Mule Day: A Columbia, TN Tradition
Mule Day, scheduled for April 8-11, is an annual celebration of all things related to mules and is held in Columbia, TN, the “Mule Capital” of the world. Begun in 1840 as “Breeder’s Day,” a meeting for mule breeders, it now attracts over 200,000 people and takes place over four days. In addition to mules, traditional Appalachian food, music, dancing, and crafts are featured. Mule Day celebrations have included square dancing, mule-driving contests, horse shows, crafts festivals, and flea markets. Other events include “working mule,” “best of breed,” or even lumberjack competitions. Bring your appetite so you can be sure to enjoy some of the great food served at the event including barbecue, roasted corn, home-made pies and funnel cakes. Since 1934, the festival has been highlighted by a Mule Day Parade, selection of the Mule Day Queen and the annual mule pull contest. If you’ve never been, you need to go!