Bridge Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Bridge Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Bridge Day is celebrated on October 15th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Bridge Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you need know about Bridge Day.

📅 What day is Bridge Day 2024?

In 2024, Bridge Day is on Sunday, October 15th. It is the 3rd Sunday in October; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can discover all the exciting details and facts about October 15, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

If you’re someone who loves adventure, extreme sports, and getting an adrenaline rush, then Bridge Day is the perfect event for you. It takes place on the third Saturday of October every year, which falls on October 15th this year. Despite its name, Bridge Day is not about admiring the beauty of bridges around the world. Instead, it is an annual celebration held in Fayetteville, West Virginia, USA. During this event, hundreds of thrill-seekers gather to either watch or participate in various extreme sports, with many involving jumping off the New River Gorge Bridge. Each year, around 100,000 people visit Fayette County during the third weekend of October to take part in the Bridge Day festivities. The New River Gorge Bridge Day Commission is responsible for organizing the event and closing the bridge to cars for the entire day.

📜 Bridge Day History

The first Bridge Day took place in 1980 on the New River Gorge Bridge, attracting approximately 40,000 attendees. With the exception of 2001 and 2020, Bridge Day has been held on the third Saturday of October. This change was made in response to the September 11 attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic, respectively.

The event offers various activities, including risky BASE jumps, rappels, and white-water rafting. BASE stands for buildings, antennae, spans (bridges), and earth (cliffs), representing the different locations from which jumps can be made.

Bungee jumping used to be a popular part of Bridge Day, with Skip Stanley, also known as the Blue Bandit, becoming the first verified bungee jumper in 1985. However, bungee jumping was banned in 1994 due to the time-consuming process of retrieving jumpers.

Bridge Day has also been a platform for setting world records. In 1992, Chris Allum from New Zealand set the record for the longest bungee jump from a fixed structure. The following year, he and six others broke the record for the most people simultaneously bungee jumping from the bridge using a large basket.

✅ Bridge Day Facts

🔖 Join the 5K run
While running, you have the opportunity to appreciate the awe-inspiring sights of the stunning New River Gorge.

🔖 Go into the gorge
For a calmer and more visually appealing journey, consider taking the Fayette Station Road towards the Tunney Hunsaker Bridge. Along the way, you might catch sight of BASE jumpers and rappellers from a closer perspective.

🔖 Attend the chili cook-off
Each year, the Annual Bridge Day Chilli Cook-Off takes place in the charming Historic Downtown Fayetteville, offering the opportunity to taste the most exceptional chili creations from all around the region.

👍 Why Is Bridge Day Important

We can’t all be jumpers, but nothing beats watching others bravely leap off the bridge and float down to the lake. If nothing else, the enthusiasm around the bridge will remind you of the wonders of life.

We think that everyone must take chances from time to time, but it is critical that we have safety nets in place when we take big jumps in life. Bridge Day takes this to its logical conclusion. First-time jumpers should rest easy knowing that rescue boats are on the way in case something goes wrong.

Let’s face it: life may be tedious. Bridge Day urges us to break up with our routines at least once a year and to remember that life can be thrilling.

🙂 How To Observe Bridge Day

⚡ Experience the taste of Bridge Day
On the Friday prior to Bridge Day, visitors have the opportunity to get a preview of the excitement by participating in the Taste of Bridge Day. This involves exploring the best restaurants in the area, while being entertained with live music. Guests can also appreciate local artwork and immerse themselves in a vibrant atmosphere, all in anticipation of the thrilling events that await them on Bridge Day.

⚡ Jump off the bridge
Bridge Day is a special occasion that allows people to engage in BASE jumping within the US National Park System. It’s a perfect opportunity for individuals to fulfill their adventurous aspirations alongside a crowd of 100,000 others. However, if you’re new to jumping, there are certain requirements you must meet. These include having the essential equipment, completing a first jump course, and undergoing thorough training. The bridge’s impressive height, the option of landing in water, and the convenient access to training attract around 100 first-time jumpers each year.

⚡ Watch others jump off the bridge
Imagine the exhilaration of observing a bold plunge of more than 800 feet into the ocean. It’s truly a remarkable spectacle that you shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to witness.

📅 When is Bridge Day?

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We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about Bridge Day. So be sure to check back soon.