Here at Only In Idaho, we love celebrating the awesome lifestyle we have here: the weather, the food, our history — and of course, just because we enjoy connecting with the community. In Idaho, we celebrate a little bit of everything, and we celebrate it right. Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend activity or a place to showcase your crafts, or if you perhaps have a burning desire to ride a few rides, here are some awesome festivals to add to your calendar for the upcoming months.
1. National Oldtime Fiddlers Contest and Festival, Weiser
Hana Loftus/Flickr
Every third week of June, the cozy town of Weiser becomes a bustling mecca of fiddling and food heaven. Contestants of all ages compete in categories of every type imaginable until a winner is chosen on the final day. Meanwhile, amusement park rides, carnival food and booths, a parade, and so much more round out the festivities.
The scenic Tetons make for an incredible backdrop to three days of balloon launches and festivities, which is a tradition that began in 1981. Enjoy the live music, colors, and food during the day, and enjoy lighted launches at nightfall.
This festival is held every year over the Fourth of July weekend and features everything from street dancing performances and a demolition derby, to a city-wide auction to benefit a local charity. Plus, awesome food, fireworks, and even pageantry.
Tater contests for kids, a "Spud Tug," 5K, and even a pancake breakfast will await you at this celebration of Idaho's renowned vegetable. Live music for every taste and various sport tournaments will all be held near and around the park.
Salmon is not only home to the Sacajawea Interpretive Center, it is also the spot where Lewis and Clark received supplies and help from the AgaiDika Shoshone. Every year, this unique history is celebrated with a festival unlike any other. Featuring Native American dancing, food, crafts, and unlimited educational, opportunities, Salmon's Heritage Days are an Idaho classic.
In celebration of the legendary man and his ox, St.Maries hosts a festival of epic proportions at the end of summer. Featuring logging challenges, fireworks, kids activities, and more, this is one celebration where you can get your lumberjack on.
In celebration of the new season, this year's festival will feature a wine social, half-marathon, fair, pancake breakfast, and more. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Northern Idaho, check out the art show, and be sure to catch the parade!
For classical and pops music lovers, McCall's week-long music series takes place across multiple venues , performing symphonic classics and modern hits.
Idaho's largest annual music festival is held every year at the fairgrounds and features well-known and unheard of bands from every genre and for every musical taste. This all-day event (10am-10pm) runs nonstop with at least a dozen stages, in addition to vendor booths, food, kids activities, and more.
I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for summer! If you know about any other local festivals, either in your town or elsewhere, be sure to let us know! Many smaller communities never get the recognition they deserve, and we would love to hear about Idaho’s hidden gems.
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