Why the 4th of July Feels Better in Idaho

Why the 4th of July Feels Better in Idaho

I’ve lived in both California and Idaho. I’ve celebrated the 4th of July in both places. And I can tell you without hesitation... Idaho just does it better.

I moved here in 2018. My son Silas was born in California, and my daughter Penny was born right here in Idaho. And let me tell you... when you have kids, you rethink everything. I sure did. Priorities shift. Suddenly it’s not just about where you live... it’s about how you live. What kind of values are being passed down. What kind of community you’re raising your family in.

In Idaho, the 4th of July still means something. It feels honest. Real. Patriotic without apology.

We’ve got small-town parades with candy flying from floats. Neighbors hosting BBQs where everyone brings a dish and no one feels like a stranger. Kids waving flags, fireworks lighting up wide open skies, and people actually saying "God Bless America" like they mean it.

Compare that to California... yeah, we celebrated there too. But in between the fireworks shows and beach traffic, you’d spot anti-American bumper stickers on the way to the grocery store. People wearing shirts that trash the very country that gives them the freedom to do so. The whole tone felt different. Like the meaning behind the holiday was up for debate.

Look, there’s a time and place for political protest. I support people’s right to speak their mind. But the 4th of July? That should be one day we all agree to celebrate what unites us. Not tear it apart.

I’m proud to be an American. And even more proud to live in Idaho where people still celebrate the right way. Where patriotism isn’t something to whisper or tiptoe around. It’s something we live out loud.

If you're from somewhere else in the country and starting to feel that same shift I felt years ago... maybe it's time to make a move. If you're craving simpler values, stronger community, and a place where your kids can grow up knowing what the 4th really stands for... I’d love to help.

Americans are welcome here.

Happy Independence Day!

Thinking about relocating? Check out homes for sale in the Boise Area or learn about our Idaho neighborhoods.