On Dec. 22, the Idaho Potato Commission will once again sponsor the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl will celebrate its 20th anniversary. If you are a driver having a layover in Boise, you ought to check with a local Idaho potato shipper because there’s a good chance you can get a free ticket to the game.
Hosted in Albertsons Stadium at Boise State University in Boise, Idaho, the game is unique as it’s the longest-running cold-weather bowl game played on the arena’s famed blue turf.
The Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) has a history of using creative marketing techniques to draw attention to its state’s potatoes and this fall and winter are no exception.
Frank Muir, president and CEO for the Idaho Potato Commission, Eagle, said in November, the group’s famed Big Idaho Potato Truck turned heads as it traveled as part of an entourage transporting the 60-foot Capitol Christmas Tree from Payette National Forest in Idaho to Washington, D.C. The Big Idaho Potato Truck delivered hundreds of ornaments made by Idaho schoolchildren and participated in local events that took place along the cross-country journey.
The Big Idaho Potato Truck was built five years ago to celebrate the commission’s 75th anniversary and has now traveled more than 100,000 miles promoting the heart-healthy benefits of Idaho potatoes. The campaign has also donated to local charities through its “A Big Helping” program.
Regionally, retail promotions are planned at Albertsons and Safeways with displays featuring information about the football game. Further promoting Idaho potatoes is the fourth annual Idaho Potato Drop for New Year’s Eve. Held in downtown Boise, thousands of people gather in front of the state capital to see the giant potato drop (like Times Square’s ball).
Finally, in January and February, the commission will again promote Potato Lover’s Month and its 26th annual retail display contest.
Idaho potatoes – grossing about $4200 to Atlanta.