Iconic Annual Event returns to Bishop!

55^th Annual Mule Days Celebration

 

It was 1970 when after a heavy snow year, local area Pack Station owners launched the first ever Mule Day at the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Now celebrating its 55^th year, the Celebration is a 6-day long event that takes a team of volunteers the entire year to plan and prepare. Bringing mules, (and not to forget, donkeys!) from all over the United States, fans come from around the world to witness the fun and enjoy the comraderie of the mule family all in the majestic setting at the base of Mt. Tom.

 

Mule Days truly has inspired a whole new generation of competitors, fans and supporters, thanks to the humble American mule that brings us all together. Many may not know that mules have served humans in many capacities throughout our history, from standing beside our military men and women in the jungles of Burma in World War ll, to the mountains of Afghanistan; from the movement west as Americans sought their fortunes to the mines of the Comstock Lode; from the fields of discovery and science as California mapped its features to John Muir’s explorations of the mighty Sierra; from the agrarian fields of the southern United States to the crystal clear lakes visited by fun seekers to the high country, mules have been there carrying the load or shouldering the burden.

 

It’s really only been in the last 4 decades that mules have become so widely recognized for their versatility for pleasure and competition. At Mule Days you’ll see everything from packing scrambles to dressage classes. (Dressage is the classical style of horsemanship often associated with the Lipizzaner’s of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna – something of an equine version of gymnastics!). Mules and their people will be driving farm equipment displaying historical pieces of equipment that have been used for centuries to grow food or build roads, testing their driving skills while simultaneously handling pioneer machinery. Add to this Western, English, fast paced Gymkhana events, roping, cutting, reining and ranch versatility are fun to watch! You’ll be surprised by the athletic ability of the mules, the ‘try hard’ spirit of the donkeys, and the adoration of their owners and riders.

 

Mule Days is proud of its history of innovated ideas, from packers building a house in the arena with equipment and supplies all packed in on mules to the thrilling youth and collegiate competitions of today. Today’s “I Want to be a Packer” events give the spirit of competition and the love of mule’s opportunity to the kiddos, while passionate instructors bring to life the potential in young students both athletically but also in equine husbandry. Honestly, you’ll rarely find a more trustworthy and loyal bond than between a child and mule. For that matter, many of us adults find the same bond! Not to forget the ‘older’ students, Mule Days Collegiate program brings college students from university and college campus’ around the State to compete with mules in comedy and packing events as well as the parade. Watching these college age students connect with their teammates, mule companions and the mule world has been extremely rewarding for all involved. The sportsmanship, love of the outdoor ethic that is inspired by college students moving into summer jobs ensures that our future is strong, and the young Americans of today will be future leaders and keepers of the flame who understand the value of the western way of life.

 

We would be remiss if we did not mention the longstanding appearance of America’s only 20 Mule Team jerk-line hitch driven by Bobby Tanner. Bobby, who sadly passed last year, will be remembered in a stirring tribute to him and his family on Saturday in the arena. While we will not get to see the 20 Mule team in action this year, the beautiful replica Borax Wagons, owned by the Death Valley Conservancy and housed at the Laws Railroad Museum will be on display in the Douglas Robinson Building for all to see. There will be a curated video to explain how the wagons came to be, how they were built, the many appearances throughout the Nation they have made and how Bobby piloted the wagons with mules.

Mule Days is also grateful for the tremendous support received by hundreds of donors who come together over the past winter to participate in fundraising efforts to assist Mule Days in moving forward to the future. We couldn’t have done it without the many fans, supporters, volunteers and businesses who have stood steadfastly by over the years to ensure this “Greatest Mule Show on Earth” lives on. A recent fundraising BBQ brought many together for good cheer, good food and a ‘kickoff’ of sorts for the show. Thanks to many volunteers and businesses this event was tremendously successful.

 

There are so many things for locals and visitors alike to enjoy at Mule Days, be sure to pick up the Souvenir Magazine for schedules and details. Available this week in businesses, at the Souvenir Store on the grounds, and from Inyo-Mono 4-H members who will be selling them during the show you’ll want to add this beautiful magazine to your collection. Tickets are still available for the Special shows – Friday and Saturday night as well as Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Other ticketed events include the Thursday evening Concert with the ever-popular Dave Stamey and the annual Friday night Dance with Justin Lawrence & the Double Average Band. Of course, the annual Mule Days Parade on Main St. Saturday morning is a crowd favorite.

 

All other shows, vendor booths, clinics, and activities are free to all. Don’t miss the live saddle building demonstration in the vendor area where you can purchase tickets to win the saddle on Sunday, May 25^th, with a portion of proceeds to support Mule Days 501(C)3 organization.

 

Information on all activities can be found in the Magazine, by calling the office at 760-872-4263 or by checking our website, www.muledays.org

 

We’ll see you at the Eastern Sierra Tri-County Fairgrounds, May 20^th – 25^th!

 

 

“World famous Packing Scrambles are a popular crowd pleaser! “

Another crowd favorite, the “Range of Light Mules” pay tribute to our Veterans and especially those we honor on Memorial Day who have given the “last full measure of devotion” for their Nation.

Photo credits courtesy of Mule Days collection