Welcome to The Annex, the latest addition to the Coeur d'Alene Clothing Company family! Located just a short stroll down the hall from our flagship store, The Annex brings you an exciting range of Coeur d'Alene Kids clothing and our unique line of adventure clothing, along with a variety of quality products from other amazing brands. Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect to find at The Annex.
Coeur d'Alene Kids: Dress your little ones in style with our adorable collection of kids' clothing, including shirts, hoodies, sweaters, hats, beanies, sweatpants, swimming shorts, mittens, and even activity gifts. We've got everything to keep your kids looking and feeling great.
Coeur d'Alene Adventure Clothing: Gear up for your next outdoor adventure with our exclusive range of sun shirts, hoodies, rain jackets, belts, windbreakers, bucket hats, packs, sliders, beach towels, sunscreen, umbrellas, watercolor art prints, bags, and fridge magnets featuring Coeur d'Alene and Idaho designs.
The Annex features a wide variety of Pacific and Inland Northwest books covering camping, gardening and many other things pertaining to the outdoors. We are trying to provide our customers with great books that have to do with the area that we live!
Sticker Table Extravaganza: Add some flair to your gear with our epic sticker table, boasting hundreds of unique and fun stickers to choose from.
At The Annex, we're also proud to offer an array of fantastic products from other well-known brands:
Puffin Drinkwear: Keep your drinks chilled with innovative and stylish drink coozies from Puffin Drinkwear, perfect for those warm summer days.
Sun Bum: Protect your skin from harmful rays with Sun Bum's top-quality sunscreen, a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. We even carry the kids line of sunscreen from Sun Bum!
Oooh Ya Socks: Express your personality and keep your feet cozy with a pair of funky and comfortable socks from Oooh Ya Socks.
Layday Beach Towels: Make a statement at the beach with Layday's colorful and eco-friendly beach towels, designed to be both functional and fashionable.
Foster Weld: Show off your PNW pride with beautifully crafted signs, leather belts, and metal belt buckles from Foster Weld, a brand known for its unique and durable products.
Kikkerland: Discover an array of fun adventure products and handy tools from Kikkerland that will surely make your outdoor escapades even more enjoyable.
Dr. Squatch: Pamper your skin with all-natural, eco-friendly soap from Dr. Squatch, leaving you feeling fresh and clean after a day in the great outdoors.
Made & Told: Preserve your favorite Idaho wines with charming wine stoppers from Made & Told, perfect for any wine connoisseur.
Hydro Flask: Stay hydrated and eco-conscious with a wide selection of premium insulated bottles and other products from Hydro Flask.
Field Notes Notebooks: Unleash your creativity or jot down your thoughts on-the-go with our selection of Field Notes notebooks. These durable, pocket-sized notebooks are perfect for sketching, journaling, or keeping track of your adventures. With their iconic design and premium paper, Field Notes notebooks make a perfect companion for explorers, artists, and writers alike. Discover the joy of putting pen to paper with these timeless and practical notebooks, available now at The Annex.
We invite you to visit The Annex to explore our incredible range of products that cater to all your clothing and outdoor adventure needs. With our exceptional brands and products, The Annex is your one-stop shop for quality, style, and fun. See you there!
]]>Here’s what to plan for this month–
St. Patrick’s Day Cruise
While it may not be the Caribbean, you can still enjoy a St. Patrick’s Day Cruise on beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene! Enjoy a festive, Irish-themed dinner and take in the breathtaking scenery as you cruise Lake CDA. Perhaps you might even spot a leprechaun! Grab your tickets here!
O’Sherman’s Gold Quest–
It’s a well known fact that Bigfoot is great at hiding here in the PNW, but you know what’s just as elusive? Leprechauns!
Join in on the hunt for O’Sherman the Leprechaun in participating shops downtown! And if you manage to find him, perhaps he will lead you to his pot o’ gold! More info here!
18th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade–
Hey, you wanna know what the best month for a parade is? “MARCH!”
While there may still be snow on the ground, downtown CDA doesn’t let that get in the way of the festivities. For the past 17 years, Downtown CDA has hosted a parade and they are carrying on the tradition again this year making it the 18th Annual St. Patrick’s Day parade! Rain or shine, bring your kiddos and friends and enjoy the festive floats. This year’s theme is shamrocks and shenanigans! Learn more here!
Coeur d’Irish Party @ The Resort
And after the parade, the resort throws a party! But be sure to get your tickets for Coeur d’Irish now before they sell out!
This Irish-themed party hosted by the CDA will have bagpipes, dancers, and food! They will be serving Irish whiskey and GREEN beer. And to top it off, there will be a raffle with a chance to win an Ireland Adventure! All funds will go to the CDA Rotary Club which helps out the community and works on projects to improve Coeur d’Alene. Get your tickets here!
→ Be sure to stop by CDA Idaho Clothing Company to get your GREEN Coeur d'Alene attire before St. Patrick's Day, so you don't get pinched! We've put together a collection of all of our favorite green products! Check that out here!
O’Sherman’s Gold Quest // Friday, March 3rd
Feelin’ lucky? Come on downtown to search for a leprechaun! Every weekend (Friday-Sunday) O’Sherman the Leprechaun will be hiding at participating shops downtown. Learn more here!
Coeur d’Irish Party // Friday, March 17th
What better way to end the night than with a party? The resort is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party after the parade! Be sure to grab your tickets now, because not even luck can help you after they sell out! Grab your tickets here
St. Patrick’s Day Parade // Saturday, March 18th
The 18th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off at 3 PM on Saturday, March 18th. It’s a free event and family-friendly! Tap for parade details!
April
Wine Extravaganza // Saturday, April 22nd
Enjoy wine tasting while you browse through some of our local shops! Find details here!
May
Farmer’s Market // Starts Wednesday, May 10th // Every week on Wednesday evenings
Come enjoy the warm evening air and find your favorite vendors for fresh produce and handmade goods. Farmer's Market details
CDA Marathon // Sunday, May 28th
The run of a lifetime! Join in on the fun or just tag along to support our local athletes! Sign up here!
June
Live after 5 // Every wednesday thru sept. 7
A concert series hosted Downtown Coeur d’Alene on Wednesday evenings! Learn more here!
Car d’Lane Cruise // Friday, June 16th
The biggest classic car cruise in Northern Idaho! Find details here!
Car d’Lane Show // Saturday, June 17th
A rad parade of classic cars of all kinds. After the parade, come peek under the hood for an up-close look at these rad classics up close after the parade. Learn more here!
Ironman CDA // Sunday, June 25th
2023 marks 20 years of Ironman in Coeur d’Alene! For the athletes who don’t think running just a marathon is enough, Ironman offers an even more challenging race. Swim 2.4 miles in beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene, bike 112 miles through difficult terrain, and finally run just over 26 miles through Coeur d’Alene to the finish line! Learn more about the CDA Ironman here!
July
Kiddie Parade // Monday, July 3rd
This one’s for the kiddos! Come join in on the fun as the kids take over Sherman Avenue!
4th of July Parade and festival // July 4th
Party like it’s 1776 at the Annual 4th of July Parade and Festival in downtown Coeur d’Alene! Kick of the celebration with a parade and then end the day with a bang (literally!) by watching the fireworks over Lake Coeur d’Alene.
Brewfest // Saturday, July 8th
A great way to quench your thirst on a hot summer day. This festival is held in McEuen Park from 1 PM - 7 PM. Come down with some friends and enjoy a variety of craft beers and ciders together. There will also be food, live music, and lawn games. Learn more here!
August
Street Fair // Friday, August 4th – Saturday, August 6th
One of the biggest events of the year and one of our favorites! Street fair kicks off on Friday, August 4th at 10 AM. From good food, to shopping, to local makers of all kinds, this event truly has something for everyone! We’ll be located right outside our shop (CDA Idaho Clothing Co.) on Sherman Avenue! Learn more about Street Fair here!
CDA Triathlon Saturday, August 12th
For all of our exercise fanatics– the CDA Triathlon is another great opportunity to race in the Northwest! Register here!
September
Oktoberfest // Friday September 15th – Saturday, September 16th
Dress up in your best lederhosen and dirndls and come on down to the shops to enjoy Oktoberfest style beers and cider, and some shopping! Find more details here!
Coeur d’Fondo // Sunday, September 17th
A fun race where cyclists compete against the clock and each other on scenic courses around Lake CDA! Learn more here!
Final downtown farmer’s market // Wednesday, September 27th
Enjoy the last farmers market of the season as we wish summer farewell! (for now) Stock up on all the fresh produce and soak in the warm evening air!
October
Harvest Festival + Apple Palooza // Saturday, October 28th
Come enjoy the Harvest Farmers Market hosted by the Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association. There will be produce, good food, and most importantly apple tasting! Harvest Festival Details
Trick or Treat downtown // Tuesday, October 31st
Grab your best costume and come trick or treating Downtown Coeur d’Alene this Halloween!
November
Wine for the Holidays // Saturday, November 18th
Get a head start on your Christmas shopping while you enjoy wine tasting! Learn more here!
Lighting ceremony parade // Friday, November 24th
The 30th Annual Lighting Parade hosted by the Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association. Come enjoy all the Christmas floats, dancers, and marching bands as the parade spreads some holiday cheer! Parade details here!
Elf on the shelf begins // Friday, November 24th
Join in on the scavenger hunt for the Coeur d’Alene Scout Elves in participating shops downtown! Find these sneaky elves and you could win a prize from Santa! More details here!
Small business Saturday // Saturday, November 25th
Don’t forget to shop small this holiday season!
December
Elf on the shelf continues // Every weekend from December 1st-17th
Journey to the North Pole Cruises // Dates TBD
Bundle up, board a cruise, and enjoy the lights with your friends and family on Lake CDA!
]]>Spring and summer are jam-packed with fun that the warmer weather brings - and if you live in Coeur d’ Alene or are only visiting for a window of time this year, we want you to get the most out of it!
Without further ado, here are the events on our North Idaho 2022 calendar!
Inlander Restaurant Week | February 24th-March 5th
This 10-day “week” is a great opportunity to support local restaurants. You can only find it at certain participating establishments (see the latest edition of the Inlander for a full guide). Starting at a flat fee per person ($22, $33, or $44), you can experience a 3-course meal perfectly curated to showcase that restaurant’s culinary talents. Gratuity is not included, however, so make sure to tip!
O’Sherman’s Gold Quest | March 4th-March 20th
Perfect for families! Every Friday & Saturday during the month of March, visit the host sites O’Sherman (the leprechaun) is hiding at, following the map provided. When you arrive at the business, find him and write down the word he’s holding on your map. A letter from each word will make a secret phrase that will lead you to a pot o’ gold! Leave your completed map in exchange for some gold and to be entered in to win the Grand Pot o’ Gold! This event is put on by the Downtown Association and is featured at businesses in downtown CDA.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 12th 3pm-4pm
This event is a fun-filled parade on Sherman Ave, featuring local sponsors and put on by the Downtown association. Fun for kids and adults alike!
Kootenai County Farmers Market | May - October
Our county has two farmer’s markets, twice a week, for six months! The Wednesday Farmers market is from 4-7pm on 5th Avenue between Lakeside and Front Ave. The Saturday market is on the corner of Prairie and Highway 95 from 9am-1pm. Here you’ll find locally grown produce, home goods, eats, live music, and more!
Car d’Lane | June 17th & 18th
Car enthusiasts, come one; come all! This two-day event features classic cars from all around. The festival kicks off Friday night from 6-9pm with a parade led by the Red-Hot Mommas, to display the longest car cruise in North Idaho. Saturday, join us for the showcase and other events featuring historic cars. You won’t want to miss it!
Ironman 70.3 Coeur d’ Alene | June 26th
This international event draws athletes from every corner of the globe to swim, bike, and run in our beautiful town. For 70.3 miles, that is! The course begins at CDA city beach in front of Fort Sherman Park and ends on the corner of 2nd and Sherman Ave. Come down and show your support as they take on the ultimate challenge!
Independence Day Parade | July 4th
Don’t you just love the Fourth of July in Coeur d’ Alene? First you can kick off the day with the parade at 11am on Sherman Ave. The parade runs from 15th street all the way down to Independence Point, so there’s plenty of room to get a view! Be sure to come back in the evening, because at dusk there is an amazing fireworks display put on just above the marina at the CDA Resort. It’s a day of family fun and celebration!
Brewfest | July 9th
Located at McEuen Park, this festival runs from 1pm-7pm and features over 30 craft beers and ciders. There will be games, live music, and delicious food. There is a $25.00 admission charge.
Art on the Green/Taste of CDA/Street Fair | August 5th, 6th, & 7th
This event is one of our all-time favorites! Running for 3 days, this jam-packed festival takes over all of downtown, Fort Sherman Park, and NIC College Campus. It has been the crown jewel of Coeur d’Alene summers for over 50 years. There are hundreds of vendors selling goods and art of every kind, live music, and of course, food trucks! As always, our booth (CDA Idaho Clothing Company) will be conveniently located just outside our store. We hope to see you there!
Oktoberfest | September 16th & 17th
Featuring over 20 different stations to enjoy brews and German treats, wander around select locations of downtown CDA and indulge! Tickets range from $25-$35 dollars and are extremely limited! Visit cdadowntown.com to purchase.
Black Friday Parade & Lighting Ceremony | November 25th
This occasion happens to be one of our favorite celebrations, because it was the very first day CDA Idaho Clothing was open for business at our downtown location. Every Black Friday (the day following Thanksgiving) there is a lighting ceremony in the evening to kick off the Christmas season. Following a parade, there’s also a fireworks display. It’s totally free and perfect for families.
]]>Blythe has been a proud member our team at CDA Idaho for almost three years! If you are ever to walk into the shop while Blythe is working, she's probably folding tees while jamming to some classic rock and sipping a pour-over coffee. She is confident, kind, and good at finding things. Seriously! If we ever can't find something, we just ask Blythe, and she usually knows where it is.
Blythe is the oldest of four children and has lived in either Post Falls or CDA her entire life. She started working for us just after she turned 17! Because she was homeschooled, Blythe's had a pretty open and flexible schedule over the years and has been able to work days, as well as nights and weekends, which most other high schoolers weren't able to do. We're so thankful for her!
Without further ado, here are Blythe's CDA favorites:
Favorite thing to do outdoors?
I love to hike Tubbs Hill, the local hiking trail, and Mineral Ridge. Walking around in the park is also very fun.
Favorite local restaurant? Local coffee shop?
My all time favorite restaurant is the White House Grill located in Post Falls. They are so good. If you’re into Mediterranean food, this is the place! Favorite coffee shop is Evans’ Bros, also favorite coffee roaster is Abide Culture Coffee!
Do you have some most favorite aspects of CDA in general?
I love exploring downtown and seeing all the shops, especially during Street Fair when all the local artisans and businesses come out and line Sherman for blocks. I also love the friendliness of the locals no matter if you go on a walk or even if you’re at the grocery store.
What is your favorite time of year in CDA/North Idaho?
I absolutely LOVE summer! The warm weather only lasts for a few weeks here, so I try to take advantage of it as much as possible either by taking a walk, sitting in the sun with a good book, or hanging out with my friends and family.
Favorite aspect of CDA Idaho Clothing Company?
My favorite aspect is the fact that it is family owned. By being a small, family owned business, the crew is able to get to know each other and become a little family themselves. I love my coworkers and bosses. They’re all pretty awesome and sweet!
Some of your favorite designs or products?
My favorites are:
The PNW Arrow Sticker:
The CDA Summer Sunset Design:
The Tubbs Hill Stamp Design:
and the Through the Trees Hoodie, that one is pretty comfy!
Do you have any fun stories about working at CDA Idaho Clothing?
It was last summer when we hired some new people. One evening we were putting away 50 pounds of stickers. Yes, 50 pounds. We were going back and forth grabbing stickers, putting them away on the table or in the back stock, all the while talking to each other in different accents. We wouldn’t talk like that when people would come in so we wouldn’t scare them away. Cause we’re professionals. It was so hard to talk normal to customers when they would come in! It took a lot of thought not to put on an accent. Ah good memories!
Thanks for being such an amazing employee, Blythe!
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It’s already late June and *whew!* it’s a hot one out there!
The pandemic of 2020 caused a lot of traditional summer events in the Coeur d’ Alene area to be put on hold. But in 2021, masks are coming off, and the many CDA Summer staples that we’ve come to love over the years - are back up and running!
Without further adieu, here are some events you and your family won’t want to miss!
Ongoing: CDA Farmers Market
From May through October, Kootenai County has two weekly farmer’s markets; one on Wednesday evenings (4pm-7pm) in downtown Cda, and one on Saturday mornings (9am-1pm) on the corner of 95 and Prairie. Both include all of the best locally-grown produce, crafty vendors, and live music!
June 27th: IRONMAN
Ironman is an international event, and Coeur d’ Alene hosts just one of many. This is the first time that CDA has put on a full Ironman since 2017 (in previous years it was just a half) and man, we are excited to be hosting again!
Ironman is no ordinary triathlon. The race begins with participants swimming 2.4 miles, then biking 112 miles, and finishing off with running a marathon. As one could imagine, this takes most athletes the entire day (dawn until dusk), and draws spectators from all around!
Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks
This year, celebrate Independence day all weekend with your whole family!
Saturday the 3rd, beginning at noon, there will be carnival rides, entertainment, and vendors at City Park until 7pm.
Sunday the 4th, join us for our annual parade on Sherman Ave beginning at 11am! The parade runs from 15th street-Government Way. In the afternoon, the fun will continue at City Park!
Fireworks will be lit above the resort marina beginning at dusk. Make sure to get a good spot so you won’t miss the spectacular view!
July 10th - Downtown CDA Brewfest
This event will be at McEuen Park from 1-7pm for CDA’s 4th annual brewfest! Event tickets cost $25 and there will be 30 different beers and ciders, live music, and food! Designated drivers get in free!
July 30th - August 1st - Street Fair
We are really excited about this one!
For 3 days, enjoy over 250 vendors - food, arts, crafts - including Yours Truly! We will have our own booth at the Street Fair all three days right in front of our shop (at the corner of Sherman and 3rd), so come and see us! You won’t want to miss this jam-packed event.
Handicap and stroller friendly! Hours: Friday & Saturday from 10am-8pm, and Sunday from 10am-5pm.
Harper has her Masters in Nutrition from the University of Southern Mississippi, and despite having a knack for retail, she comes from working in the medical field. She is devoted to reading as many books as she can, and the proudest cat mom to two adorable kitties, Janis and Louise. In her spare time, Harper is an avid adventurer and loves hiking, backpacking, snowboarding, and kayaking - when she’s not busy making candles. Most recently she launched her own Etsy store (Up North Goods), and we proudly resell her creations at our shop downtown!
We recently sat down with Harper for our Employee Spotlight, and asked her some of our most burning questions:
How long have you lived in CDA?
Almost 2 years. I was born in Texas, lived there for 10 years, and then I lived in Michigan until I moved to CDA.
Favorite thing to do outdoors?
Hiking, backpacking, camping and snowboarding! My favorite outdoor spot in the area is Tubbs Hill and Green Bay Campground.
Favorite local restaurant?
Republic Kitchen in Post Falls, and Taphouse Unchained in downtown CDA.
Favorite coffee shop?
Dutch Bros and Evans Brothers!
Favorite aspects of CDA?
The outdoor possibilities for sure. Hiking, backpacking, snowboarding, bike riding, the network of trails and the great lakes of North Idaho ;)
Favorite time of year in CDA?
Wednesdays in the summer - we do a beach day at NIC beach, followed by Live After 5. I also love the wintertime - CDA is its most beautiful when the mountains are covered in snow and the city isn't quite as full of people as it is in the summer.
Favorite aspect of CDA Idaho Clothing Company?
All the dogs. JK - The people! I love my coworkers and my bosses. I also love the creativity of designing new clothes and talking with customers. But yeah, I really like the dogs too.
Favorite designs or products?
I'm obsessed with our Tubbs Stamp design, Night Views tee, and all of our animal stickers.
Fun stories about working at the shop:
One time, two customers rescued a bird that had flown into the store! I was working with Briana (our head of merchandising) and a huge bird almost flew into our hat rack! We were terrified, and the bird was losing it. A couple of good samaritans were able to coax the bird into a box, and safely relocate it outside.
Thanks for being such an awesome manager, Harper!
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Built in 1903, the White house, named after J.C. White, was one of the first buildings to grace Sherman Ave. Shortly after purchasing the home, White built and ran the Red Collar Line of ferries with the help of F.A. Blackwell. Through the years White became a strong supporter of many businesses in the area and brought a great deal of commerce to Coeur d’Alene both through boat and rail. White’s iconic home became an increasingly important landmark over the last century and over recent years has been transformed into a living relic of Coeur d’Alene’s lush history. With a vision to expand the museum, the city took upon itself the task of moving the historic home-turned-museum to a new location where it can be expanded for the benefit of the community. The beautiful White House now resides at the foot of Tubb’s Hill, directly behind McEuen Park.
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We recently visited Tom Morgan who organizes and runs the Lake City Bicycle Collective and Bike CDA. Every week Tom and Bicycle Collective host a community night in the basement of First Baptist Church in downtown. The evening is dedicated to tearing down old bicycles and rebuilding them for use in the community. LCBC's mission is to recycle unused and unwanted bicycles to make new bikes for kids in difficult situations in the North Idaho/Coeur d'Alene area. They have been doing this valuable community work for a few years now, and the doors are always open for you to get involved.
If this sounds like something you would enjoy, be sure to contact Tom either through his website, or social media:
Instagram: @lakecitybicyclecollective
Instagram: @bikecda
In the following video, Tom explains the origins and purpose of their work, and how you can get involved.
]]>Street Fair
Art on the Green
Taste of Coeur d'Alene
This year’s Street Fair/Art on the Green/Taste of Coeur d’Alene was as busy as ever! Thousands of Coeur d’Alene locals flocked downtown to enjoy the delicious food, amazing crafts and beautiful artwork. All up and down Sherman Avenue and Northwest Boulevard, vendors represented the Coeur d’Alene culture with quality goods. For the fourth consecutive year CDA Idaho Clothing Company had a presence out on the street.
Sherman Avenue, home to Street Fair, was filled to the brim representing numerous local businesses and organizations.
Going into Coeur d’Alene City Park there was Taste of Coeur d’Alene, with dozens of food trucks and snack vendors, as well as live music.
Further on, dispersed over the NIC campus, was Art on the Green, featuring some of the best local artists and their work along with more live music from local musicians.
We put together a video for you to get a fun and interesting view of the festivities from last weekend. It was so much fun seeing you all down there, and to anyone who didn’t make it, we hope to see you next year! Our $5 sale rack is still going, so if you get the chance, come down and see us at Sherman and 3rd Street to take advantage of discounts!
]]>Coeur d’Alene is one of the best places for families to find fun activities and destinations. With good food and great playgrounds around every corner, it’s not hard to have fun as a family. Today we’ll share some of our personal recommendations for family-friendly locations in Coeur d’Alene.
-Stores
-Food
We hope this article has given you some good tips and ideas related to family destinations here in Coeur d'Alene. Make sure to get out and enjoy this beautiful city!
]]>Let’s start by identifying all the free parking available in Coeur d’Alene.
1) Street Parking: First off, remember there is always free, two-hour parking along the streets of downtown from 9:00am to 6:00pm, Monday-Saturday. On Sunday, there is no two hour limit to the free parking along those streets. It’s also good to note that from Labor Day to Memorial Day there is free Saturday Parking with no time limits.
2) East McEuen: Another great, free option, is the East McEuen lot beneath the library and city hall, on 8th street. There is unlimited free parking in this lot, and since it is so close to the playgrounds and Tubbs Hill, it makes for a great resource.
3) Parking Garage: Many have noticed there is no longer free, two-hour parking at McEuen. The good news is, you can now get two free hours at the new parking garage at Coeur d’Alene and 4th street.
4) Handicap Parking: I’d also like to point out that handicap parking throughout the city is free and unlimited. Make sure to take advantage of those designated spots if you have a permit.
In addition to the free parking scattered throughout Coeur d’Alene there are also many convenient, paid, parking options throughout downtown. Following is a list of those locations and some instructions to make your experience with them stress-free.
1) McEuen Parking Lot: As many are already aware, the McEuen Parking lot is centrally located and easily accessible from the end of 3rd Street or 6th Street. The cost to park in this lot is $1 per hour. As with many of the private lots in downtown, this lot has parking kiosks that allow you a convenient way to pay. To use the kiosk simply enter your license plate number, payment information and amount of time you need. With the new and improved system, you no longer need to put the receipt on your dash. Your car and the amount of time you purchased will appear in the city’s database. If you are looking for an even better way to pay, try using the Call To Park app. It will allow you to purchase your hours mobily and extend the time if you run out.
2) Private Parking: Throughout the city there are smaller lots that use this same kiosk and app system. You can find where each of these is located using the GPS feature on the Call To Park app.
3) Parking Garage: Last, but not least, the new parking garage is a great option for anyone wanting easy access to downtown. Located at 4th and Coeur d’Alene, as we mentioned, the first two hours at this lot are free. Make sure to grab a ticket from the machine on your way in and scan it on your way out. It will calculate your hours and charge you accordingly. After the first two hours it is $1 per hour.
I hope this article has shed some light on our parking options and will help you make more informed decisions about where to park in downtown Coeur d’Alene. Continue enjoying our beautiful town and all it has to offer!
Independence Day is just around the corner! Americans all over the US will celebrate the Fourth of July to express their appreciation for the ideals of freedom that won us our independence. Here in Coeur d’Alene we are already prepping for a festive Fourth. Just last week we hiked Tubbs hill with some friends and family, to light sparklers and enjoy the awesome sunset. We are so grateful to live in this green and patriotic corner of America. In our store we have gear to show your festive spirit and bring a burst of patriotism to your summer. Check out the list of red, white and blue merch we have available and then see the schedule below to know what events are going down in Coeur d’Alene to mark the occasion.
Fourth of July Parade-
When: Thur, July 4th, 10:00am-1:00pm
Where: Sherman Ave, Downtown Coeur d’Alene
Fourth of July In The Park-
When: Thur, July 4th, 10:00am-7:00pm
Where: City Park and Beach, Downtown Coeur d’Alene
When: Thur, July 4th, 11:00am-9:00pm
Where: Virtual Reality CDA
CDA Resort, Steaks n’ Sparklers-
When: Thur, July 4th 8:00pm-10:00pm
Where: The Coeur d’Alene Resort
Get your gear and meet us downtown for a day full of good food and fellowship. Can't wait to see you there!
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We've talked about how great farmers' markets can be in the fall (check out our fall market post here), but there is also something special when everyone comes out of hibernation in spring. Farmers' markets take the freshness of this season to the next level as our local farmers and artisans set up shop. One of the coolest parts is that the markets are ever-changing: as the seasons and weather transition from spring to summer to fall, so do the markets! The produce, plants, and products are always fresh, so even if you can't make it every week, we definitely recommend stopping by at least once each season to see what's new.
Photo by Jill Wilson, Kootenai County Farmers' Market
Markets are some of the best places to catch the local vibes of a community. There, you can truly eat local - straight from the farmers who grow the stuff! When you want a taste of the INW in all forms - from produce to pastries to pizza - farmers' markets are your best bet; they're about the freshest you can get without picking the food from the ground yourself. If you're looking for a little entrepreneurial inspiration, markets are full of it! Vendors are passionate about what they do, and the creativity they use for sharing that passion with the public abounds in these spaces. Supporting and connecting with so many small-business owners in one place is bound to get your own creative gears turning and grow your local-love. Markets are for families, foodies, and dreamers alike.
With live music, food for every kind of taste bud, and so many uniquely crafted items to browse, there's something for everyone to enjoy (especially with free-entry and pup-friendly spaces). And there are plenty of markets to choose from!
The Kootenai County Farmers' Market offers two times and locations to suit your fancy!
#1: in Hayden on the corner of Prairie and HW-95. Every Saturday morning from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., you'll find tons of vendors nestled in the pines within their red wooden booths. The smell of kettle-corn fills the air as local acoustic bands play; this location sets up that classic farmers' market atmosphere. The Hayden market runs through October 19th. Heads up: though dogs are allowed at the downtown Cd'A market, only certified service dogs are allowed at the Hayden location.
Both photos by Jill Wilson, Kootenai County Farmers' Market
#2: in downtown Cd'A on Sherman and 5th. This location sets up shop every Wednesday from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. (perfect for dinnertime!) Whether you're clocking off work, you're meeting a friend for dinner, you're exploring Tubbs, or you're taking the kiddos to the park, it's worth taking a stroll down 5th on Wednesday evenings to check out what's fresh. This market season ends a little earlier than Hayden, on September 25th.
The Athol Farmers Market has been going strong since 2017! Stop by every Friday from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. through October for rural North Idaho's best. Catch this market before the end of October.
Rathdrum, you've finally got your own market too! Hosted by Rathhdrum Parks and Rec, the Main Street Markets are happening on Thursdays, July 25th, August 22nd, and September 26th from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. Don't miss these three events - complete with live music, a beer garden, and vendors of all kinds!
We see you, Kellogg! You can find the Silver Valley Community Market every Thursday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. in Kellogg City Park. If you call any of the small towns of the Silver Valley home, make sure to swing by and celebrate your community!
Both photos by Jill Wilson, Kootenai County Farmers' Market
Post Falls peeps, you're just about halfway between both the Kootenai markets and the Liberty Lake Farmers Market - best of both worlds!
The Liberty Lake Farmers Market happens every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Liberty Lake's Town Square Park. Here, you'll find just about everything: Bean & Pie, crepes, a coffee truck brewing up hot lattes, all the honey products, and baby-safe sunscreen. Located in a grassy park with a playground and eating areas, this is a perfect event for the fam. This market runs through October 12th.
The Spokane Valley Farmers Market is making its debut year! Check out their market season every Friday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. starting June 7th. Located in the Spokane Valley CenterPlace parking lot next to Discovery Playground, this brand-new market proves promising for their wide variety of quality vendors. Check them out by September 13th!
The Kendall Yards Night Market, located in the Kendall Yards neighborhood right across Monroe Street from Riverfront Park, is where urban meets nature. Every Wednesday night from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. through September, you'll find local farmers, makers, and bakers right in the heart of Spokane. This market is hoppin' with food trucks, special event nights, and a whole lotta dog-lovers.
Here are some other markets the Spokanites may enjoy (or the most enthusiastic farmers' market-visiting Idahoans) :
The Fairwood Farmers Market:
Tuesdays, 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Millwood Farmers Market:
Wednesdays, 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
The Emerson-Garfield Farmers Market:
Fridays, 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Hillyard Farmers Market:
Mondays, 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Thursday Market in the South Perry District:
Thursdays, 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Photo by Jill Wilson, Kootenai County Farmers Market
If you're heading to a market this weekend, make sure to rep your CDA Idaho gear and share with us on Instagram! The weather has been a toss-up lately, so make sure you're prepared for it all with both our new summer tanks and one of our sweatshirts! And Saturday mornings always call for a hat day (who wants to shower when you can just sleep in and wear a great hat?) 😉
]]>Then we had the annual Mac & Cheese fest which was hosted in the Plaza Shops (where CDA IDAHO is located) and that was a big hit. As with previous years, this year was completely sold out. Both of these mentioned events were put on by the Coeur d'Alene Downtown Association, which always does an amazing job of coming up with fun events and making them successful. Events like these really bring in a lot of awareness of local companies as well as bring in traffic for sales in these slower Winter and Spring months.
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According to the American Independent Business Alliance, local businesses invest significantly more money back into the local economy than chain or national companies. The money made from local businesses is spent by the businesses, the owners, and the employees and their families right here, rather than being sent to another part of the company outside our area. The more money a local business makes and uses, the more money that stays in circulation in our town.
For CDA Idaho Clothing Company, that looks like sourcing our products locally. Our products give consistent business to 4 other local companies! 100% of our shirts and stickers are printed here in town, and all our embroidering, engraving, and laser cutting are done here too. In total, about 85% of our products are made right here in our area, and another 10% is produced in the greater PNW. We also make sure the resources these companies use are sourced ethically and responsibly.
That's not to mention the local services we hire to help our business with things like construction, accounting, and private contractors for more specific needs. Our recent project to create a new studio space brought in 3 local companies - Idaho Contractor, Coeur d'Alene Wood, and Bullet Tools - for their expertise. Check out this video to see the process:
The higher number and greater variety of businesses in our town means more jobs. According to this study from Michigan State University, small local businesses employ more people throughout the United States than anyone else! So buying from these businesses ensures more stable employment and hiring opportunities in the community. Employees often work for families and in smaller environments, which can help develop a tighter-knit team and a stronger sense of belonging. Small businesses also tend to be more unique and serve niche markets, so there are more opportunities for employees to specialize and develop meaningful skills and careers.
CDA Idaho Clothing employs 7 people, all of whom are currently students. We love being part of their journey to develop skills and experience for their futures, and we are proud to be a launching pad for them. It helps that we have plenty of fun in the meantime!
(Have you heard the word local enough yet?) It's because we know how important it is to keep each other going. You might have noticed, Coeur d'Alene businesses love collaborating. We're proud to host 3 other vendors and their excellent products right in our shop so you have more chances to check them out. Inland Candle Co. makes incredible scents of the PNW that will definitely enhance your home. Fairwells Jewelry creates elegant and inspired accessories you'll love wearing every day. Craft & Lore crafts excellent leather goods that are built to last with a timeless style. For each of these, you can try before you buy right in our shop (we're pretty sure that once you try, you'll wanna buy). We also love using our space to host events that support other businesses (like Bean & Pie for the Chocolate Affair) and including other businesses' products in our giveaways. Be on the lookout for details on Evans Brothers Coffee Roasters' upcoming latte art throwdown we get to sponsor!
Locally-made products are not things you can find just anywhere - they are handcrafted with passion and personality. Buying gifts and goods locally adds a personal touch you can't find in a big-box store. Local restaurants and entertainment foster unique experiences that bring Coeur d'Alenians together. Many local businesses are run by passionate experts who are willing to give you the time and service you need. Spending locally supports someone's dream and the excellence they've worked hard to achieve. Wanna see more dreams come true? Start locally. Plus, small businesses know they need to serve their community's unique needs in order to be successful, so you get a taste of your own town with every dollar and minute you spend.
Put simply, local businesses help shape the personality of an area.
(Kinda like this buffalo chicken does)
Here's a list of the sources we researched for this post. They are full of great info (and a lot more numbers)!
American Independent Business Alliance:
https://www.amiba.net/resources/multiplier-effect/
https://ced.msu.edu/upload/reports/why%20buy%20local.pdf
Michigan State University:
https://ced.msu.edu/upload/reports/why%20buy%20local.pdf
Sustainable Connections:
https://sustainableconnections.org/why-buy-local/
Time Magazine:
http://content.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1903632,00.html
Though snowboarders, snowshoe-ers, snowbirders, and snowplowers have been rejoicing, some of us feel a little jaded by the weather reports. We knew, deep down in our Northwestern hearts, that winter had not gotten its fill by the end of January, but many of us hoped the taste of spring weather we had that month would last anyway. We pitied the Midwest when they got hit with the polar vortex while we enjoyed our 40-degree bliss. Then the single-digit-degrees and the record-breaking 59 inches of snow hit in February. We had more snow in Cd'A this February than any on record! January feels as if it were ages ago. Now we’re up to 90 inches (about 8 1/2 feet) of total snowfall for this winter... our average year sees about 70 inches. More snow fell in 12 days in February than the total amount from October through January! Don’t get it wrong, we Idahoans love our powder: we gladly got in a few more runs down the hill, as you can tell by this handy video we made:
However, we did start to wonder if winter would ever end. But with March dawning, our hope for spring was renewed. The first day of March burst forth with radiant sunshine, and our hearts swelled with dreams of the ice melting from the treacherous roads. Sure, we’ve had a dusting of snow here and there since then, but each instance grows farther apart with more sunny days in between. Then, we finally see it – what we’ve dreamed of since the beginning of February – a forecast with numbers above 40 - even 50! Could it be true? Could mid-March be our springtime salvation?
As we’ve diligently learned this year, only time will tell. We may have a few solid snow showers and cold snaps yet, but we will brave them fearlessly as we see icicles falling on the horizon. Our muscles are stronger for all that shoveling, and now we can move into a new season more gratefully than we would have two months ago. When spring officially starts on the 21st, we'll be ready.
Even with the worst of it over, it’s still going to take a while for these massive mounds of snow to melt. Luckily, that means Bigfoot might make his way down Tubbs Hill more often to leave some tracks on the downtown sidewalks. Believe it or not, our friend Bigfoot isn’t as shy as you might think...It gets chilly up there by himself, so he hangs with us at the shop quite a bit! Watch this video for proof:
Don’t worry, we’ve still got you covered on all the cold-weather gear you need for as long as you need it. We know what works to get you through the rest of these chilly (but hopeful!) times ahead. When we can finally shed the layers of puffy jackets and parkas, be sure to show off your favorite CDA sweatshirt designs before we’re on the way to t-shirt weather. Stickers look good in the rain, the snow, and the sun! You wanna let people know (and may need to remind yourself sometimes) that you’ve made it through this North Idaho winter. If you need a few more reminders, be sure to follow our Instagram: it has been flooded with gorgeous North Idaho views from the snow, to sunshine, to sunsets. Whatever the weather, we can’t get enough of how beautiful our area is!
Did you know: Saint Patrick's Day celebrates Ireland's patron saint on March 17th every year, beginning back in the 1600's. Legend has it that Saint Patrick was the leading missionary to Ireland in the 5th century and drove all the snakes (representing evil) off the island. Today, along with being a religious holiday for some, St. Paddy's Day celebrates Irish culture and heritage for all. On St. Patrick's Day, Ireland is celebrated in more countries around the world than any other country that is celebrated by a holiday! Actually, many of the traditions we are familiar with were started by Irish immigrants living in other countries (that's why so many places celebrate it) and made their way back to the Emerald Isle later on. Here in the States, we started the tradition of having parades on this holiday in 1737 to honor Irish soldiers and veterans.
Whether you have Irish roots or not, St. Patrick's Day is a great chance for our community to connect and celebrate! There are lots of events happening, so check out the lineup and pick your favorite! Not surprisingly, our Sherman neighbors All Things Irish are going all-out on their favorite day of the year with plenty of things to do. On Saturday, March 2nd, make sure to stop by their shop to sample some traditional goodies at their Soda Bread and Scones contest. Admission is free, so vote for your favorites and browse their authentic Irish goods. Then, strut your stuff or just take in the tartan view at the All Things Irish "Best Legs in a Kilt" contest on March 9th! Bring your own kilt or get one at their shop for a rather fashionable Saturday evening. Contact All Things Irish for more details! They also have a handy event calendar on their Facebook page for a quick look at the details on all these fun events!
Photos courtesy of All Things Irish
The St. Patrick's Day Parade on Sherman Ave. is a fun time for the whole family! On Saturday, March 16th at 4pm, you'll be sure to hear some bagpipes, see the kilts, and enjoy the cultural pride along with the classic parade favorites like fire trucks and marching bands. If it's still chilly outside by then, warm up by grabbing dinner at one of the many local eateries right downtown afterward. Make sure to ask about St. Paddy's Day specials! For the adults, get your toes tappin' at the Coeur d'Alene Rotary's "Coeur d'Irish" party that Saturday evening at the Resort for live music (more bagpipes, of course!), dancers, Irish food and green beer! Get your tickets here.
Check out this quick video of last year's St. Patrick's Day parade:
Photo courtesy of All Things Irish
Don't get caught without your green! Luckily, we can help you in that department. We have all kinds of green gear this year to celebrate both St. Paddy's and your local pride. We even have green stickers!...So your car and your laptop don't get pinched too...you've gotta cover all your bases. Order online soon to get it by the 17th, or stop by the shop to choose from lots of different shades and designs!
Photo courtesy of All Things Irish
]]>Remember, Valentine's Day isn't just for S.O.'s - make it a Galentine's Day with your bestie, a Pal-entine's Day with your bros (too cheesy?), or a special Family Day. Whoever you've got, make sure you tell 'em you're thankful for them. It can sometimes be a little tough to come up with fun ideas for the day, however, so we're here to give you a little boost.
Nothing says "I love you" like a latte. Trust me, I could have gone a lot further with the alliterations in that last sentence, but I'll spare you. Coffee is a great way to show someone you're thinking of them, and many of our local shops do fun themed drinks and specials for the day of love. Grab it for someone as they start their day or help them caffeinate on their lunch break. Strada is now on Grubhub, so you can have them deliver any time of the day! White Pine at 814 has a whole "For the Love" menu, Vault Coffee has their "Heart BEET Latte" for those who feel adventurous - but healthy - with their drink choices (guys, it's pink!), and Coeur d'Alene Coffee Co. is doing their February Giving Project so you can spread a little extra love to those in our community who need it. A coffee date can be a great way to spend some extra time with anyone!
Food is a love language. And we've got a ton of local eateries to suit anyone's taste. Try something different with some curry at The Mango Tree or sushi at Syringa. Fire Artisan Pizza has a trendy and romantic atmosphere that won't break the bank since it's easy to share, and Collective Kitchen has deliciously unique dishes. But, let's be real, the best way to show someone you care is breakfast. Try the brunch at Honey Eatery right on Sherman or get cozy and homestyle at the Blue Plate Cafe in Hayden. Can't get a babysitter but you still want to go out? Tomato Street is the Cd'A classic for families - because who doesn't want to color on the tables?! The list goes on and on with fantastic locally owned restaurants all over town - pick your favorite or try something new!
The snow is really here! A snowy walk down by Coeur d'Alene Lake can be very pretty and romantic if you're bundled up. Make it just like the movies by going ice skating on the Ice Ribbon in Spokane's Riverfront Park, or just have fun and be goofy sledding in the fresh powder on your favorite hill! Even though the snow is a little late, it sure is beautiful! Check out this video by Andy of our little town in the powder:
Make it a day trip. Who also thinks that long car rides can be the best quality time with someone? If you're looking for a change of scene, a quick drive to Sandpoint (about 60 minutes) or Moscow (about 90 minutes) lets you try a whole new set of places to see and things to do. Both locations have adorable downtowns with local vibes all their own, yet maintain their Idaho roots. A quick internet search will set you up with lots or restaurants, coffee shops, and artisan storefronts to explore.
Congratulations to the winners of our Ultimate Valentine's Day giveaway! For all the rest of us who weren't so lucky, the items in the giveaway are not exclusive, they are available, and they make fantastic gifts for Valentine's Day! We won't be offended if you totally copy our gift package idea for your favorite person. Almost all those products can be found within a few blocks of each other on Sherman Ave; Mountain Madness Soap Co. and Collective Kitchen are just right down the street from where you can pick up an Inland Candle and CDA gear from us! Abide Culture Coffee and Bean & Pie will be at multiple events this weekend (Feb 9 and 10) for you to pick up their yummy products - check out our last blog post for details on where to find them! The best part: you can pick out all the specific flavors and designs that you know your special person will love, and you're supporting local!
Make it a night with the fam. If you can't get a babysitter right on Valentine's Day, make it a fun night for the whole family! Show your kids how to share love with others by doing something thoughtful and special all together. Making V-Day crafts for each other and decorating the house can be simple and affordable go-to's for including the kiddos in the fun. Or, bring them in on picking a gift for your spouse; they may surprise you with some great ideas! A dinner and game night can go a long way for building memories and celebrating each other. Parents, just don't forget to have your own date night later on :)
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Coming up in just a few days is our big Valentine's Day giveaway! We've called many of our local-lovin' friends together to build quite the package. You may or may not already have plans with your special person for February 14th, but this gift bundle can certainly give you a boost. To start the day off right, you can sip on some of that fresh hot brew with a pound of beans from our new friends Abide Culture Coffee in one of our own Idaho Love USA Townie insulated mugs. Get yourself smelling fresh while you relax with a lovely bath bomb from Mountain Madness Soap Co. before you take a +1 out for dinner at Collective Kitchen with a $50 gift card. Dessert will be happily provided by our favorite pie enthusiasts, Bean & Pie, while you enjoy the fresh fragrances of the NW from Inland Candle Co. To top it off, you can spend the day with your favorite person while you rep your favorite town in our Mauve Logo Tee and 3 Idaho love stickers! Make sure to check out our social media pages on Friday, February 1st for all the details on how to get your chance to win these awesome products!
We are excited to announce that we are in the running for the best clothing store in Coeur d'Alene for 2019! It's that time of year again where Cd'A picks their favorite businesses in town by voting in the North Idaho Business Journal. We were so honored last year to be voted the best men's clothing store and second in women's clothing - THANK YOU! If you still think so, make sure to vote for us in the Women's, Men's, and Children's Clothing categories! You don't have to stop there, however. There's a category for just about every kind of local business in town, so make sure to let people know which businesses you love supporting by taking a couple seconds to place your votes in categories like "Recreation and Entertainment," "Dining," and "Health and Beauty." This award means a lot for the people who work hard in our community to provide you with the best of the best. Voting starts online on February 10th!
Speaking of voting, we are proud to be the host of Bean & Pie's delicious samples for The Chocolate Affair on Friday, February 8th. This annual event in Downtown Cd'A showcases the best local chocolatiers, confectioners, bakers, and all-around dessert lovers in competition - paired with wine. Who could ask for more? Each dessert sample is hosted by a shop downtown, so not only are you tasting gourmet sweets and voting for your favorites, but also getting to know many more of our local businessmen-and-women and the great things they have to offer. You may have seen our video on Facebook where we taste-tested which Bean & Pie flavors we were going to sample at the event, so make sure to get your tickets to find out which we picked!
Did you know many of our local business friends make the Coeur d'Alene Maker's Market a huge priority for their business? Did you know you can meet those friends at the February Market at the Resort on Sunday, February 10th? Abide Culture Coffee, Inland Candle Co., Bean & Pie, Fairwells Jewelry, and 70+ other makers bring out their best for 6 hours in an open market at the Coeur d'Alene Resort convention center. This market is just in time to pick up the perfect handmade, unique Valentine's - or Galentine's - gift! This market is free entry with stuff for the kids to do and all kinds of samples, so make sure you stop by and get to know some incredible people!
And this is all happening in only the first half of the month!! Not only that, we've got a bunch of new designs coming out! New T-shirt designs and colors, new stickers (including some designs to commemorate Cd'A's awe-inspiring eagle season), and mugs. There are plenty of ways to see what we're up to, so follow us on here on the Blog, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube to get all the latest updates!
P.S. Did you happen to see Andy's surprise video for Nichelle? What do you think about the Idaho Bacon shirt for Father's Day? Let us know!
]]>Q: You've been involved in CDA Idaho Clothing since almost the beginning, right? How long is that?
Kate: I did a couple of the street fairs and pop-up events each summer since 2016, and I started working at the store in November 2017, right after they opened it.
Q: What is the biggest/coolest change you've seen in the company over that time?
Kate: Seeing more and more people wearing shirts and seeing stickers on cars. I remember back in the day (2016) when I first saw a CDA sticker on a car at the grocery store and I had to send Nichelle a picture because I was so excited for them. Now I see at least one a day. Seeing the business grow so fast is pretty cool.
Q: Favorite time of year in North Idaho?
Kate: Fall for sure! I love the orange and yellow colors, the smell of the air, and when eggnog finally comes back.
Q: What are some of your favorite things to do in Cd'A?
Kate: In the winter you'll find me up on the mountain, snowboarding. I also love going on drives around the lake and exploring no matter what time of year it is.
Q: Favorite outdoorsy activity to do in our area?
Kate: In the summer I practically live outside. I enjoy backpacking, camping, swimming and hiking so far up in the mountains that there is no one else around.
Q: Fave local coffee shop?
Kate: Man. I am definitely a coffee snob. We have too many good restaurants and coffee shops, but if I were to pick one: Coeur d'Alene Coffee Co. has to be my favorite coffee shop. Everyone is so friendly there and I love the aesthetic.
Q: Somewhere you love to spend time most in Cd'A?
Kate: I could spend a full day chilling in a hammock on Tubbs. I would say, at the moment, that’s my favorite hangout spot.
Q: Do you have some favorite aspects of Cd'A in general?
Kate: The thing I love about Cd’A is that we have everything outdoors here! So many lakes to explore - we have mountains and rivers and so much wildlife!! I am so blessed to live here. Another thing I have to say is that we have the most beautiful seasons. Spring is full of colors and flowers, summer is AMAZING (but short lived), fall makes me slow down a little and appreciate the things around me and it’s so so beautiful, and winter is insane. I love all the seasons here!
Q: Favorite part about working for CDA?
Kate: One of my favorite aspects about working here is meeting people from all over the country. I never realized how far people come just to visit here. Considering how beautiful it is, I am not surprised.
Q: Favorite CDA products:
Kate:
- Idaho Scenery sticker
- I am a fan of all the hoodies; they are the softest things ever
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We rated the houses on the amount of lights and decorations they had, whether they were fun and quirky or classy and picturesque, and whatever that extra Christmas-pizzazz-factor was. Of course, the neighborhood with the most houses decorated at all would win. Sometimes we’d grab ice cream or hot cocoa while we were out. But my favorite part was when we’d finally head downtown. Something about those classic white lights lining the streets and the giant tree next to the Resort would instantly make my whole family sappy. To this day, I can’t see the downtown décor without getting nostalgic for sweet Christmases past.
We love downtown in every season, but December has a little extra magic in the air. Walking past the window displays of all the shops on Sherman transports you right into an old black and white movie, and with hot cocoa in hand, the view of the snowy mountains around the lake is simply idyllic. If you’ve been in the area for any amount of time, you’re bound to run into someone you know while gift shopping, which reminds you of just about every single Burl Ives song. Just ask the Sherman shop “Christmas at the Lake” - who’s open all year round, because Cd’A loves the holidays that much. Haven't gotten the chance to see some of the best of Cd'A in the snow and lights yet? In case we don't get any more snow by Christmas Day (prayers, wishes, and fingers crossed, people!), maybe this video will help you get a visual:
It’s not just the holidays that we love this time of year up here in the north. If you’re looking for something a little more active in the wintertime, there are 4 different ski resorts to suit your preferences within an hour and a half and plenty of fantastic spots for snow shoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Don’t forget all the awesome hills for sledding, like the local favorite Cherry Hill Park. Just make sure to watch where you’re sliding 😉
The Inland Northwest has some phenomenal sights for every season. Did you know Lake Coeur d’Alene is home to an incredible number of bald eagles every winter? The eagles migrate here to feed on the kokanee salmon in the lake, and their numbers easily reach into the hundreds. According to the Bureau of Land Management, the last week of November this year saw 343 eagles! Grab your binoculars and a camera, and you can either make a quick drive yourself to great viewing spots at Higgins Point or Mineral Ridge or hop on a Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruise boat to get a front row seat.
Photo by @tonymillsphotography
Photo by @brianjmelcher
Our shop loves Christmastime too! We’ve decked the halls and we’re feeling jolly on the corner of 3rd and Sherman. If you’re looking for last minute gift ideas (you’ve still got time, right?), we’ve totally got you covered. Try something simple with ornaments, magnets, beanies, and mugs; you can’t go wrong with a little local flair to add a personal touch. And have you seen our new insulated cups?? Perfect for hot cocoa on your sledding trip or for coffee on the chilly morning heading back to work on the 26th. Our friends Inland Candle Co. have some lovely new styles and scents so you can make your home smell like a real North Idaho winter; Craft & Lore has some quality handcrafted gadgets and Fairwells Jewelry has created some sweet beauties that your peeps are sure to love no matter what their style - and they're all stocked up right in our shop! Seriously one-stop shopping. (Especially if you're cutting it close to the Eve to get everything wrapped up...Did we mention we're open on Christmas Eve? Yep, got your back.)
Since our First Birthaversary/Black Friday/Lighting Ceremony where we kicked off the Christmas craziness with a bang, we haven't slowed down. We've got different deals going on every day right up until Christmas, so make sure you're checking in on social media to get the updates! If you still need a little help getting ideas, here's another video to get you in the Christmas spirit:
And it’s not just because we’ve got fantastic Black Friday deals and we finally get to turn up the Christmas music.
Not even just because it’s one of the biggest events of the year in Coeur d’Alene and we’re ranked 4th in the country for our light show.
It’s also our shop’s 1st Birthaversary!! (cue confetti and cake.)
Buckle in – this post is packed.
We’ll start off with what many of you will start the 23rd with: Black Friday.
Here’s the deal (or should we say deals. It is Black Friday after all). Many of you are already planning to hit up every big store in Cd’A and head back home by 9am for all those yummy leftovers - but save a little space - because there is a way more fun way to do it this year. Our shop is taking 20% off the entire store and setting up a whole table for 50% off products. Our gear makes fantastic gifts, AND you’re supporting totally local business on the biggest shopping day of the year.
Know someone who calls Idaho home but happens to live somewhere else? Or maybe you just adore our area so much you want to share it with everyone (don't worry, we do too). Christmas is a great time to give a little Northwest love. Stickers and buttons make awesome stocking stuffers! Better yet, you can get a sticker for everyone you know – we’ve got a design for each one. Idaho winters are long, so Christmas is not too late to wrap up a beanie or sweatshirt. Don’t know their size? No worries, hats are a pretty safe bet 😉
Plus, ornaments are in! Now Bigfoot has a place to hide right in your Christmas tree.
In the midst of the consumer craziness on Black Friday, think about gettin’ your hometown on. If you can’t make it Friday, Small Business Saturday happens next! Coeur d’Alene is PACKED with small businesses of all kinds (that’s how the local vibes stay strong, you know) and Small Business Saturday is a great time to celebrate them and show some local love. From coffee to crafts to services: if you are a friend of Coeur d'Alene, be a pal and shop small this year.
You don’t have to come all the way downtown just for us, though. The annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony is something you’ll want to include in your Christmas traditions every year.
(photo by @phenmonkey)
Like we said, the Coeur d’Alene Resort’s light show is currently ranked 4th in the nation for its awesomeness! With over 1 million lights and a firework show to top it off, Coeur d’Alene does Christmas right. Bring your family or your cute date and grab some hot cocoa at any of the local coffee shops before cozying up on Sherman for the parade at 5pm. Then head over to the Resort lawn for carols at 6:00, experience an incredible firework show at 6:15, and finish with the stunning first light of the downtown Christmas displays. If we’re lucky, it may even snow and add the finishing touch for getting into the Christmas spirit. Make sure you vote for Coeur d'Alene as USA Today's best holiday light show!
(photo by @phenmonkey)
If you find yourself lacking some nice cozy threads for standing outside, see us first for a beanie or sweater, or come warm up with us afterward! You are even welcome to show up for both 😊
(our grand opening during the fireworks last year.)
On Black Friday last year, we held the grand opening of our storefront! This year has been a whirlwind of new and exciting, and we are taking the day to party! 210 Sherman Ave. Suite 117 has come a long way since a year ago, and it just gets better. With so many new designs and products on the shelves, we celebrate where we’ve been and can’t wait for you to see where we’re going. We love getting to see our community every day!
A lot has changed in 12 months – take a look at some then-and-now:
Then: Now: Then: Now:
Our shop was voted best Men's Clothing and second place in Women's Clothing for 2018! Thanks, friends!
Before all the Friday fun happens, we’re taking a moment to be grateful this Thanksgiving. We are so thankful for YOU and your support as we grow. We wouldn’t be here without you, so treat yourself to a little extra pumpkin pie on Thursday. May we always stay thankful as we move into the Christmas season, and let’s start it off right!