We are officially in mid-May! School is almost out, and summer is right around the corner, and there’s no better place to soak up the sunshine and create lasting memories than right here in the Treasure Valley! Whether you’re a longtime local or new to the area, we've rounded up a few of the best ways to enjoy everything our vibrant community has to offer this season. From action-packed festivals to refreshing splash pads, here’s a bucket list to get your summer off to a great start!
Festivals & Events That Bring the Fun to Life
Idaho Family Summer Palooza – June 14, 2025
Taking place at Expo Idaho, this event is perfect for families, offering interactive exhibits, games, and entertainment from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Snake River Stampede – June 17-21, 2025
One of the top professional rodeos in the country, the Snake River Stampede at the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa features world-class bull riding, barrel racing, and roping, along with events for the youngest cowboys and cowgirls.
Meridian Dairy Days - June 18-21, 2025
Celebrate the region’s rich agricultural roots with a parade, carnival, and live entertainment. Don’t miss the famous Dairy Princess coronation!
Boise Music Festival – June 21, 2025
Held at Expo Idaho in Garden City, the 14th annual Boise Music Festival offers a full day of music and family entertainment from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. With multiple stages featuring a variety of artists, it's a must-attend event for music lovers of all ages.
Concerts on Broadway – July 12, August 9, September 6, 2025
Meridian's Concerts on Broadway series continues with a performance on July 12. These free concerts offer a variety of musical genres, providing entertainment for all ages in a family-friendly environment.
Twilight Criterium – July 19, 2025
Downtown Boise transforms into a cyclist's paradise with the return of the Twilight Criterium. As part of the American Criterium Cup, this event features professional races, a Kids' Ride, and an expo with food, drinks, and activities, drawing over 20,000 spectators. The high-speed races on a compact course offer excitement for both participants and fans.
Christmas in July Craft Show & Market – July 26, 2025
The Mint Barrel Barn in Nampa hosts the "Christmas in July" Craft Show and Market. Attendees can browse a variety of vendor booths offering handmade crafts, woodworking, and seasonal treats.
Kuna Days
Held every August, Kuna Days features a lively parade, fireworks, car shows, and family-friendly games. It’s small-town charm at its best and a perfect outing for all ages.
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Kohl, L. (2019). Exploring the Best of Boise: Idaho Botanical Garden [Review of Exploring the Best of Boise: Idaho Botanical Garden].
Zoo Boise
Get up close with animals from around the globe and support conservation efforts. Zoo Boise is a family favorite with interactive exhibits and beautiful grounds to explore.
The World Center for Birds of Prey
This hidden gem in Boise offers educational encounters with some of the world’s most fascinating raptors.
Idaho Botanical Garden
Perfect for a peaceful family stroll or a picnic among beautiful flowers, sculptures, and nature trails.
Day Trip to Idaho City
Step back in time with a short drive to historic Idaho City. Explore the old mining town, hot springs, and charming shops.
Old Idaho Penitentiary
For the adventurous, take a guided tour of this historic prison, learn about Idaho’s Wild West past, and explore the impressive sandstone architecture.
Downtown Boise
Vibrant shops, restaurants, and art galleries line the streets. Grab a local brew, shop the Saturday market, or take a walk along the Boise River Greenbelt.
Outdoor Adventures and Water Fun
Roaring Springs Water Park
The largest waterpark in the Northwest, Roaring Springs offers wave pools, thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and kiddie play areas. It’s a must-visit on a hot summer day!
Wahooz Family Fun Zone
Right next to Roaring Springs, Wahooz is perfect for families with attractions like mini-golf, go-karts, laser tag, and more.
Local Splash Pads
Many city parks in Meridian, Nampa, and Boise have fantastic splash pads. Kleiner Park in Meridian and Borah Park in Boise are two community favorites for cooling down while the kids play.
Boise River Greenbelt
The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile paved pathway that follows the Boise River through the city. It connects several parks and provides a scenic route for walking, jogging, biking, and wildlife observation. The Greenbelt also offers access points for river activities like tubing and fishing, integrating urban living with natural surroundings.
Quinn's Pond and Esther Simplot Park
In the heart of Boise, Quinn's Pond and the adjacent Esther Simplot Park offer urban water recreation. These areas are popular for activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The parks also feature walking paths, picnic areas, and access to the Boise River Greenbelt, making them convenient spots for both relaxation and exercise.
🌞 Make the Most of Your Treasure Valley Summer!
From high-energy festivals to relaxing days by the water, the greater Boise area is packed with summer activities to fit every mood and schedule, and these are just a few of the awesome things happening! As longtime residents in the Treasure Valley, our team loves being part of this dynamic community, and we’re excited to share the best ways to enjoy it!
Ready to explore Treasure Valley living year-round? Visit our available listings to find your perfect home base in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and beyond!