Paul Bunyan Days in Fort Bragg 2024, California

Paul Bunyan Days is an annual event held in Fort Bragg, California, celebrating the legendary folklore figure Paul Bunyan. This lively festival brings together locals and visitors from far and wide to honor the tall tales of this larger-than-life lumberjack. Paul Bunyan Days in Fort Bragg is a cherished tradition that captures the spirit of the region's rich logging heritage, offering a fun-filled weekend for all ages to enjoy.

Events & Activities

Highlights of the weekend include the Belle of the Redwoods contest, where participants dress in "old fashioned" or theme-appropriate attire and sell raffle tickets, and the Kiddie Parade on Saturday, September 2, at 11 AM. The event also includes the Forestland Expo, Gem & Mineral Show, Horseshoe Tournament, and Kangaroo Kort. Additional attractions are the Library Book Sale, Model Trains exhibit, Old Fashion Dress Review, Pie Sale, Ugly Dog (and more) contests, Trike Races, Fireman's Water Fight, and a Classic Car Show. The Art and Crafts Fair rounds out the festivities, making Paul Bunyan Days a must-attend celebration in Fort Bragg. Visitors can also enjoy live music, delicious foods, and artisan booths showcasing local crafts.

Logging Show (September 3, 2024)

The Paul Bunyan Days Logging Show is an exhilarating event held on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend. Residents from Mendocino, Humboldt, Lake, and Sonoma counties gather to compete for generous prize money and to showcase their remarkable logging skills. The contests feature thrilling events such as Axe Throw, Single Buck Handsaw, Obstacle Pole Powersaw, and Jack and Jill Handsaw, among others. This competition highlights the strength and expertise of the participants, making it a must-see event for all attendees.

Labor Day Parade (September 4, 2024)

The Labor Day Parade during Paul Bunyan Days is a highlight of the festivities, drawing a vibrant crowd as participants and onlookers line the streets to witness the spectacle. The parade features stunning floats, marching bands, community organizations, and local businesses, all celebrating the legendary Paul Bunyan in a display of creativity and community spirit. Always held on Labor Day, the parade begins at noon, with participants checking in at the Pine Street Skunk Train parking lot at 10 am.

History of Paul Bunyan Days in Fort Bragg

Paul Bunyan Days has been a cherished tradition in Fort Bragg since 1939. Paul Bunyan, a giant lumberjack and folk hero in American and Canadian folklore, is known for his superhuman feats. He is typically accompanied by Babe the Blue Ox, his loyal companion. Originating from the oral tales of North American loggers, Paul Bunyan's legend was later popularized by freelance writer William B. Laughead in a 1916 promotional pamphlet for the Red River Lumber Company.