National Hillbilly Day 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

National Hillbilly Day, observed on July 4, honours hillbilly culture and cherishes the traditions and ways of life of those who live in rural areas of the southern United States. Hillbillies have a reputation for living a drastically different lifestyle than urban and suburban residents.

The background of National Hillbilly Day

The term ‘hillbilly’ was frequently used to refer to the inhabitants of Kentucky and West Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains. The history of hillbillies is extensive and colourful.
Hillbillies are frequently characterised as simple country people who reside in rural, remote areas of the southern United States and are frequently disconnected from contemporary society. Hillbillies are also known for their fondness of moonshine, a homemade alcoholic beverage whose name derives from the fact that it was once illegal and the only way to escape being caught was to produce it at night. Additionally, the stereotypical hillbilly has a connection with nature and animals.

National Hillbilly Day is observed on July 4 and was conceived by the Ozark Mountain Jubilee, a 1930s radio programme that contributed to the term’s popularity. In 1955, A.B.C. began broadcasting a television adaptation of the show. National Hillbilly Day was established in 1971 at a festival in Bentonville, Arkansas, to raise funds for the establishment of the city’s first library.

Nowadays, when you think of hillbillies, you probably envision a different type of person, one who engages in drug use, commits domestic violence, and harbours resentment towards outsiders. In actuality, however, the majority of ‘hillbillies’ are kind and compassionate individuals.

National Hillbilly Day is an opportunity to celebrate the spirit, heritage, and culture of Appalachia and its inhabitants. It is a time to celebrate their rich tradition of bluegrass music, pigskin craftsmanship, and catfish capturing expertise.

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NATIONAL HILLBILLY DAY ACTIVITIES

Inform yourself

Visit museums or read literature about hillbilly culture. Understanding their history will enable you to refrain from stereotyping them.

Take a journey

You can also visit hillbilly regions such as Appalachia and West Virginia. You will have the opportunity to ask them about their culture and way of life when you encounter them. You may also wish to attend local festivals and other events that celebrate rustic customs.

Wear your finest hillbilly attire

As they spend the majority of their time outdoors cultivating the land, they are frequently depicted wearing tattered clothing and overalls. Gather with friends, take a road journey through the countryside, and listen to country music for a complete experience.

5 APPALACHIA FACTS YOU DIDN’T Know

The epithet ‘hillbilly’ originated with the Scottish-Irish settlers of the Appalachian Mountains in the 18th century.

The Appalachian mountains, along with the Alps and the Andes, belong to a group known as “ancient mountains.”

Appalachia spans 13 states and is home to approximately 25 million people of diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Since the 1800s, Appalachia has been a significant coal-producing region, employing generations of hardworking Americans.

It is a common misconception that Appalachia is synonymous with hillbillies and moonshine.

NATIONAL HILLBILLY DAY DATES