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Summer, Slowed Down
There’s something special about summer in Meridian. Maybe it’s the way the evenings stretch a little longer, or how familiar faces seem to gather in all the right places—on lawns, at parks, at outdoor concerts, or in line at the lemonade stand. July has a way of nudging us to slow down and explore.
In this issue, you’ll find stories that take you near and far—from a peaceful soak at Miracle Hot Springs to a fall escape in Coeur d’Alene. Both offer the kind of restorative travel that reminds us to pause and breathe a little deeper.
Closer to home, Meridian offers plenty of ways to make memories. The Independence Day Festival at Storey Park is a hometown favorite—there’s something timeless about good food, fireworks, and gathering with community. The Main Street Market is in full swing every Saturday, giving us the chance to support local makers and reconnect with neighbors, one booth at a time. And if you’re looking for something a little unexpected, the Venardos Circus brings Broadway flair and big-top magic to The Village.
We’re also proud to feature Simmons Fine Jewelry, a family-owned business rooted in giving back. Their story is a reminder that community support comes in many forms—and often sparkles with generosity.
Whether you’re adventuring somewhere new or staying close to home, we hope this issue inspires you to savor what’s in front of you. Summer doesn’t last forever—but the memories we make here? Those tend to stick.
See you out there.
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Greg Gewalt | greg.gewalt@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Tricia Busalacchi | tricia.busalacchi@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Jordan Gray | editorial@meridiancitylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT ASSISTANT
Maria Serondo | support@boisecitylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Russell Detablan | editorial@meridiancitylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Chelsea Chambers, Mckenzie Joyner, Denise Llorente, Renee Van Ausdle, Tammy De Weerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mckenzie Joyner, Tammy de Weerd, Jordan Gray
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
inside the issue
What the Wild Teaches Us
In
Exploring Idaho From the Rivers
Multi-day
The
NEWSWORTHY IN IDAHO
ARTICLE BY DENISE LLORENTE
FROM CULINARY CAREERS TO CONSERVATION WINS, IDAHO COMMUNITIES ARE COOKING UP IMPACT ACROSS FOOD, LAND, AND CULTURE
The Sun Valley Culinary Institute (SVCI) offers a one-year Professional Program designed for those interested in launching a career in the culinary arts. Enrollment is now open to Idaho residents and others passionate about cooking and hospitality. This summer, SVCI invites prospective students to attend open houses in Ketchum on May 14, June 18, July 15, and August 19 from 3 to 6 p.m. Visitors can learn about the program, tuition, and available professional externships in the Sun Valley area. Located downtown, SVCI gives students hands-on experience working with visiting chefs and local award-winning restaurants, preparing them for success in the culinary industry. sunvalleyculinary.org
A PARTNERSHIP FOR HUNGER RELIEF
BOISE’S RURAL ROOTS
The Schick-Ostolasa Farmstead, a historical site in Boise’s Dry Creek Valley, opens its doors Saturdays from May 3 to September 27. Visitors can explore the 1860s homestead through guided tours and live demonstrations, experiencing the area’s pioneer history. Originally developed under the Homestead Act, the farmstead is now preserved by the Dry Creek Historical Society to connect the community with Idaho’s agricultural past. drycreekhistory.org
Albertsons and The Idaho Foodbank recently celebrated their partnership, with successful campaigns addressing food insecurity. The “Steals for Meals” initiative raised $10,000, donating for each steal made by the BSU Men’s Basketball Team. During the holiday season, the Feed Joy campaign raised $150,000. Albertsons’ ongoing support, along with their customers and employees, continues to make a significant impact in the fight against hunger in Idaho. idahofoodbank.org
MODERN ITALIAN, LOCAL BUZZ
SUPPORTING IDAHO WILDLIFE AND YOUTH
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and partners allocated $4.2 million to enhance wildlife habitat across Idaho. Funds support 27 projects covering over 80,000 acres, benefiting elk, mule deer, pronghorn, and sage grouse. The investment also aids youth archery, trap shooting, mentored hunting, and conservation education. Since 1985, RMEF has completed 720 projects valued at nearly $98 million, conserving over 807,000 acres and improving public access statewide. rmef.org
On a recent summer evening in Meridian, diners leaned in over cacio e pepe and candlelight as North Italia opened its doors at The Village. The newest addition to the plaza’s dining scene drew curious newcomers and neighborhood regulars alike. For many, it wasn’t just about pasta—it marked another step in Meridian’s transformation from suburban hub to culinary destination. northitalia.com
ARTICLE BY MCKENZIE JOYNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MCKENZIE JOYNER + PROVIDED
WHERE STILLNESS Feels Like Home
A FALL RETREAT IN COEUR D’ALENE INVITES QUIET, COLOR, AND THE KIND OF STILLNESS THAT STAYS WITH YOU
There’s a particular moment—just after the last turn off I-90, when the lake first comes into view—when everything starts to slow down. That’s what happened as I arrived in Coeur d’Alene on a crisp September afternoon. The light had softened, the trees were turning gold at the tips, and the air carried that faint scent of pine and woodsmoke that only autumn seems to get right.
I didn’t come for an itinerary. I came to pause.
From my room, I watched fog drift over the lake in the early morning. I wandered forest trails alive with color, sipped tea in a café that didn’t rush, and breathed deeper during lakeside yoga than I had in months. It was the kind of trip where the unplanned moments stay with you most: the hush of the shoreline, the warmth of a fireplace, the way everyone seemed to speak a little more softly.
A TOWN THAT KNOWS HOW TO EXHALE
By fall, Coeur d’Alene has changed tempo. The boats are fewer. The trails are quieter. There’s room to breathe.
“I didn’t come for an itinerary. I came to pause.”
It’s easy to settle into a slower pace here. A walk down Sherman Avenue leads to indie bookstores, cozy coffee shops, and galleries filled with art from nearby towns. The farmers market runs through the season, with apples stacked high and jars of honey catching late sun. Evenings are best spent outside—watching the lake catch fire in the light, or taking a sweatered stroll along the Centennial Trail as leaves crunch underfoot.
A short drive out of town brings you to the CDA National Reserve, a 1,000-acre stretch of protected wilderness where the pine canopy opens to views of the surrounding mountains. It’s private land, but visitors can arrange access through the new members-only club that’s quickly drawing attention for its thoughtful approach to land stewardship.
A GENTLE INVITATION TO PAUSE
During my visit, I spent a weekend participating in a Live Well Retreat hosted by the Coeur d’Alene Resort—an experience framed more by space than structure. My days moved between warm drinks, forest hikes, long soaks, and conversations with people who seemed equally content doing nothing at all.
This fall, the resort will host a special September retreat led by longtime yoga and Pilates teacher Kristin McGee, offering guided movement, breathwork, and space to reconnect. But even for those not joining in, the rhythm of the place lends itself to quiet restoration. No pressure, no performance. Just permission to slow down.
WHERE FALL FINDS YOU
In Coeur d’Alene, the shift from summer to fall isn’t just seasonal—it’s sensory. It’s the way the light pools over the lake, the smell of the trails after rain, the taste of something warm and spiced at a sidewalk café. It’s a small town that doesn’t ask for much—and in return offers everything you didn’t realize you needed: space, color, stillness, and the strange magic of feeling at home somewhere you’ve just arrived.
WHAT THE WILD teaches us
In 24 hours, the bush reveals complexity, cooperation, and the quiet brilliance of nature
ARTICLE BY TAMMY DE WEERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAMMY DE WEERD + SPOKEN WINES
The African bush is more than just a vast wilderness; it’s a living, breathing classroom where every moment offers a lesson. In just 24 hours on safari with Viva Safaris in the greater Kruger Park of South Africa, I was immersed in a world where survival hinges on intelligence, cooperation, unexpected alliances and, yes, power.
THE “NEWSPAPER OF THE BUSH”
Our first guide, Luke, taught us how to read the land like a morning paper—each track, scent, and sound revealing a story.
Footprints in the sand: hippos wander from their waterholes at night to eat, their wide tracks marking their path. Fresh lion prints suggest a recent hunt, and the telltale sign of hyenas nearby means scavengers are waiting for their chance. Those same hyenas later crashed our bush ‘braai’ dinner under the stars, drawn by the scent of opportunity.
Even animal droppings tell a tale of who were there, what they’ve eaten, and their well being, whether food is scarce, and even signs of illness. Every mark, every broken branch, is a clue in nature’s unfolding story.
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS: THE POWER OF COMMUNITY
In the bush, survival isn’t just about strength— it’s about working together.
Zebras, giraffes, and impalas band together, their unique senses combining to detect predators. Buffalo are fiercely loyal, often returning to rescue an injured member rather than fleeing to safety. Even birds, like oxpeckers, play their part, plucking ticks off giraffe or zebra while sounding the alarm at approaching danger.
And then there are termites—the tiniest yet most unexpected community builders. The towering mounds scattered across the landscape, some decades old, house millions. Inside, they regulate temperature, recycle nutrients, and shape the very land. Their biggest predators? Not the aardvark, but Matabele ants, relentless hunters that stage coordinated raids on termite colonies.
ECOSYSTEM ENGINEERS: THE ELEPHANT’S GIFT
The giant holes dug into the sand? Elephants are the architects. They use their trunks and tusks to unearth groundwater, creating wells that sustain countless other animals. It’s survival, but also generosity—a testament to nature’s interdependence.
THE STRENGTH OF A LEOPARD
Seeing an impala draped high in a tree is a puzzling sight—until you realize it’s the work of a leopard. No other predator in the bush has the strength or strategy to haul a meal to safety like this. In a land where scavengers are always lurking, intelligence is often the key to survival.
A STANDOFF OF TITANS
The most unforgettable moment? A tense standoff between a pride of lions and a herd of water buffalo. Lions are fearsome hunters, but buffalo don’t back down. They stand their ground, united, determined. As our afternoon guide Smiley put it, “If you see a lion take down a buffalo, you salute them.”
LESSONS FROM THE WILD
The bush is a masterclass in resilience. In just 24 hours, it revealed that power isn’t always about force, strength isn’t just about size, and survival is often about working together. Whether it’s an elephant sharing water, a leopard outwitting scavengers, or a buffalo herd standing firm, every creature has a role to play.
And in nature, as our morning bush walk guide Quinton joked, “Everything has a role… except the mosquito.” Follow Tammy on her travels at SpokenWines.com
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wanderings WOOD RIVER VALLEY
Three towns, one trip: where small-town charm, natural beauty, and unexpected treasures come together effortlessly
GRAY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORDAN
You never know what you’ll find when you take a sojourn somewhere new.
On a recent trip to the Wood River Valley, discoveries included a chiming prayer wheel, a famous author’s typewriter, and small-town charm balanced with opulent elegance.
My best friend Leslie Morthland and I explored Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley in April.
KETCHUM
We spent most of our trip here, moseying from hangouts like Grumpy’s and Pioneer Saloon to shops like Chapter One Bookstore.
If you’re an Ernest Hemingway fan, you’ll find his typewriter in the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.
Highlight : Sawtooth Botanical Garden, 11 Gimlet Road. Filled with art and floral color, the Garden makes for a lovely stroll. Stop by the Garden of Infinite Compassion and spin the Tibetan Prayer Wheel, one of only two in North America blessed by the Dalai Lama.
SUN VALLEY
The Sun Valley Resort was a blast to explore, particularly because of vintage photographs showing the world’s first chairlift, Idaho Olympians, and swimsuit-clad women dueling with icicles.
We shopped around the area and peeked into the Sun Valley Opera House, which plays the 1941 movie “Sun Valley Serenade” every weekend.
Highlight : Konditorei, 1 Sun Valley Road. We ordered a decadent brunch of croffles (croissant waffles) and a mimosa flight. Bring your sweet tooth!
HAILEY
The quietest day of our trip, we grabbed ciders and pretzels at Sawtooth Brewing and checked out offerings at The Barkin’ Thrift Store, which supports Mountain Humane.
Highlight : The Draper Wood River Preserve, 255 Croy Creek Road. Whether you prefer short jaunts or longer hikes, the Preserve offers both. I particularly liked the Bow Bridge, styled like archery gear, with a massive arrow firmly planted at one end.
BONUS
Mountain Rides, the free bus system, is excellent. We used this daily for easy town-hopping.
Exploring Idaho From the River
Multi-day rafting trips reveal Idaho’s wild beauty, deep history, and unforgettable river-to-mountain perspective
ARTICLE BY STAFF
There may be no better way to experience Idaho than from the waterline of the Snake or Salmon Rivers. The Main Salmon, often called the “River of No Return,” winds through some of the most remote and scenic wilderness in the lower 48. Along its length, multi-day rafting trips reveal ancient basalt canyons, white sand beaches, and relics of Indigenous and pioneer history. The Lower Salmon offers warm, swimmable water and rapids that are thrilling but navigable for all ages. Evenings often mean tents pitched under stars, riverside meals, and the echo of stories told by firelight. Rafting in Idaho isn’t just about adrenaline—it’s about immersion in a landscape where history, geology, and connection unfold one bend at a time. HellsCanyonRafting.com
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DRIVEN TO GIVE
THE SIMMONS FAMILY TURNS LOCAL LOVE INTO MEANINGFUL COMMUNITY SUPPORT
ARTICLE BY JORDAN GRAY
Building a thriving community is a multi-faceted effort. And when it comes to facets, Blake Simmons of Simmons Fine Jewelry knows a thing or two.
Founded by his father, Jay Simmons, the brand has been a Treasure Valley tradition for more than 36 years. Both the family and the business help support a number of charitable causes and events across the Treasure Valley and Idaho.
“It is important to us; that we support and rub shoulders with our friends in the community and show that we're with them and appreciate them,” Blake Simmons said.
HELPING IDAHO
“There are certain people who come in and solicit the support of charity,” he said “There're others that we've connected with organically. There are people who shop here who are involved with supporting these causes as well, and it's a gesture of community and good faith to support them where they're at and what they feel is important to the community. It just feels good to be involved with things that are making a difference.”
Recently, that’s included Foster + Heart, a Treasure Valley nonprofit aimed at meeting the needs of children in foster care. Simmons Fine Jewelry partnered with the nonprofit in October, offering the proceeds of the business’ annual Show and Shine event. The gathering of car enthusiasts recently evolved into a trunk-or-treat event for families and a fundraiser which featured more than 100 cars decked out for Halloween with candy-filled trunks.
“That's a need that is here, and I don't think a lot of Idaho understands that,” Simmons said.
A LOVE OF CARS AND CAUSES
The Simmons family enjoy fast cars. Founder Jay Simmons’ 60th birthday gift from his wife was a Lava Orange Porsche 911 with ‘CARATS’ license plates.
Events like the Show and Shine allow them to put their love and community and cars into one spot. The business sponsored IndyCar driver and Idahoan Sting Ray Robb during his last two
“It just feels good to be involved with things that are making a difference.”
—BLAKE SIMMONS
seasons, who then appeared during the 2024 event and auctioned off a signed racing suit for the cause.
“It is a common passion to support the community in this way,” Blake Simmons said. “Sting Ray is a great advocate for meaningful causes and foster care is a cause close to his heart. It was a joy to join passions for cars while supporting our community at the same time. We have a lot of clients that love cars.”
Simmons has also partnered with the Sun Valley Tour De Force, which bills itself as “one of the world’s most unique charity events.” The high-octane event is set for July 17-19. Proceeds from this annual three-day event have helped fund more than $2.2 million in donations to multiple nonprofits.
“It’s exciting to be part of something that brings people together and gives back,” Blake Simmons said.
“It’s not about the cars or the jewelry,” Jay Simmons said. “It’s about the people. These events let us connect with the community in ways that matter. We love supporting the causes that they do. We've seen the difference these donations have made in many nonprofits in Idaho, like The Hunger Coalition.”
The Hunger Coalition is a nonprofit organization based in Bellevue, Idaho, dedicated to combating food insecurity in Blaine County. Founded in 2003, its mission is to build a healthier community by ensuring access to nutritious food and addressing the root causes of hunger through collaboration, education, and advocacy.
Some events have benefited from jewelry donations, like the Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees.
“We've been very supportive of Saint Alphonsus and the Festival of Trees,” Jay Simmons said. “We always donate a Hearts on Fire diamond necklace or piece of custom jewelry, like last year’s 40th anniversary Ruby and Diamond Saint Alphonsus logo pendant. It’s kind of a joy.”
MAKING AN IMPACT
For Jay Simmons, these efforts are deeply personal.
“I was born in Idaho, and I love Idaho,” he said. “Giving back is part of who we are. It’s how we show gratitude for the community that’s supported us all these years.”
“We just love spending time with our friends in the community.”
—BLAKE SIMMONS
Blake Simmons echoed his father’s sentiments. “Whether it’s helping someone celebrate a milestone or raising money for a good cause, we’re in the business of making people feel seen, celebrated and valued,” Blake added. “That’s what drives us. We just love spending time with our friends in the community.”
For more, visit SimmonsFineJewelry.com.
ARTICLE BY RENEE VAN AUSDLE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
A QUIET ESCAPE INTO IDAHO’S HIGH DESERT WHERE MINERAL SPRINGS AND SILENCE OFFER UNEXPECTED RESTORATION
ANCIENT WATERS
I made the two-hour drive from Boise to Buhl, not entirely sure what to expect from a place called Miracle. Sometimes though, the best kind of getaway is the quiet kind—the kind
magnesium, calcium, and potassium. The alkaline properties—along with the absence of chemicals—are a draw for many who visit, some for health reasons, others simply to feel something
“THE SILENCE WASN’T EMPTY— IT WAS COMFORTING, LIKE THE LAND WAS HOLDING ITS BREATH.”
that sneaks up on you, warms your bones, and slows time just enough to remember how it feels to simply be.
Miracle Hot Springs has been a part of this high desert landscape since 1959, when Dean Olsen opened six modest bathhouses on the edge of the Snake River Canyon. Over time, the site expanded into a larger soaking destination—now home to 15 private pools, six VIP rooms, and four open-air geothermal pools that seem to steam directly from the earth’s breath.
When I arrived, that breath greeted me in gentle clouds rising from the water. A family splashed in the shallows. Nearby, two older visitors floated in silence, their eyes closed, suspended in stillness. This was not a tourist crowd—it felt more like a gathering of people seeking pause.
The water here is geothermally heated, rich in naturally occurring minerals like
elemental. “We see people come here to unplug, to breathe,” said one staff member when I asked about the steady stream of visitors. “It’s the water, but it’s also the pace.”
Lining the shared pools are rows of private rooms—small, quiet sanctuaries, each with its own soaking tub. Some include cold plunges or massage tables. I checked into mine, changed into my suit, and stepped into what may be the deepest hot tub I’ve ever experienced. Warm water hugged me shoulder to toe, steam curling into the air. Above me, stars blinked through the dark. The silence wasn’t empty—it was comforting, like the land was holding its breath alongside me.
Later, wrapped in a towel and deliciously drowsy, I wandered over to the snack stand for a cone of orange ice cream and a cold Diet Coke. It felt refreshingly unpretentious—an echo of
“THE WATER FELT ANCIENT, RISING STRAIGHT FROM EARTH.”
summer nights and childhood rewards. A couple nearby sipped hot tea, chatting softly between long silences.
Before I left, I stopped to visit Lola, the lone alligator living in a geothermal enclosure on the property. “It’s a throwback,” a staff member explained. “There used to be several gator farms in the valley because the hot water created a hospitable environment. Lola’s just the last one left.”
Around her enclosure were campers, white domes, and an RV park. A couple on bikes waved as they passed by. Others sat quietly by their tents. Some had plans for nearby kayaking or hiking trails, but most, like me, seemed content to stay put.
Miracle Hot Springs isn’t flashy. It’s quiet, restorative, and grounded—much like the land that feeds its pools. Sometimes, that’s exactly what you need. miraclehotspring.com.
ICONIC IDAHO PHOTO CONTEST
We invite you to submit your stunning photos and become a part of an incredible monthly contest that celebrates the iconic landscapes, creatures, and moments that make Idaho truly special.
The Iconic Idaho photo contest on Outdoor Idaho’s Facebook page has a rich history and has become a significant bridge between people of all ages who share an interest in the outdoors.
CLAUDIA SANDERS
KATY PRESTWICH
CHERI GUINN
THE AMBROSE SCHOOL
PreK - 12th Classical Christian Education
SCHEDULE A CAMPUS VISIT TODAY!
We invite new families to schedule a campus visit to discover whether a classical Christian education is the right fit for your family.
To learn more, go to theambroseschool.org.
Celebrating Idaho’s Living History
ARTISTS AND PRESERVATIONISTS COLLABORATE TO HONOR RAINBOW BRIDGE AND INSPIRE STATEWIDE HISTORIC AWARENESS
ARTICLE BY CHELSEA CHAMBERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY IDAHO STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
Rainbow Bridge by Autumn Cole
Since 1989, the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has celebrated Idaho Archaeology and Historic Preservation Month each May, bringing attention to the state’s rich cultural and historic heritage. This year, SHPO’s “Bridging Time” event was a unique addition to the tradition because for the first time, the office opened the poster design to the public, bringing together a vibrant mix of artists, organizations, and community members. This year’s event not only highlighted the importance of preservation but also created a space for dialogue between the past, present, and future of Idaho’s heritage.
Bridging Time: A Celebration of Arts and Preservation was hosted at the newly renovated historic Assay Office in Boise. This energetic celebration featured over 100 works of art submitted by Idaho artists, each a unique depiction of the iconic Rainbow Bridge, which spans the Payette River. SHPO hosted the Bridging Time event to celebrate the Rainbow Bridge’s cultural significance as the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) implements plans to replace the existing structure, originally built in 1933. Although the new bridge will be constructed adjacent to the current one, ITD intends to preserve the original bridge as a scenic overlook,
allowing the public to continue to enjoy its historic legacy. This reflects the ongoing dedication of SHPO and others in the preservation community to protect and celebrate Idaho’s rich history.
Event attendees had the opportunity to tour the art, engage with local artists and preservation organizations, and enjoy food from local vendors. The event culminated in the unveiling of the winning artwork, which was selected to grace the 2025 Idaho Archaeology and Historic Preservation Month poster.
Dan Everhart, one of the event’s organizers, is an architectural historian and serves as the Outreach Historian for the SHPO. A native Idahoan, Everhart has dedicated his career to preserving and promoting the state’s rich architectural heritage. In his role, he focuses on community engagement, educational outreach, and the documentation of Idaho’s diverse historical narratives. His efforts include leading public tours and spearheading projects to digitize and catalog historical photographs, thereby making Idaho’s past more accessible to researchers and the public alike.
“This year’s event went great!” Everhart shares with excitement. “Beautiful weather and a strong turnout with approximately 500 people showing their art, talking about the great work they do
as nonprofits and government agencies, or touring the building and grounds.”
The success of the Bridging Time event highlights the growing collaboration between Idaho’s artistic and preservation communities. By blending art and history, this year’s celebration not only showcased the creative spirit of Idahoans but also underscored the importance of preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage for future generations. As SHPO continues to honor Idaho’s history, events like Bridging Time offer a unique opportunity to engage the public and inspire continued preservation efforts across the state.
To see more of the submitted artwork and learn how to get involved in next year’s event, follow SHPO on social media or visit history.idaho.gov/iahpm
Preserving Idaho’s Past, Inspiring Its Future
Founded in 1881, the Idaho State Historical Society (ISHS) connects over 110,000 people annually to the state’s rich heritage. Through the Idaho State Museum, Archives, Historic Preservation Office, and Old Idaho Penitentiary, ISHS preserves artifacts, documents, and sites that tell Idaho’s story. From school programs to exhibitions and preservation efforts, ISHS is a vital steward of the past—and a guide to understanding how history shapes our communities today.
Meridian + Valley Events
JULY 2025
1-31 — SUMMER VARIETY CAMPS
Meridian Encore: A summer of creativity with music, art, theatre, and storytelling! encorecreativecenter.com
1-31 — SCHICK-OSTOLASA HISTORIC FARMSTEAD OPEN EVERY SATURDAY
Dry Creek Valley: Explore 1860s Idaho life. visitboise.com
1-31 — SPEAKING VOLUMES: TRANSFORMING HATE TOUR 2025
Boise State University: Discover how hate transforms into hope through powerful art. speakingvolumes.net
2 — SUPER SOAKER SHOWDOWN
Indian Creek Plaza, 11 AM: Face off with Caldwell firefighters in the ultimate water battle! indiancreekplaza.com
3 — FIRST THURSDAY IN DOWNTOWN BOISE
Downtown Boise, 5 PM: Experience local culture with art, food, and live fun. downtownboise.org
3-13 — VENARDO’S CIRCUS: DECADE OF DREAMS
The Village: A Broadway-style show reinventing circus traditions. venardoscircus.com
4 — MERIDIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY FESTIVAL
Storey Park, 4 PM: Picnics. Food trucks and fireworks. meridiancity.org
4 — RED, WHITE, AND BREW BAR CRAWL Downtown, 5 PM: Celebrate Independence with friends in patriotic style! pubcrawls.com
4 — VEA 4TH OF JULY PANCAKE BREAKFAST
Andrus Park, 7 AM: A Boise tradition celebrating freedom and honoring our veterans. vealliance.org
5 — CALDWELL LATINO NIGHT MARKET
Indian Creek Plaza, 7 PM: Food, culture, and community every Saturday! indiancreekplaza.com
7-11 — PHENOMENAL PLANTS
Idaho Botanical Garden: Discover and care for unique plants through hands-on exploration and gardening. idahobotanicalgarden.org
11 — DARKNESSCON
Expo Idaho, 8 AM: Where horror, cosplay, and pop culture collide! boise.darknesscon.com
12 — MERIDIAN MAIN STREET MARKET
City Hall Plaza, 9 AM: Shop fresh, eat local in a fun, community-filled market! meridianmainstreetmarket.com
12 — CHRISTMAS IN JULY
Expo Idaho, 10 AM: Get a taste of holiday magic this summer! iblevents.com
12 — GEM STATE 208 MARKET
Farm Estates Park, 9 AM: A vibrant Saturday gathering of artisans, farmers, and more! Gemstate-208-market.square
12 —LOVELY HOLLOW FARM: OPENING DAY
Lovely Hollow Farm 8 AM: Food, drinks, live music, and a vibrant mini market! lovelyhollowfarm.com
12 — MUDDY DASH
Expo Idaho, 7 AM: Epic, mud-filled adventure! fb.com
13 — 13TH ANNUAL KIDS’ TRIATHLON
Nampa Park, 7:30 AM: Swim, bike, run, and cross the finish line with pride! nampaparksandrecreation.org
19 — 13TH ANNUAL KIDS TRIATHLON
Lincoln’s Swimming Pool, 7:30 AM: Swim,
bike, and run at Nampa Rec’s Kids Triathlon! lincolnma.myrec.com
19 — BOISE TWILIGHT CRITERIUM
Downtown Boise, 10 AM: One of the nation’s top criterium events. boisetwilightcriterium.com
21-25 — TAKING FLIGHT
Idaho Botanical Garden: Explore how birds, seeds, and humans take flight through fun, hands-on experiments! idahobotanicalgarden.org
24 — BONNER COUNTY FARM TOURS
Shingle Mill Blueberry Farm, 9 AM: Fresh flavors and farm stories! panhandlefarmcorridor.com
24-27 — CANYON COUNTY FAIR
Canyon County Fairground: Four days of fun, food, music, and memories. cofairs.com
25 — 2025 HANDS AROUND THE CAPITOL
Andrus Park, 10 AM: Celebrate 35 years of the ADA. idahoaccessproject.org
26 — CHRISTMAS IN JULY
Mint Barrel Barn, 10:30 AM: Celebrate summer with a festive twist! mintbarrelbarn.com
29-31 — JAIALDI
Basque Block: A week of vibrant Basque traditions, flavors, and performances! jaialdi.com
31 — 5TH ANNUAL PFC FARM FESTIVAL
Red Canoe Farms, 4 PM: Blueberry picking, farm shopping, live music, and family fun. panhandlefarmcorridor.com
LIGHT, UNLEASHED
