Maury County’s Mule Day

Columbia, Tenn., earned the title of Mule Capital of the World years ago. In the days before cars, tractors and other forms of automated transportation, people came from miles around to Columbia to buy, sell and trade this Beast of Burden – the Mule. Years later, we still gather in Maury County to pay tribute to the long-eared, four-footed creature.

Mule Day began many years ago but was discontinued during World War II. The Maury County Bridle and Saddle Club revived it in 1974. This year’s festivities will begin Monday, April 6 with a wagon train that lasts for three days. Wednesday is a mule auction at Maury County Park. Thursday at 10 a.m., the park opens with a Log-Loading Competition, followed by Special Entertainment beginning at 2:30. Friday the gates open at 10 a.m. and close with the live music and the Liar’s Contest at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 11 the famous Mule Day Parade gets underway promptly at 11 a.m. as parade goers eagerly await the arrival of the Grand Marshall signifying that Mule Day is officially here. After the parade, activities move to Maury County Park where everyone will enjoy mule pulling, mule shows, flea markets, arts and crafts and special entertainment for the whole family as well as plenty of tasty edibles.

Various other activities will be held at the park on Saturday afternoon including a knife auction beginning at 4 p.m. The Mule Day weekend wraps up on Sunday afternoon with a Riding Mule Show that proves to be entertaining to spectators and participants alike. Also plan to lend an ear to the Gospel Singing at 12 p.m. on the Main Stage. In addition to the regularly scheduled events, special attractions are always available for family entertainment. A large crowd is expected again this year. The Maury County Bridle and Saddle Club along with the Mule Day Committee wish to extend a special invitation to come join in the fun April 6 – April 12. For further information call the Mule Day Office at 931-381-9557 or visit MuleDay.com.

Photos by Bill Johnson