The Hyde Park Street Fair is an annual highlight in Boise, Idaho, drawing crowds from all over the region to celebrate community, arts, and local craftsmanship. Hosted in the scenic Camel’s Back Park, this beloved event is a fundraiser and informational outreach organized by the North End Neighborhood Association. For those planning to attend the 2024 fair, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
2024 Hyde Park Street Fair: What to Expect
Get ready for a weekend brimming with activity! The Hyde Park Street Fair is set to be a vibrant gathering, showcasing artisans, vendors, and entertainers from across the West. Anticipate a diverse array of booths featuring handcrafted goods, art, and delicious food, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Camel’s Back Park. With attendance figures often reaching up to 40,000 over the weekend, this fair truly embodies the spirit of a large “neighborhood picnic” that rivals even major city events.
Mark your calendars for the Hyde Park Street Fair:
- Friday: 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
For detailed schedules and timings, you can download the printable PDFs:
- Main Stage Schedule (PDF): Click here
- Community Stage Schedule (PDF): Click here
Getting to Hyde Park Street Fair: Parking and Transportation
One crucial tip for attendees is to plan your transportation and parking in advance. Parking around Camel’s Back Park is extremely limited during the Hyde Park Street Fair. The organizers strongly encourage attendees to embrace alternative transportation methods to fully enjoy the event and ease traffic congestion.
Bike to the Fair: Cycling is highly recommended! Take advantage of the bike corral located conveniently near the tennis courts. Riding your bike is not only a fun and healthy way to get to the fair but also helps reduce parking hassles.
Limited Parking & Important Reminders: Be aware that the Boise Police Department actively enforces public parking regulations in the vicinity of Camel’s Back Park. Attempting to reserve street parking with chairs or other objects will be prevented, and these items may be removed. Citations may also be issued.
Disabled Parking: Accessible parking is available for those with disabilities. Please enter at 13th & Heron for access to disabled parking areas.
Vendors and Entertainment at the 2024 Fair
Interested in being a vendor at the Hyde Park Street Fair? Applications for the 2024 event were available online. For vendor inquiries and further details about entertainment, please visit the North End Neighborhood Association website.
- Vendor Application Link: Click here
- North End Neighborhood Association Website: Click here
Keep an eye on the official schedule for the 2024 entertainment lineup to plan your day around your favorite performances!
- 2024 Entertainment Schedule: Click here
A Glimpse into the History of Hyde Park Street Fair
The Hyde Park Street Fair boasts a rich history, originating in 1979 with the newly established Hyde Park Merchant’s Association. Initially conceived as a “hippie art, crafts, and music celebration,” reminiscent of the 70s and early 80s, the fair began modestly in the heart of Hyde Park on 13th Street. Power was supplied through a network of extension cords, and tie-dye was the unofficial uniform. Early estimates suggest around 500 people attended the very first fair.
As the event’s popularity surged, the Hyde Park Merchant’s Association partnered with the North End Neighborhood Association for support. By 1987, representatives from both groups co-chaired the event, marking the first instance of the fair being held at Camel’s Back Park, as documented in local articles.
Eventually, with the blessing of Hyde Park residents and local merchants, the North End Neighborhood Association took over the full organization of the Hyde Park Street Fair. In 1990, to accommodate growing crowds and vendor demand, the fair was permanently relocated to Camel’s Back Park.
Today, the Hyde Park Street Fair has expanded significantly, featuring over 120 booths showcasing a wide range of local and regional arts and crafts, live music, non-profit organizations, food vendors, and a beer and wine garden. All of this takes place within the welcoming atmosphere of Camel’s Back Park, situated in Boise’s historic North End neighborhood.
Aerial view of the Hyde Park Street Fair showcasing the layout and crowds.
A vibrant booth at the Hyde Park Street Fair displaying handcrafted art for sale.
View from Camel’s Back Park overlooking the Hyde Park Street Fair, capturing the bustling atmosphere.
Families enjoying a sunny day at the Hyde Park Street Fair, participating in various activities.
Sunset view at the Hyde Park Street Fair, highlighting the evening ambiance and community gathering.
Close-up of unique, handmade jewelry being showcased at a vendor booth during the Hyde Park Street Fair.
A local musician performing live music at the Hyde Park Street Fair, entertaining the attendees.
Preparations for the Hyde Park Street Fair, including setting up infrastructure like trash and recycling.
Supporting the Community
The Hyde Park Street Fair is more than just a fun weekend event; it’s a crucial fundraiser. Proceeds from the fair directly benefit the North End Neighborhood Association, supporting numerous neighborhood projects each year through direct contributions and F.I.N.E. grants. Furthermore, many other community and neighborhood non-profit groups and organizations benefit significantly from the Hyde Park Street Fair’s success. By attending and participating, you are contributing to the vitality and growth of the Boise North End community.
Make sure to come and experience the Hyde Park Street Fair – a Boise tradition that beautifully blends community spirit, artistic talent, and local flavor!
