faux fur, wool, and velvet for a rich, inviting look. Incorporate Natural Elements Bring the outdoors in for a festive yet relaxing vibe. Add evergreen branches or mini pine trees for a holiday scent. Use pinecones, eucalyptus, or berries as simple table décor. Display fresh garlands or wreaths near windows or doors. These small natural touches create a grounded, organic feel that connects you to the season. Create a Seasonal Scent Story Scent is one of the strongest triggers for memory and emotion — and the holidays have their own signature aromas. Try candles or diffusers with notes of cinnamon, pine, clove, or vanilla. Simmer stovetop potpourri with orange slices, cranberries, and spices for an instant cozy boost. Avoid overpowering scents — aim for subtle, layered fragrances that feel comforting, not overwhelming. Curate Your Cozy Corners You don’t need to decorate your entire apartment to feel festive. Instead, focus on small, intentional “retreat zones.” A reading nook with a comfy chair, soft blanket, and a mug of cocoa. A movie corner with dim lights, holiday films, and fluffy throw pillows. A dining setup that feels special — even if it’s just for two. These small spaces invite relaxation, making your apartment feel like a personal sanctuary. Add Personal and Festive Touches Your space should reflect you . Display holiday cards, photos, or mementos that bring joy. Choose decorations that match your apartment’s style — minimalist, rustic, modern, or vintage. Incorporate DIY décor, like homemade ornaments or a handwritten gratitude list. Keep It Clutter-Free Cozy doesn’t mean crowded. Before decorating, take time to declutter. A clean, organized apartment allows your holiday elements to shine and helps you feel more relaxed. Final Touch: Invite the Holiday Spirit In Play your favorite holiday playlist, bake cookies, or host a small get-together with friends. The real magic of a cozy retreat isn’t just in the décor — it’s in the moments you create inside it. Creating a cozy apartment retreat for the holidays is all about warmth, texture, light, and heart. Whether you’re sipping cocoa by twinkling lights or curling up under a blanket watching snow fall outside, your apartment can become a peaceful, joy-filled sanctuary this season. The Habitat Apartments are located in Gunbarrel, offering convenient access to shopping in Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and multiple floor plans to choose from. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots.