The world-renowned Calaveras County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee has a rich heritage dating back to the 1800’s. In the early Gold Mining Days, the Mother Lode Country was very prosperous. It attracted many industrious individuals looking for adventure. One such individual was Samuel Clemens who regularly made the trip from San Francisco to a small mountain cabin near Angels Camp. It was during one of Mr. Clemens’ trips that he heard a tale that inspired his first published work, “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County”. The story records the antics of a character named Jim Smiley and his frog Dan’l Webster. Mr. Clemens first published this story in 1865 and used his pen name, “Mark Twain”, and so the legend began. Today the adventure continues, we still jump frogs as part of the Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee, which is held annually the 3rd weekend in May. This “Old-Fashion County Fair” features exhibits, entertainment, rodeo, horse events, livestock exhibits and the best little carnival in the west. Everyone is your neighbor and you are hosted by the friendliest people on earth.
