National Paul Bunyan Day: Celebrating a Legendary Lumberjack
National Paul Bunyan Day is an annual celebration dedicated to one of the most iconic figures in American folklore. Paul Bunyan, a giant lumberjack with superhuman strength, is accompanied by his loyal blue ox, Babe. Together, their legendary tales have shaped the cultural imagination of North America, symbolizing strength, ingenuity, and humor.
Quick Facts
- When is it? June 28
- Tagged as: Folklore, American Heritage, Lumberjack Legends
- What’s the hashtag? #PaulBunyanDay
- When was it founded? Early 20th century (exact year unknown)
- Who founded it? Inspired by oral traditions and popularized by William B. Laughead’s promotional campaigns for the Red River Lumber Company.
History of National Paul Bunyan Day
Paul Bunyan’s origins trace back to the oral storytelling traditions of 19th-century North American loggers. These tales were first documented in print by journalist James MacGillivray in 1910. However, it was William B. Laughead who immortalized Bunyan through a series of advertising pamphlets in 1916. Over time, Paul Bunyan became a symbol of American folklore and a beloved character celebrated in books, festivals, and statues across the United States.
Timeline
- Mid-1800s: Oral tales about Paul Bunyan emerge in logging camps.
- 1910: James MacGillivray publishes the first written story about Paul Bunyan.
- 1916: William B. Laughead uses Paul Bunyan in an advertising campaign.
- 1924–1925: Books by Esther Shephard and James Stevens further popularize the legend.
- Present Day: National Paul Bunyan Day is celebrated annually on June 28.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 28 | Saturday |
| 2026 | June 28 | Sunday |
| 2027 | June 28 | Monday |
| 2028 | June 28 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | June 28 | Thursday |
| 2030 | June 28 | Friday |
Observed
National Paul Bunyan Day is observed across the United States with activities like reading folklore stories, visiting statues of Paul and Babe, or enjoying hearty pancake breakfasts—an homage to the lumberjack’s legendary appetite.
Fun Facts About Paul Bunyan
- As a baby, Paul was so large that five storks were needed to deliver him.
- The Grand Canyon is said to have been formed when Paul dragged his axe behind him.
- Legend claims Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes were created by the footprints of Paul and Babe during a snowstorm.
- Babe the Blue Ox was reportedly a gift from fellow woodsmen Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone.
Quiz
- What is the name of Paul Bunyan’s blue ox?
- Who first popularized Paul Bunyan in print?
- What U.S. state claims to have been shaped by Paul Bunyan’s footprints?
Answers:
- Babe
- William B. Laughead
- Minnesota
FAQs
What is Paul Bunyan famous for?
Paul Bunyan is famous for his superhuman feats as a lumberjack, such as clearing forests and creating natural landmarks like rivers and mountains.
Where is National Paul Bunyan Day celebrated?
It is celebrated across the U.S., particularly in states like Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, and California.
Why celebrate National Paul Bunyan Day?
The day honors American folklore and celebrates creativity, humor, and storytelling traditions.
Related
- Davy Crockett
- Johnny Appleseed
- Pecos Bill
- Tall Tales
- American Folklore