From its sage-covered deserts to its lush wilderness areas, Idaho is a diverse state filled with many stunning natural attractions. Although the state is most famous for its potato crop, those who look beneath the surface will find an abundance of activities, events, festivals, museums and more. With unique and sometimes eerie landscapes and its tempting urban amenities, Idaho truly has something for everyone.
For more than 40 years each February, jazz lovers come to the Lionel Hampton International Jazz Festival in Moscow to see industry greats and talented jazz students from the elementary, junior high, high school, and college levels show off their skills. For several days, guests enjoy a variety of jazz performances. There is a food court and merchandise memorabilia available.
Each August, Sandpoint hosts the Festival at Sandpoint an 11-day festival featuring live music on several stages in an outdoor setting, featuring every music genre from classical to pop. After enjoying some tunes, stroll down a street dedicated to your favorite festival foods and local fare.
In the late summer, many Native Americans flock to Fort Hall for the Shoshone Bannock Indian Festival. For more than 40 years, this festival has attracted Native Americans from around the country to enjoy traditional dress, dances, and an all-Indian rodeo. There is an art show, high stakes bingo, and many other fun things to do.
At the end of each summer, people come to Boise for the Western Idaho Fair. This is Idaho's official state fair that runs for 10 days. Visitors enjoy a variety of entertainment from livestock displays to craft booth along with a midway and carnival rides. Of course, there is plenty of fair food and drinks available.
At the end of each summer, visitors come to Ketchum for the Ketchum Wagon Days. Since 1958, this festival has celebrated the area's rich history with a Big Hitch parade and an old fashioned shoot out. Guests can enjoy a pancake breakfast, scrumptious BBQ, and live music. Don't forget your dancing shoes for the Western Dance in the evenings.
Each year, pet lovers come to Boise for the Experience Idaho & Family Pet Expo. Guests can bring their dogs, cats, birds, and snakes to this event. There are displays and booths set up of pet friendly products produced in Idaho. There will be food samples, grooming, and trainers available for the pets to check out. For their humans, there is plenty of activities such as shopping and information.