Meridian, ID February 2025

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Inspiration starts here

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Join us for an Open House!

Wednesday, January 15, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and Saturday, January 25, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Unmatched Academic Results

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic classes for preschool to eighth‑grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence. The results are unmatched at any price!

Boise Bloom (PS–G1) (208) 338-9500

5551 West Bloom Street Boise, ID 83703

Everest (PS–G8) (208) 846-8888

2020 W. Everest Lane

Meridian, ID 83646

Meridian Local’s Love

As February rolls in, Meridian feels alive with a sense of connection and purpose. From the local businesses that form the backbone of our economy to the parks and neighborhoods where families gather, our city is a true reflection of what it means to thrive together as a community.

This month, we celebrate the many ways Meridian inspires us to love local. Whether it’s savoring a freshly baked pastry from a family-owned café, cheering on our kids at a weekend basketball game, or strolling through the Village under twinkling lights, Meridian has a way of making everyday moments extraordinary.

February is often called the month of love, but here in Meridian, it’s about more than just Valentine’s Day. It’s about appreciating the small acts of kindness that happen every day—neighbors shoveling sidewalks for one another, teachers going above and beyond for their students, and the businesses that consistently show up to support our schools and nonprofits.

This issue highlights the people, places, and events that make our city shine. From the entrepreneurs creating unique spaces for us to gather to the stories of individuals making a difference behind the scenes, we hope you feel inspired to take a moment to embrace all the good happening around us.

Meridian is more than just a place to live; it’s a community we’re proud to call home. Thank you for allowing us to share in the stories that make this city so special.

Wishing you a February filled with connection, gratitude, and a deeper appreciation for the incredible place we all share.

Warm regards,

February 2025

PUBLISHER

Greg Gewalt | greg.gewalt@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Tricia Busalacchi | tricia.busalacchi@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Jordan Gray | editorial@meridiancitylifestyle.com

SALES SUPPORT ASSISTANT

Maria Serondo | support@boisecitylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Russell Detablan | editorial@meridiancitylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Martha Channer, Jana Kemp, Tammy De Weerd, Renee Van Ausdle

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tammy De Weerd, Janie Jones, Jana Kemp

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

inside the issue

Celebrating

ROMANCING the real

| PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED ESCAPING THE WORLD OF ONLINE DATING AND MEETING REAL PEOPLE IN REAL PLACES

BY

It may be time to get creative. You have tried meeting people from dating sites, Facebook groups, and a host of other online meet and greets, but still no joy. What is missing? Relationships are built gradually; they require trust and time. So, how can you meet someone with the right fundamental simpatico and build something special on a solid foundation? You may have to work a little harder at it, expand your territory, dig deeper, and leave your phone in the car, but the rewards will be great.

The golden rule in dating is to start with common interests. However, be sure to examine all of your interests, not just your passions, obsessions, or hobbies. You may be stowing away some precious gems that you never considered valuable. Sit with this; success begins with self-reflection. Discover what really touches you in your quiet moments and softens your heart. To find love you have to feel love and then demonstrate love.

For example; You love dogs. Dogs are not a hobby, or a quick flirt to you, they are a deep familial connection. You care for your canine friend and in turn your pup guards you, gives you sympathy, and makes you laugh. You love your animal and it loves you. You know in your heart you must find a life partner that also loves dogs or else how could you create a home together? Is there a social setting that fosters community and dogs? You are in luck. Check out CLUBHOUND, a 2.5 Acre dog park with room to roam. According to their website they are “a club crafted for dogs and their humans." They serve food along with beer, wine, and good coffee. They have after dark hours and member events that include breed meet-ups and speed dating (for humans). Sounds like a very fun way to meet your sister’s next in-law.

Or let’s say you adore the arts; creativity, expression, and artistic communities. Garden City has become a riverside arts hub and boasts some wonderful wineries and restaurants to explore. Art openings and events have long been a perfect way to meet people and form relationships. THE COMMON WELL presents regular exhibits, artist talks, and houses several artist’s studios. It is a prime place to connect with like minded individuals who are also excited about the creative process. SUREL’S PLACE is another exhibition venue that hosts resident artists from all over the world, as well as providing unusual multi-arts workshops from music to choreographic writing along with lectures, hands-on technique classes, and performances.

And if you like live theatre, you must attend STORY STORY NIGHT at the Visual Arts Collective in Garden City. This unique theatrical experience brings people together to share their stories or to simply be the audience. What better way to reveal to several somebodies your unique and loveable self; to stand up and be noticed. You can submit your story to tell, or go see the show, or be part of a workshop that helps you put your story together and present it. A truly bonding experience that also addresses the best ways to put yourself out there, overcome performance anxiety, and open up to something new and exciting, which is the very essence of romancing the real. Boise loves a good story! Why not yours.

Pioneering

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAMMY DE WEERD

Hells Canyon Winery—an Idaho pioneer nestled in the Snake River Valley—a hidden gem celebrating great wine, family tradition, and a deep connection to the land.

Idaho Wines

In the heart of southwest Idaho’s rugged beauty lies Hells Canyon Winery, one of the state’s oldest wineries. A true pioneer of the Pacific Northwest wine scene, they have crafted wines for over 40 years that embody Idaho’s unique terroir and pioneering spirit. Family-owned and deeply connected to the Snake River Valley, this winery captures what it means to "love local." Visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes while enjoying exceptional wines crafted with passion and care.

A LEGACY OF PASSION

The story of Hells Canyon Winery began with Steve Robertson, a chef turned winemaker, and his wife Leslie. Their journey took root in 1981 when they planted vines above the Snake River, inspired by a transformative trip to France. A lasting friendship with Jack Hemingway, Ernest Hemingway’s son, also influenced their path. Jack’s love for Idaho’s wild beauty, hunting and fishing resonated deeply with Steve, inspiring him to name his daughter Hadley after Jack’s mother.

A PERFECT TERROIR

Hells Canyon’s location along the Snake River Valley’s steep slopes creates a unique microclimate. The high elevation (2,700 feet) and volcanic sandy loam soils are perfect for Bordeaux varieties, while the river moderates temperatures, extending the growing season and protecting vines from frost. Our favorite is the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon. It offers bold flavors, all playing in perfect harmony with a long, lingering finish. Their Chablis style 43-year-old vine Chardonnay delivers crisp, vibrant complexity that evolves beautifully in the glass. These wines showcase the region’s potential.

A FAMILY AFFAIR

Today, daughters Hadley and Bijou play integral roles in the winery. Hadley leads operations, sales, and hospitality and Bijou joins Steve in winemaking. The sisters have brought their own label, Zhoo Zhoo Wines, to life. Their humble, down-to-earth lifestyle is evident in their wines. The family is dedicated to sustainable practices, they minimize the wineries environmental footprint through solar energy and give back to the community through philanthropy that supports the vulnerable in their community.

DISCOVER LOCAL

Visit this Wild West of wine where boutique wineries like Hells Canyon Winery offer a taste of Idaho’s rugged, pioneering spirit. The Snake River Valley, with beautiful landscapes and rich viticultural history, promises an unforgettable experience.

Walla Walla Valley

CAFFEINA COFFEE ROASTING COMPANY

A Family-Owned Business with Heart and Passion

Caffeina Coffee Roasting Company was founded in April 2018, but the roots of the company dig deeper.

The story begins with Lyndsey Hopkins, who fell in love with roasting coffee during her time in college.

“Through college, I worked for a local coffee roaster, and when I was nearing graduation, I found myself dreading the thought of quitting my job at the coffee shop,” Hopkins said. “I called my mom and asked her if she would help guide me in starting my own coffee company. She agreed, but with conditions. I knew I

had one shot to make it work, so I poured my heart into this venture, and today, I’m incredibly proud of how far we've come.”

The original vision behind Caffeina began as Coffee Studio in 2011, when it was first opened as a brick-and-mortar café in Meridian, Idaho. In the following years, Caffeina expanded to three café’s.

As a women-owned and operated business, Lyndsey started this journey with her mom, and their entire family has worked together to grow Caffeina

into what it is today. "Our community—employees and customers alike—is what makes Caffeina truly special. It’s not just about coffee; it’s about connecting with people, building an environment where everyone feels like part of an extended family. We’ve built a culture that extends beyond

our business, with a focus on both customer and employee relationships. We truly believe that everything we need in life can be found in a coffee shop: networking, relationships, coffee, water, wine, fruit, veggies, protein, and even plants,” Lyndsey said.

The company culture is built on a foundation of hard work, integrity, and support. Small business is equally challenging and rewarding, and Lyndsey has learned that leadership is about taking care of what’s living—their employees, customers, and brand. She believes in dreams, hard work, and focus. She has learned that when she supports and believes in her team, everything else falls into place. "Excellence is the key to success, and we’ve worked hard to build a company that thrives on these principles."

It takes a village to make a business thrive, and Lyndsey is grateful for the community that has

supported them along the way. This year Caffeina was rewarded with the Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Supporter of the Year award.

Currently, there are four locations across Boise and Meridian, and the future looks bright. In 2025, Lyndsey plans to open a new café in the North End/ Southeast Boise area and has already launched Caffeina Kiosks at Micron and ESI. Looking ahead, she is preparing to open a second roastery, café, and commissary kitchen in Alpine, Wyoming. Caffeina faculty is proud to be part of this incredible community, and look forward to continuing to serve you, one cup at a time.

GEM STATE leaders

Celebrating Idaho’s dedicated public servants shaping communities and preserving the state’s cherished values and traditions

ARTICLE BY CHELSEA CHAMBERS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Lt Gov Scott Bedke
Sheriff Clifford

There’s no greater honor than serving your community, and Idaho is home to many exceptional leaders who have dedicated their lives to public service. From preserving our natural resources to ensuring public safety and protecting our quality of life, these individuals embody the values that make the Gem State a remarkable place to live, work, and thrive.

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR SCOTT BEDKE

Lt. Governor Bedke is a fourth-generation Idaho cattle rancher from Oakley. He and his wife Sarah, along with their four children and 16 grandchildren, are proud to call Idaho home. Bedke enjoys gardening and golfing, “although I don’t get enough time to do either one as much as I’d like,” he said. The Bedkes are a shining example of why the Gem State is the perfect place to live, work, and raise a family. “Idaho has offered us the opportunity to accomplish the American dream. What drew me to politics was a concern for my own future as a public land rancher. Federal land management policy is ever-changing, and those changes are driven by politics. So generational continuity as a public land ranching family necessitates being active in the policy setting realm.”

SENATOR ALI RABE

“Growing up in Middleton, surrounded by farm fields and Idaho’s great outdoors, I learned how special our state is,” shared Senator Rabe. “Some of my earliest memories involve picking potatoes in my backyard, learning to drive on winding dirt roads, fishing with dad, and playing in mom’s garden.” An attorney and nonprofit leader, Rabe was introduced to public service at a young age. Her mother was

Lt Gov Scott Bedke
Senator Ali Rabe
Sheriff Clifford

Councilwoman Gindelsperger

SHERIFF MATT CLIFFORD

“Idaho truly feels like a place where you can thrive and call home.”

a public-school teacher and her father was a state employee for the Department of Transportation. “We have enjoyed a tight-knit sense of community, a beautiful and open environment, and affordable cost of living. Idahoans are invested in keeping our state a wonderful place to live; however, we are currently facing new challenges in the face of rapid growth which must be addressed.” Rabe maintains her commitment to serving the people of Idaho and protecting our quality of life.

A lifelong Idahoan, Sheriff Clifford grew up in north Idaho and moved south in 1995 to attend Boise State University. He and his family loved Boise so much, they decided to stay. After finishing his degree, he immediately got a job at the Ada County Sheriff’s Office. Clifford hails from a long line of public servants—his parents and many members of his family are schoolteachers, his brother is a fireman, and Clifford found his place in law enforcement.

“We are working every day to solve problems in our community. So that is definitely what has kept me here for well over two decades.” As you can imagine, it can be a difficult job at times, but Clifford has remained tried and true to the old saying, “Do the right thing, not the easy thing.”

COUNCILWOMAN MELISSA GINDLESPERGER

Newer to the state, Councilwoman Gindlesperger was looking for ways to serve her community and make a positive impact in the area she lived. Like many who come to Idaho, she was drawn to the Gem State’s allure. “The quality of life is exceptional—stunning natural landscapes, accessible outdoor activities, and a slower pace that fosters balance and well-being. Idaho truly feels like a place where you can thrive and call home. I’m passionate about protecting personal liberties and maintaining safety for all, as these are the foundations of a healthy society. I also believe in being part of the solution rather than just complaining about how things are done.”

Idaho Celebrates a Snowy Milestone

100 YEARS AGO, IDAHO’S FIRST SKI AREA TOOK SHAPE AS BLACKWELL’S JUMP DURING THE INAUGURAL MCCALL WINTER CARNIVAL

ARTICLE BY STAFF WRITER

Idaho’s mountains are blanketed in snow, and communities across the state are embracing winter traditions that have spanned generations. One of the most beloved is the McCall Winter Carnival, returning February 21-23, 2025, to celebrate the magic of Idaho winters. While today’s Carnival is known for its snow sculptures, parades, and festive spirit, its roots stretch back to a historic hill and a pioneering event: Blackwell’s Jump.

In 1924, McCall hosted its first Winter Games, marking the occasion with Idaho’s first recorded ski jump. Built on logged land owned by Clem Blackwell, a local rancher and saloon keeper, the jump became a focal point for ski jumping until 1937. It was an early symbol of Idaho’s emerging winter sports culture and a glimpse of what would become a statewide love affair with skiing.

The history of Blackwell’s Jump is documented in Ski the Great Potato: Idaho Ski Areas Past and Present. Kenneth Johnson, whose father helped organize the original carnival, remembered its creation. “My dad persuaded other businessmen to hold the first carnival,” he said, even bringing ski jumper Oly Olson from Cascade to teach locals the art of ski jumping.

The event drew hundreds of spectators who traveled by train from Boise, staying overnight to witness the spectacle. Draft horses pulled them on sleds to the jump site, where skiers climbed the hill carrying their heavy wooden skis. Kenneth’s younger brother, Loyd, won his age group at just seven years old. Nervous but determined, Loyd famously recalled, “When a big Norwegian tells you to yump, you yump!”

Fast-forward to today, and the McCall Winter Carnival continues to honor this vibrant legacy. Now approaching its 59th year, the Carnival transforms McCall into a winter wonderland, attracting tens of thousands of visitors. Highlights include the Mardi Gras Parade, live music, and the famed snow sculpture competition, where local artists craft towering works of art from snow and ice.

This celebration of winter also reminds us how far Idaho skiing has come. The state now boasts 19 alpine ski areas, including Lookout Pass, celebrating its 90th season this winter, and Sun Valley, America’s first destination ski resort. Together, these ski areas offer thousands of acres of powder and trails for all skill levels.

“Skiing has transformed many Idaho communities into world-class tourism destinations,” says Jeff Colburn, Idaho Ski Areas Association Board President. Tourism is Idaho’s third-largest industry, with winter sports accounting for nearly 10% of that impact.

For those wanting a deeper dive into Idaho’s skiing heritage,  Ski the Great Potato offers a fascinating look at 93 ski areas, both past and present. The book, available for $22.95 at  mountain-press.com, preserves stories like Blackwell’s Jump for future generations.

As McCall prepares for its 2025 Winter Carnival, it’s more than a festival—it’s a tribute to Idaho’s winter spirit. Whether watching the snow sculptures, enjoying live music, or hitting the nearby slopes, visitors are invited to celebrate the magic of winter in a place that helped launch Idaho’s skiing legacy.

Photos from The Idaho Ski Areas Association (aka Ski Idaho), the Central Idaho Historical Museum, and the McCall Area Chamber of Commerce.

PaulsononPayetteLake

McCall Winter Carnival: Need-to-Know

The McCall Winter Carnival returns February 21-23, 2025, for its 59th year of snowy celebrations. Enjoy favorites like the Mardi Gras Parade, live music, food vendors, and the legendary snow sculpture competition, where teams create stunning art from snow and ice.

Tips for Visitors:

• Parking: Shuttle services are available throughout town for easy access.

• Lodging: Book early, as accommodations fill quickly.

• Weather: Dress in layers; McCall temperatures are chilly in February.

• Events Map & Details: Find schedules and guides at visitmccall.org

Make memories at this beloved Idaho winter tradition!

Sled to Blackwell Hill

VALENTINE’S at home

Celebrate love with sweet treats, heartfelt crafts, cozy dinners, and timeless traditions this Valentine’s Day

Create lasting memories this Valentine’s Day at home with traditions new and old.

Sweet

Treat Table

Surprise your children with a sweet treat table. Keep it simple with a few favorite snacks and candies, or for a more extravagant display, use fresh flowers and create a handmade centerpiece. To achieve this look, start by placing the largest greenery on the bottom layer in a circle around the table. Next layer varying types of greenery on top of the first layer in  shorter widths to achieve the final look. Next add Valentine’s Day mini cupcakes, chocolate dipped Oreos, and Valentine’s Day cookies for an inviting sweet treat table.

Valentine’s Tree

To create this easy and eye-catching centerpiece, collect fallen branches and paint them white. We used a thrifted, repurposed white ceramic jar to assemble the  branches in for the base. Use a floral foam to stabilize the branches, and place moss at the top of the jar. You can use this homemade tree for any occasion as it’s sturdy, and just about  anything can be hung on it.

Valentine’s Day Ornaments

Create heart ornaments to hang on your Valentine’s Tree Centerpiece. These ornaments can be used as clue cards for a kid’s Valentine’s Day scavenger hunt. Instruct children to find their picture on the tree and hunt for the hidden treasure in the house. We used recycled shipping boxes to create the heart base and painted them red. We then used a hole punch to create a lace-like edge to complete the look.

ROMANTIC DINNER FOR 2: THE ADULT TABLE

For this look, we decided to set the table in a non-traditional casual setting—the coffee table in the living room. Layer pillows and cozy blankets on the ground for comfortable seating. We used two layers of fabric for the runner, and added a handmade floral arrangement as the centerpiece. To achieve this look, use a two-layer serving tray and layer flowers and stems to adorn the tray. Add grapes or berries to give a fuller and textured look. For a romantic ambiance, add candle sticks, a bottle of wine and Billie Holiday playing in the background.

2

Valentines Tree

Create a stunning Valentine’s tree with painted branches, repurposed décor, and a touch of love.

1

Sweet Treat Table

Delight your family with a festive Valentine’s treat table featuring sweets, greenery, and handmade charm.

3

Craft heart ornaments for a Valentine’s scavenger hunt, combining creativity, fun, and hidden treasures.

WE

POWERED

The Hill in Meridan - partnerships, community, and wellness

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANA KEMP

Years in the making, the Tomlinson South Meridian YMCA, known as The Hill, opened in 2018. The Hill was the first YMCA in the United States to build a facility with so many partners: The Treasure Valley Family YMCA, the West Ada School District, St Luke’s Health System, the City of Meridian Parks and Recreation Department, and the Meridian Library District all work together on the 22.5 acre Hill campus.

Near the intersection of Eagle and Amity Roads, from the front steps, the Boise Front can be seen in the distance. In the foreground is a branch of the Meridian Library, as well as the West Ada School District's Hillsdale Elementary School. The Y’s facilities can be accessed by the Elementary School for class use during school hours.

West of the facility, the 9.5 acre Hillsdale Park incorporates open space, a tractor-themed playground area open to the public and used as a school playground for Hillsdale Elementary students on school days, and 2 multi-use fields. The picnic shelter areas can be rented through Meridian Parks and Recreation

West Ada School District's Hillsdale Elementary School is co-located and utilizes Y gymnasiums and facilities.

Health and wellbeing classes through both the Y and St. Luke’s specially-staffed area of the Y bring evidence-based healthcare to individuals in a workout friendly space. Gymnasiums, youth activity and kid zone spaces, locker facilities, aquatic center, classrooms, and an instructional kitchen are among the features of this Y site.

THRIVE is a program for neurodivergent individuals (adults and children) and thus far, only offered at The Hill/Tomlinson Y location. A sense-aware, curated space with specially trained staff and specific programming sponsored by Blue Cross of Idaho make this Y an extra-friendly place.

The Hill’s collaborative partnership serves as a model for community entities working together. A combined recreation, education, health, wellness, and literacy outreach happens here because of the partnerships.

The multi-use spaces indoors and out, and diverse camps and programs build community each day. The Hill partners continue working together to serve the community and the organizations that serve community members. We Powered in action! Check it out Treasure Valley!

SNOW GLOBE STANLEY

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

A LOCAL HOT SPOT FOR A WINTER WONDERLAND

IDAHO GETAWAY

Nestled between the towering White Cloud and Sawtooth Mountain ranges, Stanley transforms from bustling summer haven to tranquil winter snow globe as the towering peaks adorn their frosty white gowns. While Stanley has held the title of coldest spot in the continental US thanks to historical temps below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, there are also plenty of milder winter days that make Stanley an ideal weekend winter destination!

One blissful sunny weekend in February, my friends and I strapped on bathing suits beneath warm layers and piled into the SUV with our snow gear. We stopped at Volcanic Farms for the best huckleberry pie in Idaho, then followed the winding Payette River north and then east until we

spotted the billows of steam. Nature’s ultimate winter spa awaited us at the end of a snowy half-mile jaunt. We heard the gentle rush of water as we finally happened upon layers of glistening rocky pools dotting the river cliff-side amongst a backdrop of bright, snow-covered, tree-line banks.

Feeling invigorated, we continued onward, until just minutes from our destination, we saw an orange and black mirage that sadly did not disappear as we grew closer. ROAD CLOSED. Our hearts sank as we sat speechless. Our destination suddenly seemed unreachable — a rockslide blockaded our intended path. Left with only two

choices, we chose to rally up for the LONG way around this obstacle. Winding back down to Boise via Highway 21 to the I-84, we made the most of the detour, reminiscing about past adventures and refueling with delicious shakes and burgers at the Wrangler Drive-In. As sun set in the rearview mirror, we skirted through Sun Valley and up the

mountain pass. After 8+ hours of travel, visible sighs of relief escaped into the chilly night air like puffs of smoke as our feet touched down on the frozen ground next to the log cabin.

Bright sunbeams warmed our faces the next morning as we rubbed our weary eyes and peaked outside the riverside cabin.

Steam rose from the icy river lined with snow-covered foliage, amongst a backdrop of majestic ivory mountains. After filling our bellies with home-cooked nourishment at the Mountain Village Restaurant, we strapped on our gear at the entrance road to Redfish Lake to head out into the winter wonderland.

Beneath the brilliant blue sky, unplowed terrain spread like a vast blanket of glittery-white, sprinkled with powdery pines. We were in a snow globe that had settled in a picture of winter perfection. Our snowshoes made a satisfying crunch as we meandered down the snowy path. Reaching the sweeping views of an ice-covered Redfish Lake, we

took one daring step, then another. We were walking on water! Traversing across the thick ice and then back over bridges and across Little Redfish too, we meandered the blissful afternoon away, rarely spotted another soul in what felt like our own ethereal snow globe. We completed our journey and set back out along the river for the best way to warm

up… hot springs! Afterwards an evening of drinks, food, music, and laughter commenced until our eyelids refused to stay open. Begrudgingly, we set back in the car the next morning on the cleared road, making for a much shorter trek home. The extended journey was definitely worth the priceless time spent amongst the transcendent beauty of the Stanley Snow Globe.

Don’t

VINTAGE 61

AMBROSE SCHOOL

A KINDERGARTEN EXPERIENCE?

For available dates and to learn more, go to theambroseschool.org

Explore Idaho through

Shot entirely on location in Idaho’s most rugged and scenic landscapes, Outdoor Idaho explores the beauty, the drama and the science of our state’s natural wonders while examining the significant environmental and resource issues facing the American West.

Eastern Idaho Wildlife Rivers & Lakes
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Experience Idaho through a variety of episode collections highlighting the history, regions, and features that define the Gem State.

Meridian + Valley Events

FEBRUARY 2025

1  — WINTERFEST

Heritage Social, 2 PM: Perfect for families and music lovers of all ages. idahobluegrassassociation.org

1  — FLY FISHING EXPO

Expo Idaho, 9 AM: This year’s honor fly is the Dunt Proper.  idahoflyfishingexpo.com

1 — CUPIDS UNDIE RUN

6th Street, Boise, 12 noon: something silly for a crazy good cause ending with epic party! my.cupids.org

2 — PAINT WITH PENGUINS

Zoo Boise, 3:30 PM: Ever wondered how penguins paint? zooboiseorg

2 — RETROSPECTIVE

First Presbyterian Church,10:30 AM: 25 years of Choral Music. facebook.com

3-15 — ICE SKATING RIBBON & RINK

Indian Creek Plaza 6 PM: Skate, relax in the Bogus Basin Lounge, or enjoy treats at the Valley Wide Bar. indiancreekplaza.com

6 — ART TO THE RESCUE

Art Source Gallery, 5 PM: Sales going to help save dogs in need. artsourcegallery.com

6 — BLISS CAMP WINTER RETREAT

Lake Cascade: Serene getaway at a secluded wooded cabin by Lake Cascade. livelybalance.com

7 — BOISE BIRDING

Jim Hall Foothills Learning Center, 9 AM: Binoculars available to borrow. cityofboise.org

7-8 — FIRE & ICE WINTERFEST

Lava Hot Springs: Bring your friends and family and celebrate winter. lavahotsprings.org

8 — BLACK HISTORY MONTH SPEAKEASY

Idaho State Historical Museum, 6 PM: Dress to impress in your finest ‘20s attire. idahobca.com

8 — EMO NITE

Knitting Factory, 9 PM: Celebrate the emo, pop-punk, and alternative scene. knittingfactory.com

13 — TREE SELECTION + PLANTING CLASS

Downtown Library, 6 PM: Learn the right way to plant trees. cityofboise.org

14 — EVENING FOR FRIENDS AND LOVERS

Boise Depot, 6 PM: Enjoy music, wine, champagne, chocolates, appetizers, and stunning views. boisebaroque.org

14 — LAYOVER SEASON

Modern Hotel and Bar: Enjoy a smoky bourbon drink with a peated salt rim and toasty pecans downtownboise.org

15  — WOMEN’S LIFESTYLE EXPO

Expo Idaho, 10 AM: Discover unique styles, wellness resources, and workshops on selfcare, career, and more. eventbrite.com

15  — THE PRINCESS BRIDE

Morrison Center, 3 PM: Hear behind-thescenes stories and relive the magic of this timeless classic.  morrisoncenter.com

15  — BLACK EXCELLENCE GALA

JUMP, 5 PM: An elegant black-tie event cel ebrating Black Excellence! idahobca.com

15  — ARTS AND CRAFTS

The Community Center, 1:30 PM: Bring your own art or craft project, or use the supplies provided. tccidaho.org

15-16  — DREAM WEDDING EXPO

Expo Idaho, 10 AM: Meet top wedding vendors and bring your dream day to life! iblevents.com

20 — FIELD TO FORK FESTIVAL

JUMP, 10 AM: Celebrating Idaho’s local food system with growers, producers, and restaurants. fareidaho.org

20 — PAINT AND PINOT

Zoo Boise, 6 PM: A fun painting, wine, and wildlife evening! zooboiseorg

21-25  — MCCALL’S WINTER WONDERLAND

McCall Carnival: Enjoy snowy adventures or unwind in relaxing hot springs. visitmccall.org

25-28  — THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL

Morrison Center: An electrifying story of the Queen of Rock n’ Roll! morrisoncenter.com

27 — SHOOT FOR THE STARS

JUMP, 5 PM: A silent and live auction to support Lowell Elementary School. lowellelementaryptsa.my

27 — 31ST BUY IDAHO CAPITOL SHOW

Capitol Rotunda, 8 AM: A historic showcase featuring 100 locally owned businesses and partners. buyidaho.org

28 — SNOWFORT

Tamarack Resort: Idaho’s top winter music festival with concerts, mountain riding, and special deals! tamarackidaho.com

POWDER TO THE PEOPLE

• SKIING, BOARDING, CAT SKI, TUBING & MORE

• 2,000 ACRES AND 3,000 FT OF VERTICAL, TOPPING OUT AT 10,000' OF BACK COUNTRY TERRAIN

• 2 CHAIRLIFTS TO 7,177’

• NEW MAGIC CARPET

• 9 GREEN, 12 BLUE, 14 BLACK RUNS

• SHORT LIFT LINES, SHORT TICKET PRICES

• CORPORATE PASSES AVAILABLE

• MOUNTAIN RENTAL & EVENTS

- SOLDIER

LIGHT, UNLEASHED

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Meridian, ID February 2025 by City Lifestyle - Issuu