Diana DeJesus

September 18, 2019

Things to Do

9 Oktoberfest to Cross Off Your #BoiseBucketList

Diana DeJesus

September 18, 2019

Things to Do

‘Tis the Season for biers, bratwurst, and plenty of Oktoberfests! The Treasure Valley has plenty for you to explore & get your bier on. Here are 9 Oktoberfest you should cross off your #BoiseBucketList

Payette Brewing Oktoberfest

When: September 20th (5pm to 10pm0 & September 21st , 2pm to 10pm

Where: 733 South Pioneer Street, Boise

Cost: FREE

More info HERE

Oktoberfest at The Switchback

When: Friday, September 20th, 5pm to 9pm

Cost: FREE

Info: Join us for Oktoberfest good truck style! Music from Accordion Jack, brats, food trucks, BSU football, and of course Oktoberfest brews!

Facebook Event Info HERE

Hyde Park Oktoberfest

When: Saturday, September 21st, 2pm to 8pm

Where: Hyde Park, 13th Street Pub + Parilla Grill

Cost: $15

Details: Come celebrate Oktoberfest in Hyde Park. Entrance is $15 and includes 2 Biers, a custom mug and authentic German food prepared by our amazing chef Peter. Come dressed to impress and ready to play cornhole

Facebook Event Info HERE

SpudFest! Idaho’s Oktoberfest

Bear Island Brewing

When: Saturday, September 21st, 12pm to 8pm

Cost: FREE

Details: Our First Annual SpudFest is finally here! Come launch Oktoberfest Idaho-Style, with everything potatoes! Here's the basic details, MORE specific details below:

*Benefits our Local Firefighter’s community fund

*21+ event

*Limited parking- SHUTTLE SERVICE provided by Boise Brew Bus - see details below

*Well behaved dogs on a leash welcome outdoors

*Lots of potatoes, smoked brats and beer!

*Tater games and Contest- see taproom for sign ups now!

*Awesome raffles- win a fire hydrant, sunglasses, beer, gear, dinner dates, etc etc

More info HERE

Oktoberhaus Powderhaus Brewing Co.

When: Saturday, September 28th, 12pm to 10:30pm

Where: 9719 W Chinden Blvd, Garden City, ID 83714

Cost: Free to enter; $14 liter glass & first fill, $7 each additional token

Details: Join us for our third annual OKTOBERHAUS celebration with traditional German food beer and music.

Facebook Event Info HERE

Old Boise Oktoberfest

When: Saturday, September 28th, 2pm to 10pm

Where: 6th Street, between Main and Grove

Cost: $15 to $40

Details: Music, Bier, authentic German food, pretzels, games, kids zone from 2pm until 6pm

More info HERE

*Source: Das Alphenhaus Oktoberfest Facebook Event Page*

Das Alphenhaus Deikatessen Oktoberfest

When: Friday, September 27 (3pm to 10pm) to Saturday, September 28 (3pm to 10pm)

Where: 1340 S Vista Avenue, Boise, Idaho 83705

Cost: FREE to enter

More info HERE

Prost! Oktoberfest Street Party

When: Friday, October 4 to Saturday, October 5, 3pm to 10pm

Cost: FREE to enter block party

Details: Break out the Lederhosen and Dirndls and get ready to to party like they do in Munich! Our 2019 Oktoberfest is here! We will once again take over 8th street for our block-long biergarten with traditional music, a German cookout, glassware for sale and plenty of Oktoberfest bier flowing. Pouring Hofbräu, Ayinger, Andechs, Paulaner, Weltenburger and more.

Facebook Event Info HERE

Hoptober Freshtival, Boise Brewing

Where: 521 W Broad Street in Downtown Boise

When: Saturday, October 12th, all day affair

Cost: $13.50 to $35

Details: Every year since opening in 2014, Boise Brewing has held a beer festival in front of their brewery called Hoptober Freshtival. Attracting over 2000 thirsty patrons each year, Hoptober Freshtival is the largest fresh hop beer festival in Idaho. The festival features over 60 fresh hop and seasonal beers from 30+ local to regional craft breweries. Since Idaho is one of the top 3 states in the country for hop production, the festival works to educate and showcase local hop farmers and the beers that utilize their ingredients.

More info HERE

Stay tuned for an ultimate list of Fall #BoiseBucketList activities. The guide is coming soon (as in no later than the official start of fall, 9/22 haha!)

Diana DeJesus

April 30, 2019

Things to Do

Tacos & Tequila: 10 Cinco de Mayo Events To Cross Off Your #BoiseBucketList

Diana DeJesus

April 30, 2019

Things to Do

Cinco de Mayo: traditionally a date observed to commemorate the Mexican Army's victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla, on May 5, 1862, under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has taken on a significance beyond that in Mexico. Basically, a reason to drink some Margaritas, take shots of tequila, and eat lots of tacos.

This week, Boiseans have PLENTY to cross off their Bucket List. Here are my top 10 events to explore:

Western Collective Cinco de Mayo Weekend Fiesta

May 3rd – May 5th

Pinadas & Margaritas – this will be your place for an entire weekend of craziness. They will also be introducing new beers: Oaxaca Shaka Lime Gose, Boi-Sí Coffee Horchata Dark Lager, and Las Palmas Dark Mexican Lager will all be on tap starting Friday! It will be a weekend party, that’s for SURE. Learn more info HERE

Amsterdam Cinco de Mayo Patio Grand Opening

Saturday, May 4th

5pm to 2am

$1 tacos

$6 patron

Music & so much more.

More details HERE

Cinco de Mayo Street Party

The Matador in Downtown Boise

Sunday 2pm to 10pm

Lots of music, outdoor food and drink specials, games, giveaway, and lots more!

More details HERE

Cinco de Mayo on the Plaza

Richards at Inn at 500

Sunday 5pm to 8pm

Enjoy some margaritas, music, and food on the 2nd floor of the Inn at 500

FREE but 21+

More info HERE

Cinco de Mayo Latin Show/Noche Latin

Lucky Dog Tavern

Enjoy drink specials all night & an incredible show

Doors open at 7:30pm/show starts at 9pm

$10 cover charge

More info HERE

Cinco de Mayo Celebration

Calle 75 Downtown Boise

Enjoy Mariachi de Mi Tierra’ on Saturday from 1:30pm- 2:30pm. Great Drink specials including Delicious Margaritas, loaded Coronas, Tecate Buckets and more! Chef Tito is also creating some delicious taco specials as well.

Saturday & Sunday

More info HERE

Cinco de Mayo Parking Lot Party

Parilla Grill

Sunday, May 5th

2pm to 8pm

Enjoy drink specials, try out their new food truck. 21+ event.

More info HERE

Cinco de Mayo Clairovaynt Brewery

Sunday 2pm to 9pm

Come enjoy the release of our limited edition Key Lime Habanero Kolsch, and $1 tamales from Linda's Kitchen 2pm-9pm!

More info HERE

Cinco de Mayo

Fatty’s Bar

Saturday, 9pm to 2am

Tequila specials, giveaways, & lots of music. 103.5 KISS FM will be on-site to join in on the party.

More info HERE

Cinco de Mayo at Payette Brewing

Enjoy cervezas, Cinco de Mayo-inspired beer, and food truck on sight.

11am to 10pm

More info HERE

Diana DeJesus

March 14, 2019

Things to Do

8 Pizza Places to Cross Off Your #BoiseBucketList

Diana DeJesus

March 14, 2019

Things to Do

It’s National Pi Day! No, not Pizza Pie — the algorithmic number we all dreaded learning back school (Pi 3.14). Perfect way for me highlight local Boise pizza places to cross off your Boise Bucket List. Grab this list & start exploring!

Idaho Pizza Company

Idaho Pizza Company is a local business that strives to continue supporting the local company, as well as serving the Treasure Valley with some delicious pizza. They also have this incredible lunch buffet (11am to 2pm) where you can get either all you can eat pizza/salad/drink OR just pizza/drink. Either way, you can’t beat all-you-can-eat pizza for under $10. No wonder college kids LOVE this place.

Get social: @idahopizzacompany

Pie Hole

Let’s not deny Pie Hole MAY have been your go-to place for some late-night pizza. Maybe you enjoyed downtown way too much on a Saturday night, and their pizza hits the spot. Whether it’s the one on Broadway or on 8th Street, Pie Hole is that pizza joint where you go with friends to just EAT. Grab that slice + eat in silence. Slices range from traditional cheese/pepporoni to potato + bacon & whatever unique concoction they come up with. You can get two slices for under $6.

Plus - it’s some fun people-watching too when it’s 2AM and the bars just emptied out. Ha.

Get social: @pieholeboise

Wiseguy Pizza Co.

Wiseguy Pizza is located on Main Street. It’s a local chain that serves creative pizzas, calzones, wings — all in a casual setting. They, too, are a great spot for late-night adventures. They have a great Two slices & soda special for under $10.00. Don’t want pizza? How about a wiseguy cheesesteak? Or an Italian Hoagie? It’s more than pizza. But if you want to stay traditional, you’ll be satisfied.

Get social: @wiseguypizzaboise

Guidos

Guido’s is about giving Boise some NYC flavor. They serve NY-style pizzas that are large slices with thin crusts. Their fresh garlic baked bread is incredible. So good! It’s in a nice cozy setting that’s perfect for patio weather. Get a slice, enjoy outside, and pretend you have no other worries in the world except eat. It’s located on 5th Street not too far from Flying M.

Get social: guidospizza

Chicago Connection

Chicago Connection is serving Idaho with — yes, you guessed — Chicago-styled deep dish pizza. It was founded in 1982 with its first location on Fairview. You probably seen their delivery fans zipping around Boise getting those hot pizzas delivered (I may have ordered my share for work). They also have a great happy hour from 4 pm to 6pm. You get $1 off all beer and house wine, as well as great appetizer & small meals (Toasted Ravioli, bread-sticks, cheese bread).

Flying Pie

Flying Pie was actually my FIRST place where I got pizza in Boise. I remember the weekend I moved here, my brother and I stopped to get pizza. Their buffet is incredible. But in addition to their standard pizzas, they have Gourmet Night — different themes throughout the week. Each Tuesday Night (Fairview + Meridian) you can try some unusual pizzas. Every week, they serve a large amount of vegetarian pizzas that you’ll enjoy. Each week you can get dessert pizza (who doesn’t like that). They also have Pizza Tours — where you can be in the kitchen preparing pizza with the pizza maker! That’s definitely on my bucket list. How cool is that!

Get social: Flying Pie Pizzeria

The Wylder

Enjoy some handcrafted, slow batch pizza with soul. This place is where you can also enjoy full-service dining, craft cocktails, and supper. I’d suggest the Brono or the Honey Badger (OMG SO GOOD!). They have “red pizza” (made with Bianco DiNapoli organic tomatoes) and “white pizza” (made with Parmesan cream sauce). Don’t want pizza? How about a salad (buttermilk market vegetable) or a the French Picnic? It’s located on West Broad Street near Form + Function.

Get social: @thewylder

Bonus: Off The Grid Pizza

My favorite pizza food truck has to be mentioned. Off the Grid Pizza is that woodfire pizza that you’ll wait to enjoy that one slice. It comes right out of the woodfire and served to you. I LOVE the OTG (pepperoni) but there are other flavors to enjoy. Plus - it’s a husband/wife team that are lovely & a great addition to the food truck scene.

Get social: @offthegridpizza

Make sure you document your adventures by tagging me on Instagram at @boise_Bucketlist OR using the hashtag #boisebucketlist. Let’s get you crossing these pizza places off your list!

Diana DeJesus

February 14, 2019

Things to Do, Love in the BOI

LOVE IN THE BOI: Alyssa + Patrick

Diana DeJesus

February 14, 2019

Things to Do, Love in the BOI

Meet Alyssa and Patrick. Alyssa was in Boise for a weekend to visit her sorority sisters. Little did she know she’d meet a home grown Idahoan at a local bar downtown. Learn more how her weekend in Boise led to her eventually relocating & starting a life with Patrick

My name is Alyssa, and my boyfriend Patrick and I have been dating for almost two years.

I’m a UI alum from Washington, and I was in town visiting a couple of my sorority sisters during St Patrick’s day. I met Patrick, a home grown Idaho guy that went to BSU and has lived in Boise his whole life, at bar downtown when we happened to be hanging out with mutual friends. I didn’t think much of it at the time. I thought he was just a fun guy and I continued to hang out with him throughout that weekend. I jokingly asked him to be my date to one of my good friends wedding that June (the next time I thought I would be in town) and he agreed.

But after that weekend, we just kept talking. We ended up talking, calling, and FaceTiming every day.

I found myself visiting Boise many times and we decided we would give the long distance thing a try.

The following April (2018) I uprooted my life and moved down to Boise to start a life with Patrick.

All of our friends and family say to us all the time how happy we look and that they are so happy for us to have found each other. And we couldn’t agree more. We often talk about how it was such a slim chance to have found each other but we are so glad we did - and grateful to have Boise be the backdrop to our love story.

Diana DeJesus

November 21, 2018

Things to Do

Top 12 Holiday Activities to Cross of Your #BoiseBucketList

Diana DeJesus

November 21, 2018

Things to Do

If you are like me a two years ago, I didn’t know what to do when it came to my first holiday season in Boise. For those who are new to Boise, or if you’re looking for a few new ideas, here’s my Top 12 Holiday Activities to Cross Off Your Boise Bucket List:

1. CAPITAL TREE LIGHTING ON THE GROVE PLAZA

Date: November 23rd, from 5pm -6:30pm.

Get ready to snuggle with your loved ones as you enjoy the holiday tree lighting. It’ll be held at The Grove, and festivities begin at 5pm. Entertainment by Red Light Challenge and the Boise Men’s & Women’s Choruses.

For full details, please visit: https://downtownboise.org/events/downtown-holiday-tree-lighting

2. SAINT ALPHONSUS FESTIVAL OF TREES

Date: November 21st - November 25th

Last year, I attended this wonderful event and I highly recommend it. For so many reasons. All funds raised will support the expansion of Saint Alphonsus. You get to walk around and be surrounded by all of the holiday splendor that makes you feel warm inside. Let’s not forget the hundreds of decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, and holiday decor For more information, please visit: https://www.saintalphonsus.org/ways-to-give/boise/festival-of-trees/.

3. IDAHO FOOD BANK EMPTY BOWLS

Date: Friday, November 23rd; 10am to 1:30pm

The Empty Bowls is where you get to choose from hand-painted bowls from professional and amateur painters, students, and studios. After you select a bowl, you can then enjoy a hot bowl of soup generously donated by one of the local Boise restaurants.

Over 3,000 bowls to choose from, and bowls start at $10.00. It’ll be held at the Boise Center. *Parking WILL BE FREE on Friday.

Recommendation: ARRIVE EARLY! I made the terrible mistake of attending around 12pm. The line was long, wrapped around Main Street.

4. BOISE CLASSIC MOVIES AT THE EGYPTIAN THEATER

I’m movie geek and fanatic, so when Boise Classic Movies released its holiday schedule, I screamed with joy. Maybe not scream, but definitely got giddy.

This year, the list of classic movies range from action to romcom to the classic holiday movies:

Love Actually
Christmas Vacation
It’s a Wonderful Life
A Christmas Story
Home Alone
White Christmas
Elf

Some of the movies showings include beer and wine (21+). I believe these will all sell out, so grab your tickets early. Plus, you get to watch it in the coolest place here in Boise: The Egyptian Theater. For more info, please visit: https://boiseclassicmovies.com/deals/.

5. ICE SKATING AT THE VILLAGE OF MERIDIAN

Date: November through January 2019

I’ll admit — I’m not the best when it comes to ice skating. BUT for the holiday season, I’ll put on some ice skates.

The Village of Meridian now has an ice skating rink in Fountain Square. Its open from November thru January. Ticket prices start at $5.00.

Enjoy a night of ice skating, then grab hot chocolate at Village Coffee, and sit by a warm fire. For more info, please visit: https://www.thevillageatmeridian.com/event/Ice-Skating/2145514930/.

6. WINTER GARDEN AGLOW AT THE IDAHO BOTANICAL GARDEN

Date: Thursday, November 22 – Monday, January 1; 6pm; Botanical Garden

The Garden isn’t only for the warm months. The Idaho Botanical Garden becomes a dazzling display of lights during the holiday season. Over 400K lights, to be exact.

On select nights, you can even see Santa and enjoy the sounds of local choirs.

Tickets start at $8, and children under 4 are FREE.

For more info, please visit: https://idahobotanicalgarden.org/event/winter-garden-aglow-2018/2018-11-22/.

7. THE NUTCRACKER AT IDAHO REGIONAL BALLET

Date: Friday, December 14th and go through Sunday, December 16th.

When I was growing up, my parents brought my siblings and me to see the Nutcracker. My sister especially loved it because she was into ballet. When I close my eyes and think of Christmas, seeing the Nutcracker is part of that vision.

Luck for us, we have a chance to see the Nutcracker live at Idaho Regional Ballet. Come celebrate the holiday season with Idaho Regional Ballet and Lisa Moon’s staging of The Nutcracker. This marvelously imaginative production has become a holiday tradition for Treasure Valley families. Over 100 dancers in the cast and guest artists, Benjamin Griffiths and Leta Biasucci, courtesy of Pacific Northwest Ballet will grace the stage to Tchaikovsky's beloved score.

Snag your tickets early because these showings HAVE SOLD OUT! Not kidding. You may purchase your tickets HERE:

8. #WhatsYourAwesome DOWNTOWN CARRIAGE RIDES WITH WASHINGTON TRUST BANK

Date: Every Friday and Saturday from November 24th – December 16th, 4pm – 8pm

You’d think you’d have to travel to New York City to enjoy a classic carriage ride. Or, at least that’s what I see in the movies.

Starting in late November, you have the chance to enjoy a FREE carriage ride in downtown Boise. Yes, I said FREE. Washington Trust Bank is providing free carriage rides and hot cocoa to the Boise community throughout the holiday season!

Pickup is in front of the Washington Trust Bank 9th Street downtown Boise.

9. CLAUS N PAWS DAY AT ZOO BOISE

Date: Saturday, December 1st from 10am – 5pm

Want to have a fun FREE day at the zoo? On Saturday, December December 1st starting at 10am, you and your family can enjoy all the zoo offerings. Santa Claus will visit the zoo for photo ops.

10. WINTER WONDERLAND LIGHT DISPLAY IN DOWNTOWN CALDWELL

Date: November thru January 15th, 2019

If you haven’t driven to Caldwell for its Winter Wonderland Light Display, you’re definitely missing out! I attended this last year, and I’m so happy the time has come where I can go again. You have the beautiful light display in downtown Caldwell. For more information, please visit: https://www.cityofcaldwell.org/play/city-of-caldwell-events/winter-wonderland#ad-image-0.

11. IDAHO STATE CAPITOL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

Date: Monday, November 26th

Last year, I attended the Idaho State Capitol Christmas Tree lighting right after work, and it was absolutely worth it. There was free hot cocoa and cookies for everyone. After the tree lighting, you can head inside and explore the Idaho State Capitol building. Holiday decorations are something that’s magical – amazing, even. With the vibrant reds and the deep greens to the holiday wreaths, you can get lost in the sea of beautiful holiday decorations. The Idaho State Capitol building does not disappoint. The interior of the Capitol building is absolutely amazing!

For more info, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/2196687820351778/.

12. VIEW THE LIGHTS AT THE SCENTSY COMMON GROUND

Head to the Scentsy Common Grounds in Meridian to experience over 23-miles of amazing holiday lights. The public is welcome to explore the grounds during the holiday season to view the lights up close & personal. You can also see the beautiful Christmas Tree in the lobby from 9am to 5pm (business hours).

Do you have a traditional holiday activity that didn’t make the list? Feel free to email me at info@boisebucketlist.com. Make sure to use the hashtag #boisebucketlist on Instagram at a chance of being featured! Enjoy crossing these activities off your list.

Diana DeJesus

October 4, 2018

Things to Do

20 Fall Activities to Cross Off Your #BoiseBucketList

Diana DeJesus

October 4, 2018

Things to Do

Fall is in full effect here in Boise. From the foliage, to the pumpkin patches, to the cool, crisp weather, there’s no denying Boise is an amazing place in Fall. Here are 20 activities I feel you should cross off your Boise Bucket List this fall:

Do the Scarecrow Stroll @ Idaho Botanical Gardens:

Looking to see all types of scarecrows throughout a beautiful garden? Throughout the entire month of October, you can head over to the Idaho Botanical Gardens to checkout scarecrows created by local community organizations. You can vote for your favorite, as well as visit the pumpkin patch.

Linder Farms Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch

Who doesn’t like a good corn maze and pumpkin patch? Linder Farms is wildly popular and a must-see place for fall. From hayrides to pumpkin patches to petting zoos – there is no doubt you will have your fair share of fall fun. You can visit Linder Farms Corn Maze the entire month of October.

Farmstead Corn Maze and Pumpkin Festival

For the entire month of October, you can visit Idaho’s “original corn maze.” Nestled in Meridian, the Farmstead Corn Maze gives its fans so many offerings, including the traditional hayrides, a huge slide, and the Field of Screams.

Hoptober Freshtival, Downtown Boise

Beer lover? Look no further. Boise Brewing is hosting its annual Freshtival in downtown Boise. You will have a variety of beers to choose from, games to play, and downtown Boise as your backdrop. Event is October 6.

GO VISIT A PUMPKIN PATCH
Boise has its fair options for pumpkin patches. You can visit Linder Farms, the Farmstead Corm Maze, Idaho Botanical Gardens, or Jordan’s Pumpkin Patch and Tree Lot. Who else likes to carve pumpkins and roast the pumpkin seeds?

See Spot Run

On October 6, come out and support the Idaho Humane Society for its biggest fundraiser of the year! There will be lots of vendors, contests, and food to enjoy.

See a Classic Movie at the Egyptian Theater:

This fall, Boise Classic Movies has some of your favs coming to the Egyptian Theater: Rocky Horror Picture Show, Hocus Pocus, and The Shining - just to name a few. What’s fun about going to see a classic movie is that attendees are encouraged to dress up. For more info and to purchase your tickets, visit: https://boiseclassicmovies.com.

Binge during the Idaho Horror Film Festival

If horror films are your thing, I strongly suggest you checkout the Idaho Horror Film Festival. Its 3 days of films across 10 venues. All the binging you can take starts on October 11.

Crawl around Boise Bars for 2nd annual Crawl-o-Ween:

Crawl-o-ween is back! Come bar hop with fellow bar hoppers dressed in your favorite Halloween costume. Event is on October 19th and starts at 8pm.

Go Apple Picking

Within driving distance from Boise, you can head to Emmett and enjoy picking your own apples. Candy Apple Orchard, Tyler’s Rocky Point Orchard, and Williams Fruit Ranch are examples of local places where you can go apple picking.

Hike Table Rock and See the Beautiful Fall Foliage

With all the amazing outdoor recreation, you cannot help but to be outside during this time. Seeing the leaves changes colors is one of my favorite parts of fall (aside from the cooler weather after a hot summer). Hike up Table Rock (or any hiking trail, TBH) and enjoy the scenery.

Freak Out at Freak Alley

Freak Alley is one of Boise’s largest tourist attractions. On October 5th, they are hosting their 1st annual fundraiser, a night where art, stories, and entertainment are combined. The huge part is the story-telling from the artists, including a tale from the founder himself. Click HERE for more info

No Escape at The Haunted World

Haunted World is proclaimed to be the scariest haunted house in Idaho. And I don’t doubt that! Since 2000, Haunted World has perfected the art of fear. It includes an indoor and outdoor haunted attraction. Tickets are only purchased at the door (NO online purchases). Click HERE to see for yourself. I will be going with a group - why not join me?! Join my New to the BOI Group for more info.

Become a bartender at Mai Thai’s Bartender School

Each month Mai Thai has hosted a bartender school, where you can learn how to mix our own craft cocktails. This fall, they are hosting a class on Sunday, October 28th called “Spooky Spirits.” Each attendee gets 3 cocktails, 3 appetizers, and enjoy learning how to mix drinks. Follow Mai Thai on their Instagram page for more info.

Do a Halloween Boise Trolley Tour

Drive around Boise on the vintage trolley called Miss Molley Trolley. You will enjoy a narrative Halloween-themed tour for 90+ minutes. Tickets are $18. You can purchase your tickets HERE.

Make sure you TAG @boise_bucketlist on Instagram or use the hashtag #boisebucketlist so I can share your adventures! Do you have ideas or suggestions of activities to cross off your Boise Bucket List? Email me at info@boisebucketlist.com