Boise is always finding another reason to get out and enjoy the community—and we’re not complaining! From colorful hot air balloons and outdoor art to live music, holiday traditions, and some of Boise’s favorite local events, there’s always something happening around town. Here are a few of our favorites to add to your calendar.

🎈 Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic — September 2–6

One of Boise’s most iconic traditions is coming up soon! The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic takes over Ann Morrison Park over Labor Day weekend, filling the sky with colorful hot air balloons.

There’s something happening each day, including Kids’ Day on Wednesday, morning launches throughout the weekend, and the popular Nite Glow Spectacular on Friday evening. The Nite Glow features glowing balloons, food vendors, live music, and a fun atmosphere for the whole family. And if you want to see the balloons take flight, be prepared for an early morning—the launches are definitely worth getting up for!

See the Spirit of Boise schedule

🎨 Art in the Park — September 11–13

If you love finding unique art, handmade goods, and local makers, Art in the Park is one you won’t want to miss. Held at beautiful Julia Davis Park, this three-day event brings together around 240 artists, along with food vendors, live entertainment, and hands-on activities for kids.

It’s a great event for an afternoon stroll, a little shopping, and enjoying some of the best parts of Boise’s creative community—all outside in the park. Best of all, admission is free!

Learn more about Art in the Park

🎶 Treefort Music Fest — March 31–April 4, 2027

Okay, this one is a little further out, but Treefort is definitely worth putting on the calendar early. Downtown Boise comes alive for five days of music, art, film, comedy, food, podcasts, and more.

With hundreds of artists and performers taking over venues throughout downtown, Treefort is one of those Boise events where you can wander around and discover something completely new. And if music isn't your thing, there are plenty of other “forts” to explore, including Artfort, Filmfort, Foodfort, Comedyfort, Kidfort, and more.

Explore Treefort Music Fest

🏀 BAM Jam — August 7–9

For the basketball fans, BAM Jam is a summer favorite. This 3-on-3 tournament brings youth, high school, and adult teams together for a weekend of competition and fun.

The 2026 summer tournament took place August 7–9 and was moved indoors to Owyhee High School because of smoky conditions. If you missed it this year, keep it on your list for next summer!

Check out BAM Jam

🎄 Festival of Trees — November 25–29

It may seem a little early to start thinking about Christmas, but the Festival of Trees is another Boise tradition worth putting on the calendar. This year marks the event’s 42nd year, with the festival returning to Boise Centre November 25–29.

You’ll find beautifully decorated Christmas trees, visits with Santa, live performances, a children's scavenger hunt, a gift shop, and even a huge LEGO display. It’s a fun way to kick off the holiday season while supporting a great local cause.

See Festival of Trees details

✨ Winter Garden aGlow — November & December

Once the holiday season arrives, it’s hard to beat an evening at the Idaho Botanical Garden’s Winter Garden aGlow. Each winter, the garden is transformed into a glowing wonderland filled with hundreds of thousands of lights.

Bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and take a walk through the gardens while enjoying the lights, holiday decorations, and festive atmosphere. It’s one of those Boise traditions that feels magical whether you’re bringing the kids or enjoying a night out with friends.

Learn more about Winter Garden aGlow

🏃 Race to Robie Creek — April 17, 2027

If you’ve lived in Boise for very long, you’ve probably heard of Race to Robie Creek. This legendary half-marathon is a true Boise tradition, taking runners from Fort Boise Park through the foothills to the finish at Robie Creek.

The race is known for its challenging climb, beautiful scenery, big community spirit, and legendary post-race celebration. The 2027 race is set for Saturday, April 17, so runners who want to participate should mark their calendars early—the race is known to fill up.

Race to Robie Creek information and registration

🚴 Boise Twilight Criterium — July 11, 2026

One of Boise’s most exciting summer events, the Twilight Criterium turns downtown Boise into a high-speed cycling course. Professional cyclists race through downtown while spectators line the streets, creating a huge block-party atmosphere.

The event includes kids' activities, local vendors, food trucks, a fan expo, and professional men's and women's races. The 2026 event took place July 11, so if you missed it this year, definitely keep an eye out for next summer's date.

Learn more about the Boise Twilight Criterium

Keep Exploring Boise!

One of the things we love about living in the Boise area is that there’s always something going on. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly weekend, a night of live music, a new local artist to discover, or just an excuse to get outside, our community has plenty to offer.

So grab your calendar and start planning—you might just find a new Boise tradition of your own!