National Barbecue Day is celebrated every May 16 to serve as a reminder of the delicious food that Americans have access to. Go to a restaurant or have a grill in your own backyard. Just make sure you celebrate the day with great fervor!
History of National Barbecue Day
Barbecues are one of America’s favorite pastimes. Since the activity is highly common in the U.S., it is no surprise that a special day has been dedicated to celebrating the barbecuing tradition.Although the concept of barbecuing did not originate in America, the activity has become an essential part of American culture today. The history of barbecuing in the U.S. goes back to colonial times where any celebration was incomplete without a cookout. After the Revolutionary War was won and the first bridge was built over the Missouri River, barbecue celebrations erupted all over the nation. Even the American presidents are famous for hosting massive barbecues during times of success and on days of special observances. In fact, George Washington’s diary is said to have referenced a barbecue event that lasted for three days — that’s how deeply rooted barbecuing is in the country’s history!Barbecues are a White House tradition thanks to President Lyndon B. Johnson who started this trend by hosting the first-ever barbecue in the presidential headquarters. The food items served at the event included delicious Texas-style barbecue wings.
National Barbecue Day timeline
Mammoth meat is grilled in a four feet long cooking pit.
A Spanish explorer mentions the word ‘barbecoa’ in his account of the West Indies.
British buccaneer William Dampier uses the word ‘barbecue’ for the first time.
Thomas Edison designs the first commercial charcoal briquet factory.
National Barbecue Day FAQs
What is another name for a BBQ?
Another name for a BBQ is a cookout.
What Day is National Barbecue Day?
It is celebrated on May 16.
What is the meaning of ‘barbecue’?
It means roasting large pieces of meat over an open fire or grill.
What month is National BBQ Month?
May is National BBQ Month.
How to Celebrate National Barbecue Day
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Host a barbecue
A simple way to celebrate the day is to host a barbecue for friends and family in your very own backyard. Cook, eat, and enjoy!
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Throw a barbecue eating competition
Indulge in a barbecue eating competition at a restaurant. It can get messy, but the event will surely be a fun one.
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Create a new recipe
Experiment and try to cook up a new barbecue sauce recipe for steak or burgers. Who knows, you might end up opening your own food chain one day.
5 Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About Barbecues
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The longest barbecue
Held in Georgia, the longest barbecue lasted for up to 80 hours.
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Researching the best barbecue restaurants
Johnny Fugit ate at 365 restaurants in the U.S. in a year.
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The favorite grilling food
85% of people prefer grilling burgers at barbecues.
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The largest barbecue in Mexico
45,000 people were present at the barbecue largest barbecue in Mexico.
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Alabama’s favorite
Barbecue food is available at 8.27% of restaurants in the State of Alabama.
Why We Love National Barbecue Day
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It celebrates delicious BBQ food
You have to admit it, barbecue food is delicious. Who doesn’t love an excuse to get their hands on tangy grilled meat?
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Grilled food is healthy
Since grilled food uses less oil, it is considered to be much healthier. This is why barbecue food is perfect for people who are watching their weight. Try to avoid the sauces, though, since some of them are very high in calories.
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Barbecues are social events
Why eat alone when you can hang out with close friends at a barbecue? The social activity is a favorite of many families since children and adults can both enjoy the event.
National Barbecue Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 16 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | May 16 | Thursday |
| 2025 | May 16 | Friday |
| 2026 | May 16 | Saturday |
| 2027 | May 16 | Sunday |
