Downtown Idaho Falls Kicks Off the Season with Tree Lighting & Holiday Market

Wrap yourselves in scarf and mitten weather and step right into the magic of a holiday movie scene!

Downtown Idaho Falls is officially transforming into our city's winter wonderland. The Idaho Falls Downtown Development Corporation (IFDDC) warmly invites the whole community to bundle up, gather family and friends, and celebrate the start of the most wonderful time of the year at the annual Bank of Commerce Tree Lighting Ceremony & Holiday Market.

Event at a Glance

• When: Saturday, November 21 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Tree Lighting and Santa Visits 6-7PM

• Where: Along Memorial Drive & Broadway Plaza

• Cost: Free admission for all ages!

What’s Happening at the Celebration

The Grand Tree Lighting (6:00 PM)

The centerpiece of the evening is a towering 20-foot real evergreen tree graciously donated by 100 Proof Hospitality. Nestled inside Broadway Plaza (at the corner of Broadway and Memorial Drive), the tree serves as the heart of the night's festivities.

At 6:00 PM sharp, Idaho Falls Mayor Lisa Burtenshaw will lead the crowd in a live countdown to illuminate the tree. The moment the lights turn on, thousands of twinkling holiday lights will instantly brighten all of downtown Idaho Falls, the surrounding River Walk, and Friendship Gardens!

Santa & Mrs. Claus Visits

Immediately following the tree lighting, bring the little ones to share their holiday wishes and snap photos during special visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus.

Free Horse-Drawn Trolley Rides

Add extra enchantment to your evening with free horse-drawn trolley rides, courtesy of 100 Proof Hospitality!

• Kickoff Night (Nov 21): 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Departing & returning to Civitan Plaza at Park Ave & B St)

• Seasonal Schedule: Every Saturday from Nov 28 to Dec 19 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

New Traditions & Returning Favorites

🌟 NEW: Holiday Showcase Decorating Contest

Downtown businesses are going all-out this season! Local merchants are decking their halls inside and out to compete for the title of "Best Downtown Holiday Decorations"—and you get to decide the winner.

Simply scan the QR codes displayed in storefront windows while strolling downtown to vote for your favorite setup. The winning business will take home over $2,000 in local advertising credits!

🐶 EXTENDED: Find Santa's Puppy Scavenger Hunt

Back by popular demand, this beloved family tradition has been expanded from a single day into a month-long adventure from Nov. 21 to Dec. 19.

1. Pick up a scavenger hunt map at the Tree Lighting Ceremony or at Winnie & Mo’s Bookstore on A Street.

2. Explore downtown storefronts together to track down hidden puppies.

3. Kids who spot at least 15 puppies can enter to win special downtown gift certificates!

Why Shopping Small Matters This Season

Beyond the magical evening events, choosing to do your holiday shopping downtown makes a profound impact on the heart of our city.

"Downtown Idaho Falls is truly our city's living room—a warm, welcoming place where our community gathers to create lasting memories. When you choose to shop small, you are directly investing in your neighbors." — Kerry Hammon, Executive Director of IFDDC

The 3-Gift Challenge: If every family in our community pledges to purchase at least three holiday gifts from a downtown merchant this year, the economic impact on our local small business owners will be extraordinary.

Heartfelt Thanks to Our Community Sponsors

This event is made possible through the generous support of local partners who believe in the heart of our city:

• Title Sponsor: The Bank of Commerce

• Community Partners: Idaho Falls Farmers Market, City of Idaho Falls, Sandhill Media, 100 Proof Hospitality (Snake Bite, Park & A Italia, & XVIII), BOSS Realty, Devcon, Taylor Farms, Pro-Rentals & Sales, and Trident Security.

Ready to Join the Festivities?

For additional details on the Tree Lighting Ceremony, Holiday Market, or upcoming seasonal events, follow the Idaho Falls Downtown Development Corporation on social media. See you downtown!