One of the things I love the most about living in Idaho is how much people get into the Christmas Spirit every year. We definitely know how to ring in the holidays here in the Treasure Valley - from parades to light displays, ice skating to tree lightings and everything in between. There's no doubt in my mind that our state is one of the best places to celebrate the magic of the season. Here's 8 amazing Idaho towns that will prove it:

  • Lewiston - This city's Winter Spirit Festival, centered in Locomotive Park, features over half a million lights, a warm fireplace for visitors, and the occasional visit from Santa.
  • McCall - This lakeside beauty seems to celebrate the holidays all winter long. The top event, of course, is the famous Winter Carnival complete with parades and snow sculptures.
  • Wallace - Declared the "Center of the Universe" by Mayor Ron Garitone in 2004, this unique Idaho town features an annual Season of Lights and Yuletide Lighting Festival.
  • Coeur d'Alene - You can almost be guaranteed a white Christmas if you set foot in this North Idaho town at the holidays. Though some may travel to see the tallest living Christmas tree in the world, visitors may also enjoy the resort's show on the water or night cruise to the North Pole.
  • Sun Valley - With North Pole inspired decor throughout downtown, ice skating festivals, and Christmas Eve fireworks, this picturesque ski town absolutely had to make the list.
  • Meridian - Ice Skating, tree lighting, and a gingerbread themed house for Santa visits combine to make Meridian a top contender on our holiday list.
  • Rupert - Officially deemed "Christmas City, USA" in 1984, Rupert has a long standing tradition of going big for the holidays. Visit for a glimpse of one of the most fantastic light shows in the state.
  • Boise - Boise's Christmas season kicks off before Thanksgiving with a holiday parade and Wintry Market. Add in some horse drawn carriage rides, Winter Garden Aglow, and 2 tree lightings and you have the makings for one of the best Christmas towns in the state.

I know Caldwell didn't make the list, but you really owe it to yourself to visit Indian Creek in downtown Caldwell this year. With nearly a million lights along the banks and over the bridge of Indian Creek it is very magical..and if you add the Christmas night light parade (which in my opinion is the best in the Treasure Valley) held the first Saturday in December every year, that runs along Indian Creek, you truly have a special and unique way to get into the holiday spirit.  The Caldwell downtown area was highlighted on ESPN this year during the BSU vs Fresno Mountain West Championship game.

For more information on these towns and their holiday celebrations visit:

 

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