Holiday Fun in the Treasure Valley

While many of us work to clear our inboxes and whittle down our to-do lists this time of year, we tend to don our heavy coats and snow boots for a hard-to-resist festive event. Social calendars begin to fill up, especially as the holidays approach: parties, light displays, festivals and bazaars, oh my! When family and friends come to call and visitors arrive to town, how will you celebrate with your nearest and dearest? We’ve rounded up some of our favorite events here in the Treasure Valley to get you into the spirit. Whether you’re new to town or an annual attendee of your favorite Christmas celebration, there’s something for everyone. 

Winter Garden aGlow 
Idaho Botanical Gardens | 2355 N Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise
Wednesdays-Sunday, Thanksgiving through New Years Eve | 6pm-9pm 

This holiday season, step into the wonder of Winter Garden aGlow—a spectacular display of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday cheer. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, join us Wednesdays through Sundays for a magical experience the whole family will love.

Wander through the enchanting gardens, where dazzling lights and the sweet scent of cookies and hot chocolate fill the air. Kids can explore the Winter Wonderland while you relax by the fire pits with a warm drink from the Snow Globe Bar.

Write a letter to Santa, marvel at the creativity of our Gingerbread Village, and capture those special holiday moments with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying quiet moments or making memories with the family, Winter Garden aGlow is the perfect place to celebrate the season.

The Nutcracker 
Morrison Center | 2201 W Cesar Chavez Ln, Boise 
December 6th-December 15th | Various showtimes


Experience the magic of The Nutcracker with Ballet Idaho. Make unforgettable memories with Ballet Idaho’s magical production of The Nutcracker, running December 6th–15th. The glittering magic begins as the Boise Philharmonic plays Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, setting the stage for an enchanting journey.

Step into the Stahlbaums’ festive home, where Clara and her family are celebrating the joy of the season. When the mysterious Drosselmeyer arrives with a life-sized Nutcracker doll, Clara’s adventure begins. As she falls asleep, she’s transported to a world of whimsy, from an epic battle with the Mouse King to a sparkling snowy forest and the vibrant, delicious Land of the Sweets.

The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition you’ll want to experience year after year. Join Ballet Idaho for this timeless tale of magic, adventure, and seasonal cheer!

Eagle Country Christmas

Eagle City Hall | 660 E Civic Lane, Eagle

December 7th-December 14th | Various event times 

Kick off the holiday season with the Eagle City Hall Tree Lighting on December 7th from 6–8 pm! Enjoy performances by local groups like the Eagle Theater Company and Star Performers, sip on complimentary hot cocoa, and meet Santa and his reindeer. The grand finale? The stunning Living Christmas Tree Lighting at 8 pm, where thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the City Hall Christmas tree, sponsored by Treasure Valley Lighting.

This year, don’t miss the Festival of Trees, where you can vote for your favorite tree during the Tree Lighting event. The trees will be on display in Eagle Community Hall from December 9th–13th (8 am–8 pm) and at the Last Chance Christmas Market on December 14th from 12–5 pm. Santa will be visiting too, from December 9th–11th (5–8 pm) and during the market on December 14th. This event is free to the public, and we encourage you to bring a new or gently used coat, socks, or underwear as a donation to the Eagle Lions Club, who will distribute them to those in need.

Wrap up your holiday shopping at the Last Chance Christmas Market on December 14th! With local vendors, live music, food, kids’ crafts, and more, it’s the perfect way to finish your gift list. It’s also your last chance to view the Festival of Trees before the event ends.

Caldwell Winter Wonderland
Indian Creek Plaza | 120 S Kimball Ave, Caldwell
November 22nd-January 5th | 6-9pm

Step into the magic at Caldwell’s Winter Wonderland, where over a million twinkling lights transform Indian Creek into a breathtaking winter display. Don’t miss the beautiful displays now through the first week of January, when the holiday season truly comes to life in downtown Caldwell!

The Winter Wonderland Festival, hosted by Destination Caldwell and Indian Creek Plaza, is free for all to enjoy. Bring the whole family to visit Santa, glide across the ice rink, savor festive treats, and discover unique gifts from local vendors. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holidays in Caldwell!

12th Annual Idaho Potato Drop
Capitol Building | 700 W Jefferson St, Boise
December 31st | 6pm-1am (January 1st)

Ring in the New Year at the 12th Annual Idaho Potato Drop, Idaho’s signature holiday event, live at the Idaho State Capitol! Starting at 6:00 PM, the excitement kicks off with the famous GlowTato rising during the Idaho Potato Rise, accompanied by live music and entertainment. KTVB will be broadcasting the event live, with food trucks, vendors, and, of course, BIG Idaho Potatoes!

Test your skills at the Idaho Potato Drop Rail Jam Ski and Snowboard Exhibition, featuring the Onslaught Crew and hosted by Tamarack Resort. This cutting-edge snow park includes custom-built features like a high-speed tow-in winch and Idaho’s largest jump. You can also enjoy games, raffles, local food, and hot toddies in the all-ages beer garden. Don’t forget to take a photo with Spuddy Buddy and the Big Idaho Potato Tour truck!