When most people find out that February 26th is observed as Levi Strauss Day, they tend to just shrug their shoulders and think of it as just an excuse for them to wear jeans to work. However, we have to say that there is a lot more to this holiday than that.

This day celebrates the history of the iconic American company that brought a product to the world that would not only give people something comfortable to wear but would also be imbued with symbolism.

During the 19th century, blue jeans became the symbol of cowboys and workers, and during the 1950s and 60s, they became the symbol of youth rebellion. So it’s easy to see that this day isn’t just about blue jeans but is also about American culture and history.

The History of Levi Strauss Day

On February 26, 1829, Levi Strauss was born in Bavaria. When he was just 18 years old, he moved to the U.S. with his family and ended up working as a dry goods wholesaler in San Francisco, California.

During this time, he sold a variety of clothing, bedding, and supplies to settlers — many of whom had come to take part in the California Gold Rush. Miners had a hard time finding clothing that could last more than a few months under the harsh conditions of mining.

That changed when tailor Jacob W. Davis was approached by the wife of a woodcutter who wanted Davis to make a pair of work pants for her husband. Davis took the denim he bought from Levi Strauss and used it to make pants that were strengthened with copper rivets.

When word of the durability of these pants began to spread, Davis soon had more demand for his product than he could keep up with. This is when he reached out to Strauss for financial backing in the filing of a patent application. Strauss agreed, and the two men formed the company Levi Strauss & Co.

Unfortunately, at this time, we’re unable to find out who invented this holiday or when it was first observed. All that we know is that it was placed on February 26th because that’s the date when Levi Strauss was born in 1829.

Observing Levi Strauss Day

Learning more about Levi Strauss and the history of blue jeans is one way for people to observe this holiday. Another way is for people to wear their favorite Levi Strauss & Co. denim products. And people can also take the time to spread the word about this holiday using the hashtag #LeviStraussDay on social media.