around town
Shoshone-Bannock Festival Returns To Fort Hall
Some come for the competition. Others come for the food or the marketplace. Many simply come to spend a summer day immersed in one of the richest cultural celebrations in the region.

For four days each August, the Fort Hall Indian Reservation becomes one of eastern Idaho’s most vibrant cultural gathering places.

The 61st Annual Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival returns Aug. 6-9, welcoming thousands of visitors to celebrate the traditions, artistry and living cultures of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. What began more than six decades ago has grown into one of the region’s premier Native American cultural events, drawing dancers, singers, drummers and artisans from across the United States and Canada.

At its heart, the festival is a celebration of community. Grand Entry ceremonies fill the dance arbor with brilliantly colored regalia, while the beat of the drum echoes across the grounds throughout the weekend. Competitive powwow dancing, traditional singing, hand drum contests and cultural demonstrations offer visitors an opportunity to experience Native traditions that continue to thrive today. Admission is open to the public.

Indigenous dancer in vibrant regalia featuring intricate beadwork, long colorful ribbons, and a large feather headdress, wearing number bib 408 while performing.
Three smiling young girls wearing swim goggles and green medals stand by an outdoor swimming pool in matching blue kids' triathlon shirts.
photo credit: Leah Squires
Make A Splash At Kids Tri Harder Event
Ready to cheer on the future Olympian in your life? Young athletes will have the chance to swim, bike and run their way to the finish line when the annual Kids Tri Harder Triathlon returns Saturday, August 8, at the Wes Deist Aquatic Center.

Hosted by Idaho Falls Parks and Recreation, the event is open to children ages 3 to 13 and is designed for participants of all experience levels, from first-time racers to returning competitors looking for a new challenge. More than 300 kids participate in the triathlon each year.

The entire race takes place at the aquatic center. Participants begin with a swim in the pool before heading out for a bike ride around the block and finishing with a run through the parking lot. Four course lengths are available, allowing children to compete at distances appropriate for their age and ability.

Unlike Many youth events, the Kids Tri Harder Triathlon records each participant’s time while emphasizing participation over competition. Every finisher receives a medal, regardless of placing, and families are invited to stay afterward for a complimentary breakfast, games and activities in the Kids Zone.

Parents are encouraged to support younger participants throughout the course. Life jackets and training wheels are permitted, and adults may accompany children during the run portion if needed.

The Wes Deist Aquatic Center is located at 149 Seventh Street. Registration and volunteer opportunities are available through Idaho Falls Parks and Recreation. Visit the Aquatic Center page at idahofallsidaho.gov for details.

Taylorville Brings Taylor Swift Tribute To Colonial Theater
Taylor Swift fans won’t have to travel far to hear many of the pop superstar’s biggest hits this summer. Taylorville, an unofficial live tribute band celebrating the music of Taylor Swift, takes the stage at the Colonial Theater on August 14 for a 7pm performance presented by the Idaho Falls Arts Council.

Rather than impersonating Swift, Taylorville recreates the energy and excitement of her live concerts with performances spanning multiple eras of her career. Audiences can expect a setlist filled with chart-topping favorites, fan favorites and sing-along anthems that have helped make Swift one of the world’s most successful recording artists.

Taylorville joins another busy season at the Colonial Theater, which continues to bring nationally touring performers and tribute acts to downtown Idaho Falls through the Idaho Falls Arts Council.

The Colonial Theater is located at 450 A Street. Tickets are available through the Idaho Falls Arts Council at idahofallsarts.org.

Where the Rubber Meets The River on August 8
A person on a jet ski guides thousands of yellow rubber ducks floating along a white containment boom in a river, with a low dam in the background.
The Great Snake River Greenbelt Duck Race is returning for its 35th year, bringing thousands of rubber ducks, family activities and one of Idaho Falls signature summer traditions back to the Snake River.

Organized by the Rotary Club of Idaho Falls, the fundraiser has helped transform the Greenbelt and River Walk into one of the city’s defining public spaces. Since 1991, Duck Race proceeds have leveraged millions of dollars in matching grants and donations for parks, trails and riverfront improvements.

This year’s festivities run from 10am to 4pm along the west side of the Riverwalk before the duck drop at 4pm. Friday evening activities include a classic car cruise, poker run, live music and a free dinner. Saturday features boat racing, classic cars, motorcycles, family activities, vendors and more.

Participants adopt numbered ducks for a chance to win prizes, including a 2026 Kia K5 and other major giveaways. Learn more at duckrace.com/idahofalls.