It used to be when thinking about Idaho that potatoes would come to mind and not much else. But long gone are those days now that Idaho has the reputation for its maturing wine industry.
In 2008, Idaho’s wine industry brought in about $73 million and was responsible for creating about 625 new jobs, according to the Idaho Wine Commission. Today, Idaho has around 40 wineries, and growing.
Celebrating and pairing up Idaho’s sips with its delectable eats will be the Idaho Food and Wine Festival, Aug. 24–25 at The Waterfront (formerly known as Lake Harbor). Learn and be entertained by all the services and local products this state has to offer in a two-day extravaganza benefiting the Idaho Foodbank.
Guests will have the opportunity to meet local winemakers and connoisseurs alike while exploring the different grapes from Idaho’s vast growing regions. Of the many participating wineries, some include: Bitner Vineyards, HAT Ranch Winery and Sawtooth Winery.
On the foodie side of things, local restaurants and food truck owners will provide delicious eats for festival. A few of those cooking some things up will be Papa Joe’s Casual Italian and Kanak Attack Katering.
Live music and the Classic Car Show will add to the festivals attractions on both days along with winemaking and recipe seminars, and a talent competition.
Also sharing its celebration of a different Idaho staple will be the 5th Annual Barley Bros. Traveling Beer Show just a short drive away in Julius M. Kleiner Park. Celebrating the beers of Idaho and then some, more than 30 breweries will arrive in the park for this two-day event.
Can’t decide which festival to go to? How about both? A shuttle will be provided to transport you along from the food and wine festivities to the brewed up goodness in the park.
Saturday, Aug. 24 – Sunday, Aug. 25 || Noon – 8 pm || 3050 N. Lake Harbor Lane || Boise || Tickets: One day $45, Two day $60, VIP $175
