Laura DeForce Gordon Day

Laura DeForce Gordon Day 2026
August 15, 2026 | 3:00–5:00 PM
The Woman’s Club
325 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240

Slap on your fancy hat and loosen your bustle—Laura DeForce Gordon Day 2026 is a playful, thoughtful, and community-centered celebration honoring one of Lodi’s boldest historical figures.

Held each summer on the Saturday closest to August 17, Laura DeForce Gordon’s birthday, this lively event blends history, humor, and hands-on fun in the heart of downtown Lodi. Families, first-timers, and longtime locals are all welcome.

About the Celebration
When Laura DeForce Gordon arrived in Lodi in 1870, it was a rough-edged railroad town. As a journalist, speaker, suffragist, and reformer, she challenged the norms of her day—calling out corruption, advocating for temperance, and demanding a voice for women.
Laura DeForce Gordon Day celebrates that fearless spirit with games, laughter, and meaningful moments that bring history to life. Expect inspiring presentations, guffaws of delight, and activities designed to get everyone moving, thinking, and connecting.

What to Expect
Silly, purpose-driven games like the Booing Contest and Legislative Obstacle Course
Thoughtful storytelling and historical context
Costumed guides and visits to historic downtown sites
A festive, welcoming atmosphere rooted in local pride
The games are intentionally playful—because civic courage, cooperation, and community don’t have to be stuffy.

Root Beer, Hats & History
Every paid admission includes a classic A&W Root Beer float from Lola’s Saloon, a nod to Lodi’s role in A&W history and Laura’s temperance work
Hats are sold at Mary Tindell’s Hat Shoppe, honoring a late-1800s Sacramento Street business

Programming thoughtfully acknowledges difficult chapters of local history, including anti-Chinese racism of the era, developed in consultation with the local Chinese-American community—so history is explored, not erased

Tickets & Support
Tickets are nonrefundable
Proceeds support Explore Lodi’s historical walking tours, presentations, research, and outreach

Event details available at www.ExploreLodi.org

Come ready to play, learn, and rediscover the heart of downtown Lodi—because people who play together, stay together.