When the holidays settle over Idaho and Ballet Idaho’s The Nutcracker returns to the stage, families across the Treasure Valley begin dreaming of a little winter escape—a place where twinkling lights, snowy rooftops, and steaming cups of cocoa feel lifted straight from Clara’s enchanted world. Luckily, that holiday magic is only a road trip away. Whether you head east to iconic Sun Valley, north to the lakeside sparkle of Coeur d’Alene, or west toward the Bavarian glow of Leavenworth, each destination offers a unique wonderland worthy of its own storybook.
Sun Valley, Idaho
Classic Elegance | Snowy Adventure | Idaho’s Most Iconic Winter Escape
From Boise, the scenic drive into the Wood River Valley sets the tone—crisp mountain air, snow-dusted pines, and long stretches of open sky. But nothing fully prepares you for the moment Sun Valley unveils itself, glowing with warm lights against the winter landscape.
Sun Valley has been a cherished holiday destination since 1936, when it became America’s first destination ski resort. Its glamorous history is woven through every detail—the wooden beams of the Lodge, the crackling fireplaces, and the outdoor rink where Olympic skaters glide under the stars.
HOLIDAY MUST-DOS
- Sleigh Ride to Trail Creek Cabin >>
Bundle into a horse-drawn sleigh and glide through snowy meadows—a real-life version of Clara’s ride through the Land of Snow. - Sun Valley Outdoor Ice Rink >>
A quintessential Sun Valley experience. Skate beneath starry skies, then warm up with cocoa near the fire pits. - Holiday Performances & Village Festivities >>
Tree lightings, carolers, artisan markets, gingerbread displays—the village sparkles with nostalgia and festive cheer. - Skiing & Nordic Adventures >>
Bald and Dollar Mountains offer trails for every level, while the Nordic Center provides serene snowshoeing and cross-country routes.
Sun Valley is a holiday classic for a reason—glamorous yet cozy, nostalgic yet full of adventure. It feels timeless, like flipping open a favorite storybook.
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Lakeside Lights | Cozy Resorts | A True “North Pole by the Water” Experience
If it’s pure holiday spectacle you’re craving, drive north to Coeur d’Alene, where winter casts a shimmering spell over Lake Coeur d’Alene. This destination is known for one of the largest holiday light displays in the United States, with over a million lights dancing across the water.
HOLIDAY MUST-DOS
- Journey to the North Pole Cruise >>
A magical boat ride across the lake to Santa’s workshop, complete with cookies, cocoa, and the chance to see Santa reading every child’s name from the “Nice List.” - Holiday Light Show at the Resort >>
Towering animated light installations reflect over the lake, turning the evening shoreline into a glowing fantasy. - Downtown Shopping & Dining >>
Cozy cafés, boutique shops, and festive storefronts line the walkable downtown—perfect for soaking in the holiday atmosphere. - Tubbs Hill Winter Walks >>
Snow crunching underfoot, pine trees swaying overhead, and the lake shimmering beside you—an unforgettable, peaceful winter outing.
With its lakefront magic and family-friendly festivities, Coeur d’Alene feels like Idaho’s own North Pole.
Leavenworth, Washington
Bavarian Village | Christmas Lights Everywhere | A Storybook Town Come to Life
Travel west over the pass and watch the world transform—suddenly you’re strolling through a Bavarian village glowing with more than half a million Christmas lights, framed by snow-covered peaks. Leavenworth is one of the most celebrated holiday towns in America, and for good reason.
HOLIDAY MUST-DOS
- Village of Lights: Christmastown >>
The entire town is illuminated nightly, with live music, carolers, Bavarian treats, and Santa sightings around every corner. - Nutcracker Museum >>
Thousands of nutcrackers from around the world—a perfect tie-in to Ballet Idaho’s holiday season. - Sleigh Rides in Icicle Valley >>
Glide past rivers, trees, and mountain views that feel lifted straight from a snow globe. - Bavarian Eats & Artisan Bakeries >>
Warm pretzels, schnitzel, mulled wine, German pastries—the whole village smells like a December dream.
Leavenworth feels transported from another time and place—festive, joyful, and endlessly charming.
Festive Travel Basket Essentials
No road trip is complete without a holiday-themed snack basket:
- Thermos of hot cocoa or mulled cider
- Gingerbread cookies or peppermint bark
- Mini holiday sandwiches (cranberry turkey or brie & apple)
- Cheese & crackers
- Holiday napkins & reusable mugs
- A playlist of cozy holiday music
- A travel game or Nutcracker-themed activity for the kids
Sun Valley Image: Courtesy Visit Sun Valley.
Coeur d’Alene Image: Courtesy Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises.
Leavenworth Image: Courtesy Hotel Leavenworth.
© 2025 En Face Ballet Collection Creative Studios. Concept and Design by En Face.
