Summer in Boise is packed with energy — and it doesn't have to cost a thing to enjoy it. Whether you're looking for outdoor concerts, local markets, movie nights, or family-friendly activities, the City of Trees offers tons of ways to soak up the season without emptying your wallet. 

Here’s your go-to guide to the best free and affordable summer events in Boise — perfect for planning your next budget-friendly adventure.

🎸 Alive After Five – Free Concerts Downtown

When: Every Wednesday, June–August
Where: The Grove Plaza, Downtown Boise
Cost: Free

A Boise summer tradition, Alive After Five is a weekly outdoor concert series featuring live music, local food vendors, beer and wine, and an unbeatable downtown vibe. Bring your crew, your kids, or your dog, and enjoy a midweek mini-festival every week.

Pro tip: Get there early for shady spots and front-row seats!

🎥 Movie Nights in the Park

When: Various Fridays & Saturdays, June–August
Where: Parks throughout Boise
Cost: Free

Pack a blanket and some snacks, and catch a family-friendly flick under the stars. The City of Boise and nearby cities like Meridian and Eagle host free outdoor movie nights all summer long. 

What to bring: Lawn chairs, bug spray, and a cozy hoodie for when the sun sets.

🌽 Farmers Markets Every Weekend

When: Saturdays and some weekdays
Where: Downtown Boise, Capitol City Public Market, 34th Street Market, and more
Cost: Free to attend (and many cheap eats inside!)

Even if you're not shopping for produce, Boise's farmers markets are worth the stroll. Enjoy live music, food trucks, fresh flowers, and artisan goods — all while supporting local.

Kid-friendly highlight: Free samples, balloon artists, and live performers at larger markets.

🖼️ First Thursdays in Downtown Boise

When: First Thursday of each month
Where: Downtown Boise
Cost: Free

Downtown Boise comes alive on the first Thursday of each month with special art exhibits, live music, pop-ups, food and drink specials, and street entertainment. A great way to explore the downtown scene on foot — and on a budget.

📚 Library Summer Reading Programs

Where: Boise Public Library Branches
Cost: Free

Sign up for the Boise Library's summer reading challenge, packed with prizes, story times, crafts, and fun for all ages. It's a great way to keep kids learning (and entertained) while staying cool indoors. 

🎨 Free Family Days at Local Museums

Many Boise museums and cultural centers offer free or discounted admission on special days:

• Boise Art Museum – Free First Thursday admission

• Idaho State Museum – Occasionally hosts free public days (watch their calendar)

• James Castle House – Always free, and a hidden creative gem

🛶 DIY Fun: Floating, Biking, & Parks

Some of the best summer activities in Boise are free every day:

• Float the Boise River – If you have your own gear, it’s a zero-cost adventure!

• Ride the Greenbelt – 25+ miles of riverside trail to explore

• Splash pads – Free water play at parks like Ivywild, Kleiner, and Camel’s Back

• Hike Table Rock or Hulls Gulch – Epic views, no entrance fee

🍿 Cheap Nights at The Flicks & Outdoor Theaters

Want to catch a movie but avoid full-price tickets?

• The Flicks – Offers discounted matinees and student nights

• Parma Motor-Vu Drive-In (a short drive from Boise) – Old-school movie fun for under $10/person

• Village Cinema (Meridian) – Summer movie series with kids’ classics for just a few dollars

🎭 Free or Low-Cost Live Performances

Keep an eye out for free theater and live performances in local parks and public spaces:

• Boise Bard Players – Offers Shakespeare in the park and pay-what-you-can events

• JUMP Boise – Hosts free outdoor performances, pop-up dance nights, and interactive art

You don't need a big budget to have a big summer in Boise. With free concerts, family-friendly movie nights DIY outdoor adventures, and low-cost local events happening all season long, it's easy to make memories without spending a ton.