2018 Ultimate Summer Music Guide

Boise Bucket List Presents:

Boise Ultimate Summer Concert Guide

Over 200 Concerts to Cross Off Your #BoiseBucketList


Summertime here in Boise means long days, cool summer nights, enjoying the beautiful outdoors. It’s also a time to explore all the awesome music here in the Treasure Valley.  I found it hard to find a good list of upcoming concerts to keep track. If I found it challenging, I could only imagine how others felt. Hence the creation of this list!

Follow me on Instagram: @boise_bucketlist

The following is the most comprehensive music guide I could create.  The best way to use this list is by date. I list all the concerts from June thru September.



Below are the venues I featured & had a list of their events available. Please make sure to visit their respective websites to purchase concert tickets (if applicable):


June

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6/6 Revolution Center The Flaming Lips
6/6 Neurolux  Lounge Nude Dude  & Laika  The Dog Tour
6/6 The Shredder HIGH PRIESTESS
6/6 Alive at Five Concert Series Led with Ryan Peck Opening
6/7 Taco Bell Arena Bare Naked Ladies
6/7 Neurolux  Lounge MOTOPONY w/ Ezra Bell and Kyler Daron
6/7 The Shredder HAILSHOT, KAMIKAZE ZOMBIE, KURGAN HYPOTHESIS, CHAOSMONAUT
6/7 Outlaw Field Summer Concerts Barenaked Ladies
6/8 Neurolux  Lounge A HAWK AND A HANDSAW w/ Fleet Street Klezmer Band
6/8 Tom Grainey’s Scott Peberton
6/8 The Olympic HAWTHORNE HEIGHTS with Listener, Hotel Books, Sienna Skies, Heavy Things
6/8 The Knitting Factory BLACKTOP MOJO, LOCUST GROVE, STONE PROPHET, LIKE NO ONE
6/9 Taco Bell Arena Steely Dan and the Dooby Brothers
6/9 The Shredder BREAK SURFACE, GHOSTBOX, MORTAL ENEMY, YEXOTAY, 2018-06-13,SET BLASTERS”
6/9 The Reef  Dusty Leigh and the Claim Jumpers
6/9 The Knitting Factory TRAITORS GATE, INVASIVE, CHAPTER BLACK, MUNCHKIN SUICIDE
6/11 The Olympic RHETT MILLER of OLD 97’S + Lee Penn Sky
6/12 Neurolux  Lounge ACID CAROUSEL w/ Bralettes and Navy Gangs and Ghost in Space
6/13 Neurolux  Lounge HOWLIN RAIN w/ David Nance
6/13 The Reef An Evening with Tony Lucca
6/13 Alive at Five Concert Series Ivory Deville (Bread & Circus Opening)
6/14 Neurolux  Lounge SPEEDY ORTIZ w/ Anna Burch and Xetas
6/14 The Shredder BRENT AMAKER AND THE RODEO, JIMMY SINN AND THE BASTARD KIN, GIPSY MOONRISE
6/14 The Reef Mobley, James Orr
6/14 The Olympic SCRUNCHIES + DIRT RUSSELL + MARQUINA
6/15 The Shredder GENESIS COMPANY, FALL OF THE FATHOM, LIFE UPON LIARS, CMMNWLTH, ROSES ARE DEAD
6/15 Ford Idaho Center Jacksons Country Stomp Starring Kip Moore
6/15 The Olympic DANNY BLAQK AND THE GALAXY + OK OK + AXIOM THA WYZE
6/15 The Knitting Factory TORY LANEZ – MEMORIES DON’T DIE TOUR
6/16 Revolution Center Ganja White Night
6/16 The Shredder HOMIES AND HIP HOP
6/16 The Reef  Wide Stance
6/16 The Knitting Factory NEVERLAND “GODS OF THE NILE” DANCE PARTY
6/17 The Shredder THADEUS GONZALEZ, FADED LEROY, CHAPTER BLACK, ZEMON LEMON
6/19 Neurolux  Lounge BLACK MILK w/ Zee Will and Earthlings Crew
6/19 The Shredder BREAKING WHEEL, FUMING MOUTH, NATURAL EVIL, KIRA
6/20 The Reef Supervillains, Iya Terra
6/20 Alive at Five Concert Series Ghost of Paul Revere (Andrew Sheppard Opening)
6/21 Revolution Center Summerland  Tour Staring Everclear, Marcy’s PlayGround, Local H
6/21 Neurolux  Lounge THE SOCIAL ANIMALS
6/21 The Shredder BEEKEEPER, RAILGUN, NINJA GANDHI
6/21 The Olympic SHANE SMITH & THE SAINTS + MOTEL RADIO
6/22 Neurolux  Lounge GAYTHEIST w/ Maximum Mad and Un
6/22 The Shredder JOHN DOUGH BOYS, DIRT CHEAP
6/22 The Reef  Moonlight Bloom, Athena McIntyre
6/23 The Shredder CRIMSON GUARDIAN, ATHERUS, BRINK OF EXTINCTION, ROAD LESS TRODDEN
6/23 The Knitting Factory SALSA NIGHTS
6/24 Neurolux  Lounge STILL WOOZY / guests
6/24 Ford Idaho Center Dirty Heads
6/24 Tom Graineys Yak Attack
6/26 Taco Bell Arena Michael Franti  & Spearhead
6/26 Neurolux  Lounge WAND w/ Sofia Bolt and HiHazel
6/26 Ford Idaho Center God and Country Festival
6/26 Outlaw Field Summer Concerts Michael Franti & Spearhead
6/26 The Knitting Factory THE ILLUSIONISTS PRESENT: ADAM TRENT
6/27 Taco Bell Arena Counting Crows
6/27 Alive at Five Concert Series Greyhounds (The Tree of Trees)
6/28 Neurolux  Lounge LITHICS w/ Sick Wish and The Vang Basics
6/28 The Shredder FACELESS, LORNA SHORE, DYSCARNATE, NOMVDIC, ABAASY
6/28 The Olympic CEDAR TEETH + LOW-FI + VASTCADE
6/28 The Knitting Factory BLUE OCTOBER, KITTEN
6/29 Neurolux  Lounge CHARLIE PARR w/ Hillfolk Noir
6/29 The Shredder KRALLICE, WAYFARER, INFERNAL COIL, AERIAL RUIN, EMBRYOCIDE
6/29 The Olympic THE WARREN G HARDINGS + JONATHAN WARREN & THE BILLY GOATS
6/30 Neurolux  Lounge URBAN OUTFIELDERS (album release) w/ The Love Bunch, King and Queen of the Losers, Whippin Shitties

July

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7/1 The Shredder KRALLICE, WAYFARER, INFERNAL COIL, AERIAL RUIN, EMBRYOCIDE
7/2 Neurolux  Lounge BOY TOY w/ The Entire Universe and Seatopians
7/3 Neurolux  Lounge BENT KNEE w/ Sun Blood Stories
7/3 The Shredder IN THE WHALE, JETSKI, JERWADZ, NO!
7/4 The Shredder SAMM BONES, CORDUROY BLUES, ANDY C.
7/4 Alive at Five Concert Series Lounge on Fire
7/5 Neurolux  Lounge ELDREN w/ Jupiter Holiday
7/5 Ford Idaho Center Kenny Chesney
7/5 The Olympic THE BLACK LILLIES + THE ARTISANALS
7/6 Revolution Center Ja Rule and Ashanti
7/6 The Shredder PATRIMONY
7/6 The Knitting Factory 100.3 THE X PRESENTS: MIDDLE CLASS RUT
7/7 Neurolux  Lounge THE REMEMBERABLES w/ Blacksage
7/7 Tom Graineys Sol Seed
7/7 The Knitting Factory SOCIAL DISTORTION, AARON LEE TASJAN, LOW CUT CONNIE
7/8 Neurolux  Lounge ELECTRIC SIX
7/8 The Olympic JADE JACKSON
7/9 Neurolux  Lounge SPARTA w/ guests
7/11 Neurolux  Lounge WYE OAK w/ guests
7/11 Ford Idaho Center Logic, NF and Kyle
7/11 The Olympic GRANT FARM
7/11 Alive at Five Concert Series Afrosonics (Xabi Aburruzaga and Aitor Uribarri opening)
7/12 The Shredder ILLICIT NATURE
7/13 The Shredder THE DEADRONES, PISTON BULLY, NON FICTION
7/13 Tom Graineys Brewfish
7/13 The Olympic HUNNY + GLEEMER + FRINGE
7/14 Neurolux  Lounge YOB w/ Bell Witch
7/14 The Shredder THE MYSTIC, FAMOUS FRIENDS, ALL THAT FALLS, SPORTSCOURT
7/14 The Knitting Factory VIOLENT FEMMES, MARCIA MELLO
7/15 The Olympic ROGER CLYNE
7/15 The Knitting Factory X AMBASSADORS – THE JOYFUL TOUR
7/16 Revolution Center Brit Floyd
7/17 Taco Bell Arena Sheryl Crow
7/17 Neurolux  Lounge JAMES MCMURTRY
7/17 Outlaw Field Summer Concerts Sheryl Crow
7/18 Neurolux  Lounge BLITZEN TRAPPER w/ Dead Lee
7/18 The Shredder RIGHT ON KID, NOISE BRIGADE, HARD TO HIT
7/18 The Olympic TATANKA
7/18 Alive at Five Concert Series The Stone Foxes (Luke Messimer opening)
7/18 The Knitting Factory JJ GREY & MOFRO
7/19 The Shredder WERE ALL MAD TOUR
7/19 The Knitting Factory THE DOLLOP
7/20 Taco Bell Arena Five Finger Death Punch & Breaking Benjamin
7/20 Taco Bell Arena Jackson Browne
7/20 Neurolux  Lounge BIG UPS w/ Black Bolt
7/20 The Shredder BORAH 20YR REUNION
7/20 Outlaw Field Summer Concerts Jackson Browne
7/20 The Knitting Factory RANDY ROGERS BAND, PARKER MCCOLLUM
7/21 Neurolux  Lounge TANGO ALPHA TANGO w/ guests
7/21 The Shredder EXMORTUS, THE ABSENCE, HATCHET
7/21 The Olympic QUINN DEVEAUX + LIKE A ROCKET
7/22 The Shredder GRAVESHADOW, TULPAA, ATHERAS, ROSES ARE DEAD
7/22 The Olympic THE WEIRDOS + EGRETS ON ERGOT + MANTOOTH
7/23 Neurolux  Lounge FLASHER w/ guests
7/24 Taco Bell Arena Chris Issak
7/24 The Shredder AS FIRE FALLS, SIGNAL VS NOISE, RED LIGHT CHALLENGE, TONIGHT WE RISE
7/24 Ford Idaho Center G-Eazy , Lil Uzi Vert
7/24 Outlaw Field Summer Concerts Chris Issac
7/25 The Shredder SUICIDE FOREST, SPLATTERED THROAT
7/25 Alive at Five Concert Series Brad Parsons & Starbird (Innocent Man opening)
7/26 The Olympic GRIEVES + AXIOM THA WYZE
7/27 The Shredder AAB BASS PARTY
7/27 The Olympic BAMBOOZLE
7/28 The Shredder JORDAN COLLINS, MANTIS, ANA LETE
7/28 The Olympic FIVE ALARM FUNK
7/29 The Shredder MEPHISKAPHELES, THE USELESS, CLITERATI, SELF SMARTID
7/30 The Knitting Factory SEETHER – POISON THE PARISH WORLD TOUR
7/31 The Shredder OLD MAN WIZARD, WORSHIPPER

 

August

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8/1 Taco Bell Arena ZZ Top
8/1 The Shredder FOR YOUR HEALTH
8/1 The Olympic HONEYHONEY + DEAD HORSES
8/1 Outlaw Field Summer Concerts ZZ Top
8/1 Alive at Five Concert Series The Young Dubliners (Curtis/Sutton  & the Scavengers Opening)
8/2 Neurolux  Lounge MOURN w/ Chastity
8/3 The Knitting Factory DEATH CAB FOR CUTE WITH PEDRO THE LION
8/4 Ford Idaho Center Chris Stapleton
8/4 The Knitting Factory BEATS ANTIQUE, PLANTRAE
8/5 The Knitting Factory SLIGHTLY STOOPID: SCHOOLS OUT FOR SUMMER 2018 TOUR
8/8 Taco Bell Arena Amos Lee
8/8 Neurolux  Lounge DEAFHEAVEN w/ Drab Majesty and Uniform
8/8 The Olympic JONNY FRITZ + LESLIE STEVENS
8/8 Outlaw Field Summer Concerts Amos Lee
8/8 Alive at Five Concert Series The Talbott Brothers (The Pan Handlers opening)
8/9 Neurolux  Lounge THE LONESOME HEROES w/ Leo Rondeau
8/12 The Knitting Factory FATHER JOHN MISTY, LUCY DACUS
8/13 Neurolux  Lounge GRATEFUL SHRED w/ Mapache
8/14 Neurolux  Lounge HOP ALONG w/ Thin Lips and Western Daughter
8/14 The Shredder HICKOIDS
8/14 The Olympic HUNTER & THE DIRTY JACKS
8/14 The Knitting Factory PUNCH BROTHERS WITH SPECIAL GUEST MADISON CUNNINGHAM
8/14 The Knitting Factory RAINBOW KITTEN SURPRISE – THE FRIEND, LOVE, FREEFALL TOUR
8/15 Alive at Five Concert Series Joceyln & Chris Arndt (Luci Kolada  opening)
8/15 The Knitting Factory YELAWOLF, WAYLONE & WILLIE
8/16 Neurolux  Lounge KASEY ANDERSON w/ Travis Ward
8/18 The Olympic THE SEA THE SEA + LUKE MESSIMER
8/20 Taco Bell Arena Steve Miller Band with Peter Frampton
8/20 Neurolux  Lounge DE LUX w/ TRAPS PS
8/20 Outlaw Field Summer Concerts Steve Miller Band
8/21 The Shredder SET IT OFF
8/21 Ford Idaho Center Slayer
8/21 The Olympic THE HIGGS + JUPITER HOLIDAY
8/22 Alive at Five Concert Series The Brevet  (Nick Delffs opening)
8/23 Taco Bell Arena Rebelution with Stephen Marley, Common Kings & Zion -1
8/23 Neurolux  Lounge Smokey Brights / Jared Mees / New Move / Cave Clove
8/23 Outlaw Field Summer Concerts Rebelution
8/23 The Knitting Factory THE CADILLAC THREE, AUSTIN JENCKES
8/24 Neurolux  Lounge THE LAST BANDOLEROS
8/24 The Shredder STICKUP KID, SUNDRESSED, BLACK BOLT
8/26 The Shredder ADAM FAUCETT, JIMMY SINN
8/26 The Knitting Factory NAHKO AND MEDICINE FOR THE PEOPLE, XIUHTEZCATL
8/28 Neurolux  Lounge SALES w/ No Vacation
8/29 Alive at Five Concert Series Ripe (Rippin’ Brass opening)
8/30 The Knitting Factory E-40, NEF THE PHARAOH
8/31 The Shredder G-LIFE

September

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9/1 The Shredder ACID TEETH, NON FICTION, MUNCHKIN SUICIDE
9/2 Taco Bell Arena J.Cole
9/4 The Shredder SORXE
9/4 Ford Idaho Center Jason Mraz
9/4 The Knitting Factory COLD WAR KIDS, DAYSORMAY
9/6 The Shredder TOTAL CHAOS, PISS POOR,ALLEGED, KANCHO
9/6 The Knitting Factory MILKY CHANCE: BLOSSOM TOUR
9/7 Ford Idaho Center The Smashing Pumpkins
9/8 The Shredder GREEN DRUID, EALDOR BEALDU
9/12 The Shredder LIONHEART
9/13 The Shredder THE DEADSET
9/13 The Olympic RIVVRS + PAUL MCDONALD
9/14 The Shredder SEER, HASHERTOID
9/17 Revolution Center Rise Against
9/20 Taco Bell Arena The Avertt Brothers
9/20 Ford Idaho Center Luke Bryan
9/20 Outlaw Field Summer Concerts Avett Brothers
9/21 The Shredder COVEN, DISCIPLES OF DISSENT
9/22 The Shredder INCITE, LODY KONG
9/22 The Knitting Factory WELLRED: FROM DIXIE WITH LOVE FEATURING TRAE CROWDER, DREW MORGAN & COREY FORRESTER
9/23 Neurolux  Lounge JAPANESE BREAKFAST w/ Ought
9/24 Revolution Center Iron and Wine
9/25 Neurolux  Lounge CARBON LEAF
9/26 Neurolux  Lounge TREVOR POWERS
9/26 The Shredder UNITED DEFIANCE
9/26 Ford Idaho Center Journey and Def Leppard
9/26 The Knitting Factory TREVOR POWERS
9/27 The Knitting Factory BOB MOSES – BATTLE LINES TOUR
9/28 Taco Bell Arena Keith Urban Graffiti U Tour

 

Summer Music Festivals To Checkout:


Do you like this list? Do you want more?! Make sure to follow me on Instagram at @boise_bucketlist or Facebook at @Boise Bucket List 

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Love in the BOI: Christen & Brandon

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Meet Christen and Brandon Fisher. Their love story is vampire meets zombie. Intrigued? Keep reading! This is their Love in the BOI story.


 

How Did You Two Meet?

Brandon and I met working as actors at a haunted house in Arizona. Just a classic love story between zombie and vampire! Our friends had asked us if we wanted to make good money while working a interesting job. I had seen him from across the room and was immediately struck (later he told me the same). I was so shy though I barely spoke to him whole month we worked there because I had the biggest crush!

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Describe Your First Date

On the last day [of the haunted house] I thought this was now or never, so I asked for his number so we could go to the company Halloween party together. There would be our first kiss too by the way (and I still had my pointy teeth in haha!). We started dating after that and found out we had just missed each other in the same schools and he only live a couple miles from my house which in Phoenix is a big deal.

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We have been through everything together including long distance so I can finish school. The first time it was up north in Arizona, the second was when I was accepted to go to a school in Idaho. When we learned that, we had been together for 4 years and he decided that was when he was going to propose.

Now, Brandon had never gotten me flowers because at first he thought they were a waste of money since they just die anyway (men.), but then he realized that would be a good way to propose eventually. So he asked my mom to take me out shopping. When we came back to our apartment he had filled it with bouquets of flowers for every event that he had missed giving them (birthdays, valentines day, etc.). In the middle was a box that said open me. I was in shock. Inside it said turn around. When I did, he was dressed up in a suit and down on one knee. He was so nervous he blurted out “would you marry me?”, and after I (tearily) said yes he admitted he had a speech ready but he was so nervous he forgot! So then he said it and it blew me away. We planned to get married in two years after school in Idaho. And we ended up getting married this past June in McCall!
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What is Your Advice for Those Looking for Love?

As far as the advise for people looking for love… you can find love in unexpected places. We put ourselves out there signing up for a odd job and ended up finding soulmates. Be open to opportunities but if it doesn’t happen just enjoy the time while you are out there. You will know when you are gradually going through the dating steps and it just feels natural and easy. Everyone is different and there will be ups and downs, but I know Brandon and I never felt any doubt that we were going to end up together forever.
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What Is Your Favorite Thing To Do In Boise?

Now that we live in Boise it is truly hard to pick one thing that we love to do here. We love to go hiking in the foothills, paddle boarding at the different lakes, running with our dog on the greenbelt, checking out the nightlife downtown. trying out different restaurants, or going to the myriad of events always going on in Boise. We love it! I think we found our paradise.

Love in the BOI: Vanessa & Brody

 

Meet Brody and Vanessa Wright. This is their Boise love story told by Vanessa.

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Vanessa & Brody Wright

How They Met:

I was living in Pocatello at the time. My friend wanted to leave town to celebrate her birthday so we decided to head to Boise for the weekend! Brody and I met downtown boise off 6th and main, in the middle of the street! We stopped on that corner to exchange numbers, and later met up the next day! That following night, He showed me around Boise and I fell in love with the atmosphere even more.

We have been inseparable ever since. After 4 months into our relationship and long distance, I finally took the step to move to Boise to pursue our going relationship. A year later, we got engaged, and a year after that, we got married . We now have a beautiful daughter, Moana who is 6 months. We will be together for 4 years this coming March, 2 year wedding anniversary in June ❤️🤗

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Meet the Wrights 

Describe Your First Date:

He offered to come visit me in Pocatello for our first actual date. We had breakfast at a place called “Butterburrs” and I was pretty shy! I refused to look him straight in the eye during our date because he was so intimidating! He thought I wasn’t interested in him! We attempted a second date the following weekend. Second date kicked off much better! And he continued to come down to see me every weekend for 4 months until I moved. Been together ever since ❤️


What Advice Do You Have For Those Looking for Love in Boise?

My advice for those looking for love in Boise is HAVE FUN, live a little and don’t have such high standards!!!! I honestly did not plan on being in a relationship so soon when I met my husband. But that’s what life does to you! People show up at the right place and the right time!

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Beautiful smiles from a lovely couple

Before, I used to be so picky, but being picky isn’t always a good thing! Once I realized what was actually realistic in a man/relationship, the more fun it became to meeting people!! I never thought I’d meet my husband in the middle of the street! I took that as a sign and opportunity to see what would happen next!

So have fun, take chances, and live life with a positive outlook!! Always!


What we enjoy doing as a couple:

We LOVE sushi! You’ll catch us at your local IOU Sushi, or outdoors paddleboarding, or hiking with our German shepherd named Kuma and our daughter Moana around the valley! We also enjoy The Village at Meridian, and Bowling at Big Al’s with family and friends!

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Vanessa & Brody’s  outside adventures 

 

Vanessa also has a YouTube channel where she does amazing makeup tutorials. Her Instagram is an amazing feed of her family, friends, and her beauty tutorials. I tease her sometimes on Instagram to help teach me some amazing makeup tricks! Make sure to follow her at @vanessamwright.

16 Holiday Activities to Cross Off Your Boise Bucket List

 

holiday activiites top list

If you are like me a year ago, I didn’t know what to do when it came to my first holiday season in Boise. For those who are new to Boise, or if you’re looking for a few new ideas, here’s my Top 16 Holiday Activities to Cross Off Your Boise Bucket List:

 

1. Capital Tree Lighting on the Grove Plaza

lighting tree Idaho Statesman

Date: November 24th, from 5pm -6:30pm. 

Get ready to snuggle with your loved ones as you enjoy the holiday tree lighting. It’ll be held at The Grove, and festivities begin at 5pm. Entertainment by Red Light Challenge and the Boise Men’s & Women’s Choruses.

For full details, please visit: https://downtownboise.org/events/downtown-holiday-tree-lighting 


2. Wintry Market at JUMP Boise

wintry market
Source: Wintry Market

Date: November 18 & 19; 10am – 5pm; Pioneer Room at JUMP Boise

Looking to find some homemade goodies you can give as gifts? The 2017 Wintry is here and will be held at JUMP.  The market will be open and free to the public this Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 5pm.


3. Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees


Date: November 22nd – November 28th.

Last year, I attended this wonderful event and I highly recommend it. For so many reasons. All funds raised will support the expansion of Saint Alphonsus. You get to walk around and be surrounded by all of the holiday splendor that makes you feel warm inside. Let’s not forget the hundreds of decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, and holiday decor.


4. Idaho Food Bank Empty Bowls

Source: Boise Bucket List/Instagram

Date: Friday, November 24; 11am – 2pm; Grove Plaza

It’s the 20th anniversary of the Idaho Food Bank Empty Bowls! The Empty Bowls is where you get to choose from hand-painted bowls from professional and amateur painters, students, and studios.  After you select a bowl, you can then enjoy a hot bowl of soup generously donated by one of the local Boise restaurants.

Over 3,000 bowls to choose from, and bowls start at $10.00.  It’ll be held at the Boise Center. *Parking WILL BE FREE on Friday.

Recommendation: ARRIVE EARLY! I made the terrible mistake of attending around 12pm. The line was long, wrapped around Main Street.


5. Boise Classic Movies at the Egyptian Theater

boise classic movies
Source: Boise Classic Movies

I’m movie geek and fanatic, so when Boise Classic Movies released its holiday schedule, I screamed with joy. Maybe not scream, but definitely got giddy.

This year, the list of classic movies range from action to romcom to the classic holiday movies:

  • Love Actually
  • Christmas Vacation
  • It’s a Wonderful Life
  • Die Hard
  • A Christmas Story
  • Home Alone
  • White Christmas
  • Elf

Some of the movies showings include beer and wine (21+).  I believe these will all sell out, so grab your tickets early. Plus, you get to watch it in the coolest place here in Boise: The Egyptian Theater.


6. Ice Skating at the Village of Meridian

meridian ice skating Adam Eschabach MP
Source: Adam Eschabach/MP

Date: November through January 2018

I’ll admit — I’m not the best when it comes to ice skating. BUT for the holiday season, I’ll put on some ice skates.

The Village of Meridian now has an ice skating rink in Fountain Square. Its open from November thru January.  Ticket prices start at $5.00.

Enjoy a night of ice skating, then grab hot chocolate at Village Coffee, and sit by a warm fire.


7. Winter Garden aGlow at the Idaho Botanical Garden

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Source: Boise Bucket List/Instagram

Date: Thursday, November 23 – Monday, January 1; 6pm; Botanical Garden

The Garden isn’t only for the warm months. The Idaho Botanical Garden becomes a dazzling display of lights during the holiday season. Over 380K lights, to be exact.

On select nights, you can even see Santa and enjoy the sounds of local choirs.

Tickets start at $8, and children under 4 are FREE


8. Idaho Hot Springs

hot springs visit idaho
Source: Visit Idaho

Stay warm in one of Idaho’s hot springs. There a public and commercial options when choosing a hot spring. There are quite a few an hour or less from Boise:

The Springs Resort

Roy Stone Hot Springs

Little Anderson Hot Spring

If you’re willing to drive further, your options expand!


9. The Nutcracker at Ballet Idaho

ballet idaho morrison center
Source: Morrison Center

Date: Friday, December 15th and go through Sunday, December 17th. 

When I was growing up, my parents brought my siblings and me to see the Nutcracker. My sister especially loved it because she was into ballet. When I close my eyes and think of Christmas, seeing the Nutcracker is part of that vision.

Luck for us, we have a chance to see the Nutcracker live at Ballet Idaho.  This year, Ballet Idaho is hosting Nutcracker parties prior to each performance!

Snag your tickets early because these showings HAVE SOLD OUT! Not kidding.


10. Downtown Carriage Rides

horse carriage source stock photo
Source: Stock Photo

Date: Every Friday and Saturday from November 24th – December 16th, 4pm – 8pm

You’d think you’d have to travel to New York City to enjoy a classic carriage ride. Or, at least that’s what I see in the movies.

Starting in late November, you have the chance to enjoy a FREE carriage ride in downtown Boise. Yes, I said FREE.

Pickup is in front of the Washington Trust Bank 9th Street downtown Boise.


11. Boise Annual Holiday Concert

Holiday Concert, Photo By Wankun Sirichotiyakul
Source: Boise State University Music Department

Date: The concert is December 8th at 7:30pm. 

Let’s celebrate the season with Boise State University’s annual family holiday concert. The Boise State Music Department puts on this wonderful concert for all to enjoy.  BSU students, faculty & staff are eligible for free tickets. Non-BSU tickets start at $8


12. Claus N Paws Day at Zoo Boise

Source:Boise Bucket List/Instagram

Date: Saturday, December 2nd from 10am – 5pm

Want to have a fun FREE day at the zoo? On Saturday, December 2nd starting at 10am, you and your family can enjoy all the zoo offerings. Santa Claus will visit the zoo for photo ops.


13. Boise Holiday Parade

boise holiday parade source Downtown Boise
Source: Downtown Boise

Date: Saturday, November 18th starting at 9:45am

You can’t help but to enjoy a good, entertaining holiday parade. On Saturday, November 18th, come to downtown Boise and enjoy the “Storybook Christmas” at this year’s Boise annual Holiday Parade. The parade kicks off on Jefferson at 10th Street and heads to 4th Street.


 

14. Winter Wonderland in Downtown Caldwell

Date: Friday, November 17th from 6pm – 9pm. 

If you haven’t driven to Caldwell for its Winter Wonderland, you’re definitely missing out! I attended this last year, and I’m so happy the time has come where I can go again.  You have the beautiful light display  in downtown Caldwell. Lots of children activities, music, and plenty of vendors.


15. Elf the Musical at The Morrison Center

elf the musical source Morrison Center
Source: Morrison Center

Date: Shows start on Friday, December 1st and run through Saturday, December 2nd.  Tickets start at $35

Want to experience Broadway in Boise? As part of the 2017 – 2018 season, Elf the Broadway Musical will be playing at the Morrison Center. After you see the classic movie at the Egyptian Theater, head over to the Morrison Center to see the Broadway Musical!

 


16. Idaho State Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting

Date: Monday, November 27th

Source: Boise Bucket List/Instagram


Last year, I attended the Idaho State Capitol Christmas Tree lighting right after work, and it was absolutely worth it. There was free hot cocoa and cookies for everyone. After the tree lighting, you can head inside and explore the Idaho State Capitol building. Holiday decorations are something that’s magical – amazing, even. With the vibrant reds and the deep greens to the holiday wreaths, you can get lost in the sea of beautiful holiday decorations. The Idaho State Capitol building does not disappoint. The interior of the Capitol building is absolutely amazing!

 


Do you have any ideas of holiday festivities I should include on this list? Feel free to email me at theboisebucketlist@gmail.com for activities worth crossing off the #BoiseBucketList

 

Make sure to follow me on Instagram and use the hashtag #BoiseBucketList to share your stories of new adventures!

My Top 6 Picks for BOI Summer Concerts

 

I love music.

Let’s be honest – who doesn’t enjoy some good tunes. I’m fortunate to be living in a city with a vibrant and eclectic music scene. With summer months ahead, I have my calendar constantly filling up with upcoming tours & music festival I can’t wait to attend. That said, here’ my Boise Bucket List of the 6 Must-See BOI Summer Concerts!


  1. Dirty Heads & SOJA (Friday, July 7th, 2017)

Where: Ford Idaho Center Arena, Nampa

Ticket Prices: $25-$125

I’ve been a personal fan of the Dirty Heads since about 2011. In 2012, their summer tour brought them to Portland, ME State Theater. You’d think I’d go and see the Dirty Heads with them being in my ‘hood. Nope. Didn’t happen.

Life got busy after, and I wasn’t too concerned with going to any local concerts.

2017 – I have another chance to see the Dirty Heads. And this time, it’ll be VIP!

Dirty Heads have those reggae vibes infused with hip-hop beats. These Huntingon Beach, CA natives make me feel like I’m at the beach, vibing with a tropical drink in my hands. All my worries go away when I jam out to “Spread Too Thin.”


  1. Boise Music Fest (Saturday, June 24th, 2017)

 

Where: Expo Idaho, 5610 North Glenwood, Garden City

Tickets: $25-$125

In the past 7 years, Boise Music Fest has grown to a become a huge family event, attracting attendees from all over, especially in the Mountain and Pacific Northwest. This year should be no different. From carnivals to food vendors to multiple stages – it’s the summer music fest you can’t miss.

This year’s lineup includes:

  • Flo-RIDA (of course a Floridian is heading to Boise while I’m here)
  • The Band Perry (If I Die Young – my jam!)
  • Sean Kingston (Durty Rock with Nicki Minaj was my dancing anthem when in law school)

  1. Train, Natasha Bedingfield, and O.A.R.

Where: Ford Idaho Center Arena, Nampa

Tickets: $58-$85

Whenever a Train song comes on, I inevitably sing along. And Natasha Bedingfield? I was one of those that used to watch ‘The Hills” and jam to ‘Unwritten” like my life depended on it.

No. Seriously.

I’m looking forward to taking it back to some good hits which bring me back great memories. I can say my life right not is definitely unwritten.


  1. Idaho Botanical Gardens Summer Concert Series 2017

Where: Idaho Botanical Gardens

Tickets: prices vary

Imagine watching your favorite artists perform with the foothills surrounding you, and a late-night summer Idaho sunset. Yes, that’s what you get with the Idaho Botanical Gardens Outlaw Field Summer Concert Series.  This summer’s lineup includes:

  • John Mellencamp
  • Santana
  • Dashboard Confessionals
  • Diana Krall
  • Michael Franti & Spearhead

Make sure you grab your tickets quickly! These tickets sell out, like Santana’s.


  1. 311 & New Politics

Where: Revolution Concert House

Tickets: $40

311 has been a favorite of mine since I was in high school. Who doesn’t remember “Down”? I think that’s when I really got into the reggae-fused alternative sounds. Like the Dirty Heads, I had a chance to see them back in Maine, but nope. Miss that opportunity too! My personal favorite songs are “Amber” and “Love Song” from one of my favorite movies 50 First Dates.


  1. Downtown Boise Alive After 5 Summer Concert Series

Where: The Grove Plaza, Downtown Boise

Tickets: FREE

For over 30 years, Downtown Boise Association put on weekly concerts at the Grove for the public to attend. This year, summer concerts will run from June 7th – August 30th.  The concerts start at 5pm and end around 8pm.  Make sure to visit the website to see the complete list of artists scheduled to perform


Honorable Mentions:

Here are some concerts and festivals I think you should cross off your #BOImusicbucketlist

 

  1. The Beach Boys – July 9th, 2017
  2. Korn – June 25th, 2017
  3. Blondie & Garbage – July 14th, 2017

What are some of the concerts you plan to attend this summer?! Don’t forget to share on this post on my page at @boise_bucketlist. Use #BOIsummermusic2017 to be featured on my page!

Zip-a-dee doo da: Zipping Around Boise

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Last weekend, my brother and I had the chance to ride a scooter around Boise. I initially connected with Veronica’s Scooters a few months back to discuss possible collaborations — one of which was the giveaway for 2 scooter riders.

Thankfully, my work schedule did not consist of weekend travels so I was able to try out Veronica’s Scooters myself. I’m blessed that the weather held up, because I was worried it was going to rain all weekend!


Here is our ENTIRE DAY  in a nutshell:

1PM: Arrive to Veronica’s Scooters and meet with Dave (co-owner). Dave teaches you how to safely ride the scooter, including giving you some time to balance yourself, test out the gas & breaks, and adjust your mirrors. So if you’re worried you  can’t ride a scooter because you don’t know how — Dave is here to help! Me and my brother have NEVER (repeat – never!) been on a scooter before. That time with Dave truly helped us out.

1:30PM: After practicing and getting the hang of the gas & breaks, we were OFF! With the construction on Vista, Dave suggested we take the back streets to lead us to Protest Street. That way, we can take it straight into BSU.

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Perfect idea, Dave!

That hill on Protest was that wind-in-your-face all speed ahead thrilling feeling. I know I wasn’t going fast, but dang — that wind in my face at 25 MPH was AWESOME!

2PM-6PM: We did nothing but explore Boise.

List of Stops:

If you want to coordinate your own mini Boise tour, here are some of my stops. I highly suggest you include some of these stops when you drive your scooter around Boise:


Stop 1: Boise State University “B” Sculpture

Where: In front of the BSU State Administrative Plaza

Why: why not take a photo in front of a 12-foot “B” sculpture? Plus, it’s a great photo op

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Stop 2: Albertson’s Stadium; the famous “Smurf Turf”

Where: East end of Boise State University (corner of Broadway and University)

Why:

  • Site of the famous “smurf turf” (blue playing surface)
  • First ever non -green playing surface in football history
  • Site of the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl

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Stop 3: Opaline School House & Excellence Bell

Where: East End of Boise State University

Why:

  • Preserved one-room schoolhouse
  • Used as classroom for mining community’s children in Opaline, ID (no longer in existence)
  • Refurbished in 1084
  • Can actually see old desks and classroom setting inside windows

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Stop 4: Christ Chapel

Where: BSU Campus, Broadway at Campus Drive

Why:

  • Constructed in 1866
  • Used as schoolhouse for St. Margaret’s School (founded in 1892)
  • Added to National Register of Historical Places in 1974

Stop 5: Friendship Bridge

Where: Near Ann Morrison Theater  on BSU Campus

Why:

  • Beautiful view of the Boise River
  • Peaceful place to meditate , take a solo walk or with someone special, or with your family
  • Connects Boise State to Julia Davis Park

Stop 6: Centennial Amphitheater

Where: Greenbelt east of the Friendship Bridge

Why:

  • Popular outdoor venue for concerts and other events
  • Easily accessible
  • Great choice for outdoor picnic, lunch date, or quiet place to read & think

 


Stop 7: Idaho Black History Museum

Where: Julia Davis Park

Why:

  • Oldest Black History Museum in Pacific Northwest
  • Host of activities, events, and information
  • Free admission

 


 

Stop 8: Abraham Lincoln Bronze Statue

Where: Julia Davis Park (near Idaho Black History Museum

Why:

  • Chance to sit near larger-than-life statue of Abe Lincoln
  • Enlarged version of one of most famous image of Lincoln when seated at a bench
  • Wonderful photo-op
  • Usually Abe has something new in his hand, depending on the season (during my tour, it was beautiful flowers)

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Stop 9: Rose Garden

Where: Julia Davis Park

Why:

  • Site of gorgeous roses
  • Place where families create memorials
  • Nationally recognized Rose Garden in 1992
  • Site of many wedding ceremonies

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Stop 10: Tin Roof Tacos (for some GRUB!)

Where: 115 South Broadway Ave, Boise ID

Why:

  • Delicious and yummy tacos including: Baja Shrimp, Fried Chicken, and BBQ Pulled Pork
  • Great outdoor patio to grab some fresh air as you grub

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Stop 11: Idaho Historical Center

Where: 2205 Old Penitentiary Road Boise

Why:

  • Home of the Idaho State Historical Society
  • When opened, good place to visit to learn ways to explore Idaho’s history, including visiting various Idaho landmarks

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Stop 12: Idaho Botanical Gardens

Where: 2355 North Old Penitentiary Road, Boise

Why:

  • One of the oldest botanical gardens in Idaho
  • 15-acres of lush gardens
  • 13+ gardens including the Children’s Aventure Garden, vegetable garden, and the meditation garden
  • various outdoor and entertaining events including outdoor concerts (depending on season)

 


Stop 13: Idaho Old State Penitentiary

Where: 2445 Old Penitentiary Road

Why:

  • formerly a functional prison in Idaho from 1872 -1973
  • Home to personal collections from prisoners, historical arms & military memorabilia
  • Hosts tours throughout the day
  • entertaining and thrilling (if you go at night)

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Stop 14: Goody’s Soda Fountain

Where: 1502 North 13th Street Boise (Hyde Park)

Why:

  • Home of soda fountain, homemade ice cream, decadent chocolate, and candy for that sweet tooth
  • Hip and trendy location (converted bungalow house)
  • Seating inside and outside
  • Great place to stop for that sweet dessert during your tour

 

Stop 15: Camel’s Back Park

Where: 1200 West Heron Street

Why:

  • Lots of open space  – perfect for picnic
  • Outdoor gym (burn off those sweets!)
  • Large hill you can climb for a beautiful view of Boise
  • Photo Op!

Stop 16: State Capitol Building

Where: 700 West Jefferson Street

Why:

  • Home of the government  of the State of Idaho
  • Historical site (free tours if during the day)
  • Large scale replica of Liberty Bell in front
  • Perfect photo-op!

 


 

Boise Bucket List Review: Veronica’s Scooters

I can’t describe how much fun this experience was! I mean, talk about a thrill ride. Yes, you can drive around Boise to see the sites I listed above, but it’s a completely different experience when you go on scooter. It’s a holistic experience: breathing in fresh air, sounds of the scooter’ engine roaring away, power of the wind in my face, easy access to certain sights, and being able to do with friends & family!

Plus, Veronica’s Scooters is a locally owned business and right here as part of the Boise community. I’ll say that the prices and fares to rent a scooter is truly affordable (trust me – I’m from south Florida where hourly rentals are significantly higher; makes sense because it’s a touristy things to do near the beach).

Some feature I’d like to highlight:

You can explore so much on these scooters. There are some places I wish I went to visit (honorable mentions):

  • Anne Frank Memorial
  • Zoo Boise
  • Freak Alley Gallery
  • Boise Art Museum

 

Definitely checkout Veronica’s Scooters! I look forward to building a relationship with them because it’s an activity you should cross off your IMG_0251Boise Bucket LIst!

I also encourage you to join my Facebook groups (Boise Bucketlisters & Girls Night Boise) to learn about group outing, including riding around Boise on a scooter!

 

Wax On, Wax Off: European Wax Center Review

Last week,  I visited the ladies at the European Wax Center  (EWC) in Meridian. After getting lost (note: based on the address, my GPS led me to this vacant lot; the EWC is located in the WinCo shopping center next to Baskin Robbins) and receiving a kind reminder phone call from Alison confirming my visit, I arrived to EWC and excited about getting my eyebrows shaped.

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Here’s more info than you may want to know  (oh well, that’s  what happens with a lifestyle blog). I have a love/hate relationship with my eyebrows.

Love: how they look AFTER waxed/shaped

Hate: how thick and wild they can get

Love: shape

Hate: shape when untamed

Love: how thick eyebrows are

Hate: how thick eyebrows are (especially when growing out)

You can imagine how excited I was when I was invited to a European Wax Center! It’s spring and the last thing I need are unshaped bushy eyebrows.


Once I arrived and checked in with Allison, I was greeted by Kari — a young woman with a beautiful smile. I wondered “hmm, I wonder if her smile will go away once she is tasked shaping my eyebrows!”.

Nope, not the case.

I followed Kari and entered the first private room to the left. It’s like your own private waxing paradise: personal chair to lay on, relaxed music, refreshing smell. After Kari instructed me to lay down, I started to get nervous about the wax. Weird, right? Especially for someone who has a high threshold for pain.

FYI: I usually get my eyebrows threaded, which for some, is excruciating pain. What we do for beauty!

What’s unique about EWC is the wax formula. Unlike most waxing centers, where they use white cotton strips to tear the wax from your skin, the wax itself is stripped without the use of cotton strips. The wax is very gentle and delicate to the skin — soothing, really.


Kari was very personable and I truly enjoyed her company. Her ability to strike up conversation was especially helpful when she was preparing to wax another part of my face. For the sake of being truthful and at the risk of being embarrassed (well, not too embarrassed), Kari also waxed the upper lip. Yes, I said it. Don’t act like women don’t succumb to the uni-brow and upper lip hair syndrome.

 


Again, I have a high threshold for pain but nothing burns more than hot wax being ripped from your skin. Kari definitely was right when she said how gentle their wax is. It didn’t burn whatsoever. Maybe a slight sting, but it’s definitely better than my eyes automatically watering because of waxing pain!

Again, what we do for beauty.

After the wax, Kari shaped my eyebrows using a pencil and powder to fill in the gaps. She even taught me how to do it! (OK, another thing about me is that I’m not the best with all that makeup masterful skills: contouring, highlighting, concealing, etc. It’s called put on some mineral powder and GO!). Kari also put some refreshing cream on my face, giving it that additional glow.

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After receiving my services, I proceeded to checkout and chat with Alison. She went over all the details of what the EWC  offers the Treasure Valley including:

  • FREE Complimentary Wax for 1st-time guests (applicable for brow, underam, or bikini line wax (women) & ear, nose & brow for gents);
  • Student Wax Pass: purchase 3 services and get one free (must show student ID);
  • Unlimited Wax Pass: ideal if you get a type of service multiple times throughout the year. It pays for itself!

I scheduled my next appointment in mid-April. Why that far out? Because the wax treatments lasts up to 4 weeks! I ALMOST mustered the guts to book for a service named after a country where beautiful models were born (Gisele Bundchen, anyone?).


Nope, not yet. Nooooottt YET!


Checkout EWC, both in Meridian and Boise. If anything, a free complimentary wax is a WIN-WIN!


Think your business is a good fit with Boise Bucket List? Would you like to be featured on our page?  Maybe host your own giveaway to boost engagement? Email me at theboisebucketlist@gmail.com.

 

10 Day BOI Bucket List Challenge

3 months.

The total time I’ve been in Boise! And, being that I like celebrations, why not celebrate this moment?

To celebrate, I’m going to do an accelerated #boisebucketlist challenge:

Doing 10 New Things Before 2017


This 10 new things will be random, ranging from something small to big.

Will I:

  • try a new coffee shop?
  • ring the bell in front of the State Capitol Building?
  • watch the potato drop?

Who knows?

But I’m excited for this #BOIbucketlistchallenge. Want to join me? TAG me over the course of the 10 days to see what new thing you’re trying in Boise. I’d love to share what you all are doing in the beautiful BOI.