Treasure Valley Lights Up Early
Major holiday displays and parades begin this week, with free entry available at several key locations.
By Bianca Herrera ·
The holiday season in the Treasure Valley has begun earlier than usual, with major light displays and parades launching this week. Events are scheduled to continue through mid-January, offering residents multiple options for celebration.
In Boise, the Idaho Botanical Garden opens Winter Garden aGlow on November 27. The display features nearly 900,000 Christmas lights, including a new Lake of Lights installation on Outlaw Field. Admission costs $20 for adults and $16 for youth, while children under three enter for free. The garden also offers complimentary hot chocolate and cookies.
Downtown Caldwell hosts its Winter Wonderland opening weekend from November 20 to 22. More than one million lights transform the Indian Creek Plaza area. The event includes ice skating and food vendors, with free parking shuttles available on Friday and Saturday evenings. Viewing the lights is free.
Meridian offers two distinct experiences this month. Scentsy Commons begins its light display on November 13, featuring a walk-through tunnel and a large Christmas tree. This attraction remains free through January 18. Additionally, Roaring Springs Water Park launches Christmas in Color on November 20. This drive-through display synchronizes lights with music, allowing visitors to remain in their vehicles.
Parades and tree lightings are scheduled across the region. The 78th annual Boise Holiday Parade takes place on November 28 at 10 a.m., beginning at Jefferson and 10th Street. The theme for this year is Christmas Is for Giving. Downtown Boise holds its tree lighting on November 27 at The Grove Plaza. Meridian will light its tree on December 4 at 7 p.m., preceded by pre-parade activities at 5:30 p.m.
Community events also support local charities. The Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees runs from November 24 to 29 at the Boise Centre. This is the 42nd year of the event. Admission is $16 for adults, with reduced rates for seniors and military personnel. The Canyon County Festival of Trees operates in Nampa from November 27 to 29, with proceeds benefiting Meals on Wheels programs for seniors in the county.
Families can attend the Children's Winterland Festival in Meridian on December 12. Hosted by Meridian Parks and Recreation, the event includes crafts, games, and a free photo with Santa. Other community celebrations include the Nampa Christmas Tree Lighting on November 28 and the Idaho Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting on December 1.
Holiday markets will operate throughout the month. The Wintry Market is scheduled for November 20 and 21 at the Boise Centre. The Caldwell Winter Market runs concurrently at Indian Creek Plaza. The Merry Grinchmas Market takes place at Scentsy Commons from November 19 to 21. These markets feature local artists and handmade goods.
Residents are also encouraged to visit neighborhood light displays. Popular spots include Candy Cane Lane in Eagle and various home displays in Boise and Meridian. Local radio station 107.9 Lite FM is recommended for music during drive-through tours of these residential areas.
