The Boulder Star: A City Beacon
Each November, a shining bright light emerges on Flagstaff Mountain, signaling the start of the holiday season in Boulder. Visible from campus, downtown and across Boulder Valley, the Boulder Star is a landmark that has reflected Boulder’s personality, history and a sense of community for decades.
The Star first appeared in December 1947 as a gift from Boulder’s business community, symbolizing joy and hope during the winter months. Over the decades, the Star’s lights have taken many forms: a peace sign during the Vietnam War, the first letter of a football rival and a glowing “No. 1” after CU’s 1990 national football championship, among others.
The Star also has carried meaning beyond celebration. In 1979, it remained illuminated for 444 days as a symbol of hope during the Iranian hostage crisis, and it has shone outside its season during other times of hardship. Its light offered comfort during the COVID-19 pandemic, honored the 10 lives lost in the 2021 Table Mesa King Soopers shooting, supported the community following the Marshall Fire later that year and, most recently, expressed solidarity after the June 2025 antisemitic attack on Pearl Street.
This year, on Nov. 11, the Boulder Chamber and City of Boulder will steward the Star and light the cherished beacon to both ring in the holiday season and honor our active-duty service members and veterans.
For CU alumni, the Boulder Star may recall evenings on campus or the view welcoming them back to town following Thanksgiving break. For the city of Boulder, it represents a tradition shared across generations. Whether shining in celebration, remembrance or resilience, the Boulder Star brings hope and belonging to all who look toward Flagstaff Mountain.
Photo courtesy of the University of Colorado Boulder
