The Idaho Potato Drop has been around for years, bringing people together for New Year’s. Why go to New York when you can just stay in Boise to witness this? This event has been going on for 13 years, starting in 2011. Located at the Capital on 3131 W State St, it draws people every year, but does the event live up to its name? Is it even necessary? What are some things to do there?
The potato is 17 feet long, made of fiberglass, and is lowered to the ground by a crane. One thing that irks many, is the fact that there is the crane. From the name ‘Idaho Potato Drop’ you’d expect the potato to get dropped from the air as soon as the clock hits midnight, but, no, it is lowered down on a crane. It’s kind of underwhelming if you think about it.
On the other hand, it glows. Every year since it started in 2011, Idaho has had its potato glow as it is lowered from a crane. A glowing potato, neat, right? Another thing that stands out about this event is the fireworks. After every Potato Drop, they shoot off fireworks, each time they do it, it gets more and more mesmerizing, even if you’ve been there before to witness it—another reason to go.
Food trucks are present at this event for food if you happen to go just for food. You can also watch sporting events that are taking place on New Year’s.
Of course, people will have their opinions on this, good and bad. One attendee of the Potato Drop stated, “That’s one big potato alright.” This shows that some people are fascinated by Idaho’s decision to celebrate New Year’s this way.
The Zoology teacher at DTEC, Mr. Gillingham’s opinion of the event is one that many would find amusing. He states, in all seriousness, “It looks like a poopy falling out of the sky.” His opinion on this matter is quite clear while ensuring it doesn’t hit too hard. He isn’t a fan.
From the various stances people have on this event, it is hard to know if it lives up to its name, ‘Idaho Potato Drop’, making people even question whether or not it’s even necessary. The Idaho Potato Drop has been a tradition for 13 years and will continue for many years. So, whether you love or hate this event, why don’t you pop by, watch it on your TV, and participate in the Idaho Potato Drop?
