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The Boise Turnkey Beat
September 2024 Volume 4
Happy Holidays from our family to yours!
Fun With Corby
Well friends, it’s that time again! Holiday season in Boise is seriously so much fun. From strolling around downtown and taking in all of the festive decorations to driving out to the mountains to enjoy some legitimate winter activities, we love December in Boise.
In the spirit of having some fun, I’m going to share with you some of the Christmas traditions traditions that are specific to our little family, things we do every single year that have become traditions for us- mostly pretty silly and unconventional, but our three little boys love them and look forward to these activities every year.
Cutting down our own Christmas tree: You can buy a permit from the BLM in Boise or the surrounding areas and go out and cut down your own Christmas tree. It’s such a fun tradition, we look forward to it every year. We typically fill up a thermos with hot chocolate and leave early on Sunday morning after Thanksgiving. From Boise, you can be in BLM land in about 45 minutes and find a spot to hike and get the perfect tree. As the dad, I get a workout hiking through the snow to find, harvest and haul the tree back while the rest of the family drinks hot cocoa and sleds through the mountains- it’s a great time for them! We stop, usually at Trudy’s in Idaho City- fantastic mountain diner, and have lunch on the way home.
One of the other traditions that we love is having a downtown Christmas “staycation.” We get a room at one of the many fun hotels in Downtown Boise and make a festive weekend of it. We always go to whatever Christmas play the Boise Little Theater is putting on that year. They do a great job and the kids LOVE the live theater. It’s a Boise institution and they’re doing “A Christmas Story,” which is one of our favorites.
The next morning, we stroll around downtown and take in all of the festivities. We love going to see Santa at Old Boise. One of our favorite things about seeing Santa when he is there, is that he is very aware making sure that he only considers kids’ requests that comply with our household rules, and he makes it fun. For a fun Bonus, the basement of that building is the home of the Boise Model Railroad Club. It’s so fun to check out their set up and they typically add in some fun Christmas decorations for the season.
Now- a couple of possibly odd traditions that our family has…just giving you some insight in to our own unique weirdness.
One thing that our kids always look forward to is that we take one night to get local, ridiculous volumes of Mexican food and watch “Elf.” Such a fun family movie, endlessly quotable and we all laugh the whole time. Our tradition is getting food from California Mexican- one of our favorite, local guilty pleasures. Why on earth that combo of “Elf” and Mexican food? We did it once and for some reason, it just stuck. Now we have to do it every year and it’s so much fun.
Lastly- gotta tour the Christmas lights around town, right? We live on the West Bench in Boise and there are plenty of options. Did you know that Google maps will create a route for you in your town that has all of the houses with cool Christmas displays? Well, you can. Our tradition is to get pizza to eat in the car while we drive around and enjoy the lights. Why pizza? Again, we did it once and it became a thing. Most likely because it was very memorable. Pizza is a very inconvenient thing to eat in the car, which made it memorable, so now it’s a thing. Side note- Bayhill Springs is a neighborhood in West Boise, and every year they have a contest for the most amazing Christmas display. They even put signs in the yards for the winners of their categories. They’re so serious about decorating that it’s written in to their HOA rules and all of the common areas are blanketed with lights. Really fun neighborhood to check out during the Holidays.
Hopefully some of these are new things for you to check out this season. Does your family have an interesting tradition that you don’t think anyone else does? We’d love to hear about it!
From our family to yours- Happy Holidays!
Out on the Town with Heather
When winter arrives in Boise, the city turns into a frosty playground full of cozy vibes, outdoor adventures, and festive events. Whether you’re a snow lover or just prefer sipping hot cocoa while enjoying the sights, Boise has plenty to keep you entertained during the chilly months. Here’s your guide to some of the best winter events and activities in the City of Trees!
1. Winter Garden Aglow at the Idaho Botanical Garden
Get ready to step into a winter wonderland! Winter Garden Aglow is one of Boise’s most magical winter traditions. The Idaho Botanical Garden is transformed with over 500,000 sparkling lights, creating a dazzling display perfect for all ages. Stroll through the twinkling pathways, warm up by fire pits, and enjoy hot cocoa and holiday treats. It’s a picture-perfect way to kick off the season.
2. Skiing at Bogus Basin
Just 16 miles from downtown Boise, Bogus Basin is a winter sports paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, the slopes here cater to all skill levels. Not into skiing? No problem! There’s also snow tubing, snowshoeing, and plenty of spots to simply enjoy the mountain views with a warm drink in hand. A day at Bogus is a Boise winter classic.
3. Ice Skating
The Ice Ribbon at The Village in Meridian or the Indian Creek Plaza in Caldwell are great places to glide into winter fun. Rent some skates and twirl (or wobble) your way across the ice. The downtown setting, complete with lights and winter decor, adds a charming touch to the experience. It’s the perfect family outing or a fun date idea!
4. Boise Farmers Market – Winter Edition
Don’t let the cold stop you from visiting the Boise Farmers Market! The winter market moves indoors and continues through the colder months, offering locally produced winter goods like fresh veggies, handmade crafts, and delicious baked treats. It’s a great way to support local businesses while picking up seasonal goodies.
5. Snowshoeing (or Just Hiking in your Winter Boots!) in the Foothills
For those who love exploring the great outdoors, snowshoeing in Boise’s foothills is a fantastic winter adventure. Try Military Reserve or Polecat Gulch for some peaceful, snowy trails. It’s a great way to experience the quiet beauty of Boise’s winter landscape while getting a little exercise!
6. Christmas in the City – Downtown Boise
During December, Downtown Boise turns into a festive hotspot with holiday markets, window displays, and live performances. The Holiday Tree Lighting and Christmas Lights Tour are highlights, and you can always pop into a cozy café to warm up with some seasonal drinks afterward. There’s something magical about walking through the downtown streets, all decked out in holiday cheer.
7. Hot Springs Getaway
After a day in the cold, why not relax in one of Idaho’s famous hot springs? Places like The Springs in Idaho City or Kirkham Hot Springs are just a short drive from Boise and offer the perfect mix of winter scenery and toasty warmth. It’s the ultimate way to unwind and soak up the natural beauty of Idaho in the winter.
Winter in Boise is anything but boring! Whether you’re carving the slopes, enjoying a festive light display, or sipping hot cocoa by a fire, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Bundle up, embrace the season, and make the most of Boise’s wintertime wonders!
Winter Weather with Molly
The valley has been full of surprises lately. The daily pea soup, traffic and yet a beautiful sight to behold. The Treasure Valley, with its mix of high desert and river plains, is the perfect spot for hoar frost to make its grand entrance. The cold nights, combined with the moisture carried by the nearby Snake River and surrounding mountains, create ideal conditions for this magical frost. As the sun rises, the valley is often bathed in a soft glow, and the hoar frost-covered landscape looks like it’s been dipped in powdered sugar.
Whether you’re driving through the orchards in Canyon County, taking a morning hike in the foothills, or simply walking through your neighborhood, hoar frost is a reminder that nature can create the most beautiful, delicate art. The frost clings to everything, from the smallest twigs to the biggest trees, making them appear like something out of a winter wonderland.
Hoar frost doesn’t just turn trees into ice sculptures; it also creates some amusing little surprises in the wildlife world. Birds, rabbits, and even squirrels seem to leave their frosty footprints behind as they make their way through the chilly terrain, leaving a trail of frozen footprints in the crisp morning air. It’s almost as if the creatures of the valley are in on the secret and want to add a bit of their own magic to the scene.
And let’s not forget the farmers and gardeners of the Treasure Valley! While the frost is undeniably beautiful, it can also be a reminder of the challenges winter brings. Farmers know that hoar frost can indicate colder-than-usual conditions that might impact crops, especially fruit trees in the orchards. So while the frost might make for a picturesque morning, it also keeps them on their toes, watching the weather to protect their harvest.
Enjoy our winter wonderland while you can because before you know it we will be walking on the sun again. Have a great holiday season.
Relive your Childhood with Lisa
Winter is here, and we all know what that means—adulthood’s never-ending to-do list. From coordinating family holidays and attending a million parties to preparing for the snow (and the inevitable shoveling), it’s easy to forget how fun the season can actually be! Remember when we were kids and all we needed for a good time was a sled—or really, anything that could serve as one—and a hill to race down? Good times.
Well, guess what? You can still relive those glorious snow-filled days! Just a short drive from Boise, you’ll find an 800-foot tubing hill at Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation. The best part? No trudging back up the hill—there’s a conveyor belt that will whisk you and your tube back to the top! It can get busy, so don’t forget to reserve your spot ahead of time. And while you’re there, be sure to check out the Glade Runner Mountain Coaster, where you’ll climb 4,330 vertical feet before racing down almost a mile of track at 25 mph—talk about a thrill!
For those seeking a bit more adventure, McCall has you covered with a massive 6-lane tubing hill and plenty of other winter fun to keep your inner child smiling. You can also explore miles of snowshoeing and cross-country trails or time your visit to catch the McCall Winter Carnival, complete with giant snow sculptures and snow bike races. Not a tubing fan? No problem! There are other resorts just a short drive away offering even more winter fun. Let the snow days begin!
Happy Holidays!
Cozy Coffee Shops with Joey
As the winter has come in full force here in the Boise area, finding a warm and inviting spot to enjoy a comforting cup of coffee is a great way to embrace the season! Whether you're seeking a cozy corner to read, a great place to meet friends, or simply a place to escape the cold, two standout coffee shops—Alchemist Coffee and Caffèina Coffee Roasters—offer everything you need to be cozy this winter.
Alchemist Coffee: A Blend of Magic and Comfort
With numerous locations across Boise, Alchemist Coffee combines an artisan coffee experience with a warm, homey vibe. One of the things they are known for is their innovative seasonal drinks, such as their Peppermint Mocha or savor the toasty Spiced Caramel Latte. They also have a robust food menu that will provide yummy meals that will hold you over from breakfast till lunch.
Alchemist Coffee’s charm extends beyond their drinks. Their carefully curated antique furniture, plethora of seating, and welcoming atmosphere make it a cozy place to escape the winter cold —perfect for an afternoon of work or a casual meet-up with friends.
Caffèina Coffee Roasters: Rustic Charm Meets Local Flavor
Caffèina Coffee Roasters captures the essence of Boise’s local spirit with its rustic yet sophisticated ambiance. Their seasonal drink menu is a winter delight, featuring creations like the Eggnog Latte and the Gingerbread Chai. Pair your drink with one of their freshly baked pastries, and you’ve got a perfect winter treat.
What sets Caffèina apart is its inviting décor. From plush armchairs, vibrant plants, to large communal tables, this coffee shop provides a warm and welcoming space that feels both intimate and lively. Both locations of Caffiena provide cozy vibes, but our favorite would have to be the location off State street - here you will get a smell of freshly roasted coffee beans from the roaster adding to the cozy experience, along with having plenty of room to meet up with family and friends.
Embrace the Boise Winter
Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just someone looking for a snug spot to weather the winter months, Alchemist Coffee and Caffèina Coffee Roasters offer more than just great coffee—they provide a cozy refuge from the cold. Treat yourself to their seasonal drinks, enjoy the inviting spaces, and make the most of this Boise winter. So, grab your favorite book, a good friend, or your laptop, and head to one of these gems to warm your hands and your heart this season.
Let us know if you try one of these amazing coffee shops~
In Other News
After all the fun winter activities, or even during them, you may want to reach for a nice warm cup of Hot coco or mulled cider to warm you up!
Spiked Hot Coco
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk, preferably whole milk or 2%
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ cup semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ to ½ cup Baileys Irish cream*, more or less to taste
Instructions
- Place milk, cocoa powder, and sugar in a saucepan set over medium heat. Whisk frequently until the cocoa powder and sugar have dissolved, and the mixture is hot (but not boiling).
- Add the chocolate chips and stir frequently until melted. Add vanilla and Baileys. Stir to combine. Serve immediately.
Notes
*You can use any of the following in place of Baileys Irish Cream:
- Kahlua
- Vanilla vodka
- Chocolate liqueur
- White chocolate liqueur
- Coffee liqueur
Depending on how strong you like your drinks (or which alcohol you choose) I would recommend starting with a smaller amount, tasting it, and increasing the alcohol as desired.
Mulled Apple Cider
Ingredients
- 1 gallon unfiltered apple juice or apple cider
- 1 large orange, cut into 1/4” slices
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 4 star anise
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon whole allspice
- 1” ginger root, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups spiced rum (I used Captain Morgan)
Instructions
- To a large 10 qt dutch oven, add apple juice, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, whole cloves, whole allspice and ginger root. (If you have a spice ball, add clove and allspice to that. It’s easier cleanup after wards.
- Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce to simmer and cover for 2-3 hours.
- Add rum to the apple cider mixture.
- Remove fruit and spices from the pot.
- Serve!
(optional: garnish with orange slices, apple slices or spices)