About Preston, Idaho – History and Community

The Preston area has excellent schools, low unemployment, exceptional medical personnel, an outstanding health care facility, city and county governments, unsurpassed scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and a variety of cultural activities for the entire family.

Napoleon Dynamite

Preston is famous throughout the world for the hit movie “Napoleon Dynamite“. Preston, Idaho became a tourist attraction for fans. People came from all over the world to take a tour. You can still tour the places featured in Napoleon Dynamite movie.

That Famous Preston Night Rodeo

Summer in Preston is marked by the PRCA and WPRA approved, more than half-century-old “That Famous Preston Night Rodeo”, when cowboys and girls from national and international fame come to compete and rise to the challenge only buckin’ broncs and bulls can offer.

There’s nothing quite like sitting in the stands, tasting the dust and experiencing the courage of these participants and cheering them on to victory. The Rodeo, begun in 1936, is the second oldest night-time rodeo, under lights, and to add to its excitement is the charm of Rodeo Days – a sidewalk sale extraordinaire! And of course, what Rodeo would be complete without a carnival, hamburger stands and world class entertainment?

Festival of Lights

Winter adds to Preston’s reputation as the place to be in Idaho when the Idaho Festival of Lights illuminates the city with a myriad of sparkling lights and warm holiday cheer. The Feast, with three sittings and a prime rib
dinner to die for, is a traditional part of the Festival, along with a lighted parade – all beginning the day after Thanksgiving and running the entire month of December. Both of these events bring thousands of visitors from all over the country.

So many other activities and events fill our year. Check out our Calendar for events all year long here in Preston.

Beautiful parks

An 18-hole championship golf course; gorgeous boutiques and other specialty shopping; splash pad; close-by canyons; snowmobiling trails; breathtaking fall colors in nearby mountains; hiking trails; friendly people; easy access to fishing (including excellent fly fishing) on several reservoirs, the Bear and Cub Rivers, and other streams; hunting; excellent restaurants; motels; lodges; RV parks; hot springs for soaking and recreation; wilderness areas; State and National Parks; convenience stores; gas stations; rock climbing; exploring; or relaxing. Preston has it all – perhaps that’s why we call it the jewel in Idaho’s crown. Come and sparkle with us!!