Thanksgiving in the Treasure Valley may be a bit unique during COVID-19, but there are still plenty of ways to celebrate this holiday season. Whether you support local businesses with early Christmas shopping or find a nonprofit to help those in need, we hope you find this list useful.
Turkey Day 5K
Before you enjoy your delicious turkey meal, strap on your running shoes and hit the trail. The Turkey Day 5K is adapting to COVID-19 with the start line remaining open for 90 minutes to allow for social distancing. You can also participate virtually. Don’t forget to bring canned goods to benefit the Boise Rescue Mission and City Light Home for Women and Children food pantries.
Winter Garden aGlow
The Idaho Botanical Garden’s Winter Garden aGlow is a must-see if you are spending the holidays in Boise. It is a magical experience to view the gardens as they are decked out for the season with lights and decorations. You can even get a photo with Santa Claus. The event kicks off the day before Thanksgiving to help you get in the festive spirit.
Winter Windows
If you are hoping to find a free outdoor event that the whole family will enjoy, then head downtown for Winter Windows. Take a stroll and check out all the shops that have decorated their windows for the holiday season. You can even vote for your favorite by scanning the QR codes at each location. The windows are officially unveiled the Friday after Thanksgiving, but you can stop by anytime through the end of December to view them.
Festival of Trees
The Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees has been a part of Boise for 37 years. The event will be virtual this year due to COVID-19 and has been extended to two weeks. You will be able to view the numerous Christmas trees, wreaths and decor for purchase. If your little one was hoping to see Santa, don’t fret. Personalized holiday videos will be available. Proceeds from this year’s Festival of Trees will benefit programs impacted by COVID-19.
Empty Bowls
‘Tis the season to eat, but for some it can be difficult to find food to fill their bellies. The Idaho Foodbank’s Empty Bowls is an opportunity for the community to help those in need. Artists created handcrafted and hand-painted bowls throughout the year to donate to the cause. Typically the bowls are filled with soup from local restaurants at a large event, but this year is different. You can purchase a bowl online and receive a coupon for a free bowl of soup at a local restaurant. The store goes live on November 23 and bowls start at $10.
Small Business Weekend
There has never been a more important time to support small business owners. You will have an opportunity during Small Business Weekend from Friday, November 27, to Sunday, November 29 in downtown Boise. Keep track of how many downtown businesses you shop (either virtually or in-person) using the shopping passport. Once you have shopped at least six stores, you can then turn in your passport to be entered to win a $100 Downtown Boise gift card.
Holiday Tree
Grove Plaza will be alight with a beautiful holiday tree as it has been in past years, though there will be no official lighting event. Stop by to survey the beauty and grab a gift tag to benefit families at the Women’s and Children’s Alliance (WCA). Donations must be dropped off by December 16 at the WCA or a participating Idaho Central Credit Union branch.
I am always thankful for all my clients who trusted me with their real estate needs. I hope you have an amazing Thanksgiving with those you love.
If you ever have any questions about the ever-changing marketplace or know someone looking to buy or sell, please do not hesitate to reach out!
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