Lumberjack Day

Lumberjack Day is celebrated every year on September 26. On this day, the lumberjack is honored in the traditional way—a rugged, strong figure with a beard and big hands. The holiday was created in 2005 by Marianne Ways and Colleen A. F. Venable, who wanted an excuse to throw a party with friends. Since then, Lumberjack Day has become a fun annual tradition.

History

Why lumberjacks? A week before Lumberjack Day, International Talk Like a Pirate Day is celebrated. Ways and Venable wanted to invent another colorful character for a themed celebration. Surprisingly, their idea quickly caught on, and the holiday spread across the United States.

Interesting Facts

• Lumberjacks are common in North America. Their main responsibilities include felling and transporting trees, as well as processing harvested lumber.
• Real lumberjacks often live in forest camps designed specifically for their work.
• The first lumberjacks lived and worked in Scandinavia, the United States, and Canada. The profession has been around for more than a century.
• The work is physically demanding, but modern equipment has made the job easier. In the past, lumberjacks relied on saws and axes, while today they use power tools.

How to Take Part

If you know a lumberjack, make pancakes for them—it’s a classic treat. Host a lumberjack-themed party with flannel shirts, boots, and beer. Dress the part in jeans, suspenders, a flannel shirt, and sturdy boots. The holiday is widely celebrated in the United States, so you’re likely to find local events and activities to join.

When is Lumberjack Day in 2025?

Lumberjack Day is observed on September 26 each year.

Observations