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Where It's At
The small town of Hoquiam, on the Olympic Peninsular
in Grays Harbour County, is host to the Annual Loggers
Play Day every September. Hoquiam was originally the site
of a Native American Indian village, but white settlers were
attracted to the area by the abundance of giant trees. Hoquiam
means 'hungry for wood' and logging has been the areas main
stay industry since the 1850s. The Indians named it after
the volume of timber that used to float down the river into
Grays Harbour.
What Happens at the Loggers Play Day?
This annual event pays homage to the history and skills of
the logging community in Hoquiam while providing a fun competitive
day out for all the family. Start the day with a logger's
breakfast, then head down to watch the truck driving competition
and parade, before making your way to the Olympic Stadium
for the evening's entertainment.
Lumberjacks travel from all over the country to compete
in the night time activities such as binder (axe)
throwing, saw bucking, and obstacle pole bucking.
The highlight is probably the choker setting contests
where competitors race over logs and through water and try
to keep their balance on a floating log. You'll see many competitors
landing with a bump, getting very wet, and generally working
up a sweat.
End the evening with a traditional ho down. It's a real 'man's
man' event with a great, fun atmosphere. Stay the night at
the Hoquiam Castle, formerly the home to a lumber baron.
Each room has been uniquely themed.
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