Boise, Idaho, and its neighboring cities—Meridian, Eagle, Nampa, and Caldwell—are home to a thriving events scene. Each year, residents and visitors gather to celebrate everything from local art and live music to food festivals, historical traditions, and seasonal attractions.
Whether you enjoy exploring farmers’ markets, attending concerts, or experiencing cultural festivals, Boise’s annual events offer something for everyone. Spring brings art walks and food festivals, summer is packed with outdoor concerts and rodeos, fall welcomes harvest celebrations and Oktoberfest gatherings, and winter lights up with holiday parades and winter markets.
Many events have been annual favorites for decades. Here’s our 2025 Guide to Boise’s and the Treasure Valley’s Annual Events.
Seasonal Events
Events by Month
Spring Events and Activities
March
Treefort Music Festival
Downtown Boise
Annually in March
Treefort Music Fest is a five-day indie rock festival held annually in downtown Boise, Idaho. Since 2012, it has gained national acclaim for its lineup of international and local artists. Beyond music, Treefort features “forts” for comedy, tech, food, and more, creating a unique cultural experience. Known for its community-driven vibe, the festival highlights Boise’s vibrant spirit.
Speed through Spring at Firebird Raceway or Meridian Speedway
Multiple Locations
Annually in March-October
The Firebird Raceway is a drag racing facility with a quarter-mile-long track. Along with multiple events and car shows, fans of all ages can come to watch the races at this National Hot Rod Association member track. Nestled in the heart of the Treasure Valley, Meridian Speedway is a premier racing venue that draws an enthusiastic crowd. Hosting a season of exciting events, this family-friendly speedway is a thrilling hub for motorsports enthusiasts in the community.
Idaho Artistry in Wood Show
JUMP Boise
March 29th & 30th, 2025
This event draws wood artists showcasing crafted pieces, ideal for woodworking and fine arts enthusiasts.
Idaho Sportsman’s Show
Expo Idaho
February 27th – March 2nd, 2025
A paradise for outdoor lovers, the Idaho Sportsman’s Show brings together the best in hunting, fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation gear. Attendees can browse the latest in sporting goods, discover guided trips and outfitters, and attend seminars from industry experts. This event is a great place for anglers, hunters, campers, and adventurers to connect with like-minded enthusiasts while exploring new products and techniques.
Boise Spring Home Show
Expo Idaho
March 14th – 16th, 2025
The Boise Spring Home Show is the go-to event for homeowners, renovators, and DIY enthusiasts looking to enhance their living spaces. Featuring a wide range of home improvement vendors, this event showcases the latest in interior design, landscaping, remodeling, and energy-efficient solutions.
Boise Roadster Show
Expo Idaho, Boise
March 7th – 9th, 2025
One of the premier custom car shows in the Pacific Northwest, this is a showcase of hot rods, custom vehicles, classics, and motorcycles, popular among car enthusiasts and families.
Seven Arrows Powwow
Boise State University
Annually in March
A celebration of Native American culture with traditional dances, drumming, and educational presentations. The event includes educational presentations, artisan crafts, and authentic Native American cuisine. Open to the public, the powwow provides a meaningful opportunity to experience and honor Indigenous traditions.
Zoo Boise’s Spring Break Up-Close Animal Encounters
Zoo Boise
Late March
Special programming and up-close encounters with animals, perfect for family-friendly activities during spring break.
Boise Flower and Garden Show
Boise Centre
March 28th – 30th, 2025
The Boise Flower and Garden Show is a dream event for garden lovers, offering breathtaking floral displays, expert-led workshops, and an extensive selection of plants, garden tools, and decor. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting, this event provides inspiration, hands-on learning, and access to industry professionals who can help bring your garden visions to life.
Caldwell Cars & Coffee
Indian Creek Plaza | Caldwell, Idaho
Annually in March
Caldwell Cars & Coffee is a relaxed, community-driven event where car enthusiasts can showcase their vehicles while enjoying a cup of locally brewed coffee. From classic muscle cars to high-performance sports cars and custom builds, this gathering highlights a diverse range of vehicles in a welcoming atmosphere.
April
Race to Robie Creek
Fort Boise Park, Boise
Annually in April
The Race to Robie Creek® is a challenging 13.1-mile course starting at Fort Boise Park. The electronically timed race, with awards based on gun time, takes participants through various terrains, including a dirt section and a descent into Robie Creek. The festive post-race party is open to participants and guests. With a history dating back to 1975, this event has donated over $1,200,000 to charitable causes, making this a unique and charitable experience for participants, combining the thrill of a challenging run with the joy of giving back to the community.
Boise Farmers Market
1500 Shoreline Drive | Boise
Saturdays, April 5th – October 25th, 2025, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Boise Farmers Market is the go-to spot for fresh, local produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and artisan foods. With over 100 vendors throughout the season, visitors can support local farmers, enjoy seasonal flavors, and connect with the community. The market runs rain or shine.
Zoo Boise Easter EGGstravaganza
Zoo Boise
April 19th, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Celebrate Easter with egg hunts, candy stations, animal encounters, and fun activities at Zoo Boise. Meet the Easter Bunny, explore the zoo, and enjoy interactive experiences that combine holiday excitement with wildlife education.
Treasure Valley Flea Market
Expo Idaho
April 12th – 13th, 2025
A must-visit for collectors and bargain hunters, this flea market features vintage goods, antiques, handmade crafts, and unique finds. With dozens of vendors and affordable admission, it’s a great place to shop for one-of-a-kind treasures.
Spring Home and Garden Show
Expo Idaho
April 18th – 20th, 2025
Get inspired for your next home or garden project at this event featuring the latest trends in landscaping, remodeling, and interior design. Meet industry experts, browse vendor exhibits, and gather ideas for refreshing your living spaces.
Fairy & Gnome House Exhibit
Idaho Botanical Garden
April 25th – May 31st, 2025
Explore a charming display of handcrafted fairy and gnome houses throughout the Idaho Botanical Garden. Created by local artists, these whimsical structures bring a magical touch to the gardens and delight visitors of all ages.
May
Gem State Comic Con
Expo Idaho
May 17-18, 2025
Idaho’s longest-running pop culture convention brings together fans of comics, sci-fi, fantasy, and gaming. With celebrity guests, artist panels, vendors, and cosplay contests, this event is a favorite for fans of all ages.
Boise Music Week
Various Venues in Boise
May 1st – 11th, 2025
A free community celebration of music featuring performances in jazz, choir, orchestral, and other genres across multiple Boise locations. This long-standing tradition showcases local talent through concerts, recitals, and theatrical productions, making it a must-attend event for music lovers.
Experience Idaho
Expo Idaho
May 3rd, 2025
A full-day celebration of Idaho’s local businesses, products, and outdoor adventures. Attendees can browse vendor exhibits featuring Idaho-made goods, enjoy live music, sample food and drinks, and gather inspiration for summer activities and home projects.
Outlaw Field Summer Concert Series
Idaho Botanical Garden
Late May through Summer 2025
This beloved outdoor concert series brings top artists to the scenic Idaho Botanical Garden. Concertgoers can enjoy live music under the stars with food, drinks, and free downtown shuttles for a convenient and unforgettable experience.
YMCA Famous Idaho Potato Marathon & Fun Runs
Boise Greenbelt, starting at The Morrison Center
May 17th, 2025
This annual race offers a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K along the scenic Boise Greenbelt. Open to runners and walkers of all fitness levels, the event raises funds to support YMCA programs while promoting community health and fitness.
Cycle for Independence
Riverglen Junior High School | Boise
May 17th, 2025
Hosted by the National Federation of the Blind, this charity bike event offers routes from 10 miles to a Metric Century. Proceeds support blind community members, and riders enjoy live music and prizes.
Laura Moore Cunningham City Arboretum Tour
City Arboretum, Boise
May 14th, 2025
Explore the city’s tree nursery, learn about tree species, and view mature specimens. Wear sturdy footwear for uneven, possibly muddy surfaces.
cityofboise.org/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks/laura-moore-cunningham-arboretum/
Idaho Shakespeare Festival
5657 E Warm Springs Ave | Boise
May – September 2025
The Idaho Shakespeare Festival Amphitheater & Reserve is a 770-seat, state-of-the-art facility seamlessly blending professional theater with a natural habitat. Operated in collaboration with the Idaho Foundation for Parks & Lands and the Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation, this outdoor venue offers a magical setting surrounded by native plants, water birds, and occasional wildlife sightings. Attendees can enjoy general admission lawn seating with blankets or low-backed chairs, indulge in picnics or Café Shakespeare refreshments, and partake in pre-show mini-concerts.
Boise Greek Food Festival
Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church
May 31st – June 1st, 2025
The inaugural Meridian Fine Art Festival will take place at Kleiner Park in Meridian, near the Village. This outdoor art fair will feature over 75 artists and craftsmen from the Pacific Northwest, offering a wide range of works including painting, leatherwork, wood burning, and stained glass, alongside live entertainment, food vendors, and a splash pad for children.
Summer Events and Activities
June
Alive After Five
Grove Plaza, Boise
Wednesdays, June 11th – July 30th, 2025
In the heart of Boise’s energetic summer scene is Alive After 5 (AA5), a free concert series at the Grove Plaza, presented by the Downtown Boise Foundation. From June to August on select Wednesdays, this all-ages event transforms the city center into a lively musical haven from 5 to 8 pm, featuring a mix of local talents and international artists. Beyond the music, enjoy free games, cold beverages, and a splash pad for cooling off. Dance and mingle with fellow concert-goers while supporting local nonprofits. Accessible bathrooms and parking options are available, but be mindful of hot pavement and leave pets at home. Dive into the rhythm of Boise’s summer with Alive After 5, where the community spirit and musical joy converge in an unforgettable experience!
Great Garden Escape Concert Series
Idaho Botanical Garden
Thursdays, June 12th – September 25th, 2025
An annual summer concert series that takes place in the Meditation Garden and features a variety of musical genres. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic blankets or low-back chairs and relax among the lush greenery while enjoying live music in a serene outdoor setting.
Treasure Valley Triathlon
Quinn’s Pond and Boise Greenbelt
June 22nd, 2025
A triathlon for athletes of all levels, featuring multiple race formats, including adaptive sports. Participants swim, bike, and run through Boise’s scenic course, making it a challenging yet rewarding experience for competitive racers and recreational athletes alike.
Savor Idaho
Idaho Botanical Garden
June 8th, 2025
Idaho’s premier wine and cider event, featuring samples from over 30 local wineries and cideries, food trucks, and a painting class, all set within the scenic garden. Attendees can mingle with winemakers, explore new flavors, and enjoy live music in a picturesque setting.
Family Summer Palooza
Expo Idaho
June 14th, 2025
A fun-filled day for families with rock climbing, petting zoos, crafts, and interactive exhibits. This event brings together a variety of hands-on activities, live performances, and educational booths designed to engage kids of all ages in an entertaining environment.
Boise Music Festival
Expo Idaho, Boise
June 21st, 2025
Idaho’s largest music festival offers a full day of entertainment with top music acts, food vendors, and VIP experiences. Featuring a mix of national headliners and local artists, this festival draws thousands of attendees for a high-energy celebration of music in the summer.
Idaho Pet Expo
Expo Idaho
June 14th, 2025
A pet-friendly expo featuring live demonstrations, adoptions, vendors, and interactive exhibits for families and pet lovers. Visitors can meet a variety of animals, explore new pet products, and watch exciting agility and obedience demonstrations.
Emmett Cherry Festival
Emmett City Park, Emmett
June 11-14, 2025
The annual Emmett Cherry Festival, held during the second full week of June, celebrates the region’s cherry harvest with a variety of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and delicious cherry-themed treats. Attendees can enjoy free admission, local crafts, and indulge in the flavors of the celebrated cherries during this community-focused festival. The traditional Cherry Festival events, concerts, and carnival all happen in the Emmett City Park.
Snake River Stampede
Ford Idaho Center
June 17-21, 2025
One of the top 10 professional rodeos in the nation, featuring bull riding, barrel racing, and more. This world-class rodeo offers high-energy action, family-friendly events, and a rich Western heritage that attracts fans from all over the country.
Meridian Fine Arts Festival
Kleiner Park, Meridian
Annually in June
The inaugural Meridian Fine Art Festival will take place at Kleiner Park in Meridian, near the Village. This outdoor art fair will feature over 75 artists and craftsmen from the Pacific Northwest, offering a wide range of works including painting, leatherwork, wood burning, and stained glass, alongside live entertainment, food vendors, and a splash pad for children.
Local Rodeos and Professional Bull Riding
There are plenty of local places to see fireworks on Independence Day! Here’s our roundup your best optios for the 4th!
- March – Professional Bull Riders: Arena at Ford Idaho Center pbr.com
- June – Eagle PRCA Rodeo: Equest Lane, Eagle, Idaho (June) eaglerodeo.com
- June – Treasure Valley PRCA Rodeo: Meridian Rodeo Grounds treasurevalleyrodeo.org
- July – Snake River Stampede: Ford Idaho Center snakeriverstampede.com
- August – Caldwell Night Rodeo: D&B Supply Arena caldwellnightrodeo.com
- September – Kuna Stampede: Kuna kunastampede.com
4th of July Events and Fireworks
There are plenty of local places to see fireworks on Independence Day! Here’s our roundup your best optios for the 4th!
- Boise: Ann Morrison Park
- McCall: Payette Lake
- Nampa: God and Country Festival, Ford Idaho Amphitheater
- Caldwell: 4th of July at Brothers Park
- Meridian: Independence Day Celebration at Storey Park
- Middleton: Foote Park
- Star: Hunter’s Sports Complex
For a more thorough roundup of local 4th of July events, including links, read our article here (updated annually).
July
Muddy Dash Boise 2025
Expo Idaho, Boise
July 12th, 2025
A fun-filled obstacle course featuring mud pits and challenges suitable for all fitness levels. Participants can expect to run, walk, crawl, and slide through various muddy obstacles, making it a perfect event for friends and families to get dirty and have a blast together.
Canyon County Fair
Canyon County Fairgrounds, Caldwell
July 24th – 27th, 2025
Held in Caldwell, this fair features carnival rides, live entertainment, agriculture showcases, and family-friendly activities, celebrating Idaho’s traditions. Attendees can enjoy a variety of food vendors, explore local crafts, and participate in interactive exhibits that highlight the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
Jaialdi 2025
Various Venues in Boise
July 29th – August 3rd, 2025
One of the largest Basque festivals in the world, featuring traditional music, dance, sports, and cuisine. This week-long event offers attendees the chance to immerse themselves in Basque culture through performances, workshops, and authentic culinary experiences, drawing visitors from around the globe.
Twilight Criterium
Downtown Boise
July 19th, 2025
Part of the American Criterium Cup, returning to downtown Boise on July 19, 2025, featuring professional races, a Kids’ Ride, and an expo with food, drinks, and activities, drawing over 20,000 spectators. This high-speed cycling event offers thrilling races on a compact course, providing excitement for both participants and fans.
San Inazio Basque Festival
Basque Block, Downtown Boise
Last Weekend of July 2025
A celebration of Boise’s rich Basque heritage with live music, traditional dancing, sports, and authentic Basque food and drinks. This free event honors Saint Ignatius, the Patron Saint of the Basque people, and offers a vibrant cultural experience with festivities that may align with Jaialdi in 2025.
City Festivals and Parades
Meridian Dairy Days
Held the third full weekend of June at Storey Park celebrating the rich dairy heritage of Meridian with a full lineup of events, including a carnival, a golf tournament, Meridian Speedway race, Dairy Days Parade, live shows, and much more.
dairydays.org
Eagle Fun Days
A two-day extravaganza in early July, featuring Family Fun Night, live music, a car show, a Wet & Wild parade, cornhole tournament, and the unique Rocky Mountain Oyster Feed at Eagle Island State Park.
cityofeagle.org
Kuna Days
Begins in early August at Bernie Fisher Park, featuring live music, vendors, and a family movie night. Saturday includes the Boy Scouts Pancake Breakfast, Kuna Days Fun Run, a spectacular parade on Main Street, and a free kids carnival with live entertainment at the East Baseball Field. The festivities conclude with a striking Kuna Days Fireworks Show.
kunachamber.org/kuna-days.html
Garden City Artisans Market
Riverfront Park, Garden City
Every Saturday in July 2025
Weekly market featuring local artisans, food trucks, and live entertainment. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, sample diverse culinary offerings, and enjoy performances by local musicians, making it a vibrant community gathering spot.
August
Kuna Days
Bernie Fisher Park, Kuna
Annually in August (TBD)
A fun-filled obstacle course featuring mud pits and challenges suitable for all fitness levels. Participants can expect to run, walk, crawl, and slide through various muddy obstacles, making it a perfect event for friends and families to get dirty and have a blast together.
kunachamber.org/kuna-days
Boise Soul Food Festival
Julia Davis Park, Boise
Annually in August (TBD)
The Soul Food Festival, held annually at Julia Davis Park, features African-American inspired soul food, music, dancing, and Black businesses. The event includes educational components such as workshops, demonstrations, and discussions on African-American history, culture, traditional dances, music, hair care, and social justice issues.
boisesoulfood.org
Western Idaho Fair
Expo Idaho, Boise
August 15th – 24th, 2025
The Western Idaho Fair, a tradition since 1897, celebrates Idaho’s agriculture, livestock, arts, and culture with competitions, free concerts, carnival rides, food, and family-friendly entertainment. It’s a showcase of the state’s rich heritage and community spirit.
idahofair.com
Nampa Festival of the Arts
Lakeview Park, Nampa
August 9th – 10th, 2025
A cultural event that started in 1986 at Lakeview Park, celebrating the creative talents and artistic expressions of the community, showcasing a variety of arts including fine arts, jewelry, old-world crafts, and local food trucks. Initiated by the Nampa Parks and Recreation Department and the Nampa Art Guild, this festival provides a platform for local artists to exhibit and sell their work, and features entertainment and country crafts.
nampaparksandrecreation.org
Spirit Of Boise Balloon Classic
• Location: Ann Morrison Park, Boise
• Annually in End of August – Beginning of September
The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic has a distinguished history in Boise, drawing locals and tourists to Ann Morrison Park. This annual event features a stunning display of colorful balloons, uplifting music, and local radio stations, creating an unforgettable experience. Launches, dependent on weather conditions, typically occur from 7:15 a.m. to 9 a.m., with hot air balloons floating over downtown Boise, occasionally gracing historic landmarks like building rooftops, Broadway avenue, and the Capitol building’s front lawn. The festival provides free tethered rides on Kid’s Day, opportunities to meet pilots each morning, and an unforgettable Nite Glow spectacular.
spiritofboise.com
Boise Baroque Summer Concerts
Chateau des Fleurs, Eagle
Sundays in August
Summer concerts at the Château des Fleurs feature live music, lawn games, kids’ activities, and dining options, with seating choices including lawn, concert row, and tables. It’s an elegant musical experience in a picturesque garden setting.
boisebaroque.org/summer-concerts
Autumn / Fall Events and Activities
September
Hyde Park Street Fair
Camel’s Back Park, Boise
September 12th – 14th, 2025
Discover Boise’s North End with a free event featuring three days of entertainment, over 140 vendor booths filled with art, clothing, jewelry, and more. This community-centric festival offers live music, delicious food options, and activities suitable for all ages, making it a beloved local tradition.
northendboise.org/hyde-park-street-fair
Art in the Park
Julia Davis Park, Boise
September 5th – 7th, 2025
A free three-day festival hosted by the Boise Art Museum, featuring over 200 artists, live music, food, and hands-on activities for kids. Attendees can explore a diverse array of artworks, enjoy performances, and indulge in various culinary delights, all set in the scenic surroundings of Julia Davis Park.
Potato Days
Kleiner Memorial Park, Meridian
September 20th, 2025
Celebrate Idaho’s beloved potato with live music, chalk art, vendors, potato-themed street food, carnival games, and family-friendly activities. This event honors the state’s rich agricultural heritage, offering fun and engaging experiences for all ages.
Eagle Jazz and Blues Fest
Downtown Eagle
Annually in September or October (TBD)
A two-day event featuring world-class jazz and blues performances, free and ticketed shows, food, drinks, and support for local music education through youth camps and scholarships. Music enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of performances while contributing to the growth of local arts education.
eaglejazz.org
Fall Harvest and Pumpkin Farms
There are plenty of local places to see fireworks on Independence Day! Here’s our roundup your best optios for the 4th!
- Fall Harvest Days: Celebrate the season every Saturday in October with family-friendly fall activities and beautiful autumn scenery at Idaho Botanical Garden. idahobotanicalgarden.org
- Lowe Family Farmstead: Experience the ultimate fall fun with a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and farm-fresh treats at Lowe Family Farmstead. lowefamilyfarmstead.com
- Flaming Acres Farm: For all day picking pumpkins and exploring the harvest farm activities at Flaming Acres Farm. flamingacresidaho.com
- Shindig Farms: Discover a delightful mix of autumn traditions with pumpkins, hayrides, and more. shindigfarms.com
- Lovely Hollow Farm: Get into the spirit of the season with u-pick pumpkins and festive autumn events at Lovely Hollow Farm. lovelyhollowfarm.com
October
Old Boise Oktoberfest
Old Boise Historic District, Downtown Boise
Annually in September
A celebration of German culture in Boise’s Old Town District, featuring Oktoberfest music, food, beers, a stein hoist competition, and family fun with kids’ games and face painting. This lively event brings traditional Bavarian festivities to the heart of Boise, offering enjoyment for all ages.
oldboise.com
Boise Entrepreneur Week
Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (JUMP), Downtown Boise
September 30th – October 4th, 2024
Boise Entrepreneur Week is Idaho’s largest entrepreneur-focused event, featuring pitch competitions, workshops, and networking opportunities to support and celebrate the local entrepreneurial community. The event brings together innovators, business leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs for a week of inspiration and collaboration.
boiseentrepreneurweek.org
Witches Night Out
The Village at Meridian, Meridian
Annually in October (TBD)
Witches Night Out at The Village in Meridian, Idaho, is a Halloween event where participants don witch costumes and enjoy an evening of shopping, dining, and festivities. This annual tradition features costume contests, photo ops, and special promotions at The Village’s stores and restaurants.
villageatmeridian.com
Taste of Downtown Boise
Various Locations in Downtown Boise
Annually in October (TBD)
The 10-day long Taste of Downtown Boise is a culinary showcase highlighting Boise’s diverse food scene. Set in the city center, it features a range of dishes from top local restaurants, food trucks, and chefs. The festival offers a mix of gourmet and comfort foods, emphasizing local and international flavors. Alongside tastings, it includes live music and cooking demos with a community-focused celebration of Boise’s rich culinary culture.
downtownboise.org/events/taste
Dogtober Fest
Indian Creek Plaza, Caldwell
Annually in October
Dogtober Fest at Indian Creek Plaza in Caldwell, Idaho, is a festive gathering for dogs and their owners, featuring costume contests, talent shows, dog parades, and vendor booths with pet products and services. It’s a beloved community event that brings together dog enthusiasts for a day of enjoyment and connection with their pets.
indiancreekplaza.com
Idaho Horror Film Festival
Egyptian Theatre, Boise
Annually in October
The Idaho Horror Film Festival, hosted in downtown Boise’s historic Egyptian Theatre, is renowned as Idaho’s premier horror film event. Spanning three days, it showcases a diverse range of over 60 horror films, including feature-length, animated, short, and foreign films, with a special emphasis on local Idaho filmmakers. The festival also features interactive events like a Downtown Bar Walk, Horror Poetry Slam, Flash Fiction Competition, and Horror Trivia Night, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
instagram.com/idahohorrorfilmfestival/
Boo At The Zoo
Zoo Boise, Boise
Annually in October
A popular family-oriented Halloween event at Zoo Boise, features trick-or-treating in a unique zoo setting with themed stations, interactive activities, games, and entertainment. This annual celebration combines Halloween fun with wildlife fascination, providing a safe and engaging experience for visitors of all ages to enjoy the Halloween spirit in a captivating zoo environment.
zooboise.org
November
Small Business Saturday
Various Locations in Boise
Annually in November – Saturday After Thanksgiving
Held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, promotes shopping local at Boise’s independent stores, boutiques, and eateries with special deals and unique finds, strengthening the economy and community bonds. Don’t miss the annual This Is Boise Winter Wonder Market.
Downtown Boise Tree and Glide on Grove
Downtown Boise
Open Annually in November
The Downtown Boise Christmas Tree Lighting is a beloved tradition. The event features a 35-foot tree adorned with over 5,000 lights and custom decorations. Downtown Boise’s free ice skating rink opens as well, encompassing the city’s holiday tree, offering free skate rentals and fun for all ages.
downtownboise.org/events/glide-on-grove
Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees
Boise Centre
Annually in November (TBD)
A display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, and holiday décor, with proceeds supporting healthcare initiatives. This cherished event includes a gala, fashion show, and various family-friendly activities, marking the beginning of the holiday season in the Treasure Valley.
saintalphonsus.org
Canyon County Festival of Trees
Ford Idaho Center Sports Park, Nampa
December 4th – 6th, 2025
A festive event featuring decorated trees, entertainment, and activities for all ages at the Ford Idaho Center Sports Park, supporting the Canyon County Meals on Wheels. Attendees can enjoy live performances, holiday displays, and participate in auctions, all while contributing to a worthy cause.
2cfestivaloftrees.com
Winter Events and Activities
December
Boise Holiday Parade
Downtown Boise, Jefferson and 8th Street
Annually on the First Saturday in December
Welcome the season with festive floats, marching bands, and an appearance by Santa Claus.
boiseholidayparade.org
Winter Garden aGlow
Idaho Botanical Garden, Boise
Annually in November-December
Experience the magical Winter Garden aGlow at the Idaho Botanical Garden. This enchanting display features twinkling lights, delightful displays, and the aroma of cookies and hot chocolate. Children can explore a winter wonderland, while adults enjoy cozy moments by the fire pits and holiday drinks at the Snow Globe Bar. Don’t miss the Gingerbread Village and the opportunity to write letters to Santa.
idahobotanicalgarden.org
Winter Wonderland at Indian Creek
Caldwell
Annually in November-January
Join the festive celebrations at Winter Wonderland in Caldwell, where over a million lights illuminate Indian Creek. Enjoy a variety of activities like ice skating, visiting Santa, and shopping from vendors. The lights display normally runs from mid-November through early January, turning on automatically at dusk each night.
destinationcaldwell.com/things-to-do/winter-wonderland/
Christmas at the Village
The Village at Meridian
Annually in December
The Village in Meridian transforms into a winter wonderland with various events throughout the season. Notable activities include tree lighting, Santa’s arrival, and an ice skating rink available from November to January, weather permitting. The Village offers a charming and festive atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls to enjoy the holiday decorations, shopping, and dining experiences.
villageatmeridian.com
Scentsy Commons Holiday Lights
Meridian, Scentsy Commons
Annually in November-January
With over 450 trees wrapped in 45 miles of 900,000 lights, including a 250-foot light tunnel and a towering 75-foot Christmas tree, Scentsy Commons in Meridian is a must-visit destination during the holidays. The light show runs every evening through mid-January, transforming the Scentsy campus into a winter wonderland. Scentsy Commons is open to the public free of charge.
Eguberriko Azoka (Basque Christmas Market)
Basque Block, Boise
Annually in December
Celebrate Basque culture with unique gifts, food, and festive activities in the Basque Block. This market offers a rich cultural experience with traditional crafts and cuisine.
basquecenter.com
Breakfast with Santa at the Zoo
Zoo Boise
Annually in December
A morning event where families can enjoy breakfast and meet Santa Claus in the unique setting of the zoo. It’s a memorable experience combining holiday cheer with wildlife encounters.
zooboise.org/event/breakfast-with-santa
The Nutcracker
Morrison Center, Boise
Annually in December
Each holiday season, Ballet Idaho and the Boise Philharmonic present The Nutcracker at the Morrison Center in Boise. This popular event, held over multiple weekends, brings the lush sounds of Tchaikovsky’s score to life. One of Ballet Idaho’s biggest shows, the production casts approximately 90 children from the Ballet Idaho Academy and utilizes every Ballet Idaho company member and trainee.
balletidaho.org
Idaho Potato Drop
• Location: Capitol Park, Boise
• Annually on December 31st annually
The Idaho Potato Drop is a renowned New Year’s Eve celebration in Boise, featuring the unique “GlowTato” drop at midnight and a spectacular fireworks display. This event has received national attention in recent years and is often featured on networks like NBC, CNN, and more. The event includes live music, the Urban Air Ski and Snowboard Exhibition, local food and drink, and VIP options with exclusive amenities. It’s also a charitable event, supporting local arts, businesses, and charities.
idahopotatodrop.com
January
Polar Bear Plunge
Lucky Peak Reservoir, Boise
New Year’s Day
The Great Polar Bear Challenge, hosted at Lucky Peak Reservoir, is a thrilling and chilly event where participants take a dip in cold water to support Make-A-Wish Idaho. The event, which aims to raise funds for critically ill children, is a unique and meaningful way to start the New Year. It includes prizes for top fundraisers and offers an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of local children.
makeawishidaho.org
$3 Thursdays at Zoo Boise
Zoo Boise
Every Thursday through February 2025
Enjoy discounted admission to Zoo Boise, making it an affordable family adventure. Explore diverse animal exhibits and engage in educational programs at a reduced price.
zooboise.org/event/3-thursdays
4th Annual Country Music Roundup
Visual Arts Collective, Garden City
January 10th – 11th, 2025
A two-day event featuring live country music performances, dancing, and local vendors. This gathering celebrates country music culture and community.
visualartscollective.com/event/country-music-roundup-2025
Idaho Remodeling & Design Show
Boise Centre
January 17th – 18th, 2025
The valley’s top home improvement expo, featuring trusted experts and resources for building, remodeling, and updating homes. Attendees can gather ideas and connect with professionals for their home projects.
idahoremodelinganddesignshow.com
February
McCall Winter Carnival
McCall
Annually in January-February annually
The McCall Winter Carnival, a two-hour drive from Boise, Idaho, is an annual event known for its impressive snow sculptures, drawing over 60,000 visitors and being a tradition for over 50 years. The carnival features fireworks, parades, live music, and winter sports competitions, set against the picturesque backdrop of Payette Lake and surrounding mountains, offering a delightful celebration of winter in a quaint town atmosphere.
visitmccall.org/events/winter-carnival/
Black History Month Speakeasy Social
Idaho State Museum, Boise
February 8th, 2025, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Celebrate Black culture with music, poetry, art, and business in a 1920s-themed adult social event. Roaring twenties attire is encouraged for this evening of entertainment and community.
history.idaho.gov/event/idaho-black-community-alliance-speakeasy-social
Canyon County Spring Home Show
Ford Idaho Center, Nampa
February 14th – 16th, 2025
A home and garden festival featuring displays, local experts, and ideas for home projects. Attendees can gather inspiration and connect with professionals for their next home improvement endeavor.
fordidahocenter.com/events/canyon-county-spring-home-show-2025
Savvy Women & Money Conference
Boise Centre West
February 22nd, 2025
A free annual conference empowering women with financial education, resources, and tools to take control of their financial future and achieve their goals. The event includes workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.
savvywomenandmoney.com/conference-2025
Women’s Lifestyle Expo
Expo Idaho, Boise
February 28th, 2025
A free event featuring over 100 exhibits with shopping, workshops, wellness resources, and handcrafted goods, designed to inspire and connect women in the Treasure Valley. It’s an opportunity to explore new products, learn from experts, and enjoy a day tailored for women.
expoidaho.com/events/womens-lifestyle-expo-2025
Boise and the Treasure Valley offer an exciting lineup of events year-round, celebrating everything from music and food to culture, sports, and seasonal traditions.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly festivals, adrenaline-pumping competitions, or opportunities to connect with the community, there’s always something happening in the area!
