Kansas celebrates its 164th birthday today, January 29th, marking the day in 1861 when it became the 34th state. Kansas Day originated in 1877 in Paola, Kansas, when a group of schoolchildren wanted to learn more about the state’s history and geography. This small initiative grew into the celebration we know today. While many Kansans observe Kansas Day, it isn’t an official state holiday like Memorial Day or New Year’s Day, so schools and businesses remain open.
After the success of the first celebration, the school decided to make January 29th a day dedicated to teaching about Kansas’ history. Alexander LeGrande Copely, the teacher who organized the first celebration, later became the superintendent of schools in Wichita and ensured that all schools in the state would observe Kansas Day. The celebration quickly gained popularity, spreading from the children to their parents and becoming a beloved state tradition.
Kansas Tourism provides a list of events happening across the state to celebrate Kansas Day.
