Twin Peaks Day

Twin Peaks Day is celebrated annually on February 24. This date commemorates the fictional arrival of Special Agent Dale Cooper in the town of Twin Peaks, Washington, as depicted in the pilot episode of the landmark television series. Fans and residents of the filming locations use this day to honor the artistic legacy of creators David Lynch and Mark Frost, focusing on the show’s unique blend of mystery, Americana, and surrealism.

History of Twin Peaks Day

The significance of the date stems directly from the show’s script, where Agent Cooper records a memo to his assistant, Diane, noting his entry into the town at 11:30 a.m. on February 24, 1989. While the show originally premiered in 1990, the specific date within the narrative became a focal point for the fan community. Over the years, unofficial gatherings and online tributes grew in scale as the series maintained a significant cult following and influenced a new generation of television storytelling.

The transition from a fan-led observance to an official holiday occurred in 2018. The mayors of Snoqualmie and North Bend, Washington—the primary filming locations for the series—issued official proclamations declaring February 24 as Twin Peaks Day. This formal recognition highlighted the show’s enduring impact on local tourism and its role in immortalizing the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Today, the holiday serves as the centerpiece for “The Real Twin Peaks” weekend, attracting visitors from around the world to the region.

Why is Twin Peaks Day important?

This day serves as a global celebration of unconventional creativity and the enduring power of cult television. Twin Peaks changed the landscape of the medium by introducing cinematic production values, non-linear narratives, and a distinct visual style to network audiences. By observing this day, enthusiasts validate the importance of avant-garde art in popular culture and the way a single story can build a dedicated, international community that lasts for decades.

For the local communities in Washington, the day is an essential economic and cultural touchstone. It bridges the gap between the fictional world and the real towns of the Snoqualmie Valley, supporting small businesses like diners and gift shops that were featured in the series. The holiday also provides a dedicated time for fans to discuss the complex themes of the show, such as the duality of human nature and the mysteries of the natural world, ensuring the dialogue around the series remains active and relevant.

• The date marks the official start of the investigation into the Laura Palmer mystery
• It recognizes the specific filming locations that have become legendary landmarks
• Fans use the day to appreciate the atmospheric musical scores of Angelo Badalamenti
• The holiday encourages the preservation of mid-century American diner culture
• It celebrates the career and visionary direction of the late David Lynch

How to Celebrate Twin Peaks Day

Many people celebrate by consuming the specific foods made famous by the show, particularly cherry pie and “damn fine” cups of black coffee. Visiting a local diner to sit at a counter mimics the experience of the characters and supports the hospitality industry. For those near the Pacific Northwest, attending organized fan festivals often includes guided tours of the Double R Diner, the Great Northern Hotel, and the iconic bridge where Ronette Pulaski was found, allowing for a tangible connection to the production.

For fans at home, hosting a viewing marathon of the original two seasons, the prequel film, or the 2017 limited series is a common tradition. Some participants choose to dress as their favorite characters, such as the Log Lady or Agent Cooper, and share their costumes on social media using the holiday’s hashtag. Engaging in creative activities like drawing “Red Room” inspired art or participating in trivia contests also helps maintain the community spirit regardless of one’s geographic location.

• Eat a slice of cherry pie at a local diner or bake one at home
• Record a mock voice memo to Diane about your daily activities
• Listen to the show’s soundtrack to enjoy its moody and ethereal jazz
• Wear a Douglas Fir pin or dress in 1980s Pacific Northwest attire
• Watch the pilot episode at exactly 11:30 a.m. to sync with the show

Twin Peaks Day Dates Table