Our local merchants plan exciting, engaging in-store events including food and beverage tastings, local art exhibits, retail trunk shows, live music, family activities, and entertainment in a special and unique way you'll only find in Downtown Boise. Stop into your favorite establishment or check out someplace new!
Events typically run from 5–9pm, but each merchant creatively plans their own event so check each listing below for individual hours and details.
The Alaska Center
1020 W Main St •
Art
The Leap Photography studio will be open to the public on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 5:00-7:00pm in participation with other First Thursday events.
Stop in, tour the studio, and browse through Leap Photography's portrait, and fine art work. While in the studio don't forget to check out our selection of Christmas Cards. Encaustic photography, greeting cards, magnets, and prints ... will also be available for purchase.
If you've never been in a working photographer's studio, this is a great opportunity to not only view artwork but to check out the workspace. Photographer Brenda Leap will be on hand to answer any questions you may have.
We're located in the historic Alaska building. Take the elevator to the 2nd floor and follow the signs. We can't wait to meet you!
Date: June 5, 2024
Time: 5:00 pm- 7 pm
Address: 1020 W. Main Street #200, Boise, ID 83702 (located in the historic Alaska Building in downtown Boise)
8 Horses Lounge
199 N. 8th Street • 208-433-7800
Music Food & Beverage
Come celebrate our One Year Anniversary! New seasonal cocktail menu is live and so is amazing local music from Hillfolk Noir (6:00pm - 9:00pm). NO COVER. Come celebrate with us...located under Fork Restaurant, home to the original bank vault.
Pennecard Real Estate
121 N 5th St • 208-861-8295
Music Food & Beverage Activity
Whether you're winding down your workday or just starting your night out, stop in for a refreshing dose of wellness and fun! Enjoy live music by Annalea Black, complimentary B-12 shots provided by ENHANCED Aesthetics & Wellness, and indulgent hand treatments & relaxing head massages courtesy of Graeber & Co. As an added bonus, treat yourself to light healthy snacks and a free wine tasting while you recharge.
It’s the perfect way to treat yourself while exploring all that downtown Boise has to offer on First Thursday!
Chandlers Prime Steaks | Fine Seafood
981 W Grove St • (208) 383-4300
Food & Beverage
Gather. Sip. Socialize.
Join us at Chandlers for Social Hour.
Monday through Friday at the bar/lounge from 4-6pm.
Gather and relax with handcrafted cocktails like
our Cosmo or Champagne Cocktail and savor with a
selection of sociable dishes, all offered at $10.
Meriwether Cider House
224 N 9th St • (208)972-6725
Art Food & Beverage Activity
Join us for Downtown Boise Association's 1st Thursday!
We will provide all the supplies to make bracelets with your BFFs FOR FREE while you sip one of the 20 ciders we have on tap!!
JD's Bodega
161 N Capitol Blvd • (208)519-5516
Shop Food & Beverage Kid-Friendly Activity
Stop by and grab a free popcorn and play a game of pinball on us and check out our selection of local merchandise.
City Hall Plaza
150 N Capitol Blvd • (208) 384-4422
Music Food & Beverage Kid-Friendly Activity
Stop by City Hall to learn how we’re working to make Boise safer, more resilient, and welcoming for all. Meet first responders, play with therapy dogs, check out emergency vehicles, and explore family-friendly activities focused on preparedness and well-being. Whether it’s community policing, mental health support, or disaster readiness, see how we’re building a city where everyone feels secure and supported.
Idaho Building
280 N 8th St •
Art Kid-Friendly Activity
Who: Third Shelf: A Placemakers’ Cooperative Library
What: Book Swap! Book swaps are opportunities for Third Shelf members to exchange books with each other, to browse some of our collecive placemaking library, and welcome new people to the community. All are welcome!
Where: Idaho Smart Growth 280 N 8th St. Suite #210
When: Every 1st Thursday starting March 6th 6-8pm
Why: Third Shelf was created as a resource sharing, agency building, and community networking infrastructure project for placemakers. Members use a booksharing app to connect and exchange their collective books becoming a physical library distributed on member bookshelves throughout the community.
Website: thirdshelf.org
Instagram: @third.shelf
The Warehouse Food Hall
370 S 8th St • 986-999-4081
Music
Make The Warehouse Food Hall your First Thursday spot... grab a bite, sip on something good, and settle in for live music. Each month, a local artist takes the stage, setting the vibe while you kick back with craft drinks and plenty of flavor to go around.
Hackney Properties, LLC DBA Dragon Dreamzzz
500 W. Bannock • 208-861-2572
Art Shop Music
Dragon Dreamzzz Pup-Up Gallery: Step into our Pup-Up Gallery, where a collective of local artists are creating an evening that blends visual beauty and expressive movement. Don’t miss the 7:30 pm movement demonstration of “Ocean” choreographed by Britta von Tagen. It will be performed again June 14 Cannon Beach, OR as part of Global Water Dances initiative for clean drinking water for everyone. Just across the street, The Lively invites you to round out your evening with live music, delicious bites, and drinks. This free, walkable celebration is part of what makes Downtown Boise thrive - art in motion, community in harmony. Come join us.
House of Wine
1008 W Main St • 208-297-9463
Shop Food & Beverage
Come join us at House of Wine for our exciting “First Thursday” event in June!
For this night we’ll put aside our regular wine by the glass options and offer selections for a free three wine tasting from famed northern Idaho winery, Clearwater Canyon Cellars.
The festivities begin at 5pm and last until 8pm. This is a free event and no registration is required. We look forward to welcoming you!
Cactus Bar
517 W Main St • (208) 342-9732
Food & Beverage Activity
Bingo Nights every First Thursday and every 3rd Thursday of every month. Free to play. Multiple games played in a night. Starts at 7 and ends roughly around 9 pm. Prizes to be won.
The Lively
505 W Bannock St • 208.209.5503
Music Food & Beverage Kid-Friendly
Kick off your summer with First Thursdays at The Lively—where the drinks are fabulous, the food hits all the right notes and the music sets the mood. We’re turning up the energy with live music and an extended happy hour to make your Thursdays anything but ordinary. Come early, stay late, and let the good times flow!
Boise Public Library - Main
715 S Capitol Blvd • (208) 972-8200
Art Activity
Drop-in collage for adults- Boise Public Library First Thursday event!
Come join us for a low-key evening of fun and playful art-making for adults. Bring your friends!
We will provide all materials.
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm, Bingham Room, 3rd floor of Boise Public Library, Downtown.
Hillcrest Bank
800 W Bannock St • 208-344-5528
Food & Beverage Kid-Friendly Activity
Join us at Hillcrest Bank for a fun filled First Thursday, where families can enjoy exciting activities, delicious drink refreshments, and a chance to win great prizes in our raffle! It’s our way of saying thank you for being part of the community. Bring the whole family and celebrate with us – we can’t wait to see you there!
Umpqua Bank Boise NeighborHub
190 N 8th St • 208-926-6310
Food & Beverage
You’re Invited!
Join Johnson May and Umpqua Bank for a relaxed and engaging evening at Boise’s June First Thursday! This is your stress-free opportunity to connect with fellow business professionals in Idaho’s vibrant community, enjoy delicious appetizers by Roosters Catering, and sip on complimentary wine.
What to Expect
Network & Connect: Expand your professional circle and meet other local entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders.
Discover Johnson May: Learn more about our personalized legal services in Estate Planning, Business Law, and Real Estate. Our team will be available at dedicated booths to answer your questions and discuss how we can help you achieve your goals.
Explore Career Opportunities: Interested in joining a dynamic legal team? We’re actively hiring associate attorneys for both our Boise and Twin Falls locations, with remote and in-office positions available. Chat with our representatives to learn more about a career with Johnson May.
Complimentary Delights: Indulge in tasty appetizers from Roosters Catering and enjoy a selection of wine, all on us!
“At Johnson May, we understand that every client is unique and approach each case with the personalized attention and care it deserves. We believe in building long-lasting relationships with our clients based on trust, transparency, and mutual respect.”
Rediscovered Books - Boise
180 N 8th St • (208) 376-4229
Shop
Join Rediscovered Books in welcoming NOLA to our store for First Thursday!
The National Outdoor Learning Alliance, or NOLA, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Boise Idaho. Our mission is to enhance the academic success and overall well-being of youth nationwide through the power of nature-based education. We have many youth programs in the Treasure Valley including EverWild Forest School, Tots & Trees, afterschool partnerships with local schools, seasonal camps, No School Nature Days, and we host a variety of community events!
20% of the profits on outdoor and nature books (kids and adult) will be donated to NOLA for this event.
Treefort Music Hall
722 W Broad St. •
Activity
Kick off Pride month with DRAG BINGO at Treefort Music Hall!
Hosted by Dolce Vida & Cyraphina Thunderpussy
Performances by Frida Nightz & Buck Delicious The Drag Thing
Benefitting Treefort for Good!
18+
Radio Boise
1020 W Main St • 208-258-2072
Art Shop Music Food & Beverage Kid-Friendly
First Thursday Open Station with Radio Boise and Jesse Tree on Thurs June 5
Join Us for Radio Boise's Open Station Night!
Ever wanted a behind-the-scenes look at community radio? Radio Boise is inviting you to an Open Station event in the basement of the Alaska Center on Main St. (between 10th and 11th St.) from 5 PM to 8 PM.
Explore the magic of local radio with guided tours, live DJ sessions featuring Wendy Fox and Jason D, and plenty of snacks to enjoy while chatting about the station and the impact of community radio.
This month's Open Station is hosted by Nichole Marie of The Rapture and Geek Goddess from The Rebel Alliance, and we’re thrilled to welcome Jesse Tree, an incredible nonprofit working to prevent eviction and homelessness in the Treasure Valley. They empower neighbors at risk of losing their homes, ensuring they stay housed and supported.
Come be part of the conversation, connect with fellow radio lovers, and support meaningful community initiatives. We can't wait to see you there!
Humpin' Hannah's
621 W Main St • (208) 345-7557
Music Activity
Hey Y'all! Do you miss dancing at a club with your friends, but don't miss being out till the wee hours and dealing with the late night club scene? Then come out for Dusky Disco Early Bird Dance Party, a fun club dance starting at 5pm at the one & only Humpin’ Hannah’s in Downtown Boise!
-Dance mix will be curated by DJ Feelings of Tropico FM
-NO cover charge
-The bar will be open for purchases of cocktails and mocktails!
- Drink Specials: $3.50 Wells, Shots & Beers, plus ALL Seltzers ½ price!
Dance and party and hang with your friends, and get home early enough to:
-be in your pjs by 8:30
-have time to watch your favorite show or read your book
-walk your dogs
-tuck in your kids
-not be totally wrecked the next day
1st Thursday, June 5, 5pm, it’s a Dusky Disco Early Bird Dance Party!!!
https://www.facebook.com/events/2428327157524495
Jesse Tree
1121 W Mil • 208-383-9486
Art
Join us as we partner with the Creative Women's Collective for June's First Thursday! We would like to invite you to our Mural Painting Party and Artist Pop-Up, featuring Sarah Harris. Between shopping at vendor's booths, helping us paint a mural to celebrate our community, and enjoying snacks and beverages, there will be something for everyone!
Families welcome, 5-7 pm at Jesse Tree's office.
Mixed Greens
213 N 9th St • (208) 344-1605
Art Shop Food & Beverage Kid-Friendly
Join us this week for First Thursday
Mother Earth Brewing will be here with their yummy brews!
Josh from Firehouse Foodz will be here sampling his Firehouse Macha salsa.
Our artist this week is Sunkissed by Chlo with her super cute handmade tote bags!
Father’s Day cards are 20% off!
Hope you can stop in!
Voodoo Cellar Boise
200 N Capitol Blvd • 2089180881
Food & Beverage
$5 Craft Beer Flights Every First Thursday!
Stretch Zone Boise
112 S 6th St • 208-993-7979
Activity
Stop by Stretch Zone this 1st Thursday for a free stretch and feel the difference assisted stretching can make!
The Flicks
646 Fulton St • (208) 342-4288
Music
Grab your drinks and food from our Rick’s Café counter and head out to the patio to enjoy music by Minor Paradox. No cover charge, it is a gift to our Flicks fans!
Singer Sydney Hair is joined by the talented guitarist and vocalist Dr. Lloyd Blake.
5:30-7:30pm
Boise Art Glass
1124 W Front St • (208) 345-1825
Art Shop Activity
June's item of the month is....... Mushrooms!
Join us for a fun and hands-on glassblowing class where you'll learn how to make a whimsical mushroom out of glass! It’s the perfect summer activity! Guided by an experienced instructor, students will be introduced to basic glassblowing techniques including gathering, shaping, and color application.
Each participant will have the opportunity to create a unique glass mushrooms, perfect for home décor or as a handmade gift. No prior experience is necessary—all materials and safety equipment will be provided. Come ready to explore your creativity and leave with a beautiful, one-of-a-kind piece!
Beginner-friendly (ages 8+)
$75 per student (1 student per class)
New items every month!
30-minute sessions
4pm-9pm
Fred Astaire Dance Studios Boise
1511 W Main Street • 208-514-0440
Art Music Food & Beverage
"Swing" in for First Thursday and find out how much fun date night or a night out on the town can be!
7:00pm—7:45pm
Free Dance Demos & Newcomer Group Class
7:45pm—8:30pm
Free Guided Social Dancing
No partner required — or bring your friends. We love to see couples who want to dance together, too.
Everyone is welcome, no experience required!
Suite 104
280 N 8th St •
Music Food & Beverage
Suite 104 is hosting Open Mic with Jace Kempke! 7-11pm!
Art Source Gallery
1516 W Grove St • 208-331-3374
Art Shop Music Food & Beverage Kid-Friendly Activity
Join us for the opening reception of "“Vacation - A Time to Get Away” on Thursday, June 5, 2025 from 5:00 - 9:00 PM with live music, refreshments and snacks. . The exhibit will open throughout the month opf June at Art Source Gallery, 1516 W Grove St. in Boise, ID’s downtown Linen District.
Whether annual family road trips across the state or romantic plane rides around the world, vacations are a time to break out of the routine creating new experiences and memories. Throughout June, the artists of Art Source Gallery are celebrating vacation experiences humble and grand through painting, photography, sculpture and more.
Graeber & Company Salon and Spa
420 W Main St • (208) 343-4915
Shop
Enter to WIN a designer handbag!
4 ways to win:
1 entry for each product purchase
2 entries for adding on a renewal treatment to any hair service
2x entry for pre booking 3+ appointments
10 entries for any package purchased
We also have a Moms & Grads Gift Card offer in store:
For every $125 spend on gift cards receive a FREE Epicutis travel set valued at $75 *while supplies last
Don’t miss all the fun, stop by and visit us!!
The Matador Boise
215 N 8th St • 208-342-9988
Food & Beverage
HOURS OF OPERATION
Sun-Thurs 11:00am-11:00pm
Fri & Sat 11:00am-Midnight
HAPPY HOUR 4pm-6pm & 10pm-CLOSE (daily)
Come in and be enveloped by our passion for the most daring of spirits. For brave, fresh Mexican flavors, and beautiful scratch-made cocktails. For the people and the culture of Mexico, where we forge friendships with tequila makers, listen to their stories, and bring them home to share with you, as we guide you through your tequila experience.
The Matador uses all-natural ingredients only, and that includes our carne, pollo, carnitas and seafood. We source the freshest, in-season vegetables and fruits available. Then we take those ingredients and cook them up into creative dishes that taste a bit like Mexico, a bit like the local area, and a bit like nothing you’ve ever tasted before.
Our newest Seasonal Menu was just released and features the following items:
* MEXICAN STREET CORN (gf/veg) - Flash fried sweet corn covered with semi-spicy chipotle mayo, chipotle seasoning, cotija & fresh lime.
* AL PASTOR STREET TACOS (gf) - These grilled pineapple juice and spice marinated pork butt tacos are served on small corn tortillas and topped with arbol salsa, onions, cilantro, & cotija cheese.
* BAJA ZUCCHINI TACOS (veg) - Zucchini pieces lightly dipped in beer batter and coated with panko then flash fried. Served in flour tortillas with guacamole, serrano slaw, sweet & spicy chipotle mayo, radish slices and fresh cut cilantro along with rice and Mexican black beans.
* AL PASTOR ENCHILADAS (gf) - Our version of a classic Mexican pork dish. Sliced pork butt marinated in chiles, spices, pineapple juice, and onion is grilled and served in corn tortillas with roasted poblano crema and jack cheese. The enchiladas are then topped with our spicy arbol salsa and served with rice & beans.
* HONEY-BASIL MARGARITA - Cazadores blanco, triple sec, Thai Basil Leaves, Honey-Chile Syrup, Lime Juice, & Matador Salt
* TROPICAL MOJITO - Kraken Gold Rum, Fresh Mint, Lime & Orange, Charred Pineapple Syrup, Elemakule Tiki, & Soda Water
* CHARRED PINEAPPLE LIMEADE - Charred Pineapple Syrup, Lime Juice, & Soda Water
Situated on historic 8th St in energetic downtown Boise, the Matador has been a part of the city’s restaurant and happy hour scene since 2010. Within easy walking or biking distance from all downtown shops and sights, as well as the Greenbelt and the scenic Treasure Valley foothills, the Matador offers adventures in Mexican-inspired food and tequila when you need a retreat from your adventures outdoors or in town.
Eureka!
800 W Idaho St • (208) 286-4410
Food & Beverage
Cheers to Thursdays with our $10 Buffalo Trace Old Fashioneds available all day long.
Acero Boards and Bottles
801 West Main Street • 208-801-6896
Food & Beverage
Board & Bottle is making its First Thursday debut! Join us at Acero from 5-9 PM for our Board & Bottle special: enjoy a bottle of wine from our curated selection and a delicious bruschetta board of your choice for just $30. Sip, snack, and celebrate the night with us!