Food has always distinguished Jewish culture, and Deli Days is a celebration of Jewish food and culture, as well as the largest fundraiser of the year for Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel in Boise.
"For every get together, for anything that's even vaguely classified as a festival or a joyous occasion, we have what's called an 'oneg', and an oneg is basically a feast where you feed everyone around you," said Arlen Donald, who was giving tours at the synagogue.
Jews have been in the American West since the time of settlement. Duncan says the synagogue was in fact funded by Levi Strauss, the denim jeans maker, with a request by letter.
"Basically it said, 'Hey, you're making money from selling jenas to these cowboys out here, and we're the Jewish cowboys out here, and could you help us build a synagogue?' And I'm told he said, "Hands-down, yes."
Entrance and entertainment is free, but the food - shipped in from New York - is sold to attendees.
The festival runs today, June 16, and tomorrow, June 17, until 8pm.
