For decades, Boise’s cycling community has celebrated its passion for bikes and community with unforgettable events. The evolution of these events—from the Tour de Fat to the Boise Goathead Fest and now the dynamic Open Streets Boise—tells the story of a city embracing creativity, inclusivity, and the transformative power of bicycles.

The Beginning: Tour de Fat

Tour de Fat, a traveling festival brought to life by New Belgium Brewing, was an early favorite among Boise’s bike enthusiasts. It celebrated biking with costumes, beer, live performances, and a group ride through downtown Boise. Though the festival eventually ceased coming to Boise, it left behind a legacy of creativity and camaraderie that set the stage for the next chapter.

A Local Twist: Boise Goathead Fest

Determined to fill the void left by Tour de Fat, the Boise Bicycle Project and other bike-affiliated nonprofits launched Boise Goathead Fest in 2018. Taking its name from the infamous goathead weed—a relentless foe for cyclists—the festival embraced its identity with a blend of funk and fun. The event was as much about celebrating Boise’s bike culture as it was about uniting the community to combat the invasive plant.

Kelly Knopp, an early friend of BBP co-founder Jimmy Halllyburton and a talented graphic designer, recalls his role in bringing Boise Goathead Fest’s spirit to life:

"I was not the designer of the official Goathead branding (that credit goes to Drake Cooper) but I was given the task of creating several event posters (and designs) moving forward. I believe the general aesthetic of the event fit my style very well, a little punk mixed with some whimsy. The long history of work that I have had the honor of creating for BBP ranging from themed-ride stickers to ‘Helladrome’ posters has been very fulfilling as I consider myself a longtime bike enthusiast but I also think that BBP's cause is important to our community.”

An Evolution: Open Streets Boise

In 2024, Boise Goathead Fest evolved into Open Streets Boise, a partnership between BBP, the City of Boise, and with support from other community organizations & businesses. This new event shifted the focus toward reimagining public spaces and turning streets into temporary car-free zones for cycling, walking, playing, and connecting to show what a less car-reliant Boise could look like.

The transition to Open Streets Boise was supported by 116 & West, a creative advertising agency based in downtown Boise. Their team, working closely with BBP, designed a fresh logo and branding elements that captured the spirit of the event.

"Our whole agency was excited to help BBP evolve Goathead Fest into Open Streets Boise," shared Kelly, now the Creative Director for 116 & West. “When BBP approached 116 & West to help evolve the "Goathead Fest" event into "Open Streets" our whole agency was excited to take the task. Our creative team developed several logos and branding elements to be considered and enjoyed working with BBP's staff to make their vision a reality.”

Looking Ahead

Open Streets Boise is already making a big impact. Last year’s event brought thousands of people together to enjoy a pop-up skate park, a kids' bike track, live music, and more. This year, the event is set to continue inspiring new ways to use and enjoy public spaces while celebrating the transformative power of bicycles.

This year, Open Streets Boise will be happening in September. Stay tuned for the exact day and location!

About 116 & West

116 & West is a full-service creative advertising agency specializing in branding, design, digital marketing, and strategy. Headquartered in downtown Boise with satellite offices in Spokane and Eugene, they help businesses and organizations bring their visions to life with compelling storytelling and bold creative.