The Treasure Valley is kicking off the holiday season early this year, and families across Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle and Kuna have a packed calendar of free and low‑cost events. Whether you’re looking for a classic tree lighting, a dazzling light tunnel, or a warm indoor activity, there’s something for every age and budget.
Winter Garden aGlow – Boise
Running November 27 through December 30 at the Idaho Botanical Garden (2355 Old Penitentiary Road), Winter Garden aGlow will feature nearly 900,000 lights, a new Lake of Lights display on Outlaw Field, Gingerbread Lane, holiday music, and select nights with Santa. Admission is $20 for adults, $16 for youth, with children under three free and discounted nights available.
Caldwell Winter Wonderland – Indian Creek Plaza
Opening weekend November 20‑22, the downtown plaza will transform with more than one million lights, Santa, holiday shopping, food vendors and ice skating. Free parking shuttles run Friday and Saturday evenings, and the lights remain on throughout the season at no charge.
Scentsy Commons Christmas Lights – Meridian
From November 13 through January 18, the Scentsy campus lights up with hundreds of thousands of bulbs, a walk‑through light tunnel and a towering Christmas tree. Admission is free, making it a favorite family tradition.
Christmas in Color – Roaring Springs Water Park, Meridian
Starting November 20, this drive‑through display lets families stay warm inside their cars while enjoying synchronized lights and music. Tune to the designated radio station for the soundtrack and cruise through colorful tunnels and animated scenes.
Lost in Christmas – Shindig Farms, Nampa
Opening November 20, the farm swaps its fall attractions for a giant illuminated straw maze, Santa and the Grinch meet‑and‑greets, and a host of family activities. It’s a festive twist on a familiar local venue.
The Village – Meridian
Throughout November and December, The Village offers decorated trees, seasonal lights, holiday shopping and a Santa visit. The annual tree lighting is set for November 19, and an outdoor ice‑skating rink returns for the season. Walking around is free; skating and select activities carry a small fee.
Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees – Boise
Celebrating its 42nd year November 24‑29 at the Boise Centre, the festival showcases beautifully decorated trees, entertainment, and a North Pole Village for kids. Admission ranges from $11 to $16, with seniors receiving a discounted $5 ticket on November 25.
Canyon County Festival of Trees – Nampa
November 27‑29 at the Ford Idaho Center, this event supports Meals on Wheels for seniors. In addition to decorated trees, visitors can enjoy holiday vendors, live entertainment and Santa visits. Special events include Cookies with Santa (Nov 27) and Breakfast with Santa (Nov 28). Admission starts at $10 for adults and children, with younger kids free.
Downtown Boise Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, November 27, 5‑6 p.m. at The Grove Plaza. The ceremony features live music, a candle‑lighting ritual and a Giving Tree that supports families through the Women’s and Children’s Alliance. Admission is free.
Boise Holiday Parade
Saturday, November 28, 10 a.m. in downtown Boise. The 78th parade showcases decorated floats, marching groups and a “Christmas Is for Giving” theme. Bring a chair, dress warmly and arrive early. Free admission.
Meridian Children’s Winterland Festival
December 12, 10 a.m.‑2 p.m. at Meridian Homecourt (936 Taylor Ave.). Hosted by Meridian Parks & Recreation, the free event offers crafts, games and a photo with Santa.
Meridian Winter Lights Parade and Tree Lighting
Friday, December 4, 7 p.m. downtown. The parade features illuminated floats, hot‑chocolate stations and a tree lighting ceremony. Admission is free.
Additional Community Lightings
Other free celebrations include Nampa’s tree lighting (Nov 28), the Idaho Capitol tree lighting (Dec 1), Eagle’s downtown lights (Dec 5), Kuna’s Down‑Home Christmas (Dec 5) and Emmett’s Holiday Magic on Main Street (Nov 28). Each offers Santa visits, entertainment and kid‑friendly activities.
With so many options, families can enjoy the season without spending a fortune. Keep an eye on local venues for updates and additional events as the holidays progress.
Original reporting: 580 KIDO Talk Radio (Boise) — read the source article.
