"Mule Day" in Columbia, Tennessee has been a tradition since around 1840, when the first Monday in April brought huge crowds to the animal livestock show and Mule Day Market (originally called 'Breeder's Day'). Mules were such a big business in Maury County, that at one time, the Columbia Mule Day had the distinction of being one of the largest livestock markets in the world.

Mule Day, with its festive air eventually evolved into what is now an almost week-long celebration of the mule. Thousands of visitors come to Columbia to take part in the numerous activities ranging from working mule and best of breed events, to horse shows, arts and crafts booths, and a flea market. The smell of barbecue specialties and homemade pies blends with the smoky aroma of roasted corn and funnel cake sweetness.

The highlight of the Mule Day festivities is the Mule Day Parade. The Parade is held on Saturday; entries are judged and cash prizes and ribbons are awarded in several categories.

For more information on the events, go to the Mule Day site at www.muleday.com.

Brochures with detailed information and locations of activities and rules and regulation can be obtained by calling the Mule Day Office, open beginning in January, Monday - Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., February, Monday - Thursday, March and April, Monday - Friday at (931) 381-9557 (24-hour recorder available), or write MULE DAY, P.O. BOX 66, Columbia, TN 38402.  You may also visit their web site at www.muleday.com.