Bishop Mule Days calls for community

support to secure future of iconic event

 Bishop Mule Days, a cherished local tradition for more than half a century, faces an uncertain future. After facing pandemic challenges, changes in operations, and an unexpected revenue loss, event organizers now face a critical moment: and they are working to raise $100,000 to keep Mule Days going in 2025 and beyond.

“Support today can make the difference between keeping this event alive or losing it forever,” says Board President Amanda Tallman. “Every donation, big or small, brings us closer to our $100,000 goal and helps keep the Mule Days tradition alive for future generations. Your donation is tax-deductible, so please consider giving today to help make a difference.”

Bishop Mule Days, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, has grown from its 1970 beginnings as a humble one-day tribute to the packing community into a world-renowned, multi-day mule celebration. With hotel occupancy reaching as high as 92%, this signature event brings significant economic benefits to Bishop and Inyo County, drawing visitors from around the globe who contribute to the local economy year after year. Studies estimate that each dollar generated by Mule Days circulates six to eight times within the community, providing a crucial financial boost to local businesses as summer visitation begins.

The current situation is serious. The volunteer Mule Days Board is now at a turning point, working to raise the funds needed to keep the event going. Executive Director Donna Bird, involved with Mule Days as a volunteer and now leads as its sixth-ever manager, speaks passionately about the event’s importance. “Many people do not remember a Bishop without a Mule Days,” she says.  “Bishop and Mule Days are synonymous, with Bishop being recognized worldwide as the Mule Capital of the World.”

Bird explain that the pandemic, fairground changes, and some missteps created today’s financial challenge. They reassure the community that the Board is committed to fixing these issues and ensuring a solid future.

The path forward requires a collaborative effort. With support from local stakeholders and community leaders, the Mule Days Board is actively working on plans for a sustainable future. A final contract agreement with Tri-County Fair Interim CEO Mike Francesconi is underway, and a scalable event budget is in development to allow for a successful 2025 celebration.

“Our community has a history of grassroots support that has sustained numerous local institutions and services,” says Bird. “Even small donations can help make a big impact for Mule Days.”

The Board recognizes that their appeal comes when many may face financial strain, particularly with the holiday season approaching. Yet they are hopeful, drawing inspiration from Mule Days’ early years, when founder Bob Tanner rallied neighbors and small businesses to support the event, literally $10, $20, and $50 at a time. The Mule Days Board invites community members and supporters to contribute what they can to keep this iconic tradition alive.

“Great events are not always built on a handful of corporate checks,” Tanner once said. “Neighbors build great events. That’s what built Mule Days.”

To donate or learn more about how to help, please call (760) 872-4263 and speak with Donna Bird, executive director.  Donations can also be made through the Mule Days website www.muledays.org.