God and Country Festival of the Treasure Valley – July 1, 2026 | Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater, Nampa

Before the Fourth of July fireworks light up the sky on Saturday, the Treasure Valley kicks off its Independence Day weekend with one of the most beloved community traditions in all of Idaho. The God and Country Festival of the Treasure Valley returns on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater in Nampa — and this year is extra special.

2026 marks the 60th anniversary of the God and Country Festival — and the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. That combination makes this year’s event one for the history books.

Best of all? Admission is completely free.


What Is the God and Country Festival?

The God and Country Festival is one of the last surviving events of its kind in the entire country. It started over 60 years ago as a small community celebration of faith and patriotism, and it has grown into one of the largest annual gatherings in the Treasure Valley — drawing thousands of families every year to celebrate America, honor the military, and enjoy a world-class fireworks show.

At its core, the God and Country Family Festival is a tribute to the enduring ideals of our nation’s founders, honoring active-duty military, veterans, public servants, first responders, and the foundation of faith that has held this community together for generations.

This is a non-denominational event, open and welcoming to everyone in the community.


Event ScheduleFlyer for the God and Country Festival of the Treasure Valley on July 1 2026 at the Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater in Nampa Idaho. Gates open at 5:30 PM, festival begins at 6:30 PM, fireworks at dusk. Free admission. The event celebrates 60 years of faith and family and 250 years of American freedom.

Gates open at 5:30 PM — come early, as big crowds are expected.

Festival: 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM

The evening includes:

  • Live Christian bands performing throughout the night
  • Military appreciation — honoring active-duty service members, veterans, and first responders
  • Civic awards recognizing outstanding community members
  • Food and fellowship
  • American Sign Language interpreters available throughout the event
  • The Treasure Valley’s largest fireworks show, with fireworks launching outside over the amphitheater at approximately 10:00 PM, provided by the City of Nampa

A Night to Honor Veterans and Military Families

The God and Country Festival has always placed military appreciation at the heart of its program. Veterans, active-duty service members, and military families are recognized and celebrated throughout the evening. If you have served — or if someone you love has served — this is an event that will mean something to you.

On the 250th anniversary of the nation you swore to defend, being in that amphitheater surrounded by thousands of grateful neighbors is a powerful experience.


Important Visitor Information

Parking: The Idaho Center charges $5 per car. Carpooling is encouraged.

Chairs: Low-back lawn chairs are permitted — seats must be approximately 8 inches or less off the ground. No camping chairs or high-back chairs.

Food and Drink: No outside food or drink may be brought in, with the exception of baby food and bottles. You may bring an empty water bottle to fill at drinking fountains inside.

Plan Ahead: This event draws very large crowds. Arrive early to find good seating and avoid traffic delays at the end of the night.


Event Details at a Glance

  • Date: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
  • Gates Open: 5:30 PM
  • Festival: 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
  • Fireworks: Approximately 10:00 PM (at dusk)
  • Location: Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater, Nampa, ID
  • Admission: FREE
  • Parking: $5 per car

For more information, visit godandcountryfestival.com.


60 Years of Faith, Family, and Freedom

The God and Country Festival has continued as a free community celebration featuring music, speakers, military and civic honors, and a grand fireworks display — one of the last surviving events of its kind in the nation. That is an extraordinary legacy, and 2026 is the perfect year to be part of it.

Whether you have attended for decades or this is your very first time, come out on July 1st and celebrate what makes America worth defending — with the veterans and military families who have spent their lives doing exactly that.


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

Apply Now: Mission43 Cybersecurity Academy Applications Close July 1st

Veteran working on a computer

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

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?Flyer for a public breakfast special at VFW Post 1675 in Osburn Idaho on June 27 2026 from 7:30 to 10:30 AM. Menu includes huckleberry pancakes, pancakes, french toast, eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, coffee, milk, and orange juice. Adults $6, kids under 12 $4, family of four $20. Take-out available upon request.

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.

Flyer for the Women Veterans of the Palouse gathering on June 13 at Clarkston VFW Hall, featuring the message "You Belong. You Matter. You Make an Impact." with connection, visibility, support, and advocacy themes.

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 Honoring Veterans – June 13, 2026

Patriotic flyer for the Free Pancake Breakfast to Honor Veterans on June 13, 2026, hosted by VFW Auxiliary Post 889 at Coeur d'Alene VFW Post 889, 406 N. 4th Street, 8–10 AM, sponsored by Rotary Club of Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County Republican Women.

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.

Legacy of Honor: A Night in the Hangar – June 6, 2026 | Pocatello, ID

Flyer for Legacy of Honor: A Night in the Hangar, a WWII-era themed fundraiser dinner hosted by Idaho Honor Flight on Saturday June 6 2026 from 5:30 to 10:30 PM at the AVCenter at Pocatello Airport, featuring live music, dinner, guest speakers, and dancing to support sending Idaho veterans to Washington D.C.

This D-Day, June 6, 2026, you’re invited to step into history for a truly unforgettable evening. Legacy of Honor: A Night in the Hangar is a WWII-era themed fundraiser hosted by Idaho Honor Flight — and it promises to be one of the most meaningful veteran events of the year in eastern Idaho.

The event takes place at the AVCenter at Pocatello Airport from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, and every ticket purchased helps send Idaho veterans to Washington, D.C., to see the memorials built in their honor.


What Is Idaho Honor Flight?

Idaho Honor Flight is part of the national Honor Flight Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transporting America’s veterans — at no cost to them — to Washington, D.C., to visit and reflect at the memorials that honor their service and sacrifice.

For many veterans, especially older WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam era veterans, this trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. They walk the grounds of the National World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and others — often for the very first time. Many come home changed. Many call it the greatest day of their lives.

Idaho Honor Flight makes that possible for veterans right here in eastern Idaho.


About the Event

Legacy of Honor: A Night in the Hangar is a WWII-era themed evening designed to celebrate, remember, and support Idaho’s veterans. Held on the 82nd anniversary of D-Day, the setting and the spirit of the night are deeply intentional.

The evening will include:

  • Mix & Mingle Reception — Connect with fellow veterans, community members, and supporters
  • Short Program Featuring Guest Speakers — Hear directly from eastern Idaho veterans who have flown on an Honor Flight mission, sharing their experiences in their own words
  • Dinner — A full dinner served in the hangar
  • Raffle & Dancing
  • Live Music & Great Company

It is an evening of community, purpose, and patriotism — and a chance to be part of something genuinely meaningful.


Ticket Information

Tickets are available now at zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/legacy-of-honor or by contacting Idaho Honor Flight directly at events@idahohonorflight.org.

  • Single Ticket: $75
  • Couple: $120
  • Reserved Table for 6: $500 — includes name/logo in the event program
  • Sponsorship Table for 6: $1,000 — includes reserved table, name/logo in the program and on the Idaho Honor Flight website, and acknowledgement during the program

Whether you attend as an individual, bring a date, or sponsor a table for your business or organization, every dollar goes directly toward funding Honor Flight missions for Idaho veterans.


Why This Night Matters

On June 6, 1944, thousands of young Americans stormed the beaches of Normandy. Many of them were from small towns just like the ones across Idaho. They were farmers, mechanics, students, and sons — and they changed the course of history.

Eighty-two years later, some of those veterans — and the Korean War and Vietnam veterans who followed them — are still with us. They are in their 80s, 90s, and beyond. Time is precious, and the window to honor them in person is narrowing.

The Idaho Honor Flight mission is urgent. Every flight sends veterans on a journey of recognition and healing that many say they never expected to need — and never expected to mean so much.

Your ticket to Legacy of Honor is more than an evening out. It is a direct investment in making sure Idaho’s veterans know their service was seen, their sacrifice was real, and their country remembers.


Event Details at a Glance


The DAV of Idaho proudly supports Idaho Honor Flight and its mission to honor veterans across our state. Learn more about DAV Idaho at dav-idaho.org.

11th Annual Vietnam War Veterans Commemoration – July 12, 2025 | Twin Falls, ID

Vietnam Poster

11th Annual Vietnam War Veterans Commemoration | July 12, 2025 – Twin Falls, ID

Join the community of Twin Falls, Idaho for the 11th Annual Vietnam War Veterans Commemoration—a heartfelt Welcome Home Celebration honoring all who served during the Vietnam War. This event is free, open to the public, and packed with meaningful moments, including a motorcycle tribute ride and free BBQ.

Hosted by Hospice Visions, LLC, the celebration ensures our Vietnam Veterans hear the words they didn’t always receive when they returned: “Welcome home. You are not forgotten.”


📍 Event Details

  • Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025

  • Location: Twin Falls City Park, Twin Falls, ID

  • Motorcycle Ride Sign-Up: 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM

  • Kickstands Up (KSU): 10:00 AM

  • Free BBQ Lunch: 12:30 PM


🏍️ Tribute Ride

Veterans, riders, and community members are invited to join the motorcycle tribute ride, a symbolic journey of unity and remembrance leading into the event.


🍔 Free BBQ

Enjoy a free community BBQ lunch starting at 12:30 PM—served with gratitude to those who served.


💬 Contact Info

📞 Call: 208-735-0121
📧 Email: nwells@hospicevisions.org
🌐 Learn more: Hospice Visions, LLC


🎖️ Event Partners & Sponsors

This event is made possible by generous support from:

  • Vietnam Vets Legacy Vets MC

  • Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association 13-5

  • Con Paulos Chevrolet

  • Chick-fil-A, Falls Brand, Fred Meyer, Pepsi

  • TitleFact, Inc., Hospice Visions Home Health & Home Care

  • The Daughters of the American Revolution


🙌 Open to Everyone

This celebration is not just for Vietnam Veterans—it’s for all veterans, families, motorcycle riders, and anyone who wants to show their appreciation for our nation’s heroes.

Let’s make sure every Vietnam Veteran knows that they are remembered, respected, and deeply honored.

3rd Annual Father’s Day Car Show – June 15, 2025 | Idaho State Veterans Home – Post Falls

Fathers Day Car Show

🚗 3rd Annual Father’s Day Car Show – June 15, 2025 | Post Falls, ID

Calling all car lovers, gearheads, and community members! Join us for a shiny, roaring, and unforgettable celebration at the 3rd Annual Father’s Day Car Show at the Idaho State Veterans Home – Post Falls on Sunday, June 15, 2025.

This special event is a heartfelt tribute to our Veterans and dads—and we need your help to make it a show to remember!


📍 Event Details

  • Date: Sunday, June 15, 2025

  • Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

  • Car Arrival: Begins at 9:00 AM

  • Location: Idaho State Veterans Home – Post Falls


🚘 Bring Your Wheels!

We’re looking for all kinds of vehicles:

  • Classic cars

  • Hot rods

  • Muscle cars

  • Vintage trucks

  • Unique builds

  • Anything with wheels and shine!

The more variety, the better—so spread the word to car clubs and collectors!


🔥 BBQ for Sale

Come hungry! The Elks Lodge will be on-site grilling up delicious BBQ for purchase. Nothing goes better with chrome and horsepower than burgers and brats.


📬 RSVP to Show Your Car

Space is limited, so please RSVP if you plan to bring a vehicle.


This is your chance to honor our Veterans, support your community, and spend a beautiful morning enjoying some of the coolest rides in the region.

Let’s make this Father’s Day one to remember—we can’t wait to see your car! 🏁

Tour of Honor Idaho: Horseshoe Bend River Ride – August 3, 2025

Tour of Honor

🏍️ Tour of Honor Idaho – Horseshoe Bend River Ride | August 3, 2025

Get ready for a full day of scenic riding, community connection, and veteran support during the Tour of Honor Idaho: Horseshoe Bend River Ride on Sunday, August 3, 2025. Hosted by the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, this event brings together riders, supporters, and families for a powerful day honoring our veterans.

The ride starts at High Desert Harley Davidson in Meridian and finishes at HSB Woods Veterans Memorial Park in Horseshoe Bend.


📍 Event Overview

  • Date: Sunday, August 3, 2025

  • Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  • Start Location: High Desert Harley Davidson
    2310 E Cinema Dr, Meridian, ID

  • End Location: HSB Woods Veterans Memorial Park
    382 Highway 55, Horseshoe Bend, ID


🕘 Schedule of Events

  • 9:00 AM – Donuts & coffee at High Desert Harley Davidson

  • 10:30 AM – Kickstands up, Combat Vets lead ride to HSB Vet Park

  • In-Route Option – Cold beverages at Triangle Inn, Sweet, ID (Highway 52)

  • 1:00 PM – Warhawk Air Museum P40 Flyover at HSB Park
    🔗 warhawkairmuseum.org


🎉 Activities at the Park

  • Food vendors & live music

  • Raffles & local prizes

  • Merch booths from Tour of Honor & Combat Vets

  • Veterans River Float Option – Ride the Payette River with Bear Valley Rafting (discounted for vets)


🏕️ Local Accommodations

  • Horseshoe Bend Motel
    📞 (208) 793-2221

  • Riverpond Campground & RV Park
    📞 (208) 999-7653


🤝 Community Support

This event is made possible thanks to support from Mustang Towing, local veteran volunteers, and businesses including Huckle + Sage, Sonora Mexican Restaurant, and more.


🙌 Want to Help?

Volunteer or vendor questions?
📧 Email: CVMARiverRide@gmail.com
📞 Call: (208) 921-8803


This ride is more than a route—it’s a mission to honor service, build camaraderie, and support local veterans. Whether you’re riding, volunteering, or just stopping by for food and music, your presence makes a difference.

North Idaho Military Easter Egg Hunt – April 19, 2025

IDNG Easter Egg Hunt

🐰 North Idaho Military Easter Egg Hunt – April 19, 2025

Calling all military, veteran, and retiree families in North Idaho! You’re invited to a fun-filled Easter Egg Hunt hosted by the Idaho National Guard’s J9 Service Member & Family Support Program. Come celebrate spring with your community on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM.


📍 Event Details

  • Event: North Idaho Military Easter Egg Hunt

  • Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025

  • Time: 10:00 AM

  • Location: Mountain Lakes Bible Church, Coeur d’Alene (CDA), ID

  • Cost: FREE for military, veteran, and retiree families!

  • Hosted by: Idaho National Guard – J9 Family Support


🧺 What to Bring

✔️ Yourself
✔️ Your family
✔️ Your own Easter basket
✔️ A big smile and your springtime spirit 🌸


🎉 What to Expect

This isn’t just an egg hunt—it’s a full morning of fun! Activities include:

  • Colorful Easter egg hunt for kids

  • Refreshing root beer floats

  • Creative crafts for all ages

  • Exciting prizes

  • Great community vibes and connections!

This event is all about bringing military and veteran families together to enjoy the season, make memories, and celebrate in a safe, welcoming space.


📣 Questions?

Contact:
📧 brandi.s.stordahl.nfg@army.mil
📞 208-608-3895


Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or service member, this is the perfect chance to enjoy a relaxing day with your family and other military-connected families in the area.

We can’t wait to see you there—don’t forget your basket! 🐣