Barn Day
July 13, Sunday
What is a barn:
A barn is a farm building intended for storing grain, hay, equipment, and for housing livestock. In different countries and regions, barns have their own unique architecture, color, and features. In the United States, the most well-known are red wooden barns, often with white trim and roofs.
Purpose of the holiday:
Barn Day reminds us of the importance of agricultural heritage and the role of farming in shaping cultural identity. It promotes:
* preservation and restoration of historic barns;
* spreading knowledge about agrarian culture;
* fostering respect for farmers' labor and rural traditions.
How it is celebrated:
There are many ways to celebrate Barn Day:
* visit a historic farm or agritourism center;
* participate in a tour of old barns;
* draw, photograph, or restore a barn;
* learn more about barn construction and architecture in your region;
* spend the day outdoors or on a farm, helping with seasonal tasks.
Interesting fact:
The tradition of painting barns red dates back to the 18th century. Farmers used to mix lime, milk, and iron oxide (rust) to protect the wood from mold and insects. The result was a dark red paint that became the "classic" barn color.