National Hot Dog Day
Observed
the closest Wednesday to July 19th (1991 to 2015)
on July 14th (2016)
the closest Wednesday to July 19th (2017 to 2020)
the third Wednesday in July (since 2021)
Dates
Founded by
North American Meat Institute in 1991
Tags
Food & Drink
Snacks & Desserts
Hashtags
Sources
National Hot Dog Day was started by the North American Meat Institute in 1991 and began being promoted and organized by the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council after they were created by the institute in 1994. The day coincides with the Annual Hot Dog Lunch at Capitol Hill in Washington D.C., which is also sponsored by the North American Meat Institute. The lunch, which has taken place for decades, is a large hot dog picnic attended by lawmakers, administration officials, and Capitol Hill staff. The goal of the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council is for similar smaller events to be held around the country. Many national and local retailers have sponsored deals on the day. This holiday also takes place during National Hot Dog Month, which started in the 1950s.
Hot dogs gained in popularity in the United States in the early twentieth century, and are similar to frankfurters and wieners, which take their names from Frankfurt, Germany, and Vienna, Austria. In the United States, hot dogs were traditionally sold at hot dog stands and carts and were prominent in New York City, as well as Chicago. They have become a prominent part of American culture, and have been closely associated with baseball. Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest and the Oscar Meyer Wienermobile have also become cultural icons.
How to Observe National Hot Dog Day
Celebrate the day by eating hot dogs! There are many types you can try, as well as various types of condiments that can be put on them. Maybe you can try a style of hot dog you've never had before! If you don't want to make your own, there are plenty of good restaurants you can buy some at. Make sure to keep an eye out for deals from national and local retailers today too. More can be learned about hot dogs at the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council website.