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 Schedule
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.