Katherine Johnson – March 23, 2021

If you’re anything like the Stoltz team, going 2.5 years without a Treefort Music Fest is real tough. But there is light ahead in this pandemic tunnel. Should all go as planned, we will be joining fellow music fans in September of this year for the 9th annual cultural event that is Treefort. From year one, I’ve been in awe of the thought and detail that goes into each “fort” and interaction one has at the event. The Treefort brand is embedded at every turn, every moment. And I’m not just talking about the logo-clad flags that hand around our city. It’s so much more than that – it’s a fully immersive brand experience.

What makes Treefort Music Fest such an incredible brand experience? Yes, it’s the music. But most of all, it’s an experience that truly reflects Boise – a community of culture, art, music, tech innovation, inclusivity, family, health, and happiness.

6 Things That Make Treefort Music Fest a Boise Brand Experience

Inclusiveness:

As a person who dances through life to a bizarre, no-rhyme-or-reason soundtrack, the variety of music and art featured at Treefort appeals to all my senses. But more than anything, I’m drawn in year after year because of the friendly, inclusive, and open-minded spirit of the event. After everything our country has faced in the last year, a long Treefort weekend is needed.

Family:

While KidFort is not in my own Treefort plans, it’s amazing how many times I recommend it to my friends with young families. It’s kid heaven – tons of yummy food, interactive décor, photo opportunities, creative art activities, fun dance music, best-in-class puppet shows, and more.

Social Responsibility:

It takes a lot of work to be a clean, green festival machine that meets Boise’s high standards for social responsibility, and Treefort nails it year after year. Whether it’s the ongoing trash and recycling duties, the solar-generated power for the Main Stage, the use of recycled materials in festival décor, or the elimination of plastic waste by providing reusable tin beer cups, Treefort’s Green Team of staff and volunteers are the superheroes behind the scenes.

That Idaho Sense of Adventure:

Okay, I’m going to let you all in on a little secret. I hardly ever know any of the bands featured at Treefort (seriously, no one really does). And that’s okay! The festival is about being brave and trying new things. Much like the way Idahoans tackle new mountain trails and rivers, Treefort requires a sense of exploration. If you’re a proud Boisean, and you have not experienced it yet, what are you waiting for? A Treefort wristband is a wallet-friendly ticket to a five-day staycation of adventure, and you will not be disappointed.

Gratitude:

Years ago, during my first Treefort experience, I watched the festival’s co-founder Lori Shandro stand in front of a devoted Sunday night crowd at the Main Stage and share a long message of thanks. I’ve witnessed this same message from that same founder on that same stage every year, and to my surprise, it’s more authentic and genuine each year. I’m always moved to tears.

As a Boise citizen, I share my gratitude by attending every year, proudly wearing a Zipline wristband, and experiencing as many forts as possible.

Lastly, Health & Happiness:

Bob Marley once said, “One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain.” Couldn’t agree more, Bob. No matter what brand of music you like, dancing to the beats and sounds of Treefort makes you feel good. You feel alive and well. You smile. And when you look around at the crowd, you take joy in knowing that everyone feels the same.

On that note, and in patient anticipation for Treefort #9, enjoy this playlist of some of our favorite Treefort tunes.

Treefort Playlist