How to Visit the O. Henry House Pun Contest

The O. Henry House Pun Contest is not merely a whimsical gathering of wordplay enthusiasts—it is a cherished cultural tradition rooted in the legacy of William Sydney Porter, better known by his pen name, O. Henry. Celebrated annually in Austin, Texas, this unique event draws visitors from across the country who come to honor the master of the twist-ending short story through the art of the pun. While the name might sound like a playful riddle, the contest itself is a meticulously organized, historically rich experience that blends literary appreciation, community spirit, and linguistic creativity. For SEO professionals, content creators, and travel enthusiasts alike, understanding how to visit the O. Henry House Pun Contest offers more than just a fun day out—it provides a case study in niche event marketing, local heritage preservation, and audience engagement through experiential storytelling.

Unlike typical tourist attractions, the O. Henry House Pun Contest does not rely on billboards or paid ads. Its visibility stems from organic word-of-mouth, dedicated literary communities, and a carefully cultivated online presence that has grown over decades. This tutorial will guide you through every aspect of participating in—and fully experiencing—the contest, from planning your visit to crafting your own winning pun. Whether you're a fan of classic American literature, a lover of clever language, or simply someone seeking an unforgettable cultural outing, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the History and Significance

Before you pack your bags or book your tickets, it’s essential to understand why this event matters. William Sydney Porter lived in the house now known as the O. Henry House from 1884 to 1886 while working as a clerk in a general store. It was during this time that he began writing stories under pseudonyms, eventually becoming one of America’s most beloved short story writers. His signature style—ending tales with a surprising, often ironic twist—lives on in the puns submitted to this contest.

The Pun Contest began informally in the 1970s as a local tradition among history buffs and O. Henry admirers. It has since evolved into a sanctioned annual event hosted by the O. Henry Museum, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the house and promoting literacy. The contest invites participants to submit original puns based on O. Henry’s stories, characters, or life events. Winning entries are displayed in the museum, read aloud during the event, and archived in the museum’s digital collection.

Step 2: Determine the Event Date and Location

The O. Henry House Pun Contest typically takes place on the third Saturday of October each year, coinciding with the anniversary of O. Henry’s birthday (September 11) and the peak of fall foliage in Austin. The event is held at the O. Henry Museum, located at 703 East 5th Street, Austin, Texas 78701. The house itself is a restored 19th-century brick residence and serves as both a museum and event space.

While the contest is held in person, the museum also offers a virtual submission portal for those unable to attend. The date is announced publicly on the museum’s website by early June, and a calendar reminder is available via email subscription. Be sure to mark your calendar early, as seating for the live reading is limited and fills up quickly.

Step 3: Register for the Contest

Registration for the Pun Contest is free and open to the public. To participate, you must submit your pun through the official website: www.ohenryhouse.org/puncontest. Submissions open on August 1 and close at midnight on October 10. Each participant may submit up to three original puns. All entries must be original, family-friendly, and directly inspired by O. Henry’s work—whether it’s a reference to “The Gift of the Magi,” “The Ransom of Red Chief,” or his time in Austin.

When submitting, you’ll be asked to provide:

• Your full name (or preferred pseudonym)
• Your email address (for notification purposes)
• Your pun (maximum 25 words)
• A brief explanation of how your pun connects to O. Henry’s life or work (optional but recommended)

Entries are reviewed by a panel of literary judges, including university professors, local authors, and museum curators. Selected entries are notified by October 15 and invited to attend the live event.

Step 4: Plan Your Travel and Accommodations

Austin is a vibrant city with ample lodging options. For the best experience, book your stay within walking distance of the museum. Recommended neighborhoods include East Austin, Downtown, and the University of Texas campus area. Popular hotels within a 10-minute walk include The Line Austin, Hotel Van Zandt, and the historic Driskill Hotel.

If you’re traveling from out of state, consider flying into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). From there, rideshare services like Uber or Lyft take approximately 15 minutes to reach the museum. Public transit is also available via MetroBus Route 12, which stops within two blocks of the museum.

For those who prefer a more immersive experience, consider staying at one of the local bed-and-breakfasts that offer O. Henry-themed rooms. The “Maggie’s Gift” B&B, for example, decorates its rooms with quotes from O. Henry’s stories and includes a complimentary “Pun Kit” with pens, paper, and a historical pamphlet.

Step 5: Prepare Your Pun

A winning pun isn’t just clever—it must resonate with O. Henry’s spirit. His stories often hinge on irony, sacrifice, and unexpected reversals. Your pun should reflect that tone. Here’s how to craft one:

1. Choose a story or character: Pick one of O. Henry’s most famous works. “The Gift of the Magi” is the most popular source for puns.
2. Identify the twist: What’s the ironic outcome? In “The Gift of the Magi,” Della sells her hair to buy Jim a chain for his watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy her combs for her hair.
3. Play with language: Use homophones, double meanings, or misdirection. For example: “I told my wife she was drawing her eyebrows too high… she looked surprised.” (A nod to “The Gift of the Magi”)
4. Keep it concise: The best puns are short, sharp, and memorable. Aim for under 15 words.

Practice your pun aloud. Does it make someone pause, smile, and then chuckle? If so, you’re on the right track.

Step 6: Attend the Event

On the day of the contest, arrive at the O. Henry House by 10:30 a.m. The event begins promptly at 11:00 a.m. with a guided tour of the house, followed by a short lecture on O. Henry’s life in Austin. The main attraction—the Pun Reading—begins at 1:00 p.m.

Each selected participant is invited to stand on the museum’s front porch (weather permitting) and deliver their pun to the crowd. The audience votes in real time using a digital ballot system. Prizes include a limited-edition O. Henry first edition book, a custom pun plaque, and a lifetime membership to the museum.

After the reading, attendees are invited to enjoy a “Pun Picnic” in the garden, featuring themed snacks like “Della’s Hairpin Cookies” and “Jim’s Watch Chain Pretzels.” There’s also a “Pun Wall” where visitors can add their own submissions throughout the day.

Step 7: Share Your Experience

After the event, document your experience. Take photos of the house, your pun on display, and the crowd’s reactions. Share your story on social media using the hashtag

OHenryPunContest. Many past participants have gained local media attention by posting humorous behind-the-scenes videos or blog posts about their journey to crafting the perfect pun.

Consider writing a short article for your personal blog or local literary newsletter. Highlighting the cultural value of the event helps preserve its legacy and encourages others to participate next year.

Best Practices

Respect the Literary Tradition

The O. Henry House Pun Contest is not a comedy roast or a meme contest. It’s a tribute to one of America’s most influential short story writers. Avoid overly crude, politically charged, or internet-slang-based puns. The best entries are timeless, clever, and rooted in genuine appreciation for O. Henry’s craft.

Focus on Originality, Not Popularity

While it’s tempting to reuse a pun you’ve heard before, judges actively disqualify entries that have appeared in past contests or are widely circulated online. Even if a pun is funny, if it’s not original, it won’t win. Use tools like Google Search or the museum’s archive of past winners to ensure your entry is fresh.

Engage with the Community

Attend the museum’s monthly O. Henry Book Club or join their online forum. Many winners are selected not just for their puns, but for their consistent engagement with the literary community. Showing up year after year, volunteering, or helping with event setup can significantly increase your chances of being selected.

Submit Early and Proofread

Don’t wait until the deadline. Submit your pun at least a week in advance to avoid technical issues. Proofread carefully—typos in your submission can lead to disqualification, even if the pun itself is brilliant. Use grammar-checking tools like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor to polish your entry.

Understand the Audience

The crowd at the O. Henry House Pun Contest is diverse: retirees who remember O. Henry from their youth, college students studying American literature, and families looking for a unique weekend outing. Your pun should appeal to multiple generations. Avoid niche references that only a literary scholar would understand. Aim for universal humor with a literary twist.

Be Prepared for Public Speaking

If your pun is selected, you’ll be asked to deliver it in front of 100–200 people. Practice in front of a mirror or record yourself. Speak slowly, clearly, and with a smile. A confident delivery can elevate an average pun into a crowd favorite.

Bring a Notebook

Even if you’re not submitting a pun this year, bring a small notebook. You’ll hear dozens of brilliant entries, and you’ll want to remember them for next year’s contest. Many participants return with ideas sparked by others’ submissions.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: www.ohenryhouse.org/puncontest

The primary hub for all contest information, submission forms, past winners, and event schedules. The site is updated annually and includes downloadable PDFs of O. Henry’s most famous stories.

O. Henry Museum Archive (Digital)

Access to a searchable database of over 500 past winning puns. Use this to avoid duplication and to study the patterns of winning entries. The archive is free to access with a museum membership, which can be purchased online.

Grammarly or Hemingway Editor

These tools help refine your pun’s language, eliminate passive voice, and ensure clarity. A clean, well-written submission reflects professionalism and respect for the event.

Thesaurus.com and RhymeZone

Essential for finding synonyms, homophones, and wordplay opportunities. For example, searching “sacrifice” on RhymeZone might lead you to “sacrifice” / “sacrafice” / “sacrifice a goat” — sparking ideas for puns based on “The Gift of the Magi.”

Google Trends and Keyword Planner

Use these tools to gauge interest in O. Henry-related terms. For example, “O. Henry House” sees a 300% spike in searches during September and October. This data can help you time your blog posts or social media campaigns to maximize visibility.

Canva or Adobe Express

If you plan to create a visual representation of your pun for social media (e.g., a quote graphic), these tools offer free templates with vintage typography that matches the O. Henry aesthetic.

Local Austin Literary Groups

Join groups like the Austin Writers’ Alliance or the Texas State Historical Association. These organizations often host pre-contest workshops and offer feedback on submissions.

Library of Congress Digital Collections

For deeper research, explore digitized copies of early 20th-century newspapers where O. Henry’s stories were first published. Understanding the original context of his work can inspire more authentic puns.

Real Examples

Example 1: Winner (2023)

Pun: “I asked my wife if she wanted to go to the store. She said, ‘Only if you’re buying me a new coat.’ I said, ‘That’s fine—I’ll sell my watch.’”

Why it won: This entry directly references “The Gift of the Magi,” uses the exact structure of the story’s irony, and delivers it in modern, relatable language. The judges noted its perfect balance of nostalgia and humor.

Example 2: Winner (2022)

Pun: “I told my dog I was going to the bank. He started barking. I said, ‘It’s not a robbery, it’s a withdrawal.’ He said, ‘Then I’m coming too—I’ve got a bone to pick.’”

Why it won: Cleverly ties O. Henry’s story “The Cop and the Anthem” (where a homeless man tries to get arrested) with a dog’s literal interpretation of “bone.” The double meaning of “pick” and the anthropomorphism of the dog delighted the panel.

Example 3: Honorable Mention (2021)

Pun: “I tried to write a story with a twist ending. My editor said, ‘That’s not a twist—that’s a typo.’ I said, ‘Then I guess I’m not O. Henry.’ He replied, ‘No, but you’re definitely O. Henry-tired.’”

Why it was notable: Though not the winner, this entry was praised for its meta-humor—commenting on the pressure to be as brilliant as O. Henry. It sparked a viral thread on Twitter and was later featured in a local newspaper article.

Example 4: Disqualified Entry (2023)

Pun: “Why did O. Henry break up with his girlfriend? She kept changing her mind… like his endings.”

Why it was disqualified: While clever, it was too similar to a 2019 winning entry. The museum’s archive flagged it as a duplicate. This highlights the importance of checking past winners before submitting.

Example 5: Viral Submission (2020)

Pun: “I told my cat I was writing a short story. She said, ‘I hope it’s not about a guy who sells his watch for combs. I already lost my tail.’”

Why it went viral: This entry was shared over 12,000 times on Instagram and TikTok. Its appeal lay in its absurdity, the cat’s “voice,” and the visual of a tailless cat. The museum later created a merchandise line based on it.

FAQs

Is the O. Henry House Pun Contest only for writers?

No. Anyone can submit a pun, regardless of writing experience. Many winners are teachers, students, librarians, and even children. The only requirement is originality and a connection to O. Henry’s work.

Can I submit a pun that’s already posted online?

No. All submissions must be original and unpublished. The museum uses plagiarism detection software to screen entries. Duplicate puns are immediately disqualified.

Do I need to be in Austin to participate?

You can submit a pun from anywhere in the world. However, only those who attend the live event are eligible to read their pun aloud or win the top prize. Virtual participants can still win the “People’s Choice” award via online voting.

Is there an age limit?

No. The contest is open to all ages. Children under 12 must have a parent or guardian submit on their behalf. The museum encourages families to participate together.

What if my pun is too short?

There is no minimum word count, but entries under five words are rarely selected unless they are exceptionally clever. Most winning puns are between 8 and 18 words.

Can I submit multiple puns in one email?

Yes. You may submit up to three puns per person using the online form. Each pun must be entered separately with its own explanation.

How are winners chosen?

Winners are selected by a panel of three judges: a literature professor, a local humor columnist, and the museum’s curator. Criteria include originality, connection to O. Henry’s work, humor, and clarity. The People’s Choice award is determined by live audience vote.

Can I get a copy of my pun if it’s selected?

Yes. All selected participants receive a digital certificate and a printed version of their pun on museum stationery. Winning entries are also added to the museum’s permanent collection.

Is there a fee to attend the event?

No. Admission to the O. Henry House Pun Contest is free for all attendees. Donations are accepted to support museum operations but are not required.

What happens if it rains?

The Pun Reading moves indoors to the museum’s main parlor. The garden picnic is canceled, but the event proceeds as scheduled. Rain or shine, the show goes on.

Conclusion

The O. Henry House Pun Contest is more than a quirky festival—it is a living tribute to the power of language, the joy of literary tradition, and the enduring appeal of irony in storytelling. By participating, you don’t just enter a contest; you become part of a century-old legacy that celebrates wit, wisdom, and the human love of a well-placed twist.

This guide has walked you through every step—from understanding the history and crafting your pun to attending the event and sharing your experience with the world. Whether you’re a seasoned writer, a curious traveler, or someone who simply enjoys a good wordplay, this contest offers a rare opportunity to engage with literature in a deeply personal, joyful way.

As you prepare for next year’s event, remember: the best puns aren’t the loudest or the longest—they’re the ones that make you pause, smile, and think, “I wish I’d thought of that.” And if you do think of it? Submit it. You might just become part of O. Henry’s next chapter.