Walk on Stilts Day

Walk on Stilts Day celebrates a unique form of movement often seen at circuses, festivals, and parades. Did you know stilts have been used since ancient Greece in the 6th century BCE? People would stand on elevated poles fastened with a system of straps for both practicality and performance.

History

Stilts have been around for centuries, evolving into various types such as hand-held, spring, peg, articulated, and finger-shaped stilts. In medieval Belgium, people used stilts for walking across muddy terrain and even in jousting tournaments. However, in the 15th century, the Count of Namur banned the use of stilts at public events and workplaces.

In France, shepherds relied on stilts to move through swampy fields. Although the practical use of stilts declined in the 19th century as landscapes changed, they remained popular in cultural events and agricultural games. Today, stilts are primarily used in entertainment and festivals, especially in countries like Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Interesting Facts

• In California, aluminum stilts are still used in farming and construction work, such as ceiling installation and drywall repair.
• Brooklyn’s Moko Jumbie stilt walkers wear elaborate robes and perform on stilts as tall as 17 feet.
• Stilts have found diverse applications over time—in art, agriculture, and even architecture and repair work.
• Members of Empress Josephine’s entourage traveled on stilts to keep pace with horse-drawn carriages.
• In the London Marathon, some participants race on stilts. Michel Fournier famously completed the marathon on stilts in just over 6.5 hours.

How to Take Part

The best way to celebrate is to try walking on stilts yourself. Start with a beginner-friendly pair from a sporting goods store. If you’re not ready to try, attend a theatrical performance or festival featuring stilt walkers. Gather friends for a fun outdoor meet-up, or watch recordings of stilt marathons and circus acts for inspiration.

When is Walk on Stilts Day in 2025?

Walk on Stilts Day is observed annually on July 27.

Observations