Annual Events in Boise and the Treasure Valley Area | This Is Boise (2024)

Seasonal Events

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Treefort Music Festival

Speed through Spring at Firebird Raceway or Meridian Speedway

• 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.
firebirdonline.com and meridianspeedway.com

Idaho Botanical Garden Fairy & Gnome House Exhibit

• Location: Idaho Botanical Garden, Boise
• Annually in April-May

Explore the enchanting world of the Fairy & Gnome House Exhibit where imaginative creations bring the garden to life. This annual event offers a magical escape for visitors of all ages, making it a delightful experience for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
idahobotanicalgarden.org

Race To Robie Creek

• Location: 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.
robiecreek.com

Gem State Comic Con

• Location: Expo Idaho, Boise
• Annually in April

Idaho’s leading pop culture gathering, bringing together enthusiasts from various fandoms for the state’s official and longest-running comic con and pop culture convention. This event caters to fans of comic books, movies, celebrity guests, video games, cosplay, toys, games, anime, live entertainment, and more, creating fun memories and a sense of community.
gemstatecomiccon.com

Idaho Shakespeare Festival

• Location: Idaho Shakespeare Festival Amphitheater & Reserve, Boise
• Annually in May-September

Experience the Idaho Shakespeare Festival Amphitheater & Reserve, 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. Immerse yourself in the unique cultural experience of theater within the scenic heart of Boise, Idaho!
idahoshakespeare.org

Experience Idaho

• Location: Expo Idaho, Boise
• Annually in May

A full-day event highlighting the incredible local companies, people, and products that only happen here in Idaho! You can learn about outdoor adventures, summer concerts and Ida(home) projects you didn’t know you needed to know about, and shop locally produced apparel, art, crafts, food, and plenty more—all while you sip beer or wine and listen to live music.
iblevents.com/experience-idaho

Meridian Fine Arts Festival

• Location: 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.
meridianfineartfestival.com

Outlaw Field Concert Series

• Location: Idaho Botanical Garden, Boise
• Annually in Various

Immerse yourself in the cultural music scene of Boise at the Idaho Botanical Garden. The Outlaw Field Concert Series is a highlight, featuring internationally renowned artists in the picturesque setting of Idaho’s historical Outlaw Field. This summer music series not only provides enchanting melodies but also serves as one of the Garden’s major fundraisers. Additionally, the Great Garden Escape, a collaboration with Duck Club Presents, invites you to enjoy the enchanting ambiance of the garden while relishing performances by local and regional artists. This intimate gathering spot offers a perfect blend of music, local food, beer, and wine, creating a memorable summer experience.
idahobotanicalgarden.org

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!

Boise Music Festival

• Location: Expo Idaho, Boise
• Annually in June

The Boise Music Festival in June is a must-attend event, featuring a spectacular music lineup of country, throwback, hip-hop, pop, and soul, carnival attractions, and exclusive experiences. With over 50 local bands and engaging headlining acts, it’s the Treasure Valley’s premier musical extravaganza, promising entertainment for all ages.
boisemusicfestival.com

Emmett Cherry Festival

• Location: Emmett City Park, Emmett
• Annually in June

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.
emmettcherryfestival.com

Alive After Five

• Location: Grove Plaza, Boise
• Annually in June-August

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!
downtownboise.org

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!

For a more thorough roundup of local 4th of July events, including links, read our article here (updated annually).

Twilight Criterium

• Location: Downtown Boise
• Annually in July

Downtown Boise comes alive with the annual Boise Twilight Criterium, a cycling event that is part of the American Criterium Cup series. Drawing top cyclists from across the country and beyond, the event features high-stakes races for both men and women, with a combined cash prize evenly split between the fields. The action-packed day includes professional road races, a family-friendly Kids’ Ride, and an enhanced EXPO park with a regional beverage garden, vendors, food trucks, and activities. Recognized as one of the top 10 criteriums on the USA Cycling calendar, the Boise Twilight Criterium promises an electrifying experience for over 20,000 spectators, making it a summer favorite and a must-attend event in downtown Boise.
boisetwilightcriterium.com

Canyon County Fair

• Location: Caldwell
• Annually in July

Held annually in Caldwell, the Canyon County Fair is a tradition of local culture and community spirit. Featuring thrilling carnival rides, live entertainment, agriculture showcases, and family-friendly activities, it offers residents and newcomers alike a fantastic experience of Idaho’s lively traditions.
canyoncountyfair.org

San Inazio Festival

City Festivals and Parades

208 Tattoo Fest

• Location: Boise
• Annually in July

The 208 Tattoo Fest is an annual celebration of body art and tattoo culture in Boise, Idaho. This eclectic event brings together talented tattoo artists, enthusiasts, and curious individuals for a weekend of creativity and self-expression. Attendees can explore an array of tattoo styles, meet skilled artists, and even get inked on-site. With live music, entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere, the 208 Tattoo Fest offers a unique and lively experience for those interested in Boise’s artistic community.
208tattoofest.com

Nampa Festival of the Arts

Western Idaho Fair

• Location: Expo Idaho, Boise
• Annually in August

Experience the rich heritage of Idaho at the Western Idaho Fair, a landmark event since 1897. Showcasing Idaho crops, agriculture, livestock, arts, and culture, the fair features judging competitions and free concerts on a first-come, first-serve basis. This annual event promises family-friendly entertainment, thrilling carnival rides, nostalgic food, and unique exhibits, creating an unforgettable experience for all ages.
idahofair.com

Gowen Thunder Air Show

• Location: Gowen Field, Boise
• Annually in August

The Gowen Thunder Air Show in Boise, Idaho, is an exhilarating annual event that showcases the world of aviation. Spectators are treated to awe-inspiring aerial performances by skilled pilots flying various aircraft, from high-speed jets to historic planes. This family-friendly air show offers an exciting experience for individuals and families moving to Idaho, providing an opportunity to witness incredible aerobatics, static displays, and enjoy a day filled with aviation excitement against the stunning backdrop of the Boise skies.
gowenthunder.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 Soul Food Festival

• Location: Julia Davis Park, Boise
• Annually in August

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

Boise Baroque Summer Concerts

• Location: Chateau des Fleurs, Eagle
• Annually in End of August – Early September

Summer Concerts at the Chateau goes beyond music with lawn games, and interactive instruments and coloring pages for the little ones. Relax with available wine, beer, and drinks or bring your own picnic. Those with dinner reservations can savor a pre-concert meal at Roghani’s Restaurant inside the Chateau. Seating options include lawn, concert row seats, and table seating, for an enchanting night under the stars.
boisebaroque.org

Hyde Park Street Fair

• Location: Camel’s Back Park, Boise
• Annually in September

Discover Boise’s North End with a free event featuring 3 days of entertainment, 140+ vendor booths filled with art, clothing, jewelry, and more. Limited parking, with accessible spots for disabled permit holders on Heron Street. Drop by the North End Neighborhood Association information booth for event details, volunteer opportunities, and Hyde Park Street Fair merchandise. Dogs are welcome.
northendboise.org

Art in the Park

• Location: Julia Davis Park, Boise
• Annually in September

Art in the Park 2024, held at Julia Davis Park in Boise, ID, is a highly regarded cultural event in the Northwest. Hosted by the Boise Art Museum, this free and open-to-the-public festival showcases over 200 artists’ creations for purchase. The three-day event presents an array of contemporary arts and crafts, complemented by delightful food, live music, entertainment, and engaging hands-on activities for children.
boiseartmuseum.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!

Idaho Pet Expo

• Location: Expo Idaho, Boise
• Annually in September

The 17th Annual Idaho Pet Expo is a family and pet-friendly celebration that offers a diverse range of local and national pet products and services, exhibits, educational displays, pet demos, and more. Enjoy live appearances by animal expert Corbin Maxey, featuring an entertaining and educational show with exotic reptile friends. The festivities continue with pet adoptions, petting zoos, food samples, reptile exhibits, a new dog agility gym, and more. Don’t miss this unique Treasure Valley show showcasing the happiness and health of your pets!
idahopetexpo.com

Boise Entrepreneur Week

• Location: JUMP, Boise
• Annually in October

Held annually at JUMP, Boise Entrepreneur Week is Idaho’s premier event for entrepreneurship and innovation. Featuring a variety of activities, including keynote speeches from national figures in entrepreneurship, and interactive workshops. This event is a pivotal gathering for skill development, networking, and contributing to Idaho’s economic growth.
boiseentrepreneurweek.org

Old Boise Oktoberfest

• Location: Downtown Boise
• Annually in September

A lively celebration of German culture, featuring traditional Oktoberfest music, foods, a variety of beers, and a stein hoist competition. The festival caters to all ages with a dedicated kids’ game area and face painting. This annual event offers a perfect blend of cultural celebration and fun in the heart of downtown Boise.
oldboise.com

Old Idaho Penitentiary Frightened Felons

• Location: Old Idaho Penitentiary, Boise
• Annually in October

Old Idaho Penitentiary transforms into a Halloween haven. Guests are treated to a unique blend of spine-chilling entertainment and an educational guided exploration through the haunted corridors of the Old Idaho Penitentiary’s intriguing history, making it a must-attend experience for those seeking a memorable family-friendly Halloween adventure.
history.idaho.gov/events

Taste of Boise

• Location: Downtown Boise
• Annually in October

Taste of 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

Witches Night Out

• Location: The Village at Meridian, Meridian
• Annually in October

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

Idaho Horror Film Festival

• Location: 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

• Location: 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

Dogtober Fest

• Location: 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

Small Business Saturday

• Location: Various Locations in Boise
• Annually in November

Small Business Saturday is an annual event supporting the city’s local businesses. Held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, it encourages shopping at Boise’s independent stores, boutiques, and eateries, particularly in areas like downtown. The event, featuring special deals and unique finds, not only bolsters the local economy but also strengthens community bonds.

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

Winter Garden aGlow

• Location: 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

• Location: 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/

Downtown Boise Tree and Glide on Grove

• Location: Downtown Boise
• Annually in December

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. An exciting addition is a seasonal skating experience in the Grove Plaza! It’s a must-visit and the best part? It’s free!
downtownboise.org/events/glide-on-grove

Christmas at the Village

• Location: 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

• Location: 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.

McCall Winter Carnival

• Location: 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/

Festival of Trees

• Location: Boise Centre, Boise
• Annually in November

The Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees is a cherished holiday tradition. For over 35 years, this event has transformed the Boise Centre into a winter wonderland filled with exquisitely decorated Christmas trees. Each tree is uniquely adorned by local businesses, community groups, and designers, ranging from traditional to avant-garde designs. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including silent auctions for the trees, live entertainment, and special themed nights.
saintalphonsus.org

The Nutcracker

• Location: 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

Witches Night Out

• Location: The Village at Meridian, Meridian
• Annually in October

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.
thevillageatmeridian.com

Polar Bear Plunge

• Location: Lucky Peak Reservoir, Boise
• Annually on 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

Idaho Dream Wedding Expo

• Location: Expo Idaho, Boise
• Annually in February

Experience wedding planning made easy at the Idaho Dream Wedding Expo, a biannual event in the Treasure Valley. Discover show-only specials, explore a variety of top local suppliers, and enter giveaways, all under one roof, providing brides and their guests with everything they need to bring their dream wedding vision to life.
idahodreamwedding.com