Every year, on the first Saturday of November, people across the United States come together to celebrate National Bison Day.
It’s a day dedicated to honoring the American bison, a majestic creature that once roamed the plains in massive herds and now stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, restoration, and natural heritage.
If you’ve ever seen a bison up close, you’ll understand why it inspires such awe.
The Origin of National Bison Day
So, how did National Bison Day begin?
It all started as a grassroots effort by Native American tribes, conservationists, and wildlife advocates who wanted to bring attention to the bison’s cultural and ecological importance.
For centuries, Indigenous peoples viewed the bison as sacred, a giver of life that provided food, clothing, tools, and spiritual connection.
Their voices, combined with conservation groups like the National Bison Association and the Wildlife Conservation Society, helped push for official recognition.
In 2016, the National Bison Legacy Act was signed into law, officially naming the bison as the National Mammal of the United States.
That’s how National Bison Day became a nationally recognized day of remembrance and respect, a day that bridges culture, history, and environmental awareness.
🦬 Learn more about the National Bison Legacy Act on the U.S. Congress website.
Why the Bison Is a Cultural and Ecological Icon
For many Native American tribes, the bison symbolizes life, strength, and gratitude. It taught communities to live in balance with the land, taking only what was needed and giving back to nature in return.
From an ecological perspective, the bison plays a vital role in maintaining healthy grasslands.
Their grazing helps new plants grow, their hooves aerate the soil, and their movement across the land spreads seeds, all of which support biodiversity.
When we celebrate National Bison Day, we’re acknowledging its role in the larger web of life, which is a reminder that every creature has a purpose in sustaining the Earth’s balance.
From Near Extinction to a Symbol of Hope
It’s hard to believe that there was once a time when over 30 million bison roamed North America, and by the late 1800s, fewer than 1,000 remained.
Their near extinction was caused by mass hunting, westward expansion, and loss of habitat.
But this isn’t just a story of loss, it’s one of remarkable recovery. Thanks to conservationists, Indigenous tribes, and national parks, the bison population has made a powerful comeback.
Today, there are around 500,000 bison across the continent, many living in protected areas like Yellowstone National Park and tribal lands where efforts are ongoing to rewild and restore them.
This revival shows what can happen when humans take responsibility for their past and commit to change.
It’s proof that restoration is possible when people and nature work together.
🦬 You can learn more about bison restoration efforts from the InterTribal Buffalo Council.
How National Bison Day is Celebrated
Every year, National Bison Day is filled with community gatherings, ceremonies, and educational events that bring people closer to nature and history.
Tribal communities hold storytelling circles, honoring the bison through song, dance, and prayer.
Conservation organizations host events in national parks, where visitors can learn about the bison’s ecological role and cultural meaning.
Social media also plays a big part, with thousands joining the #NationalBisonDay campaign to share stories, photos, and reflections on why this animal matters.
How You Can Celebrate and Support National Bison Day
You don’t need to visit a national park to join in.
Here are a few ways you can take part:
- Visit a bison reserve or sanctuary near you.
- Support bison-friendly ranching and conservation programs.
- Share educational content on social media using #NationalBisonDay.
- Learn about Indigenous perspectives on stewardship and sustainability.
Every small action counts because celebrating this day is about awareness as much as it is about action.
In Conclusion
The bison is a living reminder of how nature endures and how life finds a way to restore itself even after devastation.
So when National Bison Day comes around, take a moment to honor this magnificent animal. Reflect on what it represents: strength, unity, and the deep bond between people and the planet.
Because when we protect the bison, we protect the very essence of wild America and the hope that future generations will still see herds roam freely under open skies.
🦬 Learn more and get involved at BisonCentral.com.