“Oughta be showing this f**king thing, at Mule Days in Bishop” – Travis/Yellowstone 🤣
Somewhere between a rodeo, a festival, and a full-blown ode to mules, Bishop Mule Days is hands-down one of the quirkiest, most underrated events in the West. Held every Memorial Day Weekend in Bishop, California—a town that exists in that sweet spot between rugged cowboy culture and dirtbag climber paradise—this event is proof that mules are the ultimate underdog and that small-town America still knows how to throw a party.
So, if you thought rodeos were just for cowboys, think again. Dust off your boots, grab a drink, and prepare for six days of pure mule mayhem.
Why Mules?
Because mules rule, obviously. These half-horse, half-donkey powerhouses built the West, hauling supplies, navigating brutal terrain, and generally being tougher and smarter than your average horse. Mule Days celebrates their history, skill, and general badassery, proving that they’re more than just stubborn workhorses—they’re athletes, competitors, and absolute legends.
Still not convinced? Here’s why Bishop Mule Days is the best event you didn’t know you needed in your life.
1. The Wildest Parade You’ll Ever See
You’ve seen parades. But have you seen the world’s largest non-motorized parade? Instead of floats and high school marching bands, Mule Days delivers mules in full regalia, pulling wagons, packing gear, and showing off their best side-eye. It’s chaotic, it’s nostalgic, and it’s the closest you’ll get to stepping into an old-school Western.
2. Ridiculous (and Impressive) Mule Competitions
Think mules just stand around looking cute? Absolutely not. Mule Days is packed with events that showcase just how versatile (and sometimes completely unpredictable) these animals are:
🐴 Pack Scrambles – Wranglers scramble to load up their mules and race against each other before the mules inevitably decide they have their own agenda.
🐴 Driving Competitions – Watching mules expertly maneuver carts through obstacle courses is both impressive and deeply satisfying.
🐴 Barrel Racing – Just like the high-speed horse event, but with mules—and often, more attitude.
🐴 Jumping Contests – Yes, mules can jump. And they’re terrifyingly good at it.
3. Small-Town Americana at Its Best
Bishop Mule Days is pure small-town magic—the kind of place where people wave at each other on the street, the food is fried and delicious, and no one’s in a hurry unless they’re trying to catch a loose mule. You’ll find:
🥩 BBQ and cowboy breakfasts that put city brunch spots to shame.
🛍️ Craft vendors selling everything from leatherwork to mule-themed merch.
🤠 Locals who actually want to talk to you. Sometimes.
If your idea of a perfect weekend involves cold beer, good food, and zero pretense, you’ll feel right at home.
4. Nightlife, But Make It Western
When the sun sets, the party doesn’t stop. Mule Days brings live music, cowboy poetry, and enough country and bluegrass to make you consider buying a hat (if you don’t already own one). Whether you’re two-stepping at the dance, laughing at the comedy shows, or just kicking back with a drink under the stars, there’s something happening long after the mules have called it a night.
5. The Scenery Alone Is Worth the Trip
Even if you don’t care about mules (yet), Bishop is sitting in one of the most stunning places in California—wedged between the Sierra Nevada and the White Mountains, with views that make you want to quit your job and move into a van.
While you’re in town, take some time to:
🏔️ Explore the Buttermilks
✨ Visit the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
🎣 Go fishing in the Owens River
The list can go on an on. Mule Days is the excuse, but the Eastern Sierra is the real reward.
How to Do Mule Days Right
📅 When: Memorial Day Weekend (annually)
📍 Where: Bishop, California
🎟️ Tickets: Available online or at the event. (Pro tip: The parade is free, but ticketed events sell out fast.)
🏕️ Accommodations: Book early. Hotels and campgrounds fill up quickly. Or, embrace the full Western experience and camp.
🍲 Food: Road trip!
Final Verdict: Mule Days is Weird, Fun, and Absolutely Worth It
If you’re looking for something different, something weirdly wholesome, and something that might just make you a mule convert, Bishop Mule Days is it. It’s part history lesson, part rodeo, and part wild-ass competition between animals that don’t always feel like cooperating.
You’ll leave Bishop with a full stomach, a sunburn, and a completely new respect for mules—and, you’ll def be back next year.
See you in Bishop. 🤙🏼
