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Free things to do in January

Free things to do in January

Welcome to the spring semester, Buffs! January brings a Lego Pride parade, the spring Be Involved Fair, a grad student meet-and-greet, ticket giveaways, career development workshops, the Neurodiversity Social, film screenings, a magic show and more.

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Kickoff at The Rec

ÌýÌýJan. 8–19ÌýÌýÌýRec Center
Join The Rec for free events and classes during Spring Kickoff!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 8ÌýÌýÌý11 a.m.–3 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC Arcade
Kick off the new semester and take a commemorative first day of school picture! You can also decorate a photo frame and grab snacks on your way to class. Hosted by Senior Class Council and the Center for Student Involvement.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 8ÌýÌýÌý8–10 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýThe Connection
Come on down to Club 156 for live music from Spitting Image, with support from EDITH and Argentym. Presented by Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder Program Council!

ÌýÌýJan. 8ÌýÌýÌý5:30–8 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C Abrams Lounge
Connect with fellow Buffs during an afternoon of vision boards, story sharing and community building. It’s a great way to meet new friends and find your crew at Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 9ÌýÌýÌý4–5:30 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýCASE Chancellor’s Hall
Drop in for free coffee, tea, snacks and great conversation with students from around the world. International Coffee Hour is open to all Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØcommunity members—everyone is invited and welcome!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 10ÌýÌýÌý1–3 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýThe Connection
Stop by The Connection with new friends for bowling, billiards and pizza.ÌýÌý

ÌýÌýJan. 12, 26ÌýÌýÌý7 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýThe Connection
Think you’ve got the brains to beat the best? Grab your friends (or fly solo) and head to The Connection for a night of trivia, laughs and prizes! It’s free to play, sign-up starts at 6 p.m. at the front desk, and there are prizes for top teams.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 12ÌýÌýÌý2–3 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C N238
Kick off your semester with strategies to stay organized, manage your time and set yourself up for success. Learn practical tips to keep stress low and motivation high!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 13, 20, 27ÌýÌýÌý5:30 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýVirtual
Hear from admissions deans at law schools nationwide about their schools and their admission process. Hosted by the Pre-Law Office and Phi Alpha Delta.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 13ÌýÌýÌý5–7 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC 235
Feeling creative? Join the Center for Student Involvement for their weekly craft program on Tuesday evenings! All supplies are provided. Space is limited. is free and required to participate.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 13ÌýÌýÌý5:30–7:30 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C Abrams Lounge
Come meet Native and Indigenous peers, enjoy some great food vibe to awesome music and build connections that will last. It's the perfect way to start the semester and make new friends.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 13, 27ÌýÌýÌý7 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýThe Connection
Ready to raise, bluff and go all in? Join our free Texas Hold’em tournament—no pressure, just cards, competition and a shot at some sweet prizes. It’s free to enter and open to all skill levels. Sign-up starts at 6 p.m. at the front desk and there are prizes for top finishers.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 14ÌýÌýÌý2–4 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C N238
Make your own slime, aromatherapy roll-on and stress balls as part of the monthly Stress Less event. Snacks and supplies included.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 14ÌýÌýÌý12:30–1:30 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC 330
Join CSI for some free pizza and great conversation. We will discuss how to identify your strengths and leadership styles.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 14ÌýÌýÌý2–3 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýVirtual
Thinking about applying for the Public Interest Internship Experience (PIIE) program? This experience connects students with summer internships at nonprofit or local government organizations. Join this workshop packed with insider tips and best practices to make your application stand out.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 14ÌýÌýÌý4–7 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýVillage Center
Join the Off-Campus Life Housing Fair to find off-campus housing and meet with landlords, city offices and vendors. The fair also offers a chance to learn more about the leasing process and tips for living off campus. Free giveaways when you attend!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 14ÌýÌýÌý3–5 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C Abrams Lounge
Get ready to unleash your creativity at this Lego mini-Pride parade! Join to build your own parade float with Legos, learn about the origins of Pride and compete for awesome prizes for the best floats.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 14ÌýÌýÌý5:30–7 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C Abrams Lounge

Spend the afternoon creating vision boards, sharing experiences and building a supportive community. It's the perfect chance to make new friends and find your crew at Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 14, 28ÌýÌýÌý4–10 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýThe Connection
Think you’ve got what it takes to dominate the arena? Join Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØGaming and The Connection for an epic Super Smash Bros tournament! It’s free to enter, and sign-ups start at 4 p.m. at The Connection front desk.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 15ÌýÌýÌý4–6 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýVillage Center, Wellness Suite
Think you know the facts about vaping? Put your knowledge to the test and learn about the real risks. Health Promotion will have a vape/e-cig takeback bin so you can safely dispose of your device. Plus, grab free resources to help you quit nicotine for good.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 15ÌýÌýÌý11 a.m.–2 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC 235
Are you interested in working on campus? Gain valuable work and career experience through on-campus jobs that can grow your skills and may even be within your field of study! Departments from across campus will be there to showcase their job and professional experience opportunities, including mentorship, internships, research, volunteering, skill certificates, entrepreneurship and more. Hourly and work-study positions are available. Open to all current undergraduate and graduate students.ÌýÌýÌý

ÌýÌýJan. 15, 29ÌýÌýÌý11–11:45 a.m.ÌýÌýÌýVirtual
Dive into the transformative world of artificial intelligence and its impact on career development. Gain the knowledge and tools to harness AI. Learn valuable insights into how AI is shaping the job market and how you can leverage it for your career journey.ÌýÌýÌý

ÌýÌýJan. 15, 22, 29ÌýÌýÌýNoon–1 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýVirtual
Grad students and postdocs—ready to break into industry or nonprofit work? Join this six-part seminar series.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 15ÌýÌýÌý8–10 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýThe Connection
Join the Center for Student Involvement for a night of free bowling, billiards, pingpong and pizza at The Connection. Bring your friends, play some games and enjoy the vibes—it’s all free!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 16, 23, 30ÌýÌýÌý1:30–3:30 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C N320Ìý
Join the Center for Cultural Connections and Community every Friday for a fun and relaxing time! Whether you’re into crafting, creating or just want to hang out and chat, we’ve got you covered. Each week, there's a new and exciting craft for you to try. It’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy some awesome queer company.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 16ÌýÌýÌý5–9 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC Aspen Room
Cozy games with friends are the best way to unwind from a stressful week. Play your favorites or try something new in good company! This month’s event will feature your favorite tabletop and board game student organizations—Boulderite Chess Club, Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoard Game Club, Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØWarhammer Buffs and Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØMahjong Club.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 16ÌýÌýÌý8 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýCHEM 140
Join Program Council to watch "Princess Mononoke" on the big screen with free popcorn and concessions!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 17ÌýÌýÌý8 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC Glenn Miller Ballroom
Start the new year with a free screening of "Back to the Future" and craft your own vision board to set goals for 2026. No RSVP needed—just show up and bring your creativity.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 20ÌýÌýÌý5–7 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC 457
Feeling creative? Join the Center for Student Involvement for a weekly craft program on Tuesday evenings! All supplies are provided. Space is limited. is free and required to participate.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 20ÌýÌýÌý5:30–7:30 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C Abrams Lounge
Join fellow Buffs for a table talk session right after the MLK Convocation. We'll dive into the themes discussed and explore how they impact our lives. It's a great opportunity to reflect, share your thoughts and connect with others. Don't miss out on this meaningful conversation!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 20ÌýÌýÌý1–2 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C Abrams Lounge
Curious about gender expression and identity? Join an insightful session to dive into the social and medical aspects of transitioning and discuss the challenges faced by the trans community. This event is led by trans staff and open to all. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn, share and support each other!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 20ÌýÌýÌý11 a.m.–1 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýNorlin Library, CBIS M549
Dive into the rich world of Native storytelling and art, where every tale and image brings a sense of nostalgia and deep-rooted tradition. Join an engaging discussion that will not only evoke memories but also help you discover the animal that resonates with your spirit. Don't miss out on this unique cultural experience!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 20ÌýÌýÌý7 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýThe Connection
Ready to serve up some serious competition? Whether you’re a casual player or a table tennis champ, swing by The Connection for a single- or double-elimination tournament. It’s free to enter, sign-up starts at 6 p.m. at the front desk, and there are prizes for top finishers.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 21ÌýÌýÌý11 a.m.–2 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC, Glenn Miller Ballroom and Room 235
Are you looking to meet new people this semester? Are you wanting to get involved with something new? Stop by the Be Involved Fair to meet with student organizations and find different ways to get involved on campus. Whether you join a student organization, connect with a campus department, work an on-campus job, volunteer in your community or find a new hobby you would like to explore, getting involved gives you the opportunity to grow—and the opportunities are endless!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 21ÌýÌýÌý5:30–7:30 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C N320
Whether you're applying for state or federal financial aid, this session will guide you through the process with support from a financial aid advisor.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 21ÌýÌýÌý6–8 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýThe Connection
Calling all graduate students! Join the Center for Student Involvement for their first grad student meet-and-greet of the semester. Enjoy free bowling, pool, pizza and more while getting to know other grad students on campus.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 22ÌýÌýÌý11–11:45 a.m.ÌýÌýÌý Virtual
Looking for an on-campus job, internship or a full-time opportunity after graduation? At this Handshake Help Center workshop, we’ll show you how to make the most of Handshake to land opportunities that match your goals. Whether you’re just getting started or already using the platform, this is your chance to ask questions, get tips and connect with other students and alumni.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 22ÌýÌýÌý8–10 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC Glenn Miller Ballroom
Join your fellow art aficionados to create a work of art even the beginning painter can be proud of! Take some time to relax and learn from a pro with all supplies included. Please to guarantee your spot at the event. Registration will open one week prior.ÌýÌý

ÌýÌýJan. 22ÌýÌýÌý8–10 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýThe Connection
Come on down to Club 156 for live music with Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØJam Society! Presented by Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder Program Council.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 22ÌýÌýÌý5–6:30 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C N320
Join your fellow Buffs for Native arts and crafts. This is a casual makerspace to build community and work on projects. We will provide some materials, and you can also bring your own projects to work on.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 23ÌýÌýÌý10 a.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC 457
Watch the Colorado Avalanche take on the Philadelphia Flyers live at Ball Arena in Denver on Jan. 23! Pick up tickets on Jan. 23 starting at 10 a.m. in UMC 457. One ticket per student. Must show Buff OneCard to pick up your ticket. If you want to go to the game with a friend, please plan to pick up your tickets together. No tickets will be held. Students can take the RTD Flatiron Flyer bus for free with their Buff OneCard to Denver to watch the game.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 23ÌýÌýÌý6–8 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýCORE Housing
Join a relaxed hangout with cookie decorating and great conversation! This event is for students in recovery, seeking recovery or supporting friends as recovery allies. Come connect and create something sweet together.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 23ÌýÌýÌý8 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýCHEM 140
Join Program Council to watch "Only Yesterday" on the big screen, with free popcorn and concessions!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 26ÌýÌýÌý2–3 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC atrium
Start your week off right by joining the Center for Student Involvement at I Love Mondays! Enjoy a snack and learn about ways you can get involved at CU.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 26ÌýÌýÌý5–6 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýVirtual
Want a resume that stands out to employers? Join Career Services to review effective strategies to highlight your skills and experiences in your resume. Students will be asked to participate in non-verbal ways and have opportunities to speak and work on their resume during the workshop. Our goal is that you'll leave feeling more informed, confident in your next moves and know how to reengage with our staff as you dive into your job search.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 26ÌýÌýÌý6–8 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C Dining Center
Join the Inspired Dreamers each month for a space to connect, share a meal and build community. Each dinner features special guests from local organizations who will share valuable resources and support to help you in your journey.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 26ÌýÌýÌý1–4 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C N238
Join Disability Services for an afternoon of fun in Access+! Bring your friends and enjoy arts and crafts, games, and other activities designed to foster connection and community.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 26ÌýÌýÌý12:30–2:30 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C Flatirons Room
Salon: a fashionable assemblage of notables. Join other motivated, ambitious Buffs to hear from notable women from on and off campus. Enjoy lunch, networking and a community that prepares Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØwomen to make a positive impact! RSVPs preferred, not required. RSVP to tamara.williams@colorado.edu.

ÌýÌýJan. 27ÌýÌýÌý5:30–7 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C Dining Center, Treehouse Room
Looking for a fun and meaningful evening? Join for dinner, community, engaging activities and dialogue! It's the perfect chance to make new friends or reconnect with familiar faces. Connect with peers and mentors who support wellness and nurture leadership, all while centering the experiences of women of color. Don't worry if you don't have a meal plan—meal cards are available at the Center for Cultural Connections and Community's front desk on the day of the event. Spaces are limited to 20 folks, so be sure to secure your spot!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 27ÌýÌýÌý5–7 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC 235
Feeling creative? Join the Center for Student Involvement for a weekly craft program on Tuesday evenings! All supplies are provided. Space is limited. is free and required to participate.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 27–29
Help fight food insecurity on campus by participating in Swipe It Forward. Anyone with a meal plan can donate one meal swipe per day. As you check out, tell the cashier you would like to donate.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 28ÌýÌýÌý2–4 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C N238
Need a boost for your next presentation? Drop by Access+ during Josephine Jones Speaking Lab hours for one-on-one coaching, or try out VR technology to practice and perfect your skills.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 28ÌýÌýÌý11 a.m.–1 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUniversity Club, Lot 201
Join the grand opening of Roaming Ralphie, Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder’s new food trailer! Stop by the University Club parking lot to celebrate the launch and grab a bite. While the UMC food court is offline this spring semester due to HVAC renovations, Roaming Ralphie will be serving a grill-style menu and daily specials. This is a great chance for students, faculty and staff to check out a new dining option on campus, enjoy fresh food and connect with the community.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 29ÌýÌýÌý8 a.m.–5 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC Arcade
Stop by the UMC Arcade outdoor area to shop thrift store vendors from Boulder and metro Denver. Brought to you by Program Council.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 29ÌýÌýÌý5–7 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýCASE Chancellor’s Lounge
Are you looking for a job or internship? Explore the exciting world of startups! At Startups2Students, you will have the opportunity to hear startups pitch their companies and learn about open projects, internships and jobs.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 29ÌýÌýÌý5–6:30 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C N320
Join us for mahjong or carrom, or bring your own game to share! Connect with others and have a blast.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 30ÌýÌýÌýNoonÌýÌýÌýUMC 457
Watch the Denver Nuggets take on the LA Clippers at Ball Arena in Denver on Jan. 30. Pick up tickets same day starting at noon. One ticket per student. Must show Buff OneCard to pick up your ticket. If you want to go to the game with a friend, please plan to pick up your tickets together. No tickets will be held. Students can take the RTD Flatiron Flyer bus for free with their Buff OneCard to Denver to watch the game.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 30ÌýÌýÌý1–4 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýC4C N238
Grab your friends and settle in for a relaxed afternoon exploring disability representation in film. From animated favorites like "Finding Nemo" to thought-provoking documentaries like "Asperger’s Are Us," dive into how disability shows up in pop culture and media.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 30ÌýÌýÌý8 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýCHEM 140
Join Program Council to watch "Shin Godzilla" (4K remaster) on the big screen, with free popcorn and concessions!Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 30ÌýÌýÌý7–9 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýVillage Center, Wellness Space
Unwind with Health Promotion at this non-violent rage room. They will also have DIY tote bags, free comfort food and other fun ways to recharge.Ìý

ÌýÌýJan. 31ÌýÌýÌý8–10 p.m.ÌýÌýÌýUMC Glenn Miller Ballroom
Join Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder Program Council for a night of magic with John Rotellini.Ìý

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These events are open to all and do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, creed, religion, veteran status, marital status, political affiliation, political philosophy, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression in accordance with state, federal and Regent law.Ìý