FAQ’s

  • Where is the Idaho® Potato Drop held?

    The Idaho® Potato Drop happens every New Year’s Eve in front of the Idaho State Capitol on Jefferson Street in downtown Boise. Jefferson is closed from 6th to 8th Street for fireworks. Free viewing areas are available at Cecil D. Andrus Park, Bannock Street, and Capitol Blvd, with VIP options for premium views of the show.

  • What time does the Idaho® Potato Drop 2025 start?

    Festivities kick off at noon with the Urban Air Snowpark Series qualifier, followed by live music on the Main Stage at 6 PM. The world-famous #GlowTato rises above the Idaho State Capitol and drops at midnight, marking the start of the new year with fireworks and celebration.

  • What can I expect at the Idaho® Potato Drop?

    Experience one of the best things to do in Boise on New Year’s Eve. Enjoy Idaho’s signature celebration featuring fireworks, live music, local food trucks, games, vendors, raffles, and the Urban Air ski and snowboard competition hosted by Tamarack Resort. It is a free, family-friendly Boise event with something for everyone.

  • Is the Idaho® Potato Drop a real potato?

    No. The “GlowTato” is a custom-built polystyrene resin potato illuminated from within and painted to look like a real Idaho® potato. It glows above downtown Boise before dropping at midnight during Idaho’s signature New Year’s Eve celebration.

  • Do I need tickets to attend?

    General admission is free and open to all ages. VIP tickets can be purchased on IdahoPotatoDrop.com starting August 1 and include a heated tent, complimentary drink, live raffle, indoor restrooms, and front-row views of Boise’s New Year’s Eve fireworks and music.

  • Where should I park?

    Public parking garages and street parking are available throughout downtown Boise. The Valley Wide Spud Bus will also provide pickup and drop-off routes to the Idaho State Capitol. Plan ahead because VIP passes do not include parking.

  • What should I wear and bring?

    Dress warmly for Idaho’s winter weather. Expect below-freezing temperatures, so bring layered clothing, gloves, hats, and waterproof outerwear. Hand warmers are also helpful. Outside alcohol and glass containers are not allowed, and this is a confetti-free event.

  • Where can I stay near the Idaho® Potato Drop?

    Downtown Boise offers many nearby hotels and lodging options within walking distance of the Idaho State Capitol. Book early to secure a room, as most hotels fill up in December for New Year’s Eve events.

  • Is the Idaho® Potato Drop free and family-friendly?

    Yes. The Idaho® Potato Drop is a free, all-ages Boise New Year’s Eve event. It offers family-friendly entertainment, local food, and live music. Accessible viewing areas are available near Cecil D. Andrus Park for guests with disabilities.

  • How can I watch the Idaho® Potato Drop?

    If you cannot make it to downtown Boise, tune in live on KTVB.com and KTVB+. You can also watch on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and the KTVB mobile app between 11:30 PM and midnight.

  • When did the Idaho® Potato Drop begin?

    The first Idaho® Potato Drop took place on December 31, 2013, after founder Dylan Cline pitched the idea to the City of Boise. What began as a creative local idea has grown into Idaho’s signature New Year’s Eve celebration, recognized nationwide and honored with multiple event awards, including SAM Magazine’s “Best Event” and USA Today’s 10 Best nomination.