National Clam Chowder Day (February 25)
National Clam Chowder Day on February 25 is basically a permission slip to eat soup for every meal.
Whether you’re team creamy New England or prefer the tomato-based Manhattan version, this holiday celebrates one of the most debated bowls of comfort food around. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for cold February days when nothing else sounds quite as good.
When is the Holiday?
It’s celebrated every year on February 25. Think of it as peak soup season, when cozy meals still feel necessary, but spring is just around the corner.
Who Invented It?
No one knows who officially created the holiday, but clam chowder itself has been around for centuries.
Early versions were made by coastal communities in Europe and later brought to North America by settlers and sailors who needed filling, affordable meals.
The History of Clam Chowder
Clam chowder traces back to the late 1700s, when working-class families in France, Britain, and Nova Scotia made simple seafood stews using whatever they had on hand.
Originally, chowder was water-based and thickened with hardtack crackers or bread. Sailors helped popularize this style, especially in port cities like Boston.
By the 1800s, milk and cream were added, giving rise to what we now call New England clam chowder. Manhattan clam chowder made with tomatoes came later and immediately caused drama.
In 1939, Maine lawmakers even tried to ban tomatoes from clam chowder entirely. The bill failed, but the rivalry lives on.
Fun fact: the word “chowder” likely comes from the French word chaudière, meaning cooking pot.
Fun Facts About the Soup
- The oldest written chowder recipe dates back to the 1750s
- Sailors used to cook chowder right on ship decks in iron pots
- Oyster crackers became popular because they lasted long at sea
- Rhode Island’s clear chowder is considered the “original” style
- Some New England towns hold annual chowder competitions
Coloring Page
This free clam chowder coloring page is a fun, low-prep activity for kids to enjoy while learning about this cozy food holiday.
Activities to Celebrate
- • Host a chowder cook-off – Invite friends or family to each bring a different style and vote for a winner.
- • Chowder tasting tour – Visit a few local seafood spots and compare their versions side by side.
- • Make your own twist – Try adding corn, smoked bacon, or fresh herbs to customize your bowl.
- • Wine or beer pairing night – Test which drinks work best with creamy vs tomato-based chowders.
- • Clam digging adventure – If you live near the coast, harvest clams and cook them the same day.
Related Recipes for the Holiday
New England Clam Chowder – A thick, creamy classic made with clams, potatoes, onion, celery, and bacon. Rich, comforting, and perfect for cold weather.
Easy Clam Chowder with Bacon and Herbs – Smoky bacon and fresh herbs add extra depth to the broth, making this version extra flavorful.
Bread Bowl Clam Chowder – Served inside a crusty sourdough bowl that soaks up the broth as you eat.
Keto Clam Chowder – A low-carb version using cauliflower instead of potatoes, but still creamy and filling.
Manhattan Clam Chowder – Tomato-based with celery, carrots, herbs, and tender clams for a lighter option.
**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**
Links to Resources
- New England Canned Clam Chowder – A quick way to enjoy creamy clam chowder without cooking from scratch. Great for busy nights or easy lunches.
- Best Clam Chowder Bowls – Deep soup bowls that help keep chowder warm and make serving feel a bit more special.
- Clam Chowder Recipe Book – A collection of traditional and modern chowder recipes if you want to try new versions at home.
Related Holidays
- National Soup Swap Day (Third Saturday in January) – A cozy winter holiday where people exchange homemade soups with friends, neighbors, or coworkers. It’s a fun way to try new recipes and share comfort food.
- National Shrimp Day (May 10) – Celebrates one of the most popular seafood choices, often enjoyed grilled, fried, or in pasta dishes. A great day to explore different shrimp recipes from around the world.
- National Lobster Day (June 15) – Honors this luxury seafood favorite, whether you prefer it in a classic lobster roll, buttery steamed lobster, or rich bisque.
- National Caviar Day (July 18) – Highlights one of the most indulgent delicacies, traditionally served with blinis or toast points. It’s all about celebrating fine dining and special occasions.
Pin it!
Share this post about clam chowder on Pinterest!
