World's Largest Idaho Potato Display Celebrates America's 250th Anniversary

250,000 Idaho potatoes used to create record-breaking exhibit in South Dakota

Apr. 7, 2026 at 11:38pm

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An isometric 3D digital illustration depicting a bustling town square with a towering display of Idaho potatoes at the center, surrounded by people and American flags, all in a warm, patriotic color palette.A patriotic celebration of America's agricultural heritage, as a record-breaking Idaho potato display takes center stage in a vibrant town square.Mitchell Today

In celebration of the United States' 250th birthday, the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) and County Fair Foods unveiled the world's largest Idaho® potato display, built using 250,000 Idaho potatoes as a patriotic tribute to America's agricultural heritage and community spirit. The quarter-million-spud installation highlights the role Idaho potatoes have played in feeding American families for generations, while showcasing how local retailers and agriculture partners can come together to honor a historic national milestone.

Why it matters

This event not only celebrates America's 250th anniversary, but also shines a spotlight on the importance of Idaho potatoes and the role of local agriculture and businesses in supporting their communities. The display's scale and community involvement demonstrate the pride and unity surrounding this historic milestone.

The details

The 250,000 Idaho potatoes used in the display are enough to produce nearly five million French fries, underscoring the scale and impact of America's favorite vegetable. The event drew strong community participation, with veterans, local families, shoppers, and city leaders gathering throughout the day to experience the display firsthand and celebrate together. The celebration also supported hunger relief efforts through a partnership with Feeding South Dakota, where County Fair Foods coordinated a retail-driven donation effort to help provide meals to families across the region.

  • The display was unveiled just ahead of National Tater Day on March 31, 2026.
  • The United States is celebrating its 250th birthday in 2026.

The players

Idaho Potato Commission (IPC)

The Idaho Potato Commission is an organization that promotes and protects the famous Idaho potato.

County Fair Foods

A local retailer in Mitchell, South Dakota that partnered with the IPC to build the world's largest Idaho potato display.

Mayor Jordan Hanson

The mayor of Mitchell, South Dakota, where the display was unveiled.

Susanne Gale

A representative from Feeding South Dakota, a hunger relief organization that partnered with the event.

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What they’re saying

“This was a fun and meaningful way to recognize America's 250th birthday while shining a spotlight on a potato that is no stranger to the attention.”

— Ross Johnson, VP of Retail and International for IPC

“We were proud to host an event that celebrates both America's 250th birthday and the Idaho potato farmers who help feed our country.”

— Mayor Jordan Hanson, City of Mitchell

“When agriculture and retail come together, it helps us reach people in need and strengthens communities across South Dakota.”

— Susanne Gale, Feeding South Dakota

What’s next

The Idaho Potato Commission and County Fair Foods plan to continue their partnership, exploring new ways to celebrate Idaho potatoes and support local communities in the future.

The takeaway

This event showcases the power of collaboration between agriculture, retail, and community organizations to create meaningful celebrations that honor America's history, support local economies, and give back to those in need. The record-breaking Idaho potato display is a testament to the enduring legacy of this iconic American crop.