Published: Dec. 12, 2023

Winter break is almost here! Many campus services will be reduced throughout winter break, and most academic and administrative offices will be closed Dec. 25–Jan. 1. Whether you live on or off campus, are staying in Boulder or heading out of town, please take a moment to review some reminders.

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On-campus residents

Residence halls close at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 21. All students must vacate their rooms for the duration of the winter break. Bear Creek, Weber Hall and students with an Academic Year + Breaks contract living in Reed Hall may remain through the break.

Students who have spring housing contracts may leave personal belongings in the room. Students returning for the spring semester can access their rooms beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 12.

Before you leave

  • Make sure windows are closed and locked and drapes are closed.
  • Unplug electrical appliances (residence hall students only).
  • Clean your micro-fridge and set to low (residence hall students only).
  • Turn your heater to low setting where possible.
  • Remove trash and recycling from the building.
  • Turn off your lights.
  • Make sure your room door is completely closed and locked.
  • Remember to pack all important documents or valuable items, such as plane tickets, Buff OneCard, ID, passport, jewelry, medicines, etc.
  • Store bikes in your room during breaks, if space is available and it does not block exits.

Learn more about leaving for break.

Off-campus residents leaving town

Students who live off campus and are leaving for break should review these reminders:

  • Before you leave, find someone willing to clear snow off of your property. Snow must be removed from sidewalks within 24 hours of a snow fall.
  • Ask a friend to collect your mail and pick up newspapers and/or any trash in your yard. If you’ll be gone for a longer period of time, consider having the post office hold your mail while you’re away.
  • Lock all windows and doors. Move any expensive items such as laptops away from windows where they may be visible, or bring them with you. Make sure your bike is securely locked, or bring it inside if you can.
  • Set your lights on a timer and your heat to a reasonable temperature (about 60 degrees) to prevent pipes from freezing.
  • Don’t leave pets by themselves. Find someone to take care of them while you are away.

 Traveling to DIA

Did you know you can travel to the Denver International Airport (DIA) for free with your Buff OneCard? With one stop adjacent to CU Boulder at 16th and Broadway, the SkyRide leaves hourly from Boulder Station. Visit RTD’s SkyRide website for more details.

 Remember: Your Buff OneCard is now your transit pass, and your blue College Pass is no longer valid.

Campus Dining Services

On-campus dining options will be limited during winter break—view dining hours and closures.

Getting around campus

There will be no Buff Bus service (Will Vill/Bear Creek/Marine Street) offered Dec. 21–Jan. 11.

Limited Buff Bus service will be offered Jan. 12–13. Regular service resumes on Jan. 14 for Route W (Williams Village – Main Campus) and on Jan. 16 for Route WL (Williams Village Limited) and Route B (Bear Creek Express).

CU NightRide

CU NightRide will be closed Dec. 20–Jan. 15. Students are encouraged to look at alternative transportation options through CU Boulder Parking & Transportation Services.

University Memorial Center

The UMC and The Connection will have limited hours over winter break. Review winter break hours for The Connection on the UMC website.

Buff Pantry

The Buff Pantry supports all campus affiliates who are experiencing food insecurity. Over winter break, the Buff Pantry will have limited hours and closures Dec. 20–Jan. 15. Visit the Basic Needs Center website for the full schedule.

The Buff Pantry is located in the University Memorial Center (UMC) basement 1B73, near the lower level of the CU Book Store.

Health and Wellness Services

Health and Wellness Services departments will continue to provide services over winter break. If you’re traveling home or out of state for break, you can also schedule and attend mental health appointments for free with AcademicLiveCare.

Winter Break Appreciation Week at The Rec

Students, graduate students, staff and faculty can enjoy free entry to the Main Student Recreation Center Jan. 2 –7 with your Buff OneCard.

Please note that additional activities, such as the climbing gym, recreational skating and guest passes, will require an additional fee and hours will vary during the week. Learn more about Winter Break Appreciation Week at the Rec.

Career Services

Career Services will be closed Dec. 25–Jan 1. You can access career help on-demand with online tools during that time.