September is Idaho Preferred Month – a time to celebrate the incredible farmers, ranchers, and food producers who make it possible for us to feed our families with fresh, local ingredients. One of our favorite ways to join in? Apples! Crisp, sweet, and perfectly in season, apples are one of Idaho’s most iconic fall crops.

Whether you’re baking up something cozy, packing lunches, or heading out to a u-pick orchard, there are so many ways to support Idaho apple farmers this month.
Why Buy Local?
Choosing local produce isn’t just about freshness (though you’ll taste the difference with a juicy Idaho apple!). It’s also about:
- Supporting local farmers and families – Your purchase keeps dollars here in the Treasure Valley.
- Reducing food miles – Local produce travels less, which means a smaller environmental footprint.
- Peak flavor – Produce picked at its ripest tastes better and lasts longer.
Where to Find Idaho Apples
U-Pick Orchards – Turn apple season into a family adventure! Orchards like Cherry Hill Farms (Emmett) or Tyler’s Rocky Point Orchard (Emmett) let kids pick right from the tree.
HOT TIP: Use the Food + Farm Finder on idahopreferred.com
Local Grocers – Look for the Idaho Preferred logo at Albertsons, Walmart, and other grocers. That little badge makes it easy to know you’re buying local.
Family Fun: Bake Together!
Nothing says fall like the smell of apples baking in the oven. This week on Instagram, we’re teaming up with Idaho Preferred to share a recipe we made that we think your whole family will love. They’re flaky, warm, and filled with spiced maple apples you’ll want to eat directly from the pan. It’s a perfect weekend baking project with your little helpers.
Baked Apple Croissants (Easy Starbucks Copycat) from the food blog But First We Brunch
How Families Can Support Local Year-Round
- Make it a game with your kids: who can spot the Idaho Preferred logo first at the store?
- Add a new local fruit or veggie to your cart each week.
- Follow Idaho Preferred for seasonal updates and local recipes.
- Share your creations! Post your Idaho-grown meals and tag the farmers, Idaho Preferred, and of course @boisewithkids so we can cheer you on.
Idaho Preferred Month is the perfect reminder that the best way to celebrate the season is by supporting the farmers who make it possible. Whether you’re grabbing a bag of apples at the market or local grocery store, visiting an orchard, or baking up something sweet at home, every bite helps keep our community strong!
This blog post is part of a partnership with Idaho Preferred. Thank you for supporting the organizations that help us keep Boise With Kids a free resource for local families!