Today, January 29, 2011 is a BIG. DAY.

Our great state of Kansas turns 150 years old today.

The Sunflower Showdown between the Kansas Jayhawks and the Kansas State Wildcats tips off at 6 p.m. tonight. This is the first installment of the Showdown during basketball season. We love that it falls on Kansas Day.

ESPN's College GameDay crew is in Lawrence this weekend for the big game, too. Yesterday they filmed the making of the Wang burger (Dave's favorite!) at The Wheel, and today they broadcast live from Allen Fieldhouse. Students (and old people, from what we've heard) crowded into the fieldhouse for their chance to be on TV.

They'll broadcast again from 5-6 p.m. right before the game starts.

And finally, the entire state is encouraged to raise a glass of Kansas beer, wine or cider at 6 p.m. to toast Kansas' birthday.

Happy Birthday, Kansas! And Rock Chalk Jayhawk!