Things to Do in Boise in November 2019

Brrr, is that a chill we feel on the air? As November hits in the Treasure Valley, the temperatures take a dive with average highs in the 40s. It’s the perfect opportunity to break out your favorite cozy sweater, drink your hot beverage of choice, and enjoy the wonder of the season. November kicks off the holiday season in Boise with plenty to do, especially around Thanksgiving. If you have family in town, be sure to show them why you love living in Boise by bringing them to a few of these events.

Winter Boise Farmers Market | Downtown Boise

November 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30

Summer may be long gone, but Boise’s downtown farmers markets are still going strong! The Capital City Public Market transforms into the much-anticipated Holiday Market during November and December and moves to a new location at The Grove Plaza. The Boise Farmers Market—a food-centric market—moves indoors at Shoreline and Americana during November and December. Visit both of them on Saturdays this month to stock up on fresh local produce and all of your holiday gift needs.

First Thursday | Downtown Boise

November 7

Stroll through downtown to window shop, look at the holiday window displays, enjoy the lights already twinkling, and take advantage of great deals and specials. Every First Thursday in downtown Boise has something special to offer, and this month’s event is a good time to start your Christmas shopping. Learn more.

Sippin’ in the City | 8th & Main Building

November 7

Experience Idaho wines paired with incredible local food at the Idaho Wine Commission’s annual Sippin’ in the City event. This unique evening invites you to sip the wines grown right in your backyard while listening to live music. See the lights from above downtown Boise and experience the tastes of the Treasure Valley with Sippin’ in the City.

Boise State Football Home Games | Albertsons Stadium

November 9, and 16

Get your blue and orange ready and head out to a Boise State football home game to cheer on the Broncos. Boise State will play Wyoming on November 9th and face off with the University of New Mexico Lobos on November 16th, giving you two opportunities to experience the thrill of an electrified stadium on the famous blue turf. Learn more.

Rake Up Boise | Boise

November 9

It’s the season of giving back—and also the season of yard clean-up. If you or someone you know struggles with the physical task of cleaning up their yard, Boise volunteers and businesses want to help out. Thousands of volunteers every year give their time, muscle, and energy to their neighbors with Rake Up Boise, and you can get in on the charitable fun. Learn more.

Treasure Valley Flea Market | Expo Idaho

November 9-10

Stock up on hard-to-find treasures and classic goodies at the Treasure Valley Flea Market. You’ll find something for the antiques-lover on your Christmas list at Expo Idaho November 9th and 10th. Learn more.

Eagle Holiday Open House | Downtown Eagle

November 14

Start the holiday shopping season off early by joining local retail shops in Eagle for a festive Holiday Open House. Enjoy refreshments while strolling and visiting your favorite stores celebrating the season.

Christmas is Coming to Kleiner Park | Meridian

November 14

Head down to Kleiner Park and enjoy a variety of local makers offering handmade crafts. There will be food trucks on-site, a scavenger hunt with prizes for the kids, and live music on stage. The 4th Annual Christmas is Coming to Kleiner Park starts at 9 am. Learn more.

Winter Wonderland Festival | Indian Creek Downtown Caldwell

November 22-ongoing

Every year, the City of Caldwell Street Department decorates Indian Creek in downtown with over a million lights. Come watch as Mayor Garret Nancolas ‘flips the switch’ to turn on the dazzling display at the family-friendly, fun-filled, free Winter Wonderland Festival, Friday, November 22, from 5 to 10 pm.

Tinker the T-Rex Grand Opening | Discovery Center of Idaho

November 22-ongoing

With a grand opening on Friday, November 22nd, at 10:00 am, the Discovery Center of Idaho is bringing a brand new, long-term Tyrannosaurus rex exhibition to Boise at the Discovery Center. This 1,000 square-foot exhibition, which will feature a two-thirds scale juvenile cast T-Rex skeleton called ‘Tinker,’ provides a great opportunity to study the build and athletic prowess of a young T-Tex. Learn more.

A Christmas Story, The Musical | Morrison Center

November 22-24

Nominated for three Tony Awards including Best Musical, A CHRISTMAS STORY, THE MUSICAL, brings the classic 1983 movie to hilarious life on stage at the Morrison Center. Join Ralphie Parker as he schemes his way toward the holiday gift of his dreams. Presented by the 19/20 Season of Broadway in Boise.

Boise Holiday Parade | Downtown Boise

November 23

Every year the community comes together to herald the beginning of the holiday season with a downtown parade full of lights, fun, and spirit. This year’s Boise Holiday Parade theme is “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” with grand marshal (former BSU President) Dr. Bob Kustra. Bring the kids, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and celebrate the season in beautiful downtown Boise. Learn more.

Wintry Market | JUMP Boise

November 23-24

Go handmade for the holidays this year with the 70+ makers and artists at the Wintry Market. This well-attended event has ballooned over the years from its humble beginnings to an enormous yearly attraction. Boise locals buy from other locals at the Wintry Market and put something truly unique under the tree for friends and family. Learn more.

Winter Garden aGlow | Idaho Botanical Gardens

November 24-January 4

Every year the plants and wildlife at the Idaho Botanical Garden go dormant, and every year the garden comes back to life just as winter falls with the annual favorite Winter Garden aGlow event. 400,000 lights and twinkling attractions fill the garden while vendors sling hot drinks and food. Warm up by a crackling fire or visit with special guest Santa, who’ll be coming in straight from the North Pole. Learn more.

Festival of Trees | Boise Centre on the Grove

November 26 - December 1

Revel in the tradition and excitement of the season with one of the valley’s favorite holiday event for 36 years running, the Festival of Trees. This incredible showcase of holiday splendor puts hundreds of brightly decorated Christmas trees on display, as well as wreaths and decor. There’s something for everyone during the Festival, including a black-tie gala to start the festivities, a fashion show, and a charming North Pole Village. Visit with Santa, meet the sisters from “Frozen,” and frolic in the joys of the season—all for the great cause of supporting the work of St. Alphonsus. Learn more.

Turkey Day 5k | Downtown Boise

November 28

Stoke your Thanksgiving appetite and start the day in a healthy way with the downtown Boise Turkey Trot 5k. The event is a light-hearted run fit for the whole family. Bring non-perishable foods to benefit the Boise Rescue Mission and give back before stuffing yourself with friends and family later. Learn more.

Idaho Food Bank Empty Bowls | Boise Centre on the Grove

November 29

On the Friday after Thanksgiving, the Boise community comes together to support the work of the Idaho Food Bank. The 2019 Empty Bowls event is sure to draw a crowd as locals choose beautifully decorated bowls created by amateur and professional artists and enjoy generously-donated soup. Purchase a bowl, eat soup crafted by local chefs, and support the excellent work of the Idaho Food Bank. Learn more.

Black Friday: 8th Annual Celebration of Dark Beer | Payette Brewing Co

November 29

Skip the crowds and fights over discount big-screen TVs and instead join Payette Brewing on Black Friday for a celebration of delicious dark beers. Payette Brewing, a local standard and Idaho-grown company, will be releasing their 2019 Twelve Gauge Barrel Aged Imperial Stout, and you’ll get to enjoy an impressive tap list of over 40 imperial stouts and porters. The event will feature live music and food trucks, and we can’t think of a better way to spend the day after Thanksgiving.

Downtown Boise Tree Lighting | Boise Centre on the Grove

November 29

The Boise community comes together every year in downtown to celebrate the traditional lighting of the downtown Christmas tree on The Grove Plaza. Mayor Bieter officiates the festivities and families are invited to enjoy this joyful event to welcome the holiday season. There will be carolers, beverages, and activities for the whole family to experience. Learn more.

Thanksgiving Weekend: Winery Tours and Open Houses

November 29 - December 1

Did you know that November is a great time to experience Idaho wine? Even if you don’t make it out to Sippin’ in the City, you can take your friends and family who are in town for Thanksgiving on a tour of the Sunny Slope Wine Trail, tasting and toasting the whole way. Many wineries are offering specials and events from November 29th to December 1st, including Ste. Chapelle’s Annual Open House and Barrel Tasting. Learn more.

Canyon County Festival of Trees | Ford Idaho Center

November 29 - December 1

Benefitting Nampa and Caldwell Meals on Wheels, the Canyon County Festival of Trees will host custom-designed Christmas trees, silent auction, and gorgeous decorations. Pick up a few unique gifts and enjoy this family-center holiday event in its 27th year. Learn more.

Elf at The Egyptian Theatre

November 30

“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!” Buddy is back to kick off the holidays at the Egyptian! Waddle your Thanksgiving-stuffed self downtown to see Buddy the Elf save Christmas. Ugly sweater contest, and candy canes for the kiddos. 4:15 pm Showing — 8:00 pm Showing.

This year, we’re thankful for Boise, for great holiday events, and you.

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