As the winter break begins, parents in Boulder are piecing together a joyful and memorable time with their kids. Boulder, known for its scenic beauty and vibrant community, offers a plethora of activities to make this holiday season truly special. From creative workshops at Tinker Art Studio to unique social experiences at Junkyard Social, and delicious dining options like Japango, there’s something for every family to savor during this winter break.

Tinker Art Studio

Tinker Art Studio stands out as a haven for creative minds, providing a perfect outlet for kids to express themselves. Tinker Art Studio is multidimensional – a working studio, children and adults enjoying learning and creating during class time, and an inviting space to spend time. Located in the Table Mesa Shopping Center, Tinker Art Studio is constantly buzzing with families in and out of their space. 

Tinker hosts dozens of art classes each week for both kids and adults, teaching everything from pottery, painting, sewing and mixed media. Their Spring registration for classes is open now and the semester starts on January 16th.  Summer Camps sign up will begin January 24!

Still available spring classes:

 – Mini Makers is for youngest artists ages 4-6

 – Art Lab is a mixed media class for ages 5-8 and is a great way to get experience across a wide variety of project mediums and subjects. 

 – Jewelry

 – Let’s Sew

 – Drawing & Painting: Portraits & Botanical Studies for later elementary and middle school students

 – Teen Paint & Draw is the best option for teens.
– There are even still evening and daytime adult classes available!

Tinker is also an incredible community partner. From building sets for Boulder Opera’s children’s productions to working with schools to hosting fundraising and community building workshops. Through grants Tinker provides classes for Boulder Housing Partner’s youth, create over 300 kits for the Boulder Public Library and distributed to children engaged with EFAA, Boulder Housing Partners, and I Have a Dream Foundation. 

Junkyard Social Club

For families seeking a unique and socially engaging experience, Junkyard Social Club is a must-visit destination. This innovative indoor play space combines entertainment with education, encouraging kids to explore their surroundings and interact with recycled materials. The emphasis on sustainability and creativity makes Junkyard Social an ideal spot for kids to learn while having a blast. The winter break is the perfect time to let your kids unleash their curiosity and inventiveness at this one-of-a-kind venue.

Japango: A Culinary Adventure for the Whole Family

After a day filled with creativity and play, treat your family to a delightful dining experience at Japango. This Japanese restaurant in the heart of Boulder offers a diverse menu featuring fresh and flavorful dishes. From sushi rolls to bento boxes, Japango provides a culinary adventure that appeals to both kids and adults. 

Japango has been sustaining the appetite and curiosity of guests for more than 20 years. Master Sushi Chef Yukiji Iwasa skillfully crafts fish flown in daily for guests who just keep coming back. Setting itself apart with creations like the New Sunrise maki roll, filled with tempura asparagus and spicy mayo and topped with tuna, wasabi relish, and garlic butter ponzu, or the Cactus roll, made with tempura fried serrano chiles, stuffed with spicy tuna and cream cheese, and topped with nitsume sauce, sweet mayo, and Sriracha, Japango takes the art of sushi to a new level with its contemporary menu combining the traditional with the one of a kind. 

The cozy and welcoming ambiance adds to the overall dining experience, making it an ideal spot for families looking to share a delicious meal together.

Non-Profit Nod: Growing Up Boulder

Growing Up Boulder (GUB) is a nonprofit program based in Boulder, CO.  It launched in the spring of 2009 as a partnership between the University of Colorado, the City of Boulder, Boulder Valley School District, State Senator Dorothy Rupert, local non-profits and businesses, and children and youth from ages 0-18.  

Growing Up Boulder’s mission centering young people’s rights, voices, and agency to advance equitable and sustainable communities for all.  ​Locally, GUB has engaged directly with more than 8,000 young people, 1,500 university students, 60 partner organizations, and contributed youth voice to more than 100 projects. Globally, the organization has reached more than 2.5 million people through its publications, TEDx talk, podcasts, interviews, presentations, webinars and lectures. GUB engages children of all backgrounds to include their input in local government decisions, including on topics such as the design of affordable, sustainable housing, resilience planning, transit systems, parks and open space, and productive community dialogue.  

As part of Boulder’s Child Friendly City Initiative, Boulder children, youth, parents/elders/caregivers and service providers (teachers, mental health providers, etc.) are asked to identify their top priorities for improvement in young people’s well-being in our city.  If you fall into the one the categories above, please share your voice! 

Author : Jessica Benjamin

Jessica Benjamin

Jessica Benjamin is the fearless leader behind Savor Productions. With her unmatched dedication to the local community, and her more than 20 years of experience in event production and marketing, Jess guides the Savor team with heart and passion. Tacos are the way to her soul, and when she's not working, you'll find her in her garden and kitchen with her family.

Savor HarmonySavor the Harmony
Savor the Snow