The seasons just keep changing, and with any luck, a white Christmas is on the radar this year. That means now is the perfect time to start planning family holiday adventures and winter road trips! But whether or not this season transforms the state into a fluffy, marshmallow world, thousands of colorful, twinkling lights are always the perfect way to make the Christmas season even brighter. If a traditional, nostalgia-filled outing is calling your name, a road trip to see some of the best Idaho Christmas lights is an amazing way to kick off the holiday season! This year, load up the kiddos, grab a few friends and a camera, and enjoy this festive journey.

For the first part of this series, we’ve done all the work for you and will be taking you all around the Boise valley to experience a few the best holiday light displays in the area… with a few extra side trips thrown in. But be sure to buckle up – it might be slick out there! Check out this map of the first part of this road trip.

Author’s Note: Since the original publishing of this article in 2016, most of these homes are no longer doing light displays. Let us know what epic shows are happening in your neighborhood so we can update this post in the future! And be sure to stay tuned for more road trips in YOUR area!

1. 3426 N. Armor St. - Boise
Idaho Christmas lights display found in Boise at a local home.
3426 N Armor St, Boise, ID 83704, USA
Armor Light Show/Facebook
The brilliant Armor Light Show on the Boise Bench has been running for a number of years and it just keeps getting better! In fact, some years, you might even find a Halloween light show as well. During the holidays, you'll see a drop-off area for non-perishable goods or donations to the Idaho Foodbank - the homeowner hopes to beat the previous year's donations every season!
2. 9150 W Velma St. - Boise
9150 W Velma St, Boise, ID 83704, USA
Google Maps/KTVB
Traditional, but full of holiday cheer, this show is even lovelier in person.
3. 5415 N Mitchell St. - Boise
5415 N Mitchell St, Boise, ID 83704, USA
Benson Kua/Flickr
This lovely vintage home is decked out in classic winter scenes, including the Nutcracker's toy soldiers in every window and candy cane-colored lights. According to the homeowners, they've been decorating their home for 30 years now!
4. 5363 Hickory Run Pl. - Boise, 83704
5363 N Hickory Run Ave, Boise, ID 83713, USA
McCoy Christmas
The McCoy Family Christmas light display has been quite a hit the past few years, and this year's star-studded display is no exception! But you might have to wait until mid-December to check it out.

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5. 12052 Fiddler Dr. - Boise
12052 Fiddler Dr, Boise, ID 83713, USA
Google Maps/KTVB
This extravagant display features all the cute, cheesy, and quintessential inflatables you could ever hope for.
6. 5058 N Ice Springs Way. - Boise
5058 N Ice Springs Way, Boise, ID 83713, USA
Google Maps/KTVB
For all of Boise's biggest Bronco fans, this blue and orange display will get you in the mood for BSU's next bowl game "W."
7. 1348 E Tourmaline St. - Meridian
1348 E Tourmaline St, Meridian, ID 83646, USA
Google Maps/KTVB
This stately residential home is an icicled gem that will make you feel like you're at the North Pole. And with the snow on the ground right now, this E. Tourmaline Street light show is even more fabulous!
8. 2811 N Anston Ave. - Meridian
2811 N Anston Ave, Meridian, ID 83646, USA
Kirt Edblom/Flickr
Whenever a light display is set to music, you know it's going to be good. And there might just be a few surprises thrown in on this one...
9. 3705 N Buckstone Ave, - Meridian
A local Idaho Christmas lights display that has won state-wide recognition for its colorful animations and singing.
3705 N Buckstone Ave, Meridian, ID 83646, USA
The Shannons' Christmas Light Show/Facebook
The Shannon family's Christmas light display is epic, and it's renowned enough across the valley to warrant mentions along with the famous Cadgers dubstep house, and this year is just as spectacular as ever. Free and usually running nightly, you can tune in to 95.3 to enjoy the show in all its beauty.
10. Tumble Creek Subdivision, Ustick & Linder - Meridian
West Tumble Creek Drive & North Linder Avenue, W Tumble Creek Dr & N Linder Ave, Meridian, ID 83646, USA
Google Maps/KTVB
Subdivisions oftentimes offer the biggest bang for your buck in terms of mesmerizing displays, all tasteful, elegant, and easily viewable within a short walking or driving distance from one another. Tumble Creek is no exception!

 

To keep these beautiful light shows a surprise, some of these photos are for representational purposes only. Be sure to double-check light show hours and station details before visiting.

Excited to get out and experience the magic for yourself? We are too! And we promise… these Christmas lights are even better in person! No planning is needed – just a trusty GPS and a hot beverage to keep those hands toasty while you enjoy the magical Christmas artistry of fellow Idahoans!

Now… are you ready for Part 2?? This is only the start of our epic multi-part Christmas lights road trip! In the meantime, check out our Idaho Christmas Bucket List, our favorite Idaho winter festivals, or even these incredible light festivals and tours.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Christmas in Idaho

Danielle Schwartz | October 19, 2022

Are there any Christmas tree farms in Idaho?

Yes, there are lovely Christmas tree farms in Idaho! One amazing place to pick up your Christmas tree with your family this year is the family-owned Forever Green Tree Farm, found eight miles south of St. Maries. You'll have a great selection here, including Colorado Spruce, Norway Spruce, Grand Fir, Fraser Fir, and Austrian Pine trees, so no matter what look you're going for, you'll be able to find it here. You can also take a sleigh ride here, which is sure to delight the kids. After you choose your tree, you can also shop around the sweet on-site store for other holiday items.

What are the best winter hikes in Idaho?

If you're looking for adventure this holiday season, head out on one of the best winter hikes in Idaho. If you are a fan of snowy trails and are looking for a casual walk, check out Big Springs Trail in Island Park. The trees and tranquil frozen lake will make you feel like you're in a classic Christmas storybook. This hike is not too difficult, so you can do it with the family or with friends who aren't experienced hikers. Do you prefer mountain views? Then make your way to East Moscow Mountain for a gorgeous hike that offers some gorgeous vistas on your walk.

Where can I go skiing in Idaho?

There's nothing better for winter athletes than skiing in Idaho! And we have the perfect suggestion of the best place to experience it. Sun Valley Resort is famous for several good reasons! You'll love the town of Ketchum for its relaxed charm.  You'll certainly be in the company of many other skiing enthusiasts here as well. There is also a great restaurant called The Roundhouse at the top of the ski lift, so you know it features phenomenal views. There is also a ton of space here, so while it's a popular destination, it won't feel too crowded. Sun Valley Resort is definitely the place to be for skiing in Idaho.

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