Alternatives to High-Risk Drinking:
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Think that drinking is the only thing to do in Boulder? Think again! Alcohol and Drug Free activities can be found around every corner. The climate, wide open spaces, scenic mountains and plethora of parks draw outdoor enthusiasts from miles around. Some of the best rock climbing in the world is available, the skiing is world class and hikers gravitate to the area's more than 200 trails, many in Chautauqua Park, just a short walk or bike ride southwest of campus.
The cultural scene includes several prominent museums as well as the Fiske Planetarium. Chill out with a stroll through the Pearl Street Mall, a great place to shop, try a vegetarian restaurant, people watch at a sidewalk café or enjoy street performers. Visit museums and take in a movie at the new 29th Street Mall. “The Hill” hosts many welcome back events that are sponsored jointly by CU-Boulder, Hill merchants, and the City of Boulder.
For a list of on-campus events visit www.colorado.edu/eventscalendar/. Restaurants, activities, and a Boulder events calendar can be found at www.getboulder.com/.
Late Night Events
Reps from the UMC, Recreation Center, residence halls, Alumni Association, and several student organizations coordinate and sponsor several late-night alcohol free events throughout the year. Some programs include the Poetry Slam, Battle of the Bands, and CU Idol. See www.colorado.edu/studentaffairs/latenight/ .
Program Council and Cultural Events Board
CU’s Program Council puts on numerous concerts during the year. Bands such as the Rolling Stones and Dave Matthews Band, and Maroon Five have played at Folsom Field. New bands play at CU’s smallest venue, Club 156, an alcohol-free nightclub. Program Council’s Film Series department presents everything from yet-to-be-released movies to cult classics. The International Film Series offers more than 100 films per year on the Boulder campus.
The Cultural Events Board sponsors thought-provoking discussion on campus through a variety of events that broaden perspectives and challenge students to scrutinize their own experiences. High-profile speakers in the past include Rev. Al Sharpton, Spike Lee, Ann Coulter, and UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan. Visit www.programcouncil.com and www.colorado.edu/StudentGroups/ceb/.
Recreation Center
Want to learn how to play a new sport? This is the place to try. CU-Boulder’s Recreation Center offers 35 club sports and a multitude of men’s, women’s, and co-ed intramural sports such as soccer, basketball, and ultimate Frisbee. Non-credit instructional programs include courses in aerobics and weight training, mountain getaways to hike, fly fish, and rock climb, as well as spring break scuba diving excursions to name a few. A ski bus program runs from December through March to Breckenridge and Keystone ski areas. Visit www.colorado.edu/rec-center/.
Residence Hall Association
The Residence Hall Association (RHA) offer activities like casino night with prize auctions, hypnotist, mentalist, comedian, and improvisation performances, karaoke nights with DJs and live concerts, ultimate night Frisbee tournaments, and educational and cultural programs. RHA also sponsors and presents programs during New Student Welcome and stress-relief activities during finals week. Visit www.colorado.edu/housing/residencelife/rha/primary/rha4u/index.html.
University Memorial Center
The University Memorial Center (UMC), the heart of the campus, offers Fall Welcome Fest, Buff rallies, UCSU (student union) welcome back events, CU late-night programs, and finals week programs. The UMC houses over 90 student groups, eating establishments, and one can find bowling, pool, and wireless Internet access. Visit www.colorado.edu/umc
Get Involved! Make suggestions! Have fun!
You can find and become involved in groups that interest you by visiting www.colorado.edu/studentgroups.