Boise, Idaho is a city that knows how to get into the holiday spirit. As the snow begins to fall and the temperature drops, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with its Boise Christmas lights displays. From residential neighborhoods to commercial districts, the city is aglow with festive lights and decorations that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
For those looking to experience the best of Boise's holiday lights, we've put together a guide to the city's top displays. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this guide will help you navigate the city's most festive neighborhoods and attractions.
Top Neighborhoods for Boise Christmas Lights
Boise has several neighborhoods that go all out with their holiday lights displays. Here are some of the top neighborhoods to check out:
- The North End: This charming neighborhood is known for its beautiful homes and festive holiday displays. Take a stroll down the streets to see houses decked out in lights, wreaths, and garlands.
- Hyde Park: This historic neighborhood is a must-visit during the holiday season. Its beautiful homes are decorated with lights, and the neighborhood's central park is transformed into a winter wonderland.
- The Bench: This neighborhood is home to some of Boise's most stunning holiday displays. Take a drive down the streets to see houses and yards decorated with thousands of lights.
Best Streets to See Boise Christmas Lights
If you're short on time or want to see the best of the best, here are some of the top streets to check out:
- 13th Street: This street in the North End neighborhood is known for its over-the-top holiday displays. You'll see houses decorated with thousands of lights, animatronic displays, and even Santa's sleigh.
- Latah Street: This street in the Hyde Park neighborhood is a holiday lights lover's dream. You'll see beautifully decorated houses, yards, and even a few synchronized light displays.
- Parkcenter Boulevard: This street in the Bench neighborhood is home to some of Boise's most stunning holiday displays. Take a drive down the street to see houses and yards decorated with thousands of lights.
Commercial Displays
In addition to residential neighborhoods, Boise also has several commercial displays that are worth checking out. Here are a few of the top displays:
- The Idaho State Capitol Building: The capitol building is decked out in lights and decorations during the holiday season. Take a stroll around the building to see its beautiful displays.
- Boise Towne Square: This shopping mall is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. You'll see festive lights, decorations, and even a few special events.
- The Grove Plaza: This public plaza in downtown Boise is a popular spot to see holiday lights. You'll see a large Christmas tree, festive lights, and even a few special events.
Best Events to See Boise Christmas Lights
If you want to experience the best of Boise's holiday lights, consider attending one of the city's many holiday events. Here are a few of the top events:
- The Boise Christmas Tree Lighting: This annual event takes place in early December and features the lighting of the city's official Christmas tree.
- The Holiday Lights Parade: This fun event takes place in late November and features floats, marching bands, and of course, plenty of holiday lights.
- The Boise Winter Garden aGlow: This annual event takes place at the Idaho Botanical Garden and features over 400,000 lights, festive decorations, and even a few special events.
Boise Christmas Lights Displays to Avoid
While Boise has many amazing holiday lights displays, there are a few that you might want to avoid. Here are a few displays that are often crowded or disappointing:
- The Boise River Greenbelt: While this scenic path is beautiful during the day, it's often poorly lit at night and can be a bit of a letdown.
- The Boise Spectrum: This shopping center has a few holiday lights displays, but they're often poorly maintained and not very impressive.
- The Micron Center: This office building has a few holiday lights displays, but they're often limited to the building's lobby and not very exciting.
Boise Christmas Lights Tips and Tricks
If you want to make the most of your Boise holiday lights experience, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Plan ahead: Check the city's event calendar to see when the best displays are lit up and plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Bundle up: It can get cold in Boise during the winter months, so make sure to bundle up and wear warm clothing.
- Bring snacks: Seeing holiday lights can be a fun but hungry activity, so make sure to bring some snacks to keep you fueled.
What is the best way to see Boise Christmas lights?
+The best way to see Boise Christmas lights is to drive through the neighborhoods and commercial districts. You can also take a stroll through the city's parks and public spaces to see the displays.
When do the Boise Christmas lights displays start?
+The Boise Christmas lights displays typically start in late November and run through December.
Are there any free Boise Christmas lights displays?
+Yes, there are several free Boise Christmas lights displays. Check the city's event calendar to see which displays are free and open to the public.
We hope this guide to Boise Christmas lights has been helpful in planning your holiday itinerary. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Boise's holiday lights displays are sure to delight and get you in the holiday spirit. So grab some hot cocoa, bundle up, and get ready to see some of the best holiday lights in the country!