Local Happenings

Celebrate the Magic of the Holidays in Downtown Boise

The Holidays are upon us once again in the Treasure Valley! This time of year is known for the abundance of events taking place over the next month and a half that celebrate the holidays and get everyone in the mood for some winter cheer. This is our favorite time of year at Hotel 43, as downtown comes alive with holiday magic.

Here are some of the upcoming events downtown for the 2011 Holiday Season:

Claus and Paws at the Zoo!

Join all of your favorite animals at the Qwest Arena on Saturday, December 4rd for a fun-filled holiday gathering. Admission is free for everyone, and this is a great chance to finish your holiday shopping with great Zootique discounts or Zoo Boise gift passes!

Along with all of your favorite animals, there will be musical entertainment throughout the day. Some of the animals will also be receiving special holiday treats! The kids can even have their picture taken with Santa Claus with a $3 donation to the Zoo. Santa will be taking pictures from 11:00AM to 4:00PM.

Kick off Winter with the Holiday Farmer's Market

Every Saturday in downtown Boise from November 6th through December 18th is the Holiday Farmer's Market. This event will take place on 8th street, from Bannock to Main, the Grove Plaza, and Idaho Street from Capitol to 9th street. The Holiday Farmer's Market runs from 10AM-2PM.

The Holiday Farmer's Market is Boise's most unique shopping experience. The events will feature: 

Get in the Mood for Winter

Winter is quickly approaching. With the cold weather comes a variety of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, sledding and snowball fights. We all are eagerly awaiting the first snow of the year, which means that ski and snowboard season is almost upon us.

The Biggest Home Game of the Year

On Saturday, November 12th, the Boise State Broncos (7-0) face one of their largest challenges in Bronco Stadium since the Oregon Ducks visited to kick off the 2009 season. The Horned Frogs of Texas Christian University, in the only conference meeting between the two teams, travels to the Blue for the 4th all time meeting of the two teams. Currently, the Broncos are 2-1 against the Horned Frogs, including their victory in the 2010 Fiesta Bowl. The only loss to Texas Christian came in the 2008 Poinsettia Bowl where the Broncos lost 17-16.

Wine & Dine Dinner with the Thunder Mountain Express

The Thunder Mountain Line is hosting the Wine & Dine Dinner through November 19th. Tickets are $59 for adults and $45 for children. This event is a return to the days of old with elegant rail travel and distinguished service.

The train ride features deliciously crafted culinary treats, complete with a wine tasting experience. Wine from multiple local vineyards form Idaho's Southwest Region will be featured, with an exquisite gourmet meal prepared to match the experience.

Experience Science Saturday with the Discovery Center of Idaho

On October 29th, The Discovery Center of Idaho is presenting Science Saturday. Science Saturday is a great opportunity to get out with the kids and explore the scientific side of Halloween Special Effects. This event is both fun and educational, giving kids the chance to see how some of their favorite special effects work and the science behind them.

The Art of the Comic Book

Comic Books have been growing in popularity over the last few decades, and have even jumped to numerous other mediums, including movies, television and video games. The Boise Art Museum is currently showcasing an exhibit that is entirely dedicated to comic books, and how the artwork has evolved over the years.

Explore Boise with the Tour of Boise Walk/Run

On Sunday October 23rd, 2011, there is a tour of Boise walk/run at 3330 Crane Creek Road in Boise. The event runs from 10AM – 2PM. Admission to the event is $25 per person and $60 for a team of four. This Tour of Boise is a 4km walk/run adventure race around downtown Boise.

This is a great opportunity for you to get out and explore beautiful downtown Boise during one of the most colorful times of the year. Boise is always beautiful during fall, and there is no better way to get out and explore than on foot!

The Sprout Film Festival is coming to the Egyptian

The Arc is bringing the Sprout Film Festival on October 22nd to the Egyptian theater. Sprout is a unique opportunity to experience film and video related to the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities. Admission to the festival is $10 for general admission, and $8 for students, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. The Arc strives to raise awareness about those with disabilities.