Local Events 2008
Local events are lots of fun! Idaho invites visitors to join in with locals for events of every description in 2008.
In addition to the local events listed, most Idaho counties hold an annual County Fair. If you have interest in attending one of these scheduled events, go to Idaho County Fairs for 2008 for a listing. Many Idaho towns also schedule an annual rodeo for your enjoyment. If rodeos are your cup of tea, go to
Idaho Rodeos for 2008
for our listing of rodeos.
Sandpoint Winter Carnival, January 17 - 20 - At Sandpoint, Idaho. 35th Annual Edition. This local event includes a Winter Carnival Parade, Taste of Sandpoint and many other fun family events. A torchlight parade at Schweitzer Mountain on Saturday as well as fireworks and live music. Information: (208) 263-0887 McCall Winter Carnival, January 25 - February 3 - At McCall, Idaho. 43rd Annual Event. Snow sculptures, Mardi Gras theme parade, children’s activities and musical entertainment are only a part of this annual local event. Information: (208) 634-7631 FEBRUARY U.S. Pacific Coast Championship Sled Dog Race, February 2 - 3 - At Priest Lake, Idaho. 75 teams compete in one-to 20 mile races on Priest Lake’s west side. Mushers, who range in age from four to 62, race dog teams of one to eight dogs. Races start and end at the U.S. Forest Service airstrip. Great local event. Information: (509) 447-5744 Spud Fest (Film Festival), February 19 - 24 - At Driggs, Idaho. A celebration of independent family films and classic television held at a historic drive-in theater and at the Idaho Film & Television Institute in Driggs, and at venues in Pocatello and Idaho Falls. It features new and established artists working in the film industry. Spud Fest was founded by Dawn Wells (Mary Ann in Gilligan's Island), who offers Film Boot Camps in the Teton Valley each summer. Information: (208) 354-3221 Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, February 20 - 23 - At Moscow, Idaho. Selected as one of the top events in America by the American Bus Association, you'll boogie with the best at this musical extravaganza. More than 50 of the world's greatest jazz artists conduct workshops and participate in concert performances. Information: (208) 885-6765 MARCH Annual Wine Stein & Dine, March 1 - This local event is at Post Falls, Idaho (Greyhound Park & Events Center). A sampling of crafted beers and fine wines at a chef's competition. Information: (208) 773-5016 Annual Pebble Creek Snowboard Rally, March 15 - 16 - At Inkom, Idaho (Pebble Creek Ski Area). This local event is an annual Snowboard Rally with a rail jam, boardercross race and highest ollie contest and lots of boarder action. Information: (208) 775-4452 Dodge National Circuit Finals Rodeo, March 19 - 22 - At Pocatello, Idaho. This second largest points-qualifying rodeo in the U.S. features cowboys from twelve nationwide circuits. Nearby, Pebble Creek Ski Area hosts the Annual Coors Cowboy Classic Slalom and Barrel Race. During this local event, professional cowboys and cowgirls take a wild ride down the mountain astride a barrel tethered by two downhill skiers. Information: (208) 233-1546 APRIL Annual Dogwood Festival, April 1 - 30 - At Lewiston, Idaho and various venues in the Lewis-Clark Valley. The Annual Dogwood Festival is a month long celebration of arts, recreation and family fun. Offering such diverse events as a Classic Show & Shine (April 26), the 3-on-3 Dogwood Dunk Basketball Tournament, Seaport River Run, the Swing into Spring Jazz concert & dance and Art Under the Elms (April 24-27) this local event has something for all. Information: (208) 792-2447 Gene Harris Jazz Festival, April 3 - 4 - At Boise, Idaho. The annual Gene Harris Jazz Festival is a tribute to the late Gene Harris who inspired audiences and young musicians throughout his long and distinguished career. The Thursday downtown Club Night features nine venues with national and local jazz artists for this local event. Saturday evening's Gene Harris Family and Friends concert at the BSU Pavilion honors Gene Harris' memory. Information: (208) 426-1596 East Idaho Fly Tying and Fly Fishing Expo, April 17-19 - At Idaho Falls, Idaho (Shilo Inn). Fly fishing and fly-tying event with demonstrations by 120 fly-tyers from all over the country and tying and casting workshops for all, including women and children. Ends Saturday night with an auction and banquet fundraiser. My favorite local event! Information: (208) 524-7160 Salmon River Jet Boat Races, April 18 - 20 - At Riggins, Idaho. World class jet boat racing on the Salmon River. This is the first leg of the U.S. Championship Jet Boat Race. This local event draws competitors from as far away as Canada, Mexico, and New Zealand. Information: (208) 628-3778 MAY Moscow Renaissance Fair, May 3 - 4 - At Moscow, Idaho. A celebration of spring with crafts, fine foods and a separate acoustic stage features musical performances all day long. A huge Kid's Area offers a wide variety of games and activities for children and parents. This event began over 25 years ago as a release from the winter doldrums. Today, this local event is a showcase of costumed characters from throughout the Northwest re-creating the Renaissance. Information: (208) 882-1800 Lost In The Fifties, May 16 - 18 - At Sandpoint, Idaho. In its 23rd year this event celebrates the culture and music of the 1950s. It features performances by Peggy March as well as Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, a street dance, a car show and more. Information: (208) 263-9321 Snake River Fiber Fair, May 16 - 18 - At Idaho Falls, Idaho. This annual gathering celebrates the fiber arts with workshops on baskets, weaving, spinning, knitting, crocheting, felting and more. Held at Eastern Idaho Technical College, this local event includes vendors and fleece competition. Information: (208) 522-1337 St. Anthony Fisherman‘s Breakfast, May 23 - At St. Anthony, Idaho. This annual local event marks the beginning of fishing season. Many activities follow the free breakfast from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm. Information: (208) 624-4870 Hagerman Fossil Days, May 23 - 24 - At Hagerman, Idaho. A weekend full of old-fashioned, small-town family fun in the Hagerman Valley. The Hagerman City Park offers ongoing musical entertainment and dancing, lots of good food, craft vendors and games for children. Each year, Friday night features live entertainment on stage for the whole family. The parade held at 11am on Saturday is one of the best around. Great local event. Information: (208) 837-9131 Sun Valley Wellness Festival, May 23 - 26 - At Sun Valley, Idaho. Classes, seminars and vendors feature ideas for the spirit, body and mind. Information: (208) 726-2777 Challis Mountain Lilac Festival, May 24 - June 30 - At Challis, Idaho. The Challis Lilac Festival invites visitors to come during the months of May and June. This festival celebrates lilacs through a series of events throughout the two months. Local event includes a Lilac Arts & Crafts Festival, Western Comedy Plays, Cowboy Poetry, Golf Tournament, the Round Valley Horse Show, a Lilac Parade, the Mario D'Orazio Golf Tournament, a Photo Contest, and the Annual 4D Turn & Burn Barrel Race. Please check the Festival website at www.challislilacfestival.com Information: (208) 879-5084 Western Days, May 30 - June 1 - At Twin Falls, Idaho. Family-oriented event featuring a carnival, two days of music, arts and crafts show, food booths and a parade. Held at the Twin Falls City Park. Information: (208) 733-3974 JUNE Idaho Shakespeare Festival, June 6 - September 27 - At Boise, Idaho. Each summer, the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Idaho's premier professional theater company, stages a full season by the Bard and other classical playwrights. Performances run in repertory Tuesday-Sunday at the Festival's stunning outdoor amphitheater on the banks of the Boise River. Picnicking is encouraged and an array of goodies and beverages are available for purchase each evening. Website: www.idahoshakespeare.org Information: (208) 429-9908
Annual Big Water Blowout, June 7 - At Riggins, Idaho. Bring your friends and your family to experience the season's biggest water! There will be many raft companies with licensed guides ready and waiting to take you on the river, as a minimum donation gets you an all day pass for rafting with any company. Other activities include a Dutch Oven Cook-Off, an After Raft Party and entertainment. Visit www.rigginsidaho.com Information: (208) 794-9833 Mountain Brewer‘s Beer Festival, June 7 - At Idaho Falls, Idaho. Established as the premier beer event in the Northern Rockies, more than 80 breweries with 300 varieties of beer converge on Sandy Downs race track. The festival provides a lot of fun for non-drinkers as well. Live music, root beer and cream soda, food, raffle items, a silent art auction and a chance to enjoy the fun. Information: (208) 705-3378 Jazz in the Canyon Weekend, June 12 - 14 - At Twin Falls, Idaho. It took thousands of years to create a theatre worthy of such an event. A venue carved in stone, where melodies float on the wind and soar to the heavens, where notes tumble over rocks and are cleansed by the mist of a great river. Jazz in the Canyon is the summer’s biggest musical event. See the Times News or log on to www.twinfallschamber.com for a complete listing of activates. For tickets to this local event, call 1-866-Twin Falls. Information: (208) 733-3974 Car d'Alene Classic Car Show, June 13 - 14 - At Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. The Friday night cruise, featuring more than 600 cars, kicks off the event. Saturday's Show And Shine offers a closer look at these autos from the past. Information: (208) 667-4040 Idaho State Square & Round Dance Festival, June 13 - 14 - At Sugar City, Idaho. Workshops and dances showcasing many different styles are on tap during this unique local event. Information: (208) 356-7561 Sun Valley Ice Shows, June 14 - September 13 - At Sun Valley, Idaho. Tickets for the dinner buffet and show, and reserved bleacher seating may be purchased at www.sunvalley.com online. Information: (208) 622-2135 Magic Valley Dairy Days, June 16 - 18 - At Wendell, Idaho. Dairy Days are celebrated the third weekend in June each year to acknowledge the dairy industry's contributions to the Magic Valley. Includes a parade, food booths, arts/crafts, entertainment, free ice cream, evening melodrama by the Snake River Community Players. Information for this local event: (208) 934-5135 National Old Time Fiddlers’ Contest and Festival, June 16 -21 - At Weiser, Idaho. 350 of the Nation's top fiddlers compete for National Champion titles. The weeklong event includes three stages of entertainment, free music workshops, arts, crafts, one of Idaho's largest parades and non stop jamming around town. Don't miss the bluegrass concert series throughout the festival. Information: (208) 414-0255 Gyro Days - Lead Creek Derby, June 19 - 21 - At Wallace, Idaho. Northern Idaho's oldest river race and community carnival. Information: (208) 753-7151 Welsh Festival (Eisteddfod) - June 27 - 28 - At Malad City, Idaho. Annual Welsh heritage event celebrating the area's settling in the mid-1800's by Welsh pioneers. Welsh music, dancing, crafts, food, and games. Fun for all at this local event! Information: (208) 766-9230 Portneuf Greenway RiverFest, June 28 - At Pocatello, Idaho. Annual Riverfest with arts and crafts festival at Raymond Park. Proceeds go toward building and maintaining Portneuf Greenway trails and parks. Information: (208) 234-4929 Idaho Regatta at Burley, June 28 - 29 - At Burley, Idaho. A three-day speedboat spectacular on the Snake River featuring ninety of the nation‘s finest flat-bottom boats. Six classes of 140-mph power boats and four classes of top alcohol drag boats that reach speeds of more than 200 mph. Information: (208) 679-4793
JULY Grangeville Border Days Rodeo, July 3 - 6 - At Grangeville, Idaho. Three days of street fairs, parades and a rodeo on the Camas Prairie. Information: (208) 983-0460 Salmon River Days, July 3 - 6 - At Salmon, Idaho. This local event festivities include a kids fishing derby, family reunions, arts and crafts, boat and bike races, demolition derby, parade and fireworks display, cowboy poetry, a concert, an auction, the Leadore Rodeo, a community dance, softball games, sidewalk sales, horseshoe tournament, horse races, motorcross races and a Quilt Show. Held all over Salmon, most activities are free, some events have an admission charge. There will also be an art show, and activities at the new Sacajawea Interpretive and Educational Center. Information: (208) 756-2100 Teton Valley Summer Festival, July 4 - 6 - At Driggs, Idaho. A festival featuring air balloons in a rally overlooking the Grand Teton Mountain Range. 4 days of balloon rides, games, parades, rodeo action, golf tournament, bike races, a fiddler's contest and a craft/antique fair. Information: (208) 354-2500 Hailey Days of the Old West, July 4 - 6 At Hailey, Idaho. Celebrate the Fourth of July Weekend in true Old West fashion. Rodeo, parade, shootout, BBQ, antique market, flapjack breakfast and fireworks. Information: (208) 788-2700 Historic Skills Fair, July 13 - At Cataldo, Idaho. Historic skills artists demonstrate and sell their wares during this day-long event at Old Mission State Park. Old time fiddlers provide the music. Food is available at this local event. Information: (208) 682-3814 Annual Basque Picnic, Dates TBA - At Gooding, Idaho. The day begins with Mass at 11:00 a.m. A barbeque will follow with lamb chops, Basque rice, beans, salad and bread being served until 3:00 p.m. Chorizos are served after 3:00 p.m. There are Basque dancers, games, foot races for the kids and weight carrying contests for adults. An auction is held, with lambs, and huge loaves of Basque bread for sale. Information: (208) 934-5840 Snake River Stampede, July 15 - 19 - At Nampa, Idaho. The Snake River Stampede is one of the top 12 rodeos in the nation and includes the world's best cowboys and cowgirls in action. Bareback bronc riding, calf roping, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing, bull riding and the Stampeders Night Light Drill Team. Information: (208) 466-8497 Idaho International Choral Festival, July 16 - 20 - At Pocatello, Idaho. This event is held at Idaho State University and other local venues. See and hear choirs from Algeria, Brazil, China, Kenya, Lithuania, Nigeria, Romainia, Spain and Taiwan, as well as the United States as the World comes together in song. For details, go to www.idahointerchoralfest.org or call (208) 232-8598 Rendezvous in the Park, July 17 - 20 - At Moscow, Idaho. This local event begun in 1983 by the city and the Moscow Arts Commission. In 1990, Rendezvous in Moscow, Inc. was formed as a private, non-profit corporation. Over the years, Rendezvous has showcased some of the country's best musicians, many of whom have gone on to win honors such as The Grammy, the Country Music Award and the Handy Award. Visit www.moscowmusic.com for details. Information: (208) 882-4232 Artists' Studio Tour of Northern Idaho, July 18 - 20 and July 25 - 27 - At Sandpoint, Idaho. Over 30 local artists invite visitors to their studios for demonstrations, receptions and talks. Information: (800) 263-1448 Sawtooth Mountain Mamas Arts & Crafts Fair, July 19 - 20 - At Stanley, Idaho. This two-day event brings more than 130 artists and craftsmen from throughout the Northwest to Stanley. Only artists displaying their own original, handcrafted items are permitted to participate. All work is juried at the time of the fair. The fair provides a rare opportunity to be able to purchase art directly from the artist. Entertainment occurs throughout the day with a pancake breakfast on Sunday morning. Information: (208) 774-3411 That Famous Preston Night Rodeo, July 24 - 26 - At Preston, Idaho. Three nights of PRCA-rodeo action featuring top performers, a carnival and a parade at Idaho's first night rodeo. Daytime events include a sidewalk sale, craft and antique fair and a Sarsaparilla Saloon. Information: (208) 852-2703 Priest River Timber Days, July 25 - 26 - At Priest River, Idaho. Car show Friday night, huckleberry pancake breakfast Saturday morning. Parade, an arts-and-crafts fair, and a family dance. Information: (208) 448-2721 Julyamsh Pow Wow, July 25 - 27 - At Post Falls, Idaho. Hundreds of Native American drummers, horsemen and dancers come together in harmony and peace to compete during one of the nation's largest outdoor powwows. More than 200 booths feature traditional goods, clothing, jewelry, drums and furs for sale. Storytelling demonstrations, rodeo events and traditional bareback races are part of this annual celebration. Camping for this local event is available nearby. Information: (800) 523-2464 Idaho International Dance & Music Festival, July 26 - August 2 - At Rexburg, Idaho. Hundreds of dancers from around the world share their culture and promote world peace. Free events include opening and closing ceremonies, street dance, parade, fireworks, and Youth Culture Day. Tickets required for indoor performances and youth culture day. Information: (208) 356-5700 AUGUST Northern Rockies Folk Festival, August 1 - 2 - At Hailey, Idaho. Enjoy the Northern Rockies Folk Festival and the great regional music at Hop Porter Park in Hailey. Friday 5pm, Saturday 12noon. Information: (208) 788-3484 Pierce 1860 Days Celebration, August 1 - 3 - At Pierce, Idaho. The entire town of Pierce commemorates the founding of their town and the state of Idaho with a weekend full of activities. Events planned for this year include a BBQ & ice cream social in the park with live music by The Amateurs, dancing Friday and Saturday with Grahams Band, an ATV fun run, a co-ed softball tournament, an arts & crafts fair, a bake sale & flea market, History of Pierce display, a parade, fun for children including a clown, face painting and a tug-of-war. Other activities include Jail-to-Bail and the Spanish Club duck race. The Bradbury Logging Museum will be open. Information: (208) 964-1023 Yellow Pine Harmonica Festival & Contest, August 1 - 3 - At Yellow Pine, Idaho. This foot-stompin' local event is nationally-acclaimed harmonica contest and musical celebration takes place in a small gold mining town that looks and feels like Idaho did 100 years ago. A play-off salutes the importance of the harmonica in the musical history of the old West. Food is available and craft vendors display and sell their wares. Campsites available on first come basis. Information: (208) 633-3300 Annual Soul Food Extravaganza, August 2 - At Boise, Idaho. A feast for the senses at Julia Davis Park featuring traditional ethnic foods like BBQ beef, pork and chicken; jambalaya, fried catfish, collard greens and sweet potato pie. Music (everything from Gospel to Jazz), African storytelling, and children's activities. Event proceeds go to local charities. The times are 12pm until 8pm. Information: (208) 939-5258 Raspberry Festival, August 3 - At Cottonwood, Idaho. The Annual Raspberry Festival is a benefit for the Historical Museum at St. Gertrude in Cottonwood. This country festival features homemade Raspberry shortcake and BBQ beef sandwiches, live entertainment, cultural and craft demonstrations, arts & crafts booths, raffle, 10K fun run/walk and car show. Information: (208) 962-2050 Bear Lake Raspberry Days, August 7 - 9 - At Bear Lake, Idaho. A great local event, this annual raspberry celebration with a craft fair, Miss Berry Princess contest, raspberry recipe cookoff, rodeo, dances, fireworks and local entertainment. Held in the Bear Lake area at Garden City, Utah. Information: (208) 945-3333 Shoshone Bannock Indian Festival, August 7 - 10 - At Fort Hall, Idaho. A celebration of Indian culture. Festivities include traditional Indian dances, parades, All-Indian rodeo, Feasts, Arts and Culture vendors, Art show, high stakes bingo, fun run, Indian crafts, traditional handgames and a soft ball tournament. Information: (208) 239-4753 True West Cinema Festival, August 7 - 10 - At Boise, Idaho. This year's fest features Idaho premieres of festival favorites, new works-in-progress you'll see before the rest of the world, three diverse and engaging shorts film programs, industry panels and array of visiting filmmakers and special guests. Oh, and did we mention there are parties - every night. Information: (208) 867-9547 Festival at Sandpoint, August 7 - 17 - At Sandpoint, Idaho. A series of classical, blues, country, pop, rock n'roll and jazz concerts under the stars on Lake Pend Oreille in Sandpoint. Food and beverages available for purchase, or bring your own. Website: www.FestivalAtSandpoint.com Information: (208) 265-4554
Annual Bluegrass Festival, August 8 - 10 - At Driggs, Idaho. This local event provides three full days of incredible bluegrass music at Grand Targhee Resort, located on the west side of the Teton Mountains. Arts and crafts, food courts, flat pick guitar contest and children's activities are held throughout the weekend. Tent camping at Grand Targhee in our beautiful national forest is available during the Bluegrass Music Festival weekend. The Bluegrass Festival continues to attract the country's greatest bluegrass talent to our outdoor stage. Information: (307) 353-2300 Friendship Days, Date TBA - at Deary, Idaho. Deary, founded in 1907, is celebrating its 101st year. This village, originally a company town for the Potlatch Lumber Company, is located north of Lewiston on State Route 3 at the junction with State Route 8. The Friendship Days celebration includes a parade at 10am, food, music, a car show and many other activities. Fun for everyone! Caldwell Night Rodeo, August 12 - 16 - At Caldwell, Idaho. One of the top 20 PRCA rodeos in the nation featuring top professional cowboys in an outdoor arena. An Idaho classic. Information: (208) 459-7493 Wallace Heritage - Huckleberry Festival, August 15 - 16 - At Wallace, Idaho. Stroll the Historic Streets of Wallace, tour a silver mine or visit the Oasis Bordello Museum during a fun-filled weekend. Art, Craft, and Food booths will be available along with Historic Skills Demonstrations, and activities for kids of all ages. Watch the judging of the Annual Huckleberry Bake-Off and enjoy the fruits of their labor. Saturday begins the Rotary Huckleberry Pancake Breakfast followed by a 5K run. Music all weekend. Information: (208) 753-7151 Weippe Rodeo, August 15 - 16 - At Pierce, Idaho. I.C.A.'s Wild Weippe Rodeo, Third Weekend in August. Parade Noon on Saturday-downtown Weippe, Rodeo starts at 2:00pm. Kids events Saturday. Non-Alcoholic section. Information: (208) 435-4406 Mountain Man Rendezvous, August 15 - 17 - At Cataldo, Idaho. Gathering of folks who enjoy practicing early mountain man skills and lifestyles at Old Mission State Park. Some offer items for sale at this local event. Information: (208) 682-3814 Coeur d‘Alene Wooden Boat Festival, August 16 - 17 - At Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Annual Wooden Boat Festival promises a spotlight on wooden boats with over 80 exhibitors expected. Also view the on-land display of new boats by three area dealers and several watercraft booths. Two fun-filled days of activities, vendors and entertainment! Information: (208) 664-3194 Bannock County Bluegrass Festival, August 22 - 24 - At Pocatello, Idaho. Come and enjoy a weekend filled with toe tapping bluegrass and gospel music. Bring the family and enjoy a relaxing weekend filled with good music, beautiful scenery, good food and lots of parking lot picking. Music workshops, beginners jam and advanced musicians jam. Information: (360) 436-1179 St. Anthony Summerfest, August 28 - At St. Anthony, Idaho. Festival of local arts and crafts, farmers market, music and entertainment. Information: (208) 624-4870 Paul Bunyon Days, August 29 - September 1 - At St. Maries, Idaho. Logging competitions, carnival rides, food booths and fireworks show on Sunday night. Information: (208) 245-3563 Ketchum Wagon Days, August 29 - September 1 - At Ketchum, Idaho. Since 1958, Ketchum Wagon Days has annually celebrated the mining heritage of the Wood River Valley with four days of good Old West entertainment including a shootout, BBQs, Fiddler's contest, Mountain Man Rendezvous, live music and the Big Hitch parade - the longest non-motorized parade in the Northwest. Pancake breakfasts, western dances, antique shows, arts and craft fair, live entertainment, food and a rodeo. Information: (208) 726-3423 Fall Fest, August 30 - 31 At Schweitzer Mountain, Sandpoint, Idaho. An annual Labor Day weekend musical event. Good music and great fun for everyone. Information: (800) 831-8810
SEPTEMBER Lewiston Roundup, September 4 - 7 - At Lewiston, Idaho. Lewiston's largest and oldest community event, the Roundup is three days of PRCA-quality action. Includes a parade and other local evente. Information: (208) 746-6324 Art in the Park, September 5 - 7 - At Boise, Idaho. This local event features artists from throughout the Northwest who bring original works of art to display and sell at this three-day outdoor event that includes a variety of food and entertainment. Held at Julia Davis Park with proceeds benefiting the Boise Art Museum. Information: (208) 345-8330 Sagebrush Arts Fest, September 6 - 7 - At Pocatello, Idaho. Artists display and sell their works, including paintings, glass, pottery, jewelry, etc. Food and entertainment are available both days. A free hands-on Children's Art Yard is a special feature. Young and old alike can learn tie dying, block painting, pottery throwing, mural painting, etc. Information: (208) 232-0970 Fiesta Idaho, September 13 - 14 - At Nampa, Idaho. A celebration of Idaho's Hispanic heritage, featuring Mexican folk arts, music, Menudo cook-off, traditional food, loteria games, kids bullfighting, mariachi concert and a classic low-riders car show. Information: (208) 442-0823 Ernest Hemingway Festival, September 18 - 21 - At Sun Valley, Idaho. An annual local event honoring the memory of Ernest Hemingway, including tours, skeet-shooting competition, lectures and a short-story contest. Information: (866) 549-5783 Idaho Spud Day, September 20 - At Shelley, Idaho. Annual Idaho Spud Day is a country-style gala celebration of the Idaho potato offering fun for visitors of all ages. Events include a parade, music, demolition derby, free baked potato lunch at noon, Dutch oven cook-off, World championship potato picking, and Spud Tug. Information: (208) 529-9619 Idaho International Film Festival, September 25 - 28 - At Boise, Idaho. The International Film Festival features an exciting, diverse, and award-winning selection of films that represent the best new independent cinema from America and Abroad. The mission of the Idaho International Film Festival is to further promote exploration of fine arts, culture, and entertainment in Idaho, while providing vital exposure and recognition for independent film makers and their work. Information: (208) 331-0909 Fall Heritage Festival, September 27 - At Rathdrum, Idaho. Bluegrass music, mountain-man encampment and an antique car show. Information for this local event: (208) 818-2489 Thousand Springs Festival, Dates TBA - At Buhl, Idaho. A celebration of nature in the spectacular setting of the Nature Conservancy's Thousand Springs Preserve. Arts and crafts, food, fine art auction, huge raffle prizes, live music, antique dairy barn tours, hiking, meals, free horse and wagon rides. Information: (208) 788-2403
OCTOBER Trailing of the Sheep Festival, October 10 - 12 - At Sun Valley, Idaho. Trailing of the Sheep Festival is the recipient of the Idaho Governor's Award for Outstanding Cultural Heritage Tourism. Events include a variety of cultural activities and programs relating to the history of sheep ranching in Idaho and the Wood River Valley, and the Basque and Scottish heritage of the region including a sheep poetry reading and music, sheep folk life fair, story telling, and guided walk to view sheepherder tree carvings. Additional activities include workshops on spinning, weaving, and cooking w/ lamb. The 3-day event concludes with a parade and a chance to trail with local herders and their sheep through downtown Ketchum. Information: (208) 726-3423 Sun Valley Jazz Jamboree, October 15 - 19 - At Sun Valley, Idaho. At this local event, two hundred musicians from around the world and 6,000 jazz enthusiasts will come together once again in Sun Valley for the Annual Swing'n' Dixie Jazz Jamboree. A variety of tickets are available from the five-day All Events Badge to daily tickets and may be ordered in advance by calling 877 478-5277. Information: (208) 726-3423 NOVEMBER Coeur d‘Alene Festival of Lights, Late November until January 1, dates TBA - At Coeur d‘Alene, Idaho. Experience America's largest floating holiday light show extravaganza featuring over one million lights and 150 holiday displays. Cruise boats offer a close-up view of animated light displays and holiday scenes along the Lake Coeur d'Alene shoreline near the Coeur d'Alene Resort. This local event kicks off with a lighted parade and a spectacular fireworks show. Information: (208) 765-4000 Christmas City USA, Day after Thanksgiving - At Rupert, Idaho. Santa Claus arrives in Rupert to officially begin the Christmas season by lighting Christmas City USA. Chili feed and entertainment in the picturesque Rupert City Park, plus a festival of trees in the nearby American Red Cross building. Information: (208) 679-4793 Preston Festival of Lights, Late November until December 31 - At Preston, Idaho. This local event and winter festival opens with a parade and includes music and one of the best displays of Christmas lights in Idaho. Information: (208) 852-2703
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There are visitor centers throughout Idaho to help you with local planning to add what-to-see ideas to your trip, or to help you with shopping ideas or lodging and dining suggestions. For a listing of locations and telephone numbers of these information sources,
