What inspired the creation of Idaho’s iconic “Potato Drop” on New Year’s Eve?

While Times Square has its shimmering ball drop, Boise, Idaho, decided to embrace its roots—quite literally—by launching the Great Potato Drop in 2013. Why potatoes? Idaho’s identity as the potato capital of the United States is practically a badge of honor, thanks to its fertile volcanic soil and optimal growing conditions that produce more than 12 billion pounds of spuds annually.

The idea was cooked up (pun intended) by local entrepreneur Dylan Cline, who wanted to create a quirky, unifying event that celebrated Idaho’s agricultural pride. The star of the show is a 400-pound glowing potato suspended above a lively crowd in downtown Boise. Festivities include live music, fireworks, and plenty of potato-themed snacks, from loaded fries to mashed-potato martinis. It’s a spud-tacular celebration that proves Idaho knows how to turn a humble vegetable into a truly magical moment.