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National Idaho Day

Celebrate National Idaho Day with a trip to the Gem State! Enjoy all that Idaho has to offer — from its breathtaking nature to its delicious cuisine.

Monday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMay 17

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYRegional

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Idaho Day on May 17 and join in the festivities of all things 'Idaho'! This holiday celebrates the history, culture, and natural beauty of this unique US state. It was first established in 1991 by Governor Cecil Andrus as a way to recognize the great achievements that have come out of Idaho throughout its long history. From potatoes to breathtaking landscapes, there's something for everyone to enjoy about this special day!

TIMELINE

National Idaho Day Timeline

Lewis and Clark Expedition

The expedition led by Lewis and Clark is the first recorded overland exploration of Idaho by people of European descent.

Idaho Territory Established

President Abraham Lincoln signed the bill that officially created Idaho as a territory of the United States.

Statehood

Idaho was admitted into the Union as the 43rd state on July 3, 1890.

Birth of Nuclear Power

Experimental Breeder Reactor-1 becomes the first nuclear power plant to generate electricity for a power grid in Arco, Idaho.

National Idaho Day Proclaimed

Governor Cecil Andrus proclaims May 17 as National Idaho Day to recognize the contributions of the state to the nation's growth and development.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Idaho Day

Visit Idaho

Take a trip to Idaho and explore the natural beauty of the state. Hike through the hills, camp out in the wilderness, fish for trout in a mountain lake, or visit some of Idaho's cities and learn about its history.

COOK

Cook Idaho dishes

What better way to celebrate National Idaho Day than with food? Try your hand at classic Idaho recipes like huckleberry pie, frybread, and potato soup. If you don't feel like cooking, order takeout from an Idaho restaurant.

LEARN

Learn about Idaho

National Idaho Day is a great opportunity to learn more about the state. Read up on its history, population demographics, and current events. Or learn something new by watching a movie or documentary set in Idaho.

WATCH

Watch a sporting event

Celebrating National Idaho Day with sports is always a good idea. Watch an NBA game featuring the Boise State Broncos or an NFL game featuring the University of Idaho Vandals. Or catch a minor league baseball game featuring the Boise Hawks.

Go stargazing

The night sky over Idaho is spectacular - head out to a quiet spot away from city lights and enjoy the stars, planets, and constellations visible in the night sky.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Idaho Day is Important

Idaho supports local businesses & industries

Idaho is home to many local agriculture businesses and industries that provide jobs and contribute to the economy. When you buy goods and services from Idaho companies, you're helping these businesses stay afloat and putting money back into the local economy. Celebrate National Idaho Day by supporting small local business owners!

Idaho is a beautiful state

Idaho is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, from the Grand Teton Mountains to the Sawtooth Wilderness. It's also home to picturesque National Parks like Yellowstone and Craters of The Moon, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Idaho has a rich history & culture

Celebrating Idaho Day helps us appreciate the unique heritage and culture that make up this great state. From its Native American roots to its modern art scene, Idaho has something for everyone - so celebrate with your family and friends and learn more about what makes Idaho so special!

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