International Sushi Day
This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.
Overview
International Sushi Day, observed annually on June 18th, is a global celebration dedicated to the iconic Japanese dish. It encourages people worldwide to appreciate the art, history, and diverse flavors of sushi, from traditional nigiri and maki to innovative rolls, and to explore its cultural significance as a culinary staple. The day promotes enjoying sushi at restaurants, making it at home, or learning more about its preparation and ingredients.
Observed each year on June 18, International Sushi Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.
Origin and story
Sushi originally began as a method for preserving fish in Southeast Asia, where fermented rice was used to wrap and preserve fish, not eaten with it.
The word 'sushi' actually refers to the vinegared rice, not the raw fish itself. Raw fish served without rice is called 'sashimi.'
Quick facts
- DateJune 18
- TypeCultural / community observance
- Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams
Also on this date
Ways to celebrate
- Add International Sushi Day to your Obscure Holiday Calendar app widget so you get a reminder next year.
- Write a note or journal entry on why International Sushi Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
- Bring the theme into your day—decorate a workspace, cook or bake something inspired by International Sushi, or play music that matches the mood.
- Pair music, snacks, or décor that match the theme and enjoy a small break.
- International Sushi Day lands on June 18 — host a quick nod with Friends, Families and snap a photo.
Fun facts
- Sushi originally began as a method for preserving fish in Southeast Asia, where fermented rice was used to wrap and preserve fish, not eaten with it.
- The word 'sushi' actually refers to the vinegared rice, not the raw fish itself. Raw fish served without rice is called 'sashimi.'
- Much of the 'wasabi' served in restaurants outside of Japan is often a mixture of horseradish, mustard, and green food coloring, as true wasabi (Wasabia japonica) is expensive and difficult to cultivate.
Sources and attribution
Primary note: Sushi originally began as a method for preserving fish in Southeast Asia, where fermented rice was used to wrap and preserve fish, not eaten with it.
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FAQ
- When is International Sushi Day?
- It is observed on June 18 each year.
- What is International Sushi Day?
- International Sushi Day, observed annually on June 18th, is a global celebration dedicated to the iconic Japanese dish. It encourages people worldwide to appreciate the art, history, and diverse flavors of sushi, from traditional nigiri and maki to innovative rolls, and to explore its cultural significance as a culinary staple. The day promotes enjoying sushi at restaurants, making it at home, or learning more about its preparation and ingredients.
- How do people celebrate International Sushi Day?
- Add International Sushi Day to your Obscure Holiday Calendar app widget so you get a reminder next year.
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