Experience one of Calaveras County’s most beloved fall traditions at annual Lumberjack Day in West Point, California, held the first Saturday of October and known as the “Biggest Little Celebration in the Mother Lode.” Celebrating more than 40 years of community spirit and the history of the Calaveras County lumber industry, this family-friendly event brings locals and visitors together for a full day of classic small-town fun, live entertainment, and exciting competitions.
Highlights include the county’s largest parade, a Northern California soap box derby, the popular Lawn Chair Brigade, a classic and vintage car show, horseshoe competition, local vendors, food, and the highly anticipated lumberjack show featuring competitors from across the United States. Watch skilled lumberjacks and lumberjills compete in axe throwing, chainsaw events, hot rod saws, big timber competitions, choker setting, and Jack and Jill saw bucking. Families will also find plenty to enjoy, including a climbing wall, face painting, bounce houses, a free petting zoo, and even a dunk tank. Start the day early with the 7:00 a.m. pancake breakfast at the VFW Auxiliary Hall, followed by the 8:30 a.m. soap box derby, the crowning of the Lumberjack Day King and Queen Scholarship winners at 9:30 a.m., the colorful 11:00 a.m. parade, the 12:30 p.m. horseshoe competition, and the 1:00 p.m. logging show and axe throwing competition, which continue throughout the afternoon.
Whether you’re visiting Calaveras County for a fall getaway or looking for a fun local event, Lumberjack Day in West Point offers an authentic Mother Lode experience filled with history, humor, community pride, and family-friendly entertainment.
Call Emily Raper 209-256-5845 for more details about the festival, and Dorrie Klith 209-256-5845 for logging competition.
