Good morning, Coeur d'Alene.

Judd Jones—chief information officer at Hagadone Corp. and a Coeur d’Alene native—will lead the countdown for The Coeur d’Alene Resort’s annual Lighting Ceremony on Friday at about 6 p.m. following the downtown parade on Sherman Avenue, as fireworks, music and over a million holiday lights are set to dazzle an estimated 30,000 people.

Idaho for All will hold a peace vigil at 3:30 p.m. on Dec.

14th near the volleyball courts on the North Idaho College beach in Coeur d'Alene—this event will honor victims and survivors of gun violence with music, remarks by those affected and readings of individual names.

Carolyn Lyden celebrated 50 years at Ski Shack, the family-run ski and board shop at 9437 N.

Government Way in Hayden—she opened it in 1976 despite doubts about a woman running a shop. About 300 locals gathered on Friday at Capones on the Green to honor her long hard work and lasting community ties.

Coeur d'Alene School District partnered with Christmas for All to help families keep students in school, referring cases such as an elderly caregiver who needed safe car repairs and a paraprofessional who required vehicle fixes.

The program is part of the district’s five-year plan to build strong partnerships and will launch its annual giving campaign on Thursday—supporting nearly 10,000 students and families.

As Thanksgiving nears, locals in Coeur d'Alene may spot the California quail—a small bird no taller than a dollar bill that runs 12 mph and makes a distinct 'ka-KAH-ko!' call—in parks and backyards.

Experts say the bird forms groups called coveys and is easy for young birdwatchers to identify without binoculars.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare opened a statewide survey for Medicaid users, caregivers and providers to give input on shifting oversight to a private managed care organization.

A listening session is scheduled in Coeur d'Alene on May 26, 2026—officials will use the feedback to shape changes for the program.

Dockside Thanksgiving Buffet

10 AM – 6 PM — Dockside Restaurant — Adults: $69.95, Children (5-12): $34.95 — Savor an exceptional Thanksgiving feast featuring herb-roasted turkey and prime rib.

Lighting Ceremony Parade

5-11 p.m. — Downtown Coeur d'Alene — Free entry — Experience a magical parade featuring festive floats, marching bands, and holiday spirit along Sherman Avenue.

History Hour with Jacob Eberlein

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Coeur d'Alene Public Library — Free entry — Explore the roots of Christmas traditions in Coeur d'Alene through the eyes of local historian Jake Eberlein.

Sip 'n Stitch Brunch

10:30 a.m. — Fine Brewed Cafe — Cost varies — Enjoy a cozy crafting morning with hand-stitched felt ornaments and warm drinks.

Classic Cruise-In at Killer Burger

1-5 p.m. — Killer Burger Hayden — Free entry — Show off classic cars and enjoy delicious burgers in a vibrant community atmosphere.