National French Fries Day (July 13)

One weird holiday on July 13 is National French Fries Day. Check out the other weird July holidays!

As you stroll down a bustling street or step into a lively diner, the savory aroma of freshly cooked French fries wafts through the air, tantalizing your senses and igniting your appetite.

National French Fries Day, celebrated annually on July 13th, offers a golden opportunity to pay homage to this beloved culinary delight. From crispy shoestring fries to hearty steak fries, French fries hold a special place in the hearts and stomachs of people around the world.

Join us as we embark on a flavorful journey to explore the origins, varieties, and cultural significance of everyone’s favorite potato treat.

When is National French Fries Day?

National French Fries Day takes place each year on

Who Invented National French Fries Day?

National French Fries Day was not invented by a specific individual. It is a holiday that emerged organically over time, likely driven by the popularity of French fries as a beloved food item in many cultures around the world.

Over the years, National French Fries Day has become a widely celebrated event, with people across the globe indulging in their favorite fry creations and sharing their love for this iconic comfort food.

A Brief History of French Fries

French fries, known for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, have a storied history that spans centuries and continents. Contrary to popular belief, French fries did not originate in France but rather in Belgium, where they were first introduced in the late 17th century.

According to historical accounts, Belgian villagers living along the Meuse River would fry small strips of fish as a staple food source. However, during the harsh winters when the river froze over, they turned to frying potatoes instead, giving birth to the precursor of modern-day French fries.

The Evolution of French Fries

Over the years, French fries have evolved from humble peasant fare to a global culinary phenomenon enjoyed in countless variations.

Traditional Belgian fries, known as “frites,” are typically thick-cut and double-fried to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior.

In France, thin and crispy pommes frites reign supreme, often served alongside steak or as a street food snack.

In the United States, French fries come in a dizzying array of shapes and sizes, from shoestring fries to waffle fries to curly fries, each offering a unique texture and flavor experience.

Cultural Significance of French Fries

French fries hold a cherished place in the culinary traditions of numerous cultures around the world, serving as a beloved comfort food and a symbol of indulgence and celebration.

In the United States, French fries are a ubiquitous side dish served alongside burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches at diners, fast food restaurants, and sporting events.

In Belgium, frites are elevated to an art form, often accompanied by an array of flavorful sauces such as mayonnaise, ketchup, or aioli.

In France, pommes frites are enjoyed with a touch of elegance, served in paper cones or baskets at outdoor markets and bistros.

Health Considerations and Alternatives

While undeniably delicious, French fries are often criticized for their high calorie and fat content, leading many health-conscious individuals to seek out healthier alternatives.

Fortunately, there are several ways to enjoy the satisfying crunch of French fries without compromising on nutrition. Baking or air-frying potatoes instead of deep-frying them can significantly reduce their calorie and fat content while still achieving a crispy texture.

Additionally, swapping traditional potatoes for sweet potatoes or other root vegetables can add extra vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants to your fries, making them a more nutritious option.

Celebrating National French Fries Day

National French Fries Day offers the perfect excuse to indulge in your favorite crispy treats and explore new and creative ways to enjoy them. Scroll to the bottom of this post for delicious recipes

Host a French Fry Tasting Party: Invite friends and family over to sample a variety of French fry styles, including shoestring, curly, waffle, and sweet potato fries. Provide an assortment of dipping sauces for added fun.
Try a New Recipe: Experiment with homemade French fries by trying out different seasoning blends or cooking methods. You could air-fry, bake, or even deep-fry your fries for a delicious twist.
Visit a Local Fry Joint: Treat yourself to a visit to your favorite local French fry spot or explore new fry establishments in your area. Support small businesses by ordering takeout or dining in.
Have a Fry Cook-Off: Challenge your friends or family members to a friendly fry cook-off. Each participant can create their own unique fry recipe, and then everyone can taste and vote for their favorite.
Share Your Fries on Social Media: Snap a photo of your favorite fries and share it on social media using the hashtag #NationalFrenchFriesDay. You can also share fun facts or personal anecdotes about your love for fries.
Learn About French Fry History: Take some time to research the history of French fries and how they became a beloved food around the world. You might be surprised by what you learn!
Make a French Fry-themed Meal: Plan a meal centered around French fries by incorporating them into dishes like poutine, loaded fries, or a classic burger and fries combo.
Host a French Fry Trivia Night: Test your knowledge of French fry facts with a trivia night dedicated to everyone’s favorite side dish. Create fun questions about fry varieties, famous fry moments in pop culture, and more.
Support a Cause: Use National French Fries Day as an opportunity to give back to your community. Consider donating to a local food bank or volunteering at a soup kitchen to help those in need enjoy a tasty meal.
Enjoy Fries with Friends and Family: Ultimately, National French Fries Day is all about enjoying delicious food with the people you love. Gather together with friends and family to share a plate of fries and create lasting memories.

As we celebrate National French Fries Day, let us take a moment to appreciate the simple pleasures of this beloved comfort food and the joy it brings to people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack on the go or savored as part of a leisurely meal, French fries have a magical way of bringing people together and sparking moments of happiness and indulgence.

So, grab a handful of fries, dip them in your favorite sauce, and savor the deliciousness of National French Fries Day!