1. Christmas Day Blizzard of 1983: On December 25, 1983, a severe winter storm hit Idaho, bringing in heavy snow and blizzard conditions. The storm caused widespread power outages, blocked roads, and disrupted holiday travel plans for many Idaho residents.
2. Establishment of Idaho as a Territory: On December 25, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed a proclamation making Idaho a territory. The new territory was formed out of parts of the Washington and Dakota territories and included what is now Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming.
3. Celebration of Christmas in Fort Boise: During the mid-1800s, Fort Boise was one of the most important military outposts in Idaho. Soldiers stationed at the fort would celebrate Christmas with feasts, games, and music. The festivities were an important way for soldiers to maintain morale during the harsh winter months.
4. Poinsettias in Idaho: One of the most popular plants associated with the Christmas season is the poinsettia. Despite being native to Mexico, poinsettias are grown commercially in Idaho. In fact, over 14 million poinsettias are produced in Idaho each year, making it one of the largest producers of the plant in the United States.
5. Christmas Bird Counts: Each year, birders in Idaho participate in the Audubon Society's Christmas Bird Count. The count takes place over several days in late December and early January and involves counting bird species in designated areas around the state. The data collected from these counts provides valuable information about bird populations and migration patterns.
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