14 Nonprofits That Turn Up the Idaho Summer Fun
Idaho's nonprofits are the backbone of summer fun in the Treasure Valley, offering a diverse array of activities and events that cater to every interest and age group. From bustling farmers' markets to outdoor adventures, these organizations play a pivotal role in curating unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike. Without their tireless efforts, the Treasure Valley wouldn't boast the same level of summertime vibrancy and activity. Their dedication to enriching the community through educational programs, cultural events, and recreational opportunities ensures that the Treasure Valley remains a premier destination for summer fun.
Idaho Shakespeare Festival
The Idaho Shakespeare Festival (ISF) in Boise is a prominent cultural event that has become a cherished summer tradition. Held at an outdoor amphitheater, it uniquely blends nature and theatrical performances. The festival features a diverse lineup, including classic Shakespeare plays and contemporary works. The 2024 season includes Shakespeare's "The Merry Wives of Windsor," Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express," and Stephen Sondheim's musical "Into the Woods.”
Beyond performances, the ISF is deeply committed to educational outreach. They offer various programs, workshops, and initiatives to engage the community and nurture future artists and theater enthusiasts (Boise Real Estate Agents). This commitment ensures that the festival's influence extends beyond the stage, fostering a lasting appreciation for the performing arts.
Overall, attending the Idaho Shakespeare Festival is more than just a night at the theater; it's an experience that combines art, nature, and community, creating lasting memories under the starlit Boise sky.
2. Boise Soulfood Festival
The Boise Soul Food Festival is an annual event dedicated to celebrating and promoting African-American culture in the Treasure Valley region. Scheduled for August 10, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM at Julia Davis Park, this festival showcases a rich array of African-American-inspired soul food, music, dancing, and local businesses.
The festival's mission is to educate the community about African-American culture, enhancing racial understanding and harmony. It features a variety of activities, including cultural workshops, demonstrations, and live entertainment. The event also includes unique offerings such as a rib-eating contest and yoga sessions, contributing to a diverse and vibrant experience for attendees (Boise Soul Food).
3. Mummies of the World - Discovery Center
The Discovery Center of Idaho in Boise is currently hosting "Mummies of the World: The Exhibition," a fascinating display that opened on April 27, 2024, and will run through the fall. This traveling exhibition features one of the largest collections of real mummies and artifacts ever assembled, including mummies from South America, Europe, and ancient Egypt, some dating back thousands of years.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the process of mummification and gain insights into the lives of ancient peoples through modern science, interactive displays, and multimedia exhibits. The exhibition is set up in two of the four galleries at the Discovery Center, while the other galleries continue to showcase popular hands-on exhibits like BRICKS!, the Classics Collection, and TINKER THE T-REX (Discovery Center of Idaho) (Visit Boise) (Visit Boise) (KTVB).
For more information, including ticket prices and visiting hours, you can visit the Discovery Center's official website.
4. Boise Fashion Week
Boise Fashion Week (BFW) is an exciting event that celebrates the fashion industry in Boise, Idaho. This event is held bi-annually, with the next show scheduled for June 6-8, 2024. BFW aims to showcase local designers, brands, and models, promoting creativity and inclusivity within the fashion community.
The event is co-produced by Erica Becker of VOXN Clothing and Martyn Kazak of The Party Brand Fashion Magazine. It features runway presentations, fashion shows, and pop-up events, highlighting the talents of both local and national designers. BFW serves as a platform to foster education and create opportunities for emerging talents in the fashion industry (Visit Boise) (The Scout Guide) (DowntownBoise.org).
Tickets for the event range from general admission to VIP packages, offering various levels of access and perks. The event also supports community building and networking among fashion enthusiasts, professionals, and influencers (Boise Fashion Week).
For more details, visit the official Boise Fashion Week website.
5. Boise Music Festival
The Boise Music Festival, organized by 360 Advancement, is Idaho's largest single-day music event. The festival, on June 22, 2024, at Expo Idaho. This year's event features a diverse lineup of artists including pop sensation Jason Derulo, country star Dustin Lynch, Grammy-winner CeeLo Green, rising country artist Bryan Martin, the OG hip-hop group Sugarhill Gang, and the 90s country supergroup The Frontmen (107.9 LITE FM) (KTVB).
In addition to the main stage performances, the festival will showcase over 40 local bands across five different stages. Attendees can also enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities such as a carnival, arts and crafts vendors, and a Kids Zone with air-conditioned play areas (KTVB).
For adults, there are beer and wine gardens, and upgraded experiences like the Cool Zone, a 21+ area with shaded seating and complimentary drinks (107.9 LITE FM).
Tickets start at $20 and can be purchased online. For more information, you can visit the Boise Music Festival website (KTVB).
6. Kid’s Summer Meal Programs
The Boise Foodbank's Summer Meal Program is an initiative aimed at ensuring children have access to nutritious meals when school is out. Recognizing that many children rely on school meals as a primary source of nutrition, this program helps fill the gap during the summer months.
The Summer Meal Program provides free, healthy meals to children and teens at various locations throughout Boise. These locations often include parks, community centers, and other easily accessible spots. The program ensures that children receive balanced meals that include fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains.
In addition to providing meals, the program often includes activities to engage children, promoting both nutrition and physical activity. These activities help create a welcoming and supportive environment for the kids.
By offering these meals, the Boise Foodbank addresses food insecurity and supports the overall well-being of children in the community. For specific locations, times, and additional details about the Summer Meal Program, it's best to visit the Boise Foodbank's official website or contact them directly.
7. Art in the Park
Art in the Park, hosted by the Boise Art Museum, is one of the premier cultural events in the Northwest. This annual open-air festival takes place over three days, typically on the weekend following Labor Day. For 2024, the event is scheduled from September 6 to September 8 at Julia Davis Park in Boise.
The festival offers a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can meet over 240 artists and purchase their contemporary arts and crafts. It's a family-friendly event that includes a variety of live entertainment, delicious food options, and hands-on activities for children. The festival is free and open to the public, making it accessible to everyone in the community.
The event's hours are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Besides the opportunity to buy unique artwork, attendees can enjoy performances and participate in art activities, creating an engaging cultural experience for all ages (Boise Art Museum) (DowntownBoise.org) (Fairs and Festivals).
8. Alive After Five
Alive After Five is Boise's long-running, free summer concert series held at The Grove Plaza in downtown Boise. Organized by the Downtown Boise Association, this event is celebrating its 37th season in 2024. It takes place every Wednesday evening from June 19 through the end of July, featuring a diverse lineup of local, national, and international musicians. The concerts run from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, offering attendees a vibrant mix of genres and styles. Alongside the music, there are a variety of food vendors and beverage options, including beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks. The event is designed to be inclusive and family-friendly, making it a beloved summer tradition for Boise residents and visitors alike (DowntownBoise.org) (Duck Club Presents) (HappeningNext).
9. Boise Farmers Market
The Boise Farmers Market is a beloved community institution in Idaho, operating from April to October. You can find it bustling with activity on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Local farmers, artisans, and food producers converge to offer a diverse array of fresh, seasonal goods, from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and artisanal foods. Beyond just shopping, it's a place for people to connect with the growers and makers behind the products, fostering a sense of community and supporting local businesses. Be sure to check their official website or social media pages for any updates on operating hours or dates.
10. Boise Rock School Summer Classes
Boise Rock School offers a variety of summer camps for 2024, catering to different age groups and skill levels. Here are some highlights:
Rock Camp: These are the most popular camps, open to ages 6-18. Campers form bands, learn cover songs, write original music, and perform in a final gig. Sessions run throughout June to August, with options in both morning and afternoon slots (Boise Rock School) (Boise Rock School) (Boise Rock School).
Teen Rock Camp: This camp is specifically for ages 13-18 and follows a similar structure to the Rock Camp. It includes band formation, songwriting, and a final performance. It is scheduled for July 22-26 (Boise Rock School).
Junior Rock Camp: For ages 5-6, this camp encourages exploration of multiple instruments and includes learning fundamentals of music. Sessions are held in late June and July (Boise Rock School).
Little Rockers Camp: Designed for ages 3-5, this camp focuses on rhythm, beat, melody, and instrument exploration. It runs in June, July, and August (Boise Rock School).
Specialty Camps: These include Beatmaking, Cool Drum, Rippin' Guitar, Vocal, Use Your Ukulele, and Super Synth camps, each offering intensive focus on specific instruments or music production techniques (Boise Rock School).
Juno Arts Camps: These camps cover songwriting, photography, and beatmaking, aiming to enhance creative skills beyond traditional instruments. They are open to various age groups from 8 to 18 (Boise Rock School).
Boise Rock School ensures inclusivity by offering financial assistance and scholarships for those in need. More detailed schedules and registration information can be found on their website (Boise Rock School) (Boise Rock School).
11. Zoo Boise
Zoo Boise, located in Julia Davis Park, is a popular destination in Boise, Idaho. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, it houses over 300 animals from more than 100 species. The zoo features diverse exhibits like the African Plains and Small Animal Kingdom, offering visitors the chance to see lions, giraffes, red pandas, and more.
Committed to wildlife conservation, Zoo Boise supports global projects and educates the public on protecting endangered species. Interactive experiences such as a petting zoo, animal feedings, and behind-the-scenes tours provide engaging learning opportunities. Educational programs include summer camps, school field trips, and special events like Zoo After Hours and Boo at the Zoo.
The zoo also offers amenities like a gift shop, playground, and picnic areas, making it a family-friendly destination. Check the official website for the latest information on hours and admission prices.
12. Bogus Basin Summer Activities
Bogus Basin, operated by the Bogus Basin Recreational Association, offers a wide range of summer activities, transforming the winter ski area into a summer outdoor recreation hub. Located in the Boise National Forest, it provides various options for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy mountain biking on over 20 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels, including lift-served downhill routes. Hiking enthusiasts can explore scenic trails that offer stunning views and are accessible for hikers of all ages and abilities.
For those seeking a leisurely experience, scenic chairlift rides provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Glade Runner Mountain Coaster offers a thrilling ride through the forest, making it a great attraction for both adults and kids. Additionally, an 18-hole disc golf course provides a fun and challenging activity for everyone. At the base area, a climbing wall caters to climbers of all skill levels, adding to the variety of outdoor activities available.
Bogus Basin also hosts outdoor yoga sessions and live music events, enhancing the summer experience. Various dining options, including the Simplot Lodge, offer meals with scenic views, making it a perfect destination for a day of adventure and relaxation. For the latest information on activities, hours, and events, check the Bogus Basin official website.
13. Reading in the Park
Reading in the Park, organized by The Learning Lab in Boise, Idaho, is a summer initiative designed to promote literacy among children and families. Held in various local parks, it features storytime sessions, interactive literacy games, and crafts, making reading a fun and engaging activity. Free books are provided to help build home libraries, and families are connected with additional literacy resources and programs. This program fosters a love for reading and strengthens community bonds. For the latest information on dates, times, and locations, visit The Learning Lab's official website.
14. Treasure Valley Children’s Theater
Treasure Valley Children's Theater (TVCT) in Boise offers various summer programs designed to teach performance skills, build confidence, and provide structured socialization for young participants. The 2024 summer programs are held at the new TVCT Studio at Overland Park Shopping Center, Hillview Methodist Church, and the Meridian Masonic Temple (Flipcause) (TVC Theater).
Programs include different levels of theater training, from beginner to advanced, ensuring engagement and skill development through diverse scripts and activities. Most classes are limited to 12 students to maximize individual attention and learning outcomes (TVC Theater) (TVC Theater).
A highlight of the summer is the "Imagine a Dragon" performance program, inspired by the music of Imagine Dragons, with free community performances scheduled for June 28 and 29 at local amphitheaters (TVC Theater).
TVCT also emphasizes important values such as respect, commitment, courage, enthusiasm, and striving for excellence. Scholarships and financial aid are available to ensure that no student is turned away due to financial constraints (Flipcause) (TVC Theater). For more detailed information and registration, visit the Treasure Valley Children's Theater website (Flipcause) (TVC Theater).