Georgia Day (Oglethorpe Day)

Georgia Day (Oglethorpe Day) is observed on February 12. This day commemorates the anniversary of the arrival of James Oglethorpe and the first English settlers at Yamacraw Bluff in 1733. The landing marked the official founding of the colony of Georgia, the last of the original thirteen British colonies in North America.

History of Georgia Day (Oglethorpe Day)

The origins of the holiday date back to the colonial era, but it was formally established by the Georgia General Assembly in 1909. The legislation mandated that the anniversary of the 1733 landing be observed in public schools to educate students about state history. The expedition led by James Oglethorpe began in November 1732 when the ship Anne departed from England with 114 passengers. After a brief stop in South Carolina, the group reached the Savannah River and established the settlement that would eventually become the city of Savannah.

Oglethorpe envisioned the colony as a place of secondary chances for the “worthy poor” and as a buffer between the British Carolinas and Spanish Florida. Unlike many other colonial leaders of his time, Oglethorpe initially prohibited slavery and sought to treat the local Native American tribes with respect. He negotiated directly with Tomochichi, the chief of the Yamacraw Indians, to secure the land for the new settlement. Although the strict prohibitions on slavery and large landholdings were later overturned by the trustees, the early years of the colony were defined by these unique social experiments.

Why is Georgia Day important?

This day is significant because it recognizes the distinct humanitarian goals that shaped Georgia’s founding. The colony was unique for its early stances on social reform, including its status as the only one of the thirteen colonies to initially ban slavery. Observing the day allows for a focused study of the transition from a trustee-led philanthropic project to a royal province and, eventually, a sovereign state.

The holiday also highlights the cultural and architectural heritage of Savannah. The city’s famous grid of squares, designed by Oglethorpe, remains one of the best-preserved examples of colonial urban planning in the world. By celebrating this date, citizens and historians reflect on the multicultural contributions of early settlers, including religious refugees from Europe and the first Jewish congregation in the South, all of whom sought liberty in the new colony.

It marks the birth of the thirteenth British colony in North America.
The day honors the humanitarian spirit of founder James Oglethorpe.
It highlights the historical cooperation between settlers and the Yamacraw Indians.
The observance promotes the study of Georgia’s unique colonial planning.
It serves as a reminder of the state’s early anti-slavery roots.

How to Celebrate Georgia Day (Oglethorpe Day)

The most prominent celebration takes place in Savannah through the Georgia History Festival. This festival includes a large parade where thousands of costumed students and local organizations march through the historic squares to Yamacraw Bluff. Many participants dress in 18th-century attire to recreate the atmosphere of the original landing. In schools across the state, teachers organize special history projects, essay contests, and presentations focused on the symbols and history of the Peach State.

Local museums and historic sites, such as the Wormsloe State Historic Site or the Georgia Historical Society, often offer free admission or special demonstrations on this day. Families might visit the Oglethorpe Monument or explore the diverse wildlife found in Georgia’s coastal regions. At Oglethorpe University in Atlanta, students celebrate with a “Petrels of Fire” race, where they attempt to run around the campus quad before the carillon bells finish tolling at noon.

Attend the annual Georgia Day Parade in downtown Savannah.
Visit a state park or historic site to learn about colonial life.
Participate in educational programs hosted by the Georgia Historical Society.
Explore the historic squares of Savannah to see Oglethorpe’s city plan.
Read the stories of the original settlers who arrived on the ship Anne.