Tis’ the busiest time of year and we know it’s not always easy keeping track of all the events that are happening, but how lucky are we to live in a place like Boise that has a little something for everyone during the holidays. And we must say, Boise definitely does not have a shortage of holiday events that you and the whole family will be sure to love. So let’s start here! Get your calendars out and make sure you don’t miss out on all the holiday buzz in Boise.
The Giving Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 29th
5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
The Giving Tree Lighting Ceremony is a chance to witness the community coming together and help the amazing Women’s and Children’s Alliance to raise money and gather specific items that are needed within their facilities. Gift tags are hung around the tree that lists the WCA’s facility, shelter and child care needs. Once a tag is taken, you can drop the items off to the WCA’s headquarters or any Zion Bank location. The lighting ceremony will kick off the Giving Tree program, and celebrate along with live local music and vendors.
For more info visit wcaboise.org
Festival Of Trees
November 27th - December 1st
Boise Centre
For scheduling and more information visit saintalphonsus.org
The holiday season tends to bring the community together, and the 36th anniversary of the Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees is no exception. Over the course of the festival's past, Saint Alphonsus foundation has raised over $10 million dollars to improve health care within our community. This year, the proceeds will support the expansion of the Saint Alphonsus Cancer Care Center and also new technologies to further their research. You won’t want to miss out on the hundreds of magnificently decorated trees and a chance to help the community.
Photo Credit: Saint AlphonsusWinter Garden aGlow
Nov. 28th - Jan.4th
6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Botanical Gardens
For more information visit idahobotanicalgarden.org
The Idaho Botanical Garden is something special as is, but have you ever seen it with over 400,000 sparkling lights during the holidays? Well now is your chance! All winter long you can wander through and admire the marvelous light display and even have the chance of running into Santa on select nights. Open on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day you always have the option of this fun activity.
Photo Credit: Zoo BoiseBoise Zoo Claus ‘N’ Paws
December 7th
10 a.m. -5 p.m.
FREE admission day
The Boise Zoo is a favorite among the community and this is their chance to show the community how much they appreciate the support with a FREE admission day. Santa Clause will also be visiting the zoo for photo opportunities (with a small donation), along with a chance to make holiday crafts and face paint. This is a fun packed day at the zoo you don’t want to miss!
City Santa
December 5th, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
December 7th, 14th, and 21st,10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Corner of 9th and Main street
Get a head start on your Christmas photos while enjoying Downtown Boise, by seeing Santa on the first Thursday of December and the Saturdays leading up to Christmas. All photos with Santa are free, but donations are accepted and help raise funds for the Women’s and Children’s Alliance.
For more information visit downtownboise.org
Downtown Carriage Rides
November 29th - December 21st
4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Soak in the beautiful city lit up by enjoying a FREE horse drawn carriage ride and hot cocoa, courtesy of Washington Trust Bank! Rides depart from Washington Trust Bank, corner of 9th and Bannock.
Idaho State Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting
December 2nd
5 p.m.
Head to the center of downtown to watch Boise's Capitol Chistmas Tree Lighting. Program starts at 5:30pm and the tree lighting ceremony begins at 6.
Boise Classic Movies - Holiday Shows
November 30th - December 20th
All showings at 7 p.m.
Celebrate the holidays by watching fan favorites at the Egyptian Theatre. The Egyptian Theatre is recognized as the place of magic, curiosity, and wonder.
For information on movies and dates visit boiseclassicmovies.com
Photo Credit: Meridian Parks and RecMeridian Winter Lights Parade & Tree Lighting
December 6th
6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Downtown Meridian will glow with the Christmas spirit as the Winter Lights Parade down Main Street. Stop by early around 5:30 p.m. to watch The Grinch Who Stole Christmas on the outdoor screen next to the main stage. Immediately following the parade, join the community to light the Meridian Christmas Tree together, ending with the bang of fireworks.
For information visit this christmasinmeridian.org
Eagle Country Christmas
December 7th
1 P.M. - 6 PM.
Celebrate Christmas with Eagle Country Christmas including a holiday market, pictures with Santa, real reindeer, carriage rides, and a tree lighting ceremony!
For information visit Eagle Country Christmas.
Where to Get Pictures with Santa
Boise Town Square Mall
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Village in Meridian
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