The next two weeks bring must-not-miss events to Coeur d’Alene
Summer in Coeur d’Alene means lots to do and see, including several really big events you won’t want to miss.
Have you noticed a lot more serious-looking bicyclists on the road? They’re probably gearing up for IRONMAN 70.3 COEUR D’ALENE , which kicks off at the crack of dawn June 30 with a 1.2 mile swim. Considered a “half” Ironman, the annual race is a favorite with locals and athletes alike. In fact, much of the race involves the community, which comes out in force to help with the swim, 56-mile bike ride and 13.1-mile run, from passing out water to directing the anticipated 3,000+ athletes.
In its third year, prior Ironman 70.3 events have brought more than 20,000 spectators downtown, so be prepared for road and facility closures. City Park, for example, is transformed into Ironman Village. Get there early Sunday and cheer on the swimmers, then return for local fave the Powers when they play a free concert from 1-3 pm followed by the athlete award ceremony. Check out the course maps online and plan accordingly: park midtown and walk downtown, for example, or stake out a spot along the race — Roger’s Ice Cream or Michael D’s Eatery — to enjoy a bite to eat and cheer on the athletes.
Independence Day in Coeur d’Alene is another huge event, starting in the morning with the ultra-charming FOURTH OF JULY PARADE running nearly the full length of Sherman Avenue. Get there well before the parade starts at 10 am, park your chairs, and go have coffee at Bakery by the Lake, Calypso’s, or Fine Brewed. Afterward, hang out in City Park for free music and entertainment from 10 am-7 pm.
There are lots of ways to enjoy the fireworks. Enjoy STEAKS AND SPARKLERS, a buffet dinner starting at 6 pm, and featuring live entertainment on the front lawn of the Coeur d’Alene Resort (adults $85; ages 3-12 $35; ages 2-and-under free). Do the same thing at a little bit higher level with the VIP GRAND DINNER CELEBRATION on the Resort’s Lakeview Terrace (adults $105; ages 3-12 $45; ages 2-and-under free; call 855-703-4648 and ask about overnight stay packages).
View the light show from the lake aboard a cruise. The FIREWORKS CRUISE (adults $35.25; ages 3-12 $31.25; ages 2-and-under free) is shorter, while the two-hour VIP CRUISE, includes appetizers and two beverages (adults 21-and-older-only, $61.25). Visit cdaresort.com/discover/cruises/tickets.
The lake isn’t the only spectacular viewing place for fireworks. Head to the COEUR D’ALENE CASINO RESORT & HOTEL for a free, spectacular fireworks show on both Thursday, July 4, and Friday, July 5, and ask about overnight stays starting at $150.
Special Events
Summer Concerts at Riverstone
JUNE 27
Riverstone’s free weekly summer concerts series is underway. This week features the silky jazz vocals of the Van Paepeghem Quartet. Free; 6-8 pm; Riverstone Park.
Lake Night Market
JUNE 27
Celebrate summer and support local artisans at the Lake Night Market — an Instagram-worthy shopping experience that features exceptional artisan-made wares, live music, drinks and epic sunset views from a rooftop overlooking the lake. Free; 5-8 pm; Coeur d’Alene Resort’s Lakeview Terrace.
Idaho Craft Spirits Festival
JUNE 27
The best craft distilleries from Idaho will be showcasing their small batch spirits throughout downtown Coeur d’Alene bars and restaurants during the Idaho Craft Spirits Festival. Enjoy a grand selection of more than 24 hand-crafted spirits from eight Idaho distilleries while experiencing the local food and bar scene. Idaho spirit industry professionals will be available at each location to share information about their spirits.
Tickets $20; 5-8 pm; check-in will take place in the Plaza Shops at 210 E. Sherman Ave.
