Happy Goose Day

Since:
🥂 1786

It’s like Michaelmas, but with extra honk and ganderl! 🪿🪶🎉

What the Honk is Goose Day?

Every year, on September 29, the world (or at least parts of it) takes a collective gander at an unusual but delightful tradition called Goose Day.
For centuries this celebration has brought together communities with feathered festivities, goose feasts and a whole lot of honking good times.
This day, also known as Michaelmas, has its roots in medieval England when geese were used to pay rent.
So, if you’re looking for an excuse to get your goose on, this is it.

The Origins of Goose Day: How It All Hatched

The tradition goes back to medieval England, where Michaelmas (September 29) was celebrated as the feast day of St. Michael.
Goose was traditionally served on this day as a lucky charm to ensure wealth and prosperity through the colder months.
If you had goose for dinner, you were *golden* for winter.

This feathered tradition flew across the Atlantic to the United States, where a Dutchman named Andrew Pontius and his tenant, Archibald Hunter, solidified a new tradition in the Juniata River Valley by settling their accounts with a plump goose.
Their contract stipulated that rent would be paid on September 29. Hunter, believing in the good luck of geese, presented Pontius with a plump goose as payment.
By 1973, Mifflin County officially celebrated Goose Day, followed by Juniata County following suit in 1976.

Today, Goose Day is still going strong, especially in Pennsylvania, where it’s celebrated with fairs, parades and, of course, goose-themed meals.
While the feasting element has always been a big draw, there’s a growing movement to reframe the day as one that’s about appreciating the natural beauty of geese.

The Ethics of Goose Day

As we celebrate Goose Day, it’s worth pondering the ethics behind our festivities.
Is it fair to honor these majestic birds by turning them into dinner?
As much as we love a good celebration, not everyone is comfortable with the idea of cooking a goose in the name of tradition.
While it was once seen as a symbol of good fortune, today we know that factory farming can be less than kind to our feathered friends.

Goose Day can be a positive force for change if it is celebrated by protecting their habitats, supporting sustainable practices and spreading awareness about their vital role in ecosystems.
After all, celebrating doesn’t have to come at the expense of our feathered friends.

Why Geese Deserve All the Honks and Hype

Geese are more than just honking birds.
There are many reasons to appreciate geese.

Geese are highly intelligent animals. They have excellent memories and are known for their problem-solving abilities.
Geese are very social creatures that form strong bonds with their family members and flock mates. Geese mate for life and are fiercely protective of their families. When they find their goose soulmate, they’re in it for the long waddle.
These birds are incredibly resilient, thriving even in cold climates.
Geese play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by grazing on aquatic plants and spreading seeds, helping to maintain healthy wetlands and grasslands.
Ever noticed how geese fly in a V-formation? This clever strategy reduces air resistance and conserves energy, showcasing their teamwork and cooperation.
Geese are natural watchdogs. They’ve been used for centuries to protect everything from farms to military outposts. They were even used by the Romans to guard their temples!
Need a natural lawnmower? These birds will happily keep your grass and weeds in check, without the need for electricity or harmful chemicals.
Goose eggs are larger and richer in flavor compared to chicken eggs, perfect for a gourmet omelet.

Feathers, Fun and Festivities

Ready to celebrate Goose Day in a way that won’t ruffle too many feathers?

Grab some binoculars and spend a day at your nearest park, lake or nature reserve to appreciate these elegant (yet occasionally grumpy) waterfowl.
Learn cool stuff about the world of geese by reading books, watching documentaries or even visiting a local wildlife sanctuary.
Support local wildlife organizations that protect geese and other water birds.
Cook a goose-inspired dish, such as a vegetarian gooseberry tart, a wild rice pilaf with gooseberries or goose shaped cookies.
If you insist on eating a real goose, please opt for locally-sourced, free-range geese to reduce your carbon webbed-footprint.
Join a local Goose Day event like a rubber duck race or a goose-themed bike ride.
Participate in eco-friendly activities like a community clean-up or a tree-planting event in honor of Goose Day.
Host your own Goose Day party with friends and family, complete with goose trivia and games.
Share photos, memes, poems and videos of your Goose Day activities. Extra points if you manage to get a selfie with an actual goose—just, you know, keep a safe distance. These beasts can get *really* territorial! Don’t forget to use #gooseday and #happygooseday to join the global conversation.

Whether you go traditional, modern or completely rogue with your festivities, this holiday is yours to make your own.
And if anyone questions your bold choices, just tell them Wild Calendar gave you permission and tell them to waddle on over and join the fun.
After all, life’s too short to be a sitting duck!

Honk, Waddle, Repeat!

From medieval England to modern Pennsylvania and now the world, Goose Day is loud, proud and always in formation.
Whether you’re feasting, birdwatching or wobbling around like a goose, Goose Day is your chance to let loose, connect with nature and maybe even spark a new holiday tradition with friends and family.
Honk if you’re ready, spread your wings and have a flapping good time!

Happy Goose Day!