This week's newsletter is filled to the brim with holiday cheer, and it truly couldn't come at a better time. This last week honestly has me feelin a bit blue... if you're in the same boat, know there's sooo much to look forward to as we dive into December! This is your friendly reminder to embrace every moment, even the bittersweet :)
If you’re looking for Santa (who isn’t?), we’ve got a whole line up. From ornament hunting to nutcrackers, and the Polar Express at the Train Depot, there's no shortage of holiday fun around town. Until next time, let’s make this week one to remember!
A very merry block party
Saturday, December 7
The Linen District Holiday Block Party is happening Saturday from 12-4pm on Grove St between 14th & 15th! This free event is the perfect way to celebrate the season while supporting local businesses. Enjoy holiday deals, giveaways, and festive happenings at every stop, plus live music, tasty food, warm drinks (think hot cocoa and s’mores!), and a festive photo booth for the whole family. Don’t miss special promos like Outdoor Exchange’s $20 ski/board tune, Crazy Neighbor’s 10% off everything with a free gift for purchases over $50, and Caffeina Kitchen’s grand opening with free coffee samples and $5 plates. Scenic. The Storied Home will have calligraphy gift tags, wreaths for sale, local candles and vintage art, and a fundraiser for Family Advocates. Come for the holiday vibes, stay for the deals, and leave with gifts that support our amazing community!
SPONSORED BY ST. LUKE'S HEALTH PLAN
Secure Your Health for 2025 with St. Luke’s Health Plan
Open Enrollment in Idaho closes this week! December 16 is the final day for Idahoans to enroll in a health insurance plan for the coming year through Your Health Idaho.
St. Luke's Health Plan offers a huge range of benefits for Idahoans, including $0 copays on most plans for in-network primary care, preventive care, and maternity care, plus access to one of Idaho’s largest provider networks. Individual, family, and employer plans include practitioner services, inpatient and outpatient hospital care, virtual care, and more. As a St. Luke's Health Plan member, you can stay healthy, happy, and protected in 2025!
The 2024 Holiday Mix & Mingle is making its way through Bown Crossing. Shops will be open til late and Santa & his helpers will be there!
Friday, December 6 - Sunday, December 8
The Boise Christmas Show is happening at Expo Idaho from 11am-7pm on Friday and Saturday, and 11am-4pm on Sunday. This is the largest Christmas event in the valley, featuring over 225 vendors. You can also meet both Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus in person! Tix are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and free for kids 12 & under.
Saturday, December 7
Free Photos with Santa are happening in the Old Boise Tent Building on the corner of 6th & Main! Old Boise will also be partnering with Santa and the Downtown Boise Association to give away $1,000 in Downtown Boise gift cards! All you have to do is visit Santa and sign up (every Saturday through December 21st from 12-4pm).
Get Breakfast with Santa at the Zoo this Saturday from 8:30-10:45am. Guests will be treated to a buffet breakfast, personal time with Santa Claus, kids craft time, an animal experience, and photos with Santa (if purchased in advance). Then you’ll have the rest of the day to explore the zoo! Tix are $35-40 for GA, and $20-25 for kids ages 3-11.
The Winter Wildwood Outdoor Market is happening at Boise Tonic Co. (2840 Wildwood St) from 10am-1pm. This private holiday market will have over 22 local vendors offering food, treats, crafts, gifts, clothes and more! There's also a coffee bar and two amazing food trucks. Santa is here for the entire event offering free photos in their Winter Wonderland booth!
Signing Santa will be at the Idaho State Museum from 10am-2pm along with stories, a movie screening, Christmas-themed activities, cookies, and hot chocolate! Families with deaf and hard of hearing children are invited to experience the magic of the holiday season. You can register here for this free event!!
Photos with Santa are happening at High Desert Harley-Davidson from 12-3pm. The Harley Girl Elves will be serving up warm hot chocolate and delicious cookies to keep you cozy and satisfied! Plus, there's food trucks and free gift wrapping. It's free!!
Saturday, December 7 - Sunday, December 8
Sol Invictus Christmas Market is happening at the Star Riverhouse from 11am-4pm on Saturday and 12-4pm on Sunday. There will be 50+ vendors, wine, food, and Santa!!
Saturday, December 7 - Monday, December 9
Santa will be in Downtown Boise at The Grove Plaza on Saturday from 10am-1pm Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. He’s free to visit, so have the kiddos bring their wish lists and make sure to bring a camera for pics!!
Saturday, December 7 - Wednesday, December 11
Eagle Country Christmas is happening at Eagle City Hall all week long (excluding Sunday), with the Tree Lighting kicking off from 6-8pm on Friday and festivities continuing from 8am-8pm every day until the 14th. Santa will be in town each day from 5-8pm! They will have community performers from the Eagle Theater Company and the Star Performers, complimentary hot cocoa for children, Santa, reindeer, and City Hall Campus decorated for the Christmas season.
Sunday, December 8
Polar Express Storytelling and Photos with Santa are happening at the Boise Depot from 11am-5pm. Enjoy live readings of the Polar Express story at 12pm, 1:30pm and 3pm, plus photo opportunities with Santa (bring your own camera!), face painting, food vendors and more. This event is free and all ages are welcome!
This year, spend the holidays in the mountains of McCall! Whether it's a snowy Christmas or an adventurous New Year’s Eve celebration, McCall offers the perfect blend of winter fun and small-town holiday charm.
Bring your family and friends to experience Idaho mountain life. There’s plenty of options for holiday shopping, delicious dining, festive events, and stunning snow-covered scenery to take in.
Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, McCall is the perfect place to celebrate the season.
Mattio Martinez & Jessica Keenan are doing two stand up comedy shows at Mad Swede Brew Hall, both starting at 7pm. Tix are $20.
The Eight: Reindeer Monologues is happening at Boise Little Theatre at 11pm both Friday and Saturday. All those rumors you've heard about Santa and the elves? About Rudolph's little secret? About Vixen's story that was leaked to the press? All true.
Take a Country Swing Class at Solid Bar & Grill starting at 8:30pm. Ride solo or with a partner, bring your boots, and be ready to dance the night away! Tix are $5 at the door.
Saturday, December 7
The 2024 Sockeye Holiday Market is happening at Sockeye Brewing from 10am-4pm! The market will take place in their packaging warehouse on Fairview. Support local makers and small businesses while getting your holiday shopping done! With over 20 talented vendors, you’re sure to find unique gifts for everyone on your list. Plus, they’ll be serving up delicious craft beer!
Sunday, December 8
Enjoy All You Can Eat Dungeness Crab at Anthony’s Restaurant from 3-8pm, back by popular demand! It’s $65 to reserve your spot. Don’t be crabby about the price, just order more!!
First Thursday in Downtown Boise is packed with exciting events for everyone to enjoy!! At The Warehouse Food Hall, live music returns from 5-8pm, offering free performances alongside diverse food options and craft drinks, perfect for all ages. Over at Radio Boise, explore the "Open Station" in the Alaska Center basement from 5-8pm with live DJs, station tours, snacks, and a chance to meet Jesse Tree, a local organization focused on eviction and homelessness prevention. Wine lovers can stop by House of Wine from 5-8pm for three complimentary wine tastings, no registration required. For a touch of elegance, visit Chandlers between 4-6pm for $10 bites like Wagyu sliders and $10 sips, including champagne cocktails. Families can embrace the holiday spirit at the Idaho State Museum from 5-8pm with a festive vendor fair, carolers, wine tasting, crafts, and free admission (last entry at 7:15pm). Style enthusiasts should check out Scenic. The Storied Home for a 21+ panel on fashion and design tips to elevate personal and home aesthetics. Be sure to register beforehand! Music fans will love Jazz Night at The Funky Taco, featuring the Dean Jennings Jazz Quintet, local artists, and a lively jam session. You can also check out Fred Astaire Dance Studios, where free newcomer dance classes and open social dancing take place from 7-8:45pm, welcoming dancers of all levels. Wrap up your evening at JUMP from 5-8pm for Art as Song; Song as Art where music will become physical art, and physical art will become music. It’s completely free and there’s fun stuff going on all throughout the building. Don’t miss out on these First Thursday events!
The Avalanche Science Guides course is happening at Payette Brewing from 6-7pm. This is the first of three sessions discussing safety and preparation for backcountry skiing. It’s free!
The Beaver Believers is happening at The Flicks at 7pm. Doors open at 6:30pm. Tix are $10, or $15 for Uber Beaver Believers.
Join The City of Meridian at Meridian City Hall from 5:30-7pm to share ideas and view preliminary concepts for a future Meridian Community Center to be built as an expansion of Meridian’s Settlers Park.
Thursday, December 5 - Friday, December 6
Meridian Ornament Drop and Seek is happening at the Meridian Arts Commission from 7am-9pm on Thursday and Friday. All ages and artistic abilities are encouraged to make handmade holiday ornaments to hide in downtown Meridian for others to find and keep as a gift. Those lucky enough to find an ornament are encouraged to post a photo of it using the hashtag #meridianornamentdrop, or email the Meridian Arts Commission at mac@meridiancity.org.
Thursday, December 5 - Saturday, December 7
There’s an Exclusive Holiday Jewelry Trunk Show happening at R. Grey Gallery (415 S. 8th St) in Boise from 5-9pm on Thursday, 11am-7pm on Friday, and 11am-5pm on Saturday. Whether you're looking to elevate your everyday look or find that perfect holiday gift, their collection has something special for everyone.
The Jingle Blades Ice Show is skating through Idaho Ice World at 7pm on Friday, and 3pm & 6pm on Saturday. Tix are $22. Glide into the holidays in style at this cool event!
Green at Heart Gala is happening at JUMP from 5-8pm. Have a piece you’ve been waiting to wear, but nowhere to wear it? This is your chance! Tix are $10. Plus, you’ll get first pick to purchase any of the art and jewelry being sold at the Green at Heart Market the next day from 10am-4pm.
The Naughty List is happening at Revel Movement on Friday and Saturday at 8pm. This immersive pole and aerial arts show unwraps a playful, seductive side of the holidays, where performers blend holiday spirit with tantalizing tricks and thrilling choreography. Are you ready to celebrate the season with a little extra spice? Tix are $25.
Friday, December 6 - Sunday, December 8
Vintage Market Days presents “Joy to the World”, happening at the Ford Sports Center from 11am-4pm on Friday, 10am to 5pm on Saturday, and 11am to 4pm on Sunday.
Saturday, December 7
The Winter Wonderland Parade is kicking off at the Idaho Capitol Building starting at 10am. There will be cool cars, holiday floats, marching bands, choirs, local businesses, and much more!
Classical Christmas is taking over The Bishops House starting at 7pm. There will be an operatic performance of classical hymns and carols featuring Naomi Spinelli (mezzo soprano), Caitlin Carlberg (soprano), Katie Hansen (soprano and cello), and Luke Koenig (piano). Plus, over 15 stunning Christmas trees!
Underwater Tree Trimming is happening at Dive Magic from 10am-5pm. Come try your luck underwater, or stop by anytime and take a peek at the action!
A Very Merry HoliGay Party is happening at The Community Center from 6-9pm. Bring a dish to share inspired by one of your favorite holiday movies or TV shows. There will also be music, dancing, and games! Holiday-themed clothing is encouraged :)
Idaho Krampus Con: Bizarre Bazaar is taking over ABU Games in Boise from 10am-8pm. This isn’t your typical Holiday Bazaar… it’s an action-packed, comedy-filled day of shopping local vendors, artisans, and craftsmen! Tix are $10, or $5 with a canned food donation.
Go on a Geologic Field Trip to the Bruneau Fossil Reef with the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology! Participants will meet in the Albertson’s Shopping Center parking lot at 10am near McDonald's Restaurant, 6574 S Federal Way, near the intersection of I-84 and Hwy 21. You can expect to be back around 4pm! Please check the listing for specific details, like what to wear and what to bring. Tix are $20.
credit Winter Wonderland Parade
Saturday, December 7 - Sunday, December 8
The Nutcracker, presented by Ballet Idaho, is playing at 2pm and 7pm on Saturday, and 12pm and 5pm on Sunday. Tix are $46-$126. Don’t miss the chance to see this Christmas classic!!
More Nutcrackers!! This one’s happening at the Visual Arts Collective starting at 7:30pm on Saturday only. Perfect for those looking for something a little less traditional.
Sunday, December 8
Eguberriko Azoka is happening on the Basque Block from 11am-4pm this Sunday! Get a little shopping done for the holidays, listen to live traditional Basque music, and taste some holiday favorites like chocolate & churros, chorizo & talo, chestnuts, and more! Booths will be selling beautiful handmade cards and prints, handmade scarves and towels, wool blankets and hats, artisan breads, jewelry, and much more.
Neural vs. Natural, presented by Boise Art Revel, is hap-happening at Hap Hap Lounge at 6pm. Doors open at 5:30pm. This is a high-energy live design competition where local graphic designers go head-to-head with AI artists in a real-time visual showdown. Sip craft cocktails, dance to beats from a live DJ, and cast your vote… all while these artists compete for cash prizes! Tix are $10 in adv or $12 at the door. Kick off the holidays in style at Hap Hap!
Snake River Tattoo is doing their First Annual Pa-Rum-Pa-Pum Toy Drive from 12pm until the wish list is fulfilled (it says 11pm but I would get there as early as ya can!). Bring a gift valued at $50 or more, including receipt, and get a select flash tattoo. All gifts will go to children in need at the St. Luke's Children's Hospital. Get a sneak peek of some tattoo options here and find the list of acceptable items for donation here!
Monday, December 9
The Record Exchange is having their Annual Customer Appreciation Sale on Monday! You'll receive 20% off storewide from 10am-8pm and the Customer Appreciation party runs from 6-8pm. They'll also have a sleigh-full of raffle prizes every half-hour during the party!
Tuesday, December 10
Go watch “Women Who Hunt” at White Dog Brewing starting at 6pm. This short documentary by Outdoor Idaho & Idaho Public Television will take a journey along Idaho’s snowy ridges and get inside the heads of women who hunt. Snacks and drinks will also be provided. It’s free but you’ll need to register here!
Wednesday, December 11
There’s an Idaho Steelheads game vs. Tulsa Oilers at Idaho Central Arena. Puck drops at 7:10pm. Tix are starting at $35 right now.
Treefort For Good Bingo Fundraiser is happening at Treefort Music Hall starting at 7pm. Learn more about Treefort For Good, play bingo, catch live entertainment from Doug Martsch and Ghost Blanket, and participate in a silent action + raffle with loads of great prizes. Don’t miss your chance to score these amazing items while supporting a great cause! Tix are $20 in adv, $40 for rail, or $200 for a table (includes a bottle of champagne). All are welcome!
