French Fries Day 🍟

Overview

French Fries Day, celebrated annually on July 13th, is a delicious occasion dedicated to honoring one of the world's most beloved potato dishes. Whether served crispy and golden alongside a burger, dipped in ketchup, or enjoyed with various toppings, this day encourages enthusiasts worldwide to indulge in their favorite fried potato treat, often with special deals and promotions.

Origin and story

Despite their name, French fries are widely believed to have originated in Belgium, where locals fried potatoes as a fish substitute when rivers froze.

The term 'French' likely came from American soldiers during World War I who encountered the fried potatoes in French-speaking Belgium and nicknamed them 'French-fried potatoes.'

Quick facts

• DateJuly 13
• TypeFood / Dessert
• Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

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Ways to celebrate

Ask a historian where the French fry actually came from and you'll get two confident, contradictory answers — one pointing to Belgian riverside villages, the other to 1780s Paris street vendors.

Fry a batch

Celebrate by:

• Making or ordering fries the Belgian way — double-fried for extra crispness.
• Trying a topping or dip you wouldn't normally pick, beyond just ketchup.
• Comparing fast-food fries to a homemade batch and noticing the texture difference.

Pick a side in the origin debate

Helpful resources:

• Are French Fries Truly French? (National Geographic)

Consider the American connection

• Looking into how Thomas Jefferson, who encountered fries while serving in France, is credited with bringing them to America.

Did you know?

Belgium now has a dedicated Friet Museum and more fry stands per capita than anywhere else on Earth — and has petitioned UNESCO to formally recognize the fry as part of its cultural heritage.

Fun facts

• Despite their name, French fries are widely believed to have originated in Belgium, where locals fried potatoes as a fish substitute when rivers froze.
• The term 'French' likely came from American soldiers during World War I who encountered the fried potatoes in French-speaking Belgium and nicknamed them 'French-fried potatoes.'
• Americans consume an estimated 1.6 billion pounds of French fries annually, making them one of the most popular side dishes in the United States.

Sources and attribution

Are French Fries Truly French? (National Geographic)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

Continue your streak

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FAQ

When is French Fries Day?

It is observed on July 13 each year.

What is French Fries Day?

French Fries Day, celebrated annually on July 13th, is a delicious occasion dedicated to honoring one of the world's most beloved potato dishes. Whether served crispy and golden alongside a burger, dipped in ketchup, or enjoyed with various toppings, this day encourages enthusiasts worldwide to indulge in their favorite fried potato treat, often with special deals and promotions.

How do people celebrate French Fries Day?

Make or order fries the Belgian way, double-fried for extra crispness — French fries are widely believed to have actually originated in Belgium, and got their name from American WWI soldiers stationed there.

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