Whether your holiday season is shaping up to be a traditional white Christmas or whether the only thing adorning your yard is endless strings of cheerful, twinkling lights, the holiday season is officially on the horizon. Fortunately, Idaho is full of indoor and outdoor Christmas attractions that are sure to put you in the festive spirit. Then there are your own family traditions that make this most wonderful time of the year "look a lot like Christmas." To jump-start your Idaho Christmas bucket list, here are 10 perfect holiday things to do that won't break the bank and will keep your season shaping up to be merry and bright. Christmas in Idaho has never been so magical!
1. Enjoy a snowy, horse-drawn sleigh ride.
There are a number of sleigh ride outfitters across the state, many of whom offer hot chocolate and snacks during the ride, Christmas music, educational stops, or scenic mountain destinations. This is a delightful Christmas tradition you're sure to love.
2. Visit the Idaho State Capitol Building in Boise.
Even if you're not a capital city resident, Christmas in Boise sure is magical. Starting with the towering lit Christmas tree right outside the capitol building and the luxuriously festive decor inside, this is one way to find yourself immersed in the holiday spirit. You'll find yourself dazzled by the lights reflecting off of the cool marble pillars while jolly poinsettia bushels and garlands abound to warm up the space with holiday cheer. Visit the City of Boise website for all the Christmas events going on this year.
3. Take a holiday lights tour on a vintage trolley.
Perfect for the busy family who wants to enjoy the magic of Idaho's Christmas lights together without the hassle of driving around, there are a variety of Christmas trolley tours around the state which are the perfect answer. These tours travel through the brightest lit housing districts in their respective cities, with the crisp winter air washing over you - and maybe even a little snow - to add authentic magic to the sights.
4. Go see thousands of lights at a local botanical garden.
While there are plenty of light displays, ice castles, and lit-up gardens around the state, you can experience some of the biggest and brightest Christmas lights display in Idaho's capital city. Twinkling bridges and promenades, live music, visits from Santa, and even a whimsical train ride makes this an event for the whole family.
5. Check out a local light festival.
Big and small, gorgeous holiday light festivals are currently taking place throughout the state, featuring dancing trees, warm snacks, holiday music, and all of the gingerbread you can shake a candy cane at. For example, you can't miss the Winter Spirit holiday festival in Lewiston, Idaho which is straight out of a Hallmark holiday movie.
6. Decorate and bake Christmas cookies together.
Perfectly imperfect cookies made with family and baked while wearing fuzzy pajamas always taste the best and are the perfect snack to bring along to see Christmas lights in Idaho!
7. Be enchanted at your local Festival of Trees.
Nearly every city hosts their own unique festival of trees, which often feature dozens--if not more--of glorious evergreens decorated flawlessly by local residents and businesses. It's an easy way to jump into the spirit of the season while scoping out ideas for your own family tree. Check out the full list of Idaho Festival of Trees events - you're sure to find one nearby.
8. Journey to the North Pole on a Christmas lights cruise.
This blossoming, family-friendly tradition will amaze you with the light displays, the tallest living Christmas tree in the country, and a visit from Santa and his friends. You might even get added to the 'Nice' list! This is easily one of our favorite Christmas activities to take part in year after year.
9. Go ice skating in the great outdoors.
Idaho has some rather magnificent outdoor ice rinks, both tucked away in the trees and hidden in plain sight. Whether twirling at the Meridian's outdoor rink at The Village or finding a very well-frozen lake to test your balance and skills, breathing in that fresh Idaho air from atop a frozen expanse is absolutely exhilarating.
10. Catch a local Christmas concert.
Whether by a local high school concert band, a city philharmonic, or a university performance, Christmas carols, traditional choral pieces, and even Tchaikovsky's famous Nutcracker Suite will definitely get you into the Christmas spirit, no matter where you are.
Whether you plan on spending Christmas in Boise or another part of Idaho, this list should have you covered! Santa's making his list and checking it twice; are you going to check each of these things off your list this season?
For all the details on Idaho's most festive events, check out Lake Coeur d'Alene Cruises's Journey to the North Pole. And don't forget to wear your warmest winter layers!
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