Category: Events

This Fourth of July, the small city of Kimberly, Idaho is doing something truly special. On Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, Kimberly City Park will host A Salute to America’s Military — a free, heartfelt community celebration honoring every branch of the United States Armed Forces on America’s 250th birthday.

Bring a lawn chair, bring your family, and come celebrate in a community that takes its gratitude for military service seriously.

What Is This Event?

Kimberly is an America 250 Ambassador City — one of a select group of Idaho communities chosen to help mark the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence. Their Fourth of July celebration reflects that honor with a program built specifically to recognize the men and women who have defended this country for 250 years.

This is not a generic Fourth of July picnic. This is a genuine, organized tribute to America’s military — every branch, every service member, past and present.

What to Expect

Honor Guard Presentation The event opens with an Honor Guard presentation and an opening prayer led by the Idaho Army National Guard. It sets a tone of respect and gratitude from the very first moment.

Live Band – Mr. A Live band Mr. A will perform the official theme song of every military branch — one by one. As each branch’s song plays, service members and veterans from that branch will be invited onto the stage to be recognized. It is a powerful, personal moment for every veteran in the crowd.

The branches being honored include:

• Coast Guard
• Air Force
• Navy
• Space Force
• Army
• Marine Corps
• Idaho Army National Guard

After the branch recognition, Mr. A will continue performing patriotic songs that everyone knows and loves throughout the rest of the afternoon.

Free Barbecue The Rock Creek Fire District is hosting a free community barbecue during the event. Good food, great music, and great company — all free of charge.

Recognition and Presentations Community leaders will offer recognition and presentations honoring military service as part of the formal program.

Why This Matters

Most Fourth of July celebrations are about fireworks, food, and fun — and there is nothing wrong with that. But Kimberly is doing something deeper this year. They are stopping in the middle of the holiday to look their veterans in the eye, call them by their branch, play their song, and say: we see you. We are grateful. And we are proud.

On the 250th anniversary of the nation those veterans swore to defend, that kind of recognition means everything.

If you are a veteran — of any branch, any era — you are going to want to be in Kimberly on July 4th.

Event Details at a Glance

• Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026
• Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
• Location: Kimberly City Park, Kimberly, ID
• Cost: Free
• What to bring: A lawn chair and your patriotic spirit

Questions? Contact Kimberly City Administrator Craig Eckles:

• Email: ceckles@cityofkimberly.org
• Cell: (208) 316-3839

About Kimberly, Idaho

Kimberly is a close-knit community in the Magic Valley, just east of Twin Falls. It may be a small city, but it has a big heart — especially when it comes to honoring those who serve. Being named an America 250 Ambassador City is a well-deserved recognition of that community spirit.

The DAV of Idaho is proud to highlight community events across Idaho that honor our veterans and military families. Learn more about DAV Idaho programs at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

On Thursday, July 2, 2026, the Magic Valley Quilts of Valor is hosting a beautiful celebration of Idaho’s veterans. The Veterans Appreciation Day Open House runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Twin Falls County West Building Main Foyer, 630 Addison Ave. W., Twin Falls, Idaho — and the public is warmly invited to attend.

This is a free event filled with community, gratitude, and one of the most meaningful ceremonies in the veteran world — a Quilt of Valor Award Ceremony.

What Is the Quilts of Valor Foundation?

The Quilts of Valor Foundation is a national nonprofit organization with a simple but powerful mission: to cover service members and veterans touched by war with quilts made with love and gratitude. Each quilt is hand-crafted and awarded in a personal ceremony — a tangible, lasting symbol of a grateful nation’s thanks.

Since 2003, the Quilts of Valor Foundation has awarded over 300,000 quilts to veterans and service members across the country. The Magic Valley Quilts of Valor chapter serves veterans right here in southern Idaho, and their work is extraordinary.

A Quilt of Valor is not just a blanket. For many veterans, it is the first time someone has looked them in the eye, handed them something made with care, and said: we see what you did. We are grateful. This is for you.

What to Expect at the Open House

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM — Open House Throughout the day, community partners and resource providers will be on hand to speak with veterans and their families. This is a great opportunity to connect with organizations that serve Magic Valley veterans, ask questions, and learn what resources are available to you.

Community Participants Include:

• Senator Mike Crapo Staff
• Senator James Risch Staff
• Congressman Mike Simpson Staff
• Idaho State Veterans Service Office
• Idaho Service Member & Family Support
• Twin Falls Veterans Service Office
• Department of Labor
• College of Southern Idaho
• St. Lukes Volunteer Services
• Hospice Visions
• Idaho Home Health and Hospice
• Daughters of the American Revolution – Twin Falls Chapter
• Glander’s Restorations

1:00 PM — Quilt of Valor Award Ceremony with Keynote Speaker The highlight of the day is the formal Quilt of Valor Award Ceremony at 1:00 PM. Selected veterans will be honored and presented with their quilts in front of family, friends, and the community. If you have never witnessed a Quilt of Valor ceremony, it is something you will not forget.

Music by Sticks & Strings Live music provided by Sticks & Strings will fill the foyer throughout the event, adding warmth and celebration to the afternoon.

Quilts of Valor Display Come see the beautiful quilts on display — each one a work of art and a labor of love.

Door Prizes and Thank You Gifts Attendees will have chances to win door prizes and receive thank you gifts throughout the day.

A Community Coming Together

What makes this event special is the number of community partners who are showing up to say thank you. From elected officials’ staff to healthcare providers to educational institutions, the Magic Valley community is rallying around its veterans in a real and meaningful way.

Twin Falls County Commissioners are also being recognized for their support of this event — a reminder that local government and the veteran community are stronger when they work together.

Event Details at a Glance

• Date: Thursday, July 2, 2026
• Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Open House)
• Quilt of Valor Ceremony: 1:00 PM
• Location: Twin Falls County West Building Main Foyer, 630 Addison Ave. W., Twin Falls, ID
• Cost: Free — public welcome
• Music: Sticks & Strings (live throughout the event)
• Website: magicvalleyquiltsofvalor.com
• Email: magicvalleyquilts@yahoo.com
• Facebook: Magic Valley Quilts of Valor

Nominate a Veteran for a Quilt of Valor

Do you know a veteran in the Magic Valley who deserves to be recognized with a Quilt of Valor? Visit magicvalleyquiltsofvalor.com to learn more about the nomination process.

The DAV of Idaho is proud to highlight the work of the Magic Valley Quilts of Valor and all organizations that honor Idaho’s veterans. Learn more about DAV Idaho programs and services at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

If you are a veteran in northern Idaho who is struggling to make ends meet — or if you know one — mark Thursday, July 2, 2026 on your calendar. Shoshone VFW Post 1675 is hosting a Veterans Stand Down Day in Osburn, and they are coming ready to help.

The event runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at VFW Post 1675, 318 E. Mullan Ave., Osburn, Idaho. It is free, and no appointment is needed.

What Is a Stand Down?

A Stand Down is a military term for a period of rest and recovery after intense combat operations. In the veteran services world, a Stand Down event is a day set aside to bring essential resources directly to veterans who need them most — especially those who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or simply struggling to get by.

The idea is simple: instead of asking vulnerable veterans to navigate a complicated system of agencies and appointments, you bring the help to them. All in one place. All in one day.

What Will Be Available

Shoshone VFW Post 1675 is putting together a solid lineup of resources for veterans who attend:

• Clothing
• Blankets
• Personal hygiene items
• Fuel cards
• Grocery cards
• State and County Veterans Service Officers on site — ready to answer questions and help veterans understand and access their benefits

This is direct, practical help for veterans who need it right now.

How You Can Help — Donations Welcome

The community can play a big role in making this Stand Down a success. VFW Post 1675 is currently accepting donations of:

• Bedding
• T-shirts
• Underwear

Donations can be dropped off directly at VFW Post 1675, 318 E. Mullan Ave., Osburn, Idaho. If you have gently used or new items to contribute, the veterans who attend this event will be grateful.

Veterans Service Officers Will Be On Site

One of the most valuable things about this Stand Down is that state and county Veterans Service Officers will be present throughout the event. These are trained professionals who can help veterans understand what benefits they may be entitled to — including VA disability compensation, healthcare, pension, education benefits, and more.

If you have ever had questions about your VA benefits but did not know where to start, sitting down with a Veterans Service Officer at an event like this is one of the best first steps you can take. It is free, it is confidential, and it could result in benefits you have been leaving on the table for years.

Who Should Attend

This event is open to any veteran in need. You do not have to be homeless to come. You do not have to prove financial hardship at the door. If you are a veteran who could use some extra support — whether that is a few grocery cards to get through a tight month, a conversation with a service officer about your benefits, or simply a reminder that your community has not forgotten you — please come.

The Silver Valley and north Idaho region is home to many veterans who served quietly and asked for little in return. This Stand Down is the community’s way of giving something back.

Event Details at a Glance

• Date: Thursday, July 2, 2026
• Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Location: Shoshone VFW Post 1675, 318 E. Mullan Ave., Osburn, ID
• Cost: Free
• Donations: Bedding, t-shirts, and underwear accepted at VFW Post 1675

About the DAV of Idaho

The DAV of Idaho provides free benefits assistance to disabled veterans across the state. Our National Service Officers can help you file VA claims, appeal denials, and navigate the VA system — at no cost to you. If you are unable to attend the Osburn Stand Down but need help accessing your benefits, contact us anytime.

• Phone: (208) 429-2140
• Website: dav-idaho.org

The DAV of Idaho proudly supports Stand Down events and community efforts that bring direct help to veterans in need. If you know a veteran in the Silver Valley who could use support, please share this post.

Every first Tuesday of the month, something special happens at the Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa. Veterans from across the Treasure Valley come together over coffee, donuts, and great conversation. It is called the Kilroy Coffee Klatch — and it is the largest monthly gathering of veterans in the entire state of Idaho.

This month, Kilroy Coffee Klatch meets on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. And best of all, it is completely free for veterans.

What Is the Kilroy Coffee Klatch?

The Kilroy Coffee Klatch started as a small gathering — just a handful of veterans looking for a place to sit down, share a cup of coffee, and swap stories with people who understood what they had been through.

Word spread. Veterans kept showing up. And over the years, Kilroy grew into something remarkable: the biggest monthly veteran gathering in Idaho, held inside one of the most impressive military museums in the Pacific Northwest.

Today, Kilroy Coffee Klatch draws veterans of all eras, all branches, and all backgrounds. Whether you served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or anywhere in between, you are welcome at Kilroy. Whether you came home fifty years ago or fifty days ago, there is a seat for you.

What to Expect

When you walk into the Kilroy Coffee Klatch, you will find:

• Coffee and donuts, served free of charge to all veteran attendees
• Great conversation with fellow veterans who understand your experience
• A world-class setting — the gathering is held in the Warhawk Air Museum’s Global War on Terror hangar, surrounded by historic aircraft, vehicles, and artifacts
• No agenda, no pressure — just veterans connecting with veterans

There is no RSVP required. You just show up.

The general public is also welcome to attend, though regular museum admission applies to non-veterans.

Finding the Event

The July Kilroy Coffee Klatch is held in the Global War on Terror (GWOT) hangar at the Warhawk Air Museum. When you arrive, use the lower parking lot — it puts you closest to the hangar entrance.

Warhawk Air Museum 201 Municipal Drive Nampa, ID 83687 (208) 465-6446

Why This Matters

Isolation is one of the biggest challenges facing veterans today. Many veterans come home from service and find it hard to connect with people who truly understand what military life is like. The civilian world moves differently. Conversations feel different. And it can be lonely in ways that are hard to explain.

The Kilroy Coffee Klatch exists to solve that problem — one Tuesday morning at a time. When veterans gather together, something good happens. Old friendships are rekindled. New ones are formed. Stories get told that might never have been shared otherwise. And for a few hours, every veteran in that room is surrounded by people who get it.

If you have never been to a Kilroy Coffee Klatch, July is a great time to start. Just show up, grab a coffee, and introduce yourself. You will be glad you did.

Mark Your Calendar for Every Month

Kilroy Coffee Klatch happens on the first Tuesday of every month, year-round. Once you go, most veterans keep coming back.

Upcoming dates:

• July 7
• August 4
• September 1

The DAV of Idaho encourages all Idaho veterans to take advantage of community events like the Kilroy Coffee Klatch. Connection matters. Learn more about DAV Idaho programs and resources at dav-idaho.org.

This Fourth of July is not just any Independence Day. July 4, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States of America — and Boise is pulling out all the stops to celebrate in a way that honors both our nation’s history and the veterans who have defended it.

The America250 Idaho 4th of July Parade takes place in downtown Boise on Saturday, July 4th, and it is shaping up to be one of the most meaningful patriotic events Idaho has ever seen. If you are anywhere near the Treasure Valley, this is worth your time.

The Full Day Schedule

7:00 AM — Community Breakfast The morning kicks off with a community breakfast at Cecil D. Andrus Park, right in front of the Idaho State Capitol. This breakfast has a special connection to Idaho’s veteran community — proceeds benefit the Veteran Entrepreneurial Alliance and its programs supporting veteran-owned businesses across the state.

9:00 AM — Zamzow’s Patriotic Parade The celebration continues with the Zamzow’s Patriotic Parade, a family-friendly pre-parade event to get the patriotic spirit flowing.

10:00 AM — Idaho America250 4th of July Parade The main event begins at 10:00 AM along Capitol Boulevard, starting near the Morrison Center and finishing near the State Capitol at 11:30 AM. The parade will be broadcast live on CBS2, Fox9, and Idaho Public TV — so even if you cannot make it in person, you can watch from home.

12:00 PM — America250 Capitol Celebration After the parade, the party continues in Cecil D. Andrus Park with music, games, and food. A great way to spend the afternoon with family.

10:15 PM — Boise Fireworks Celebration Cap the night with a fireworks show at Ann Morrison Park.

Why This Year Is Special

America turns 250 years old on July 4, 2026. That is a milestone worth pausing to think about. For veterans and military families, this anniversary has a deep meaning. The freedoms Americans celebrate every Fourth of July were not free — they were purchased over 250 years by the men and women who served in uniform, from the Continental Army at Valley Forge to the soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen serving today.

This parade is a chance for the community to look at veterans and say: we see your service. We remember your sacrifice. And we are grateful.

Getting There

The parade route runs along Capitol Boulevard, starting near the Morrison Center and ending near the Idaho State Capitol.

• Breakfast: Cecil D. Andrus Park, 700 W. Jefferson St., Boise
• Parade Start: Near the Morrison Center, Capitol Blvd., Boise
• Evening Fireworks: Ann Morrison Park, Boise

Plan ahead for parking — this is one of the busiest days in downtown Boise. Consider public transit or arriving early to find a good spot.

Support Veterans While You Celebrate

If you attend the morning breakfast at Cecil D. Andrus Park, know that your dollars are going directly to support veteran entrepreneurs in Idaho through the Veteran Entrepreneurial Alliance. It is a great way to start the day with purpose.

And if you see a veteran in the crowd this Fourth of July, take a moment to say thank you. Those two words mean more than most people realize.

Happy 250th Birthday, America. And thank you to every veteran who made this celebration possible.

The DAV of Idaho serves disabled veterans and their families across Idaho. Learn more at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

If you are a veteran, military spouse, or transitioning service member in Idaho, here is an opportunity you do not want to miss. The Mission43 Cybersecurity Academy is accepting applications right now — but the deadline is July 1, 2026. That means you need to act fast.

This program could change the direction of your career, and it will not cost you a single dollar.

What Is the Mission43 Cybersecurity Academy?

The Mission43 Cybersecurity Academy is a fully funded training program built specifically for veterans, military spouses, and service members who are transitioning out of the military. The goal is simple: help you earn industry-recognized certifications and launch a real career in one of the fastest-growing fields in the country.

Cybersecurity is everywhere right now. Every hospital, school, business, and government agency needs people who know how to protect their computer systems from hackers and data breaches. The demand for trained cybersecurity professionals is enormous — and it is only growing.

The skills you built in the military — attention to detail, following procedures under pressure, protecting sensitive information — translate directly into this field. You already think like a cybersecurity professional. This academy gives you the credentials to prove it.

What Does “Fully Funded” Mean?

It means Mission43 covers the cost. You do not pay for the courses, the study materials, or your first exam attempt. This is a program designed to remove every financial barrier that might stand between you and a new career.

For veterans and military families already managing tight budgets, that matters a great deal.

Who Can Apply?

The Mission43 Cybersecurity Academy is open to:

• Veterans of any branch of service
• Military spouses
• Transitioning service members preparing to leave active duty

You do not need prior experience in technology or computers to apply. What Mission43 is looking for is commitment, motivation, and a willingness to put in the work.

Why Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is not just a good career — it is a stable, well-paying, and meaningful one. Professionals in this field help protect hospitals from ransomware attacks, keep financial institutions secure, and defend government systems from foreign threats. It is work that matters.

Entry-level cybersecurity positions in Idaho and across the country offer competitive salaries, and experienced professionals earn significantly more. Many positions also offer remote work options, which is especially valuable for military spouses who move frequently.

How to Apply

Applications for the Mission43 Cybersecurity Academy are open now and close on July 1, 2026. Do not wait until the last minute.

Visit mission43.org to learn more and submit your application. If you have questions, the Mission43 team is happy to help walk you through the process.

A Word From DAV of Idaho

At the DAV of Idaho, we are committed to helping veterans and their families build strong, successful lives after service. Programs like the Mission43 Cybersecurity Academy are exactly the kind of opportunity we want Idaho’s veteran community to know about.

If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, please share this post. The deadline is July 1st — there is still time, but not much.

For more resources to help Idaho veterans thrive, visit us at dav-idaho.org.

The DAV of Idaho supports programs and opportunities that empower disabled veterans and their families. Learn more at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

Breakfast Special at VFW Post 1675 – June 27, 2026 | Osburn, Idaho

Looking for a great reason to get out of the house on a Saturday morning? VFW Post 1675 in Osburn is hosting a Breakfast Special on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM — and the public is welcome.

This is a simple, affordable, community breakfast that supports your local VFW post and the veterans they serve. Come hungry.

What Is on the Menu?

VFW Post 1675 is pulling out all the stops for this one. The breakfast menu includes:

• Huckleberry Pancakes
• Pancakes
• French Toast
• Eggs
• Sausage
• Biscuits and Gravy
• Coffee
• Milk
• Orange Juice

Huckleberry pancakes at a VFW breakfast in north Idaho? That is about as Idaho as it gets.

Pricing

This breakfast is affordable for the whole family:

• Adults: $6.00
• Kids under 12: $4.00
• Family (2 adults, 2 children): $20.00
• Take-out orders available upon request

Everyone Is Welcome

This event is open to the entire community — you do not have to be a veteran or a VFW member to attend. Bring your family, bring your neighbors, and come enjoy a hot meal with good people in a welcoming setting.

That said, when you sit down for breakfast at VFW Post 1675, know that your dollars are going to support a post that works hard for veterans in the Silver Valley. They organize events, provide community services, and advocate for veterans in the region year-round.

A $6 breakfast that supports veterans? That is a pretty easy decision.

A Great Way to Start the Weekend

June 27th falls the day before the long Fourth of July weekend kicks into gear. Starting your Saturday with a hot breakfast at the VFW is a great way to connect with your community before the holiday celebrations begin.

And if you are a veteran or military family member in the Osburn area, the VFW post is always worth getting to know. These are your people.

Event Details at a Glance

• Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
• Time: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM
• Location: VFW Post 1675, 318 E. Mullan Ave., Osburn, ID
• Cost: Adults $6 | Kids under 12 $4 | Family (2+2) $20
• Take-out: Available upon request
• Open to: Everyone — public welcome

The DAV of Idaho encourages all Idaho veterans and community members to support their local VFW posts. Events like this one keep these vital community organizations strong. Learn more about DAV Idaho at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

Women Veterans of the Palouse: You Belong. You Matter. You Make an Impact.

Together We Are Stronger.

Are you a woman veteran in the Palouse region? This is your invitation to show up, be seen, and be part of something meaningful.

Women Veterans of the Palouse is gathering on Friday, June 13 at 11:00 AM at the Clarkston VFW Hall, 829 15th Street, Clarkston, WA 99403 — and you are warmly welcome.

A Space Built for You

This event is about more than just a meeting. It’s about building a women-driven community centered on support, growth, and recognition of the women veterans who serve and have served in the Palouse. Whether you’re newly transitioned or have been part of civilian life for years, your voice, your story, and your presence matter here.

“Your Voice. Your Story. Our Community.”

What to Expect

Come ready for connection, conversation, and community. This gathering is a space to:

• Meet other women veterans in your region
• Share ideas and community needs
• Help shape outreach and future events
• Explore volunteer roles
• Join the beginning of something meaningful

Event Details

• Date: Friday, June 13, 2026
• Time: 11:00 AM
• Location: Clarkston VFW Hall — 829 15th Street, Clarkston, WA 99403
• Zoom Option Available: Meeting ID: 870 5681 0733 | Passcode: 387301

Can’t make it in person? Join virtually via Zoom — because no woman veteran should be left out due to distance.

Get Involved

Women Veterans of the Palouse is looking for women veterans, volunteers, leaders, and community supporters who want to make a difference. This organization is built on four pillars: Connection, Visibility, Support, and Advocacy — and every one of those starts with you walking through the door (or logging on).

Questions?

Reach out to ivegordon@gmail.com for more information.

Let’s build the future, together. 💛

Free Pancake Breakfast to Honor Our Veterans – June 13, 2026

Honoring Those Who Serve

Join us for a warm, community-wide celebration of the men and women who have served our country. The VFW Auxiliary Post 889 is hosting a Free Pancake Breakfast to Honor Our Veterans on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Coeur d’Alene VFW Post 889, 406 N. 4th Street, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Everyone Is Welcome

This is a free event open to the entire community — veterans, active duty service members, families, and neighbors. Come share a meal, say thank you, and show our local heroes how much they mean to us.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
• Time: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
• Location: Coeur d’Alene VFW Post 889 — 406 N. 4th Street, Coeur d’Alene, ID
• Cost: FREE (Donations gratefully accepted)

Hosted & Sponsored By

This event is proudly hosted by VFW Auxiliary Post 889 and sponsored by the Rotary Club of Coeur d’Alene and Kootenai County Republican Women. Their generous support makes it possible to offer this breakfast free of charge as a heartfelt thank-you to those who have served.

Show Your Support

Donations are accepted at the door and go directly toward supporting our local veterans. Whether you’re a veteran yourself, a family member, or simply a grateful community member, your presence — and your donation — make a difference.

Come hungry, come grateful, and come ready to honor the heroes in our community.

Thank you, Veterans. We appreciate you!

For more information, contact VFW Auxiliary Post 889 or visit your local VFW post.