If the nights are getting cooler, and the aspen and cottonwood tree leaves are turning yellow, it must be time for Fall Fest in downtown Boulder.

Creativity and community abound in the variety of art, craft and design vendors set up on Pearl Street and on 14th Street between Spruce and Pearl streets through 5 p.m. today. The three-day event — which includes the Firefly Handmade Market — has been an annual happening since 1987. That’s when the city launched several now well-known downtown events, including the Boulder Creek Festival and the Lights of December parade, said Anna Salim, vice president of operations and programming at the Downtown Boulder Partnership, which puts on the event.

The Fall Fest beer garden is definitely a draw, Salim said.

“When Fall Festival started, it was the only time people could go out on the street and have a beer, so it was wildly popular at the start,” said Salim, “It has grown into a broader festival since then, with kid-friendly activities and the Firefly Market.”

Visitors also can enjoy a variety of musical performances by local bands, including Chain Station, Saritah, Bear Hat and The Reminders, this year.

“You have to balance the communities different music taste, and you want it to be representative and inclusive to everyone,” Oskay said. “To me, the music is the anchor of the event. It gives people a reason to stay and makes it a party.”

Festival organizers added the Firefly Handmade Market, where more than 100 artists showcase their crafts — ranging from jewelry and visual art to ceramics.

“It brings so much joy to the community. When people create art, they are creating joy, and they share it with everybody who is walking by,” said Dana Birke, who sold jewelry from a booth for her business Dana Birke Designs Jewelry. Birke said she has participated in the Firefly Market for more than 10 years.

Salim said the event also is popular because of the changing of the seasons.

“It’s a great opportunity for everyone to come together at the tail end of summer and celebrate the kick-off of fall,” said Salim.

Fall Fest is a free event, but many sponsors, including Eldora Ski Area and State Farm, help to cover the costs. Proceeds from the beer garden go toward funding the festival.