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National Bison Day

Join us in celebrating National Bison Day - learn more about the history, conservation, and importance of these majestic animals!

Saturday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFirst Saturday in November

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYWildlife

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars for the First Saturday in November as it will be time to celebrate National Bison Day! This day honors one of North America's most iconic animals, the American bison. It has been celebrated since 2013 and is a reminder of how important these animals are to our environment and our history. The American bison was once nearly wiped out due to overhunting, but with conservation efforts, there are now estimated to be more than 500,000 bison roaming the United States. So let’s take this special day to appreciate and honor these majestic creatures!

TIMELINE

National Bison Day Timeline

Bison Population Declines

During the 1800s, American bison were hunted to near extinction, with the population dropping from millions to just a few hundred.

American Bison Society Formed

The American Bison Society was formed in 1905 by William T. Hornaday and Theodore Roosevelt to prevent the extinction of the American bison.

Bison Return to Wind Cave National Park

In 1913, 14 bison were reintroduced to Wind Cave National Park, these animals became the founding herd for many other herds across the United States.

American Bison Society Reestablished

The Wildlife Conservation Society reestablished the American Bison Society in 2005, focusing on bison recovery in their historical range.

First National Bison Day

The inaugural National Bison Day was celebrated in 2013 to raise awareness and appreciation for the importance of the American bison.

Bison: The National Mammal

The American bison was designated as the National Mammal of the United States in 2016, solidifying its significance in American history and culture.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Bison Day

Visit a bison reserve

Take a trip to your local bison reserve and observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. You can learn about the history of bison and their role in shaping the landscape.

EAT

Eat bison burgers

Celebrate National Bison Day by eating a delicious bison burger! Bison meat is leaner than beef and has a slightly sweet flavor. It's a great way to show your appreciation for these animals.

WATCH

Watch a bison documentary

Gather around the TV and watch a documentary about the history and current status of bison in North America. Learn about the struggles they have faced and the efforts being made to conserve them.

SHOP

Shop for bison products

Support local businesses who use bison as an ingredient in their products. Check out online stores for bison jerky, steaks, and other delicious treats.

ORGANIZE

Organize a bison parade

Organize a parade in your community to celebrate National Bison Day! Encourage people to dress up like bison, decorate floats with images of bison, and march through the streets. It’ll be fun for everyone involved!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Bison Day

Bison is delicious

It's easy to see why bison has become so popular - its flavor profile is similar to that of steak, but it has a more robust, gamey taste. Whether grilled, roasted or pan seared, bison makes any meal into something special - so celebrate National Bison Day by trying some unique bison recipes!

Bison is a sustainable source of protein

Bison are an excellent source of high quality, lean protein. They are raised humanely and ethically on family farms and ranches, contributing to the sustainability of the entire food chain. Plus, bison meat is lower in fat and cholesterol than traditional beef, making it a healthy alternative for those searching for healthier options.

Bison supports local farmers

When you purchase bison products, you are directly supporting small family farms and helping to sustain a rural landscape that has been around for centuries. These farmers work hard everyday to ensure the health of their herds and ultimately provide high quality products with nutrient dense nutrition.

Related holidays

National Bison Month

Get ready to go wild this National Bison Month! From tasty recipes to conservation efforts, it's the perfect time to celebrate these majestic creatures.

National Prairie Day

Get ready to appreciate the beauty of America's prairies on National Prairie Day! Join in on conservation efforts, discover wildlife, and explore untouched landscapes.