The unofficial start of the holiday season in the Treasure Valley. Wander through hundreds of beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and displays, all created to benefit the Saint Alphonsus Heart Institute. It is a wonderful way to celebrate the season while supporting a meaningful local cause and sharing in the spirit of giving and connection.

A cherished Treasure Valley tradition since 1949, the Boise Holiday Parade fills downtown with festive floats, marching bands, antique fire engines, community groups, and Santa bringing the celebration to a joyful close. It is a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season and experience the magic of downtown Boise.

Kick off the holiday season with one of the Treasure Valley's favorite traditions. Enjoy live music, festive entertainment, fireworks, and Santa's grand arrival before the tree is illuminated. Santa remains at The Village through Christmas Eve for photos, with walk-in and reservation options available, as well as special pet nights throughout the season.

The Idaho Botanical Garden transforms into a glowing holiday landscape filled with hundreds of thousands of lights. Stroll through illuminated garden paths, enjoy model trains winding through the displays, and warm up beside the fire pits. Timed entry is required, so purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.

Scentsy Commons shines throughout the season with an expansive display featuring nearly a million lights, a walk-through light tunnel, and a towering Christmas tree. The display is free to visit, with additional festivities offered on select evenings throughout the season.

Celebrate the start of the season as Boise's community Christmas tree is illuminated in The Grove Plaza. The evening includes live music, a candle-lighting ceremony, and the official tree lighting, with Holidays on the Grove adding even more festive shopping nearby.

Old Town Meridian glows as illuminated floats travel along Main Street before the city tree lighting at Generations Plaza. Arrive early to enjoy additional activities, entertainment, and food before the parade begins.

Enjoy an immersive drive-through display filled with colorful lights, tunnels, and synchronized music played through your vehicle's stereo. Tickets are sold by the carload, making it easy to gather your favorite people and enjoy the display together.

What began as a friendly decorating rivalry has become one of the Treasure Valley's most beloved holiday traditions. This spectacular private home features thousands of lights, festive displays, and opportunities to support Make-A-Wish through donations. Visitors are welcome to drive by or stop and enjoy the display on foot.

Skate outdoors surrounded by holiday lights, shops, and restaurants at The Village. The seasonal rink is open weather permitting, with reservations required and skate rentals included.

Idaho IceWorld offers indoor public skating throughout the year, making it a reliable option regardless of the weather. Skate rentals are available, along with an arcade and food for visitors who want to make an afternoon of it.

Idaho's only ice ribbon offers a winding outdoor skating experience in the heart of Indian Creek Plaza. Surrounded by holiday lights and fire pits, it is a memorable seasonal destination and well worth the drive west.

Ballet Idaho's annual production of The Nutcracker brings Clara's magical journey to life with beautiful costumes, memorable music, and breathtaking performances at the Morrison Center. Tickets often sell quickly, so booking early is recommended.

The Boise Philharmonic celebrates the season with special holiday performances, including Handel's Messiah and festive pops concerts. These annual programs combine beloved music, talented performers, and some of Boise's most beautiful venues.

Shop from local makers, growers, artists, and food producers during this seasonal outdoor market in downtown Boise. It is a great place to find locally made gifts while supporting small businesses throughout the Treasure Valley.

Explore an intricate miniature world filled with detailed scenery, tiny towns, tunnels, and moving trains. Open on select Saturdays during the holiday season, this long-standing Boise tradition offers something unique to discover around every corner.

A bright red mailbox outside Meridian City Hall collects letters for Santa during the holiday season. Include a clear return address, and a reply will arrive in the mail before Christmas. No stamp is needed.

Local artists create and donate hundreds of handcrafted bowls to support The Idaho Foodbank. Each purchase provides a one-of-a-kind piece while helping provide meals to people throughout the community.