Idaho 2025 Calendar - List of Festivals, Big Events: Date, Location, Meaning and Celebrations

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Overview of Idaho Festivals and Events in 2025

Idaho is a state that prides itself on its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant community spirit, all of which come alive through its festivals and events. In 2025, Idaho's calendar is packed with celebrations spanning every season and catering to a variety of interests, from food and music to history and outdoor adventures.

Winter kicks off with highlights such as the McCall Winter Carnival, showcasing ice sculptures and fireworks, and the quirky Fire & Ice Winter Festival in Lava Hot Springs. Spring welcomes cultural and creative events like the Sun Valley Film Festival and the Boise Flower and Garden Show, perfect for arts and gardening enthusiasts. Summer heats up with the lively Boise Music Festival and historical Old Fort Boise Days, while fall dazzles with the unique Trailing of the Sheep Festival and the colorful Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic. The year wraps up with holiday magic during Christmas in the City in Coeur d’Alene and the enchanting Winter Garden aGlow in Boise.

These events not only highlight Idaho’s traditions and innovations but also provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to connect with local communities, explore the state's breathtaking landscapes, and create unforgettable memories.

Full List of Festivals in the US for 2025: Music, Food, Art, Film, Street and More

A festival map of Idaho for 2025

List of Festivals and Big Events in Idaho 2025

January

1. McCall Winter Carnival

• Date: January 24 – February 2, 2025
• Location: McCall, Idaho
• Significance: Celebrating winter with a long-standing tradition of creativity and community spirit.
• Activities: Ice and snow sculpture contests, parades, live music, snowbike races, and fireworks over Payette Lake.
• Tickets: Free entry for most activities; specific events may require fees ($10–$20).
• How to Attend: Drive to McCall from Boise (2 hours) or nearby cities. Parking can be limited, so arrive early.

2. Idaho Potato Drop

• Date: January 1, 2025
• Location: Capitol Mall, Boise, Idaho
• Significance: A uniquely Idaho tradition welcoming the New Year with the lowering of a giant illuminated potato.
• Activities: Live performances, food trucks, beer gardens, and a winter fun zone.
• Tickets: Free admission. VIP packages (starting at $50) available for exclusive viewing areas.
• How to Attend: Located downtown; parking is available nearby, or use public transit.

February

1. Fire & Ice Winter Festival

• Date: February 16–18, 2025
• Location: Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
• Significance: A quirky festival celebrating the extremes of Idaho’s winter with hot springs and icy challenges.
• Activities: Polar bear plunge, chili cook-offs, live music, and fireworks.
• Tickets: Most events are free; small fees for competitions ($5–$10).
• How to Attend: Drive to Lava Hot Springs, known for its hot springs resorts. Accommodations fill quickly.

2. Valentine for Veterans Concert

• Date: February 14, 2025
• Location: Nampa Civic Center, Nampa, Idaho
• Significance: Honoring veterans with a special concert filled with patriotic and heartfelt performances.
• Activities: Live music by local and national artists, tributes to veterans, and meet-and-greets.
• Tickets: $20–$50 depending on seating.
• How to Attend: Purchase tickets online or at the venue. Parking is available at the Civic Center.

March

1. Sun Valley Film Festival

• Date: March 6–10, 2025
• Location: Sun Valley, Idaho
• Significance: Showcasing independent films and supporting emerging filmmakers.
• Activities: Film screenings, workshops, panel discussions, and après-ski networking events.
• Tickets: Passes start at $100; individual film tickets available for $15–$25.
• How to Attend: Fly into Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN), then take a shuttle or rental car to Sun Valley.

2. Boise Flower and Garden Show

• Date: March 15–17, 2025
• Location: Boise Centre, Boise, Idaho
• Significance: A springtime tradition promoting gardening and landscaping ideas.
• Activities: Exhibits by local landscapers, workshops on gardening techniques, and flower displays.
• Tickets: $10 for adults; free for children under 12.
• How to Attend: Downtown Boise; parking available at Boise Centre garages.

April

1. Idaho Falls Earth Day Celebration

• Date: April 20, 2025
• Location: Idaho Falls Greenbelt
• Significance: Promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship.
• Activities: Interactive booths, eco-friendly products, children’s activities, and live music.
• Tickets: Free entry.
• How to Attend: Located along the Idaho Falls Greenbelt; bike or walk to minimize your carbon footprint.

2. Northwest Winefest

• Date: April 27–28, 2025
• Location: Coeur d’Alene Resort, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
• Significance: Celebrating regional winemaking and culinary arts.
• Activities: Wine tastings, food pairings, and workshops with sommeliers.
• Tickets: $50 per day; VIP packages start at $100.
• How to Attend: Fly into Spokane International Airport (GEG) and drive 45 minutes to Coeur d’Alene.

May

1. Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

• Date: May 5, 2025
• Location: Nampa, Idaho
• Significance: Honoring Mexican heritage and culture.
• Activities: Traditional Mexican food, mariachi bands, folkloric dances, and cultural exhibits.
• Tickets: Free entry.
• How to Attend: Held in downtown Nampa with ample parking.

2. Idaho Gives Day Events

• Date: May 2, 2025
• Location: Statewide (events in Boise, Twin Falls, Coeur d’Alene)
• Significance: Supporting Idaho’s nonprofit organizations.
• Activities: Community events, fundraising galas, and volunteer opportunities.
• Tickets: Free; donations encouraged.
• How to Attend: Visit the Idaho Gives website for event locations near you.

June

1. Boise Music Festival

• Date: June 22, 2025
• Location: Expo Idaho, Boise, Idaho
• Significance: A vibrant celebration of music featuring national and local artists across multiple genres.
• Activities: Concerts on several stages, food trucks, carnival rides, and family-friendly zones.
• Tickets: General admission $25; VIP packages start at $75.
• How to Attend: Parking available at Expo Idaho; public transportation options also accessible.

2. Old Fort Boise Days

• Date: June 14–16, 2025
• Location: Parma, Idaho
• Significance: Commemorating local history and the legacy of Fort Boise.
• Activities: Parades, historical reenactments, crafts, food vendors, and family activities.
• Tickets: Free for general events; small fees for workshops ($5–$10).
• How to Attend: Drive to Parma; parking is readily available around the festival area.

July

1. Idaho Shakespeare Festival

• Date: July 5–31, 2025 (runs through summer)
• Location: Outdoor Amphitheater, Boise, Idaho
• Significance: Bringing the timeless works of Shakespeare and other playwrights to life.
• Activities: Live theater performances in a scenic riverside setting; picnicking encouraged.
• Tickets: $20–$80 depending on seating. Season passes available.
• How to Attend: Located at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival Amphitheater; limited parking available.

2. Fourth of July Celebrations

• Date: July 4, 2025
• Location: Various cities (Boise, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Falls)
• Significance: Celebrating U.S. Independence Day with fireworks and community events.
• Activities: Parades, live music, food trucks, and grand firework shows over lakes and parks.
• Tickets: Free entry; VIP seating for fireworks may cost $10–$20.
• How to Attend: Check local city websites for specific events and locations.

August

1. Western Idaho Fair

• Date: August 16–25, 2025
• Location: Expo Idaho, Boise, Idaho
• Significance: A long-standing tradition showcasing agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit.
• Activities: Livestock shows, carnival rides, concerts, food vendors, and 4-H exhibits.
• Tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for children under 12; ride passes sold separately.
• How to Attend: Parking available at Expo Idaho; shuttles often provided from nearby lots.

2. Huckleberry Festival

• Date: August 10–12, 2025
• Location: Donnelly, Idaho
• Significance: Celebrating Idaho's wild huckleberry, a treasured fruit.
• Activities: Huckleberry-themed foods, craft fairs, live music, and a pancake breakfast.
• Tickets: Free entry. Some food and craft items available for purchase.
• How to Attend: Drive to Donnelly (located about 90 miles north of Boise).

September

1. Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic

• Date: September 1–5, 2025
• Location: Ann Morrison Park, Boise, Idaho
• Significance: Filling the skies with colorful hot air balloons, celebrating the joy of flight.
• Activities: Morning launches, evening “night glow” displays, and family-friendly activities.
• Tickets: Free for general viewing; VIP packages start at $50.
• How to Attend: Arrive early for best viewing spots; parking available nearby.

2. Nez Perce National Historical Park Day

• Date: September 28, 2025
• Location: Lapwai, Idaho
• Significance: Honoring the Nez Perce people and their rich cultural heritage.
• Activities: Guided tours, storytelling sessions, traditional dance performances, and crafts.
• Tickets: Free entry.
• How to Attend: Drive to Lapwai or take part in organized tours from nearby towns.

October

1. Trailing of the Sheep Festival

• Date: October 9–13, 2025
• Location: Ketchum, Hailey, and Sun Valley, Idaho
• Significance: Celebrating Idaho’s sheep ranching heritage.
• Activities: Sheep parade, wool crafts, cooking classes, storytelling, and traditional music.
• Tickets: Most events are free; workshops range from $20–$50.
• How to Attend: Drive to the Wood River Valley; accommodations fill quickly, so book early.

2. Harvest Festival

• Date: October 19, 2025
• Location: Twin Falls, Idaho
• Significance: Celebrating autumn and the harvest season.
• Activities: Pumpkin patches, hayrides, corn mazes, and local produce markets.
• Tickets: Free entry; activities like hayrides may cost $5–$10.
• How to Attend: Drive to Twin Falls; parking available at festival grounds.

November

1. Boise Veterans Day Parade

• Date: November 11, 2025
• Location: Downtown Boise, Idaho
• Significance: Honoring veterans and military service.
• Activities: Parade, tributes, and community ceremonies.
• Tickets: Free entry.
• How to Attend: Parking available downtown; arrive early for good viewing spots.

2. Thanksgiving Turkey Trot

• Date: November 28, 2025
• Location: Various cities (Boise, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls)
• Significance: Promoting health and community spirit before Thanksgiving festivities.
• Activities: Fun runs and walks, often supporting local charities.
• Tickets: $15–$30 depending on location and category.
• How to Attend: Register online; events typically held at city parks.

December

1. Christmas in the City

• Date: December 1–25, 2025
• Location: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
• Significance: A magical holiday experience with lights and festive cheer.
• Activities: Light parades, caroling, ice skating, and visits with Santa.
• Tickets: Free for general entry; some activities may require tickets ($5–$15).
• How to Attend: Downtown Coeur d’Alene, with parking options nearby.

2. Winter Garden aGlow

• Date: December 8–31, 2025
• Location: Idaho Botanical Garden, Boise, Idaho
• Significance: A stunning holiday light display at the botanical garden.
• Activities: Walking tours through illuminated gardens, hot cocoa stands, and photo opportunities.
• Tickets: $12 for adults; $6 for children under 12.
• How to Attend: Located near downtown Boise; parking is available on-site.

Conclusion

Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, Idaho's festivals in 2025 offer something for everyone. From winter wonderlands and cultural parades to outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, these events showcase the state's unique charm and welcoming spirit. Plan ahead, mark your calendars, and immerse yourself in the celebrations that make Idaho special.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Idaho for festivals?

Idaho offers events year-round, but summer (June–August) and fall (September–October) are particularly busy with major festivals like the Western Idaho Fair and Trailing of the Sheep Festival.

2. Are tickets required for most events?

Many events are free to attend, but some require tickets or have fees for specific activities (e.g., workshops, VIP access). Check the official event websites for details.

3. How can I find accommodations near these events?

Popular events like the Sun Valley Film Festival or Huckleberry Festival may fill accommodations quickly. It’s recommended to book hotels or rentals several months in advance.

4. What transportation options are available?

Most events are accessible by car, with ample parking. For larger festivals in cities like Boise, public transportation or event shuttles may be available.

5. Are Idaho festivals family-friendly?

Yes! Most events, such as the Western Idaho Fair and Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic, include activities for all ages, making them perfect for families.

Feel free to ask if you need more details about specific festivals or travel tips!

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