As the final leaves fall and the foothills fade from gold to gray, November invites us to slow down and take stock of what makes life in Idaho so special. From brisk morning walks along the Greenbelt to cozy afternoons at your favorite Boise café, it’s a season that nudges us toward gratitude—and reminds us that community is one of our greatest gifts.

This month, as Thanksgiving approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on all we have and share a little of it with others. Whether you’re donating time, joining a local event, or simply spreading kindness, there are countless ways to give back right here in the Treasure Valley.

1. Be Thankful for the Place We Call Home

There’s something uniquely grounding about fall in Idaho. The pace slows, the air smells faintly of woodsmoke, and the mountains peek through the morning fog. Gratitude can look like an unhurried walk through the Boise River Greenbelt, a morning coffee at Slow by Slow, or a quick drive up to Bogus Basin to catch the first hints of snow.

If you’re craving a little culture before the holiday bustle, visit the First Thursday art walk in downtown Boise (Nov. 7) or stop by the Capital City Public Market’s final weekend to support local makers before it moves indoors for winter. These moments remind us that gratitude starts with connection—to place, to people, and to the everyday beauty that surrounds us.

2. Give Back in Big and Small Ways

Gratitude feels even better when it’s shared. November is full of opportunities to lend a hand and help neighbors across the Treasure Valley:

• 🦃 Boise Rescue Mission Ministries – Volunteer to serve Thanksgiving dinner at the City Light or River of Life shelters. They also welcome food and hygiene donations throughout the month.

• 🧤 Rake Up Boise (Nov. 9) – One of the city’s favorite fall traditions! Grab your rake and help clear leaves for senior residents and neighbors with disabilities.

• 🥫 The Idaho Foodbank’s Hope for the Holidays – Help pack food boxes or organize a mini drive at your office or school.

• ☕ Flying M Coffee’s Giving Tree – Choose a tag and fulfill a holiday wish for someone in need—an easy way to spread warmth while enjoying your favorite latte.

• 🏃 Turkey Day 5K (Nov. 28) – A fun run that doubles as a food drive. Bring canned goods, lace up your sneakers, and start Thanksgiving morning on a thankful note.

3. Celebrate With Intention

The best parts of Thanksgiving often come from the simplest traditions. Light a few candles, gather with friends and family, and share what you’re grateful for—whether that’s good health, mountain sunsets, or a table full of loved ones.

If you’re staying local, check out the Winter Garden aGlow at the Idaho Botanical Garden (opening Nov. 23) to officially kick off the holiday season, or enjoy a peaceful weekend drive to Kuna Caves, Lake Lowell, or the Sunny Slope Wine Trail to savor the final golden days of fall.

And when it comes to holiday prep, consider shopping small: grab a pie from Granny C’s Bakery, pick up artisan gifts at the Wintry Market, or visit the Indian Creek Plaza Holiday Ice Ribbon in Caldwell once it opens mid-month. Supporting local businesses keeps the Treasure Valley vibrant—and that’s something to be thankful for all year long.

From all of us at Lemp Real Estate, we’re grateful to call Idaho home—and even more grateful to help you find yours. Wishing you a warm and happy Thanksgiving!