ANGELS CAMP, Calif. — In a spirited homage to Mark Twain’s enduring tale, “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County,” local government employee Jeff Hand secured second place in this year’s Calaveras County Employee Frog Jump, a highlight of the annual Calaveras County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee.
Held annually since 1928, the Jumping Frog Jubilee draws inspiration from Twain’s 1865 short story, which catapulted the author to fame and put Angels Camp on the literary map. The event, steeped in Gold Rush-era charm, attracts thousands of visitors each May to witness amphibians compete in leaps and bounds.
Hand’s frog, affectionately named “hugribbit,” achieved an impressive combined jump distance of 11′ 7.5″ inches, narrowly missing the top spot. Jeff Hand said,
“It was a cold day and the frogs were lethargic”
showcasing the competitive spirit and training dedication of participants.
“It’s an honor to be part of a tradition that blends community spirit with a nod to our literary heritage,”
Hand remarked.
“Every jump is a tribute to Twain’s legacy and the vibrant history of Calaveras County.”
The Jubilee not only celebrates frog-jumping prowess but also emphasizes animal welfare. Frogs are cared for in a “Frog Spa” between events, ensuring their well-being throughout the competition. Strict guidelines are in place to protect the amphibians, including limitations on the number of jumps per day and the provision of calming environments.
As the community of El Dorado County reflects on this year’s Jubilee, Hand’s achievement stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of local traditions and the stories that inspire them.
For more information on the Calaveras County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee, visit frogtown.org.
— Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (April 14, 2025)
