Boise, Idaho — November 3, 2025 — The Idaho Botanical Garden invites the Treasure Valley community to experience one of the region’s most beloved holiday traditions as Winter Garden aGlow returns for its 29th season. From late November through December, the Garden will sparkle with more than 850,000 lights, transforming its winter landscape into a glowing celebration of joy, community, and connection. 

What began nearly three decades ago as a small neighborhood event has grown into one of Boise’s signature seasonal experiences and the Garden’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting plant conservation, education, and community programs throughout the year. 

“Every light tells a story — of the people who visit, the memories made, and the community that keeps this tradition shining,” said Erin Anderson, Executive Director of the Idaho Botanical Garden. “Winter Garden aGlow isn’t just about lights; it’s about supporting a place that connects people to nature and to one another all year long.” 

New in 2025 

This year’s Winter Garden aGlow introduces several fresh experiences that invite guests to see the Garden in a new light: 

• Yuletide Bar – new this year, replacing the former Snow Globe Bar, this cozy lodge-inspired venue offers festive drinks and a warm retreat amid the glow. 
• Silent Disco – dance under the lights with wireless headphones in the lively Disco Snowman area. 
• Lighted Hula Hoops – interactive fun for kids and adults alike. 
• Jerome the Gnome Scavenger Hunt – a whimsical search for hidden gnomes throughout the Garden, perfect for families and returning guests. 
• Unique displays and photo opportunities 

Returning Favorites

Guests will once again delight in the event’s most cherished displays, including: 

• Candy Cane Forest and Gumdrop Grove, sweetly themed pathways filled with color and wonder. 
• Gingerbread House Exhibit, a community-built display celebrating creativity and holiday spirit. 
• Santa’s North Pole Gathering Place, where families can meet Santa on select nights and drop off letters to the North Pole. 
• The Garden Store, or the Stocking Stuffer Station as it is known, filled with unique, nature-inspired gifts, holiday décor, and locally made treasures, with every purchase supporting the Garden’s mission. Garden Membership gift certificates will also be available 
• And back after a hiatus, the Trains, a long-awaited favorite returns, winding through the twinkling displays once again. 

Lighting the Way Forward

As the Garden’s largest annual fundraiser, Winter Garden aGlow directly supports educational programming, sustainable horticulture, and community events year-round. The event embodies the Idaho Botanical Garden’s mission to connect people, plants, and place, and to celebrate the natural beauty that thrives even in winter. 

“Winter Garden aGlow has become a Boise tradition because it reminds us what’s possible when a community invests in something lasting,” said Anderson. “Each visit helps ensure the Garden continues to grow, inspire, and give back all year long.” 

About Idaho Botanical Garden 

Located in the heart of Boise, the Idaho Botanical Garden cultivates a love of nature through plant collections, education, art, and community events. The Garden serves as a living museum and a gathering space that inspires connection to the natural world. Learn more at https://www.idahobotanicalgarden.org/.

Contact:

Shaunalee Shipman, Marketing and Communications Director
Idaho Botanical Garden
info@idahobotanicalgarden.org | 385.227.7344