National Idaho Day

Categories:: Federal
Tags:: American Appreciation Civic
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every May 17
Holiday emoji:: 🥔

National Idaho Day celebrates the Gem State’s admission to the Union every May 17. This day honors Idaho’s unique history, diverse landscapes, and the vibrant spirit of its people. Join in by exploring its natural beauty, learning about its past, and supporting local Idaho businesses.

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Expected National Idaho Day Deals

As National Idaho Day approaches, local businesses and state attractions often roll out special offers to celebrate the Gem State. Expect state parks to offer discounted entry or special events. Many local restaurants might feature Idaho-grown produce, especially potatoes, with themed dishes. Retailers across the state, such as those in Boise and Coeur d’Alene, may highlight Made-in-Idaho products. Keep an eye out for promotions from brands like Idaho Potato Commission, Simplot, and local craft breweries. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May 17 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Idaho Day

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalIdahoDay. Share insights on Idaho’s economic contributions or professional opportunities.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalIdahoDay. Share photos of Idaho’s landscapes or family traditions.

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalIdahoDay. Post stunning visuals of Idaho’s natural beauty, from mountains to rivers.

National Idaho Day Hero

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President, played a pivotal role in Idaho's formation. On March 4, 1863, he signed the act creating the Idaho Territory, which paved the way for its statehood. His vision for westward expansion and the organization of new territories directly led to Idaho's establishment.

History of National Idaho Day

National Idaho Day celebrates the momentous occasion when Idaho was declared as the 43rd state to join the union in the year 1890. Since then, the Gem State has witnessed a wave of miners, traders, and missionaries making their way to its cherished lands.

Idaho is a state known for its natural beauty. It is home to the Rocky Mountains range, Snake River, and some of the deepest river gorges in North America. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area and Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve are some of the most visited destinations in the state by tourists and Idahoans alike. Hagerman’s Fossil Beds in Idaho is a vast lava field that was formed from prehistoric ancient volcanic activity. Paleontologists often flock to these fossil beds to study the well-preserved fossils of the yesteryears.

Idaho is also home to several modern-day inventions. Everything from lists of patents for improving printing presses to railroad technology comes from here! It was also in Idaho where Philo Farnsworth invented the necessary technology to bring the television to the mass market. In recent years, Idaho has gathered fame as a tourism and an agricultural state, and its commercial bases also include science and technology industries, which have become Idaho’s biggest pride.

Idahoans are proud of their state’s history and many achievements, and we can fully see why!

National Idaho Day timeline

March 4, 1863

Idaho is Born

Idaho is created by President Abraham Lincoln.

July 3, 1890

Idaho Gains Statehood

Idaho becomes the 43rd state to join the union and, on this day, it is officially recognized as a state.

1910

Year of “The Big Blowup”

The Great Fire of 1910 burns three million acres in North Idaho and Western Montana.

2009

The Olympics Comes to Idaho

Idaho hosts the Special Olympics World Winter Games.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Idaho Day

Local businesses in Idaho can celebrate National Idaho Day by showcasing the state’s unique offerings. Restaurants could feature special menus with Idaho-grown ingredients, particularly potatoes, and offer discounts to residents. Retailers might highlight ‘Made in Idaho’ products, supporting local artisans and producers. Tourism operators, such as those offering guided tours of national parks or historical sites, could provide special promotions or themed experiences to encourage exploration of the Gem State.

National Idaho Day FAQs

When is National Idaho Day?

In 2027, National Idaho Day is observed on Monday, May 17. This mid-week celebration encourages a focus on Idaho’s history and community contributions.

How many people live in Idaho?

Idaho continues to be one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S., with its population nearing two million. This growth reflects its appeal as a place to live, work, and enjoy the outdoors.

What is Idaho best known for?

While potatoes remain iconic, Idaho is increasingly recognized for its stunning outdoor recreation, including world-class whitewater rafting and skiing, as well as its growing innovation sector in cities like Boise.

Is Idaho a 'Gem State'?

The moniker ‘Gem State’ perfectly encapsulates Idaho’s rich geological diversity. It’s one of only two places in the world where star garnets can be found, alongside India, making its nickname truly fitting.

How to celebrate National Idaho Day

Take a trip to the museum!
Museums are custodians of our past, and what better way to learn about Idaho’s history than visiting a museum? It is also a great way to learn more about the state’s cultural and scientific achievements.
Visit one of many attractions of the state
Like we mentioned before, Idaho is home to some stunning vistas. Pack a bag and set off for a vacation in Idaho with your loved ones. An escape to the Rocky Mountains or a quiet retreat by the Snake River is a perfect way to celebrate National Idaho Day.
Make an all-potato dinner
Yep, it’s exactly what it sounds like! Idaho is famous for its potato crops and the state is responsible for a third of the nationwide yield. Boil, mash, fry, or roast the humble potato and enjoy a hearty meal, Idaho style!

5 Facts About Idaho That Will Blow Your Mind

It is the 43rd state
Idaho officially became the 43rd state of the union on July 3, 1890.
Idaho has a nickname
Idaho is also known as ‘The Gem State’ due to the massive varieties of gems that are found in the state.
‘Here We Have Idaho’ is the state song
‘Here We Have Idaho’ is the state song of Idaho — it was created by Albert J. Tompkins, McKinley Helm, and Sallie Hume-Douglas.
Boise is the capital city of Idaho
Idaho has several great cities but the honor of being the state’s capital city is held by the city of Boise.
The mountain bluebird is the state bird
The state bird of Idaho is the mountain bluebird, which is a common sighting in Idaho.

Why we love National Idaho Day

It is an important part of our history
National Idaho Day celebrates the day when Idaho was first recognized as a state in 1890. National Idaho Day celebrates a key moment in American history when Idaho became the 43rd state of the United States of America.
Because we love Idahoans!
This is also the day when you tell the Idahoans in your life how much you love and appreciate them. You only have to do something as simple as sending them a text wishing them a happy National Idaho Day!
It celebrates diversity
Like any other state, Idaho is diverse in its cultures, geography, and food. National Idaho Day also celebrates the colorful diversity of this wonderful state.