Family Fun Awaits at the Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee
The Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee is a yearly celebration of California’s gold rush history and one of their longest-running festivals. This grand celebration takes place the third weekend of May, in our neighboring town of Angels Camp, CA.
The event is just one of many fabulous events that take place in the Sierra Foothills. For more information on the area’s best activities and attractions, download our free Vacation Guide. This carefully curated guide will provide you with everything you need to plan the perfect Murphys and Sierra Foothills vacation.
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About the Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee
The Fair and Jubilee’s History
A local and visitor favorite, the Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee is one of the oldest events in the history of California. It began back in 1893 in Copperopolis and eventually made its permanent home in Angels Camp where it’s held today. The extravaganza takes its modern inspiration from the movie, “State Fair” by blending cultural entertainment, exhibits, animals shows, local food, and live music.
You may have heard of our famous jumping frog in a book written by the literary master himself, Mark Twain. Twain traveled to the unspoiled beauty of Calaveras County and stumbled upon the county fair festivities. From here, he got the inspiration for “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County” fable. This renowned short story brought his first success and national acclamation as a writer.
The Jumping Frogs of Calaveras
For more than 90 years, the Frog Jump has remained one of the most unique exhibits of the fair. The Frog Jump includes both fun and competitive jumps each day throughout the festival. The rigorous competition brings together frogs of all shapes and sizes to leap for the top prize. The contestants may choose to jump their frogs from the “for-fun” lily pad pond or for greatness in the qualifying waters. On the final day of the Frog Jump, the top 50 best jumpers are entered in the Grand Finals.
You are welcome to bring a frog or borrow one from the “Frog Spa” located at the fair. It is open every day during the festivities, so stop in for a tour. You don’t want to miss out!
The County Fair
Every year, the Calaveras County Fair attracts more than 35,000 attendees with its delightful exhibits, concerts, friendly competitions, carnival rides, games, and more. Whether you are interested in seeing the thrilling rodeo, police dog demonstrations, or baking competition, the perfect pastime awaits. The atmosphere of our county fair takes you back to a more personal time without the distractions of modern technology and entices you to make genuine face-to-face connections.
As you walk around the large fairgrounds, you can see how well the celebration highlights California’s past as a gold rush destination. From the wooden trains to the local art, the various exhibits bring to life one of the most influential times in our state’s history. The annual event continues to have remarkable success with yearly revenue of approximately $5.5 million and over 7,000 exhibits.
Continue the County Tradition and Stay at Our Charming California Inn
After your fun-filled days at Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee, make your way back to one of our cozy guest rooms at Courtwood Inn. As you look around our stunning retreat, you’ll notice little frog decorations tucked around our bed and breakfast to commemorate our area. You may even find a figurine in our rustic, charming log cabin. During your stay, you can take a break from the outdoors and find plenty of indoor activities around Murphys, CA. We can also recommend some of the best hidden gems in Calaveras County for a more intimate night out!
Check our availability and book your stay today! We look forward to hosting you!
