History | frogjump

The Frog Jump

Mark Twain lived in a cabin south of Angels Camp. Legend has it that Twain overheard a story in a local tavern that insprired his first published work, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County". The City of Angels Camp held the first modern frog jump in 1928. It became part of the annual Fair in the 1930's. The Top 50 frogs qualify for the International Frog Jump Grand Finals, which are held every Sunday afternoon of the Jubilee. The current world's record was set in 1986 by Rosie the Ribeter. Rosie jumped 21' 53/4". The cash prize for breaking the world's record is $5,000.

The Frog Jump Competition begins on Thursday, the first day of the Jumping Frog Jubilee, annually. Contestants can choose to jump for fun on Rosie the Ribeter's Stage, or jump on the main stage to qualify for the finals. Jumping continues on Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning. The International Frog Jump finals are held on Sunday afternoon. The top 50 jumps from the four days of Fair will be entered into the Finals.

The frogs jumped at the Jubilee live in our "Frog Spa" during the four days of Fair. The Frog Spa is open for tours daily. Our Frogs are treated with the upmost care and respect. In 1933 the California Fish and Game Commission became involved in order to regulate and protect the welfare of the California bullfrog. In 1995 the Board of Directors of the 39th District Agricultural Association adopted the Frog Welfare Policy. Underscoring the Fairs commitment to treat our Frogs in a humane manner.

Professional Frog Teams travel from all over the state to compete. Past champions get to camp at our beautiful Frog Pond. If you are looking for some tips on how to jump, find one of our Frog Teams. They are true professionals!

The Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee is held the 3rd weekend every May. The Jubilee starts with a children's parade in downtown Angels Camp and ends with a Destruction Derby on Sunday evening. The Frog Jump is facilitated by a group of dedicated volunteers that meet monthly to plan the annual competition. If you would like to participate as a volunteer contact the Fair office or email laurie@frogtown.org