Public Program

Join the Old Idaho Penitentiary for an opportunity to give back and donate blood to the American Red Cross. Register at https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=ISHS Where: Old Idaho Penitentiary, 2445 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise, ID 83712 When: Monday, April 29, 2024, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Pre-register at RedCrossBlood.org, and email anthony.parry@ishs.idaho.gov with any questions. All presenting donors […]

Join us at the Idaho State Museum to celebrate the grand opening of our newest exhibit, Courage and Compassion: Our Shared Story of the Japanese American World War II Experience. Festivities begin at 10:30 AM and include the musical drumming talents of Sangha Taiko, crafts for all ages, and a roundtable discussion with content experts!   […]

Prepare for Mother’s Day at our May Family Second Saturday from 12-3pm. Learn more about Idaho families throughout time and make a craft that celebrates a mom in your life. Created by the Idaho State Museum’s GEM high school interns. Family Second Saturday activities are included with museum admission. Free for Idaho State Historical Society […]

The Idaho State Archives is proud to host programs that support and highlight Idaho talent. Getting her start as a writer by writing short stories, M.J.F. Pendragon will be going back to her roots and sharing her knowledge on the art of writing a short story. Come prepared with questions to ask, and perhaps a […]

Join Big River Paranormal as they use their unique equipment and knowledge to attempt to connect with prisoners and guards of the past. Our May 18 Paranormal Investigation is the Old Idaho Penitentiary’s annual chance for guests 13 and older to attend an investigation! Attendees under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Saturday, May […]

Join the Old Idaho Penitentiary on a Summer Sunday afternoon and discover the story of the Penitentiary’s historic animal mascot, Dennis the Cat during our fourth annual Dennis the Cat Day! Activities include Prison Pets history presentations, Prison Paws scavenger hunt and more! Food trucks, beer and alcohol, local pet supply vendors, special presentations, new […]