With the COVID pandemic still underway, we are approaching the holidays a little bit differently this year. Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings will be smaller and a lot of businesses aren’t offering the same services they once were, or may be closed altogether for a while. But, that doesn’t mean that everything has to come to a grinding halt! There is still fun to be had for children and families all over the Treasure Valley. Let’s look at a few fun family friendly events that you can still participate in this year for the holiday season.

Snowman Scavenger Hunt At The Village (Meridian) 

Have you ever wanted to hone your detective skills? Do your kids love games that involve critical thinking and fun clues? Then head on down to The Village at Meridian between November 13th and December 31st to take part in the socially distanced Snowman Scavenger hunt! Can you find all 15 snowmen that are carefully hidden around The Village? Check out the official website for the complete clue list. 

Photos With Santa

Hey, while you’re at The Village, why not head on over to where Santa has set up shop and get some socially distanced pictures with the Jolly Old Elf? Between November 27th and December 24th you can find Santa there and get your child’s picture taken with him. Prints start at $17.95. Here’s the full website page with info. 

Winter Windows Program, Downtown Boise

The beautiful holiday tree at The Grove Plaza is going up this year on Friday, November 27th and will be up all through December. Come on by and check it out with the family! While you’re there, you can check out lots of local stores that are going big with their winter window displays. Winter Windows showcases local businesses in an effort to encourage more Idahoans to support their local stores this holiday season. Winter Windows also starts November 27th and goes through December. For more information, follow this hashtag on social media: #LightUpDowntownBoise. 

Winter Garden Aglow At The Idaho Botanical Garden

This year’s event will still be spectacular, although a bit changed. There will be a one way route that you and your family can follow through the gardens that will be lit with an array of stunning lights! This year, the first day of the event will be Thanksgiving day and will go through December 27th. You must purchase your tickets online in advance in order to control crowds. One hour tour blocks will be sold each day so you can reserve the hours between 6pm and 9pm. They do expect tickets to sell quickly since time slots are limited and demand is high. Get all your ticketing information here so you don’t miss out!

Boise Art Museum Exhibit: UNPACKED For Kids, Mixed-Media Masterpieces

For kids of all ages and for the young at heart. This is a great excuse to take the family to the Boise Art Museum and take a tour! This kid friendly exhibit features art created with mixed media and non-traditional media that will surprise and delight all viewers. Get ticketing information here.