Annual observance

Paul Bunyan Day

June 28 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-17

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Overview

Paul Bunyan Day, observed annually on June 28th, celebrates the legendary giant lumberjack of American folklore, known for his prodigious strength and incredible logging feats. Though not a federal holiday, it's a day to remember the tall tales of Paul Bunyan and his blue ox, Babe, which embody the spirit of American ingenuity, strength, and the vast wilderness, particularly significant in states with a logging history.

Observed each year on June 28, Paul Bunyan Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: Paul Bunyan Day, celebrated on June 28, honors the legendary giant lumberjack whose tales reflect American ingenuity and the spirit of the wilderness, particularly resonant in regions with rich logging histories. This observance serves as a reminder of the cultural heritage rooted in folklore and the camaraderie of communities shaped by the timber industry.

Origin and story

Paul Bunyan stories originated in the oral traditions of lumberjacks in the late 19th century before appearing in print in the early 20th century.

His most famous companion is Babe the Blue Ox, who is often depicted as being impossibly large, such as being "42 ax handles high and a cloud of smoke."

Quick facts

  • DateJune 28
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Share the story of Paul Bunyan Day on social and tag it with #paulbunyanday so others can join in.
  • Plan something small on June 28: a quick nod to Paul Bunyan Day with friends, family, or coworkers.
  • Bring the theme into your day—decorate a workspace, cook or bake something inspired by Paul Bunyan, or play music that matches the mood.
  • Share one fast fact about Paul Bunyan Day: Paul Bunyan stories originated in the oral traditions of lumberjacks in the late 19th century before appearing in print in the early 20th century.
  • Paul Bunyan Day lands on June 28 — host a quick nod with Friends, Families and snap a photo.

Fun facts

  • Paul Bunyan stories originated in the oral traditions of lumberjacks in the late 19th century before appearing in print in the early 20th century.
  • His most famous companion is Babe the Blue Ox, who is often depicted as being impossibly large, such as being "42 ax handles high and a cloud of smoke."
  • Many tales attribute the creation of various geographical features, like the Great Lakes or the Grand Canyon, to Paul Bunyan and his logging activities.

Sources and attribution

Primary note: Paul Bunyan stories originated in the oral traditions of lumberjacks in the late 19th century before appearing in print in the early 20th century.


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FAQ

When is Paul Bunyan Day?
It is observed on June 28 each year.
What is Paul Bunyan Day?
Paul Bunyan Day, observed annually on June 28th, celebrates the legendary giant lumberjack of American folklore, known for his prodigious strength and incredible logging feats. Though not a federal holiday, it's a day to remember the tall tales of Paul Bunyan and his blue ox, Babe, which embody the spirit of American ingenuity, strength, and the vast wilderness, particularly significant in states with a logging history.
How do people celebrate Paul Bunyan Day?
Share the story of Paul Bunyan Day on social and tag it with #paulbunyanday so others can join in.

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