Photo Credit: https://www.gaytravel4u.com/event/spirit-of-boise-balloon-festival/
As summer hits its sweet spot in the City of Trees, Boise blossoms into a hive of sun-soaked happenings and down-to-earth elegance. This week, from August 4–10, 2025, the Treasure Valley lays out its late-summer spread: family-friendly festivals, artistic flair, open-air markets, and soulful bites that reflect the city's unique mix of culture, creativity, and community. Boise’s charm isn’t just its stunning natural surroundings or its ever-expanding food scene; it’s the way it all comes together, effortlessly, on a summer evening at Julia Davis Park or during golden hour at Bogus Basin.
This week in Boise, the Idaho State Museum comes alive with the annual Boise Soul Food Festival, a celebration of heritage, music, and the rich, comforting flavors of Black culinary traditions. Dancers tell silent stories in the Fuse Dance Annual Show, and Shoshone Park lights up for the city’s Neighborhood Concert Series. From yoga on the mountain to vintage treasure hunts at The Boise Flea, the calendar is full and the vibe is friendly. Whether you're here for the weekend or calling Boise home, here are our curated picks on where to eat, stay, and play.
🟢 Where To Eat
Ansots Basque Chorizos – 560 W Main St, Downtown Boise
A family-run gem on the Basque Block, Ansots offers handmade chorizos and an intimate dining experience steeped in tradition. Don’t miss the chorizo sampler or the house-made croquetas.
Cinder Winery – 107 E 44th St, Garden City
On August 8, from 5:00–7:00 pm, sip award-winning Viognier and mingle with locals at this urban winery during its First Friday tasting. It’s a perfect way to ease into the weekend.
Owyhee Tavern – 1109 W Main St, Downtown Boise
Known for its expertly aged steaks and sleek, warm interior, Owyhee Tavern delivers classic American dining with a Northwest twist. Grab a booth for dinner or stop in for a happy hour cocktail and oysters on the half shell.
Chandler's - 981 West Grove Street, Inside Hotel 43
Boise’s premier downtown steakhouse since 1994 offers over a dozen selections of hand-cut and trimmed steaks ranging from corn-fed Midwest prime to Northwest American; Japanese A5 wagyu to organic grass-fed beef. Learn More
🔵 Where To Stay
Hotel 43 – 981 W Grove St, Downtown Boise
Boutique comfort meets downtown convenience at this stylish stay steps from the Basque Block and vibrant nightlife. Their bikes-for-borrow make exploring the Greenbelt a breeze.
The Modern Hotel & Bar – 1314 W Grove St, Linen District
Once a Travelodge, now a mid-century marvel. Locally sourced breakfasts, minimalist rooms, and one of the city’s best craft cocktail programs make it a favorite for design-minded travelers.
Photo Credit: liteonline.com/fairs-and-festivals-2025-calendar/
🟡 Where To Play
Boise Soul Food Festival – August 9, 12:00–3:00 pm, Idaho State Museum
Celebrate Black culture through cuisine, music, and community at this annual gathering. Come hungry.
The Boise Flea – August 10, 10:00 am–4:00 pm, BSU East Stadium Lot
Dig through vintage finds, handmade goods, and quirky treasures. This month’s edition is peak summer browsing.
Fuse Dance: Silent Conversations – August 9, 2:30 & 7:30 pm, BSU Special Events Center
This contemporary dance performance blends physical storytelling and emotion with no words needed. Two shows only.
Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic – August 27 - 31
Sun salutations at 7,000 feet? Yes, please. Take in the sweeping views of the Treasure Valley.
Neighborhood Concert Series – August 6, 5:00 pm, Shoshone Park
Free, local, and family-friendly. Bring a blanket and some snacks and settle in for an evening of live music under the pines.
First Thursday – August 7, 5:00–9:00 pm, Downtown Boise
Art openings, sips, sales, and sidewalk vibes. It’s the perfect night for gallery-hopping and impromptu bites downtown.
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