Annual observance

National Chop Suey Day

August 29 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-18

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Overview

National Chop Suey Day, observed annually on August 29th, celebrates the iconic dish deeply intertwined with American Chinese cuisine. Often consisting of meat (such as chicken, pork, or beef), eggs, and a variety of vegetables like bean sprouts, cabbage, and celery, stir-fried in a savory sauce and typically served over rice or noodles, chop suey is a testament to culinary adaptation and innovation, encouraging people to enjoy or learn about its unique history.

Observed each year on August 29, National Chop Suey Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Chop Suey Day on August 29 celebrates a dish that symbolizes the fusion of Chinese culinary traditions with American culture, highlighting the adaptability and creativity of immigrant communities.

Origin and story

Despite its common association with China, chop suey is widely believed to have originated in the United States as a creation of Chinese American cooks.

The name 'chop suey' (雜碎, zá suì) translates from Cantonese as 'miscellaneous pieces' or 'mixed bits,' referring to the diverse ingredients in the dish.

Quick facts

  • DateAugust 29
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

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Ways to celebrate

  • Post a story with #national-chop-suey-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.
  • Bring National Chop Suey Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
  • Plan something small on August 29: a quick nod to National Chop Suey Day with friends, family, or coworkers.
  • Share the story of National Chop Suey Day on social and tag it with #nationalchopsueyday so others can join in.
  • Add National Chop Suey Day to your Obscure Holiday Calendar app widget so you get a reminder next year.

Fun facts

  • Despite its common association with China, chop suey is widely believed to have originated in the United States as a creation of Chinese American cooks.
  • The name 'chop suey' (雜碎, zá suì) translates from Cantonese as 'miscellaneous pieces' or 'mixed bits,' referring to the diverse ingredients in the dish.
  • Chop suey played a significant role in popularizing Chinese food among the broader American public in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is National Chop Suey Day?
It is observed on August 29 each year.
What is National Chop Suey Day?
National Chop Suey Day, observed annually on August 29th, celebrates the iconic dish deeply intertwined with American Chinese cuisine. Often consisting of meat (such as chicken, pork, or beef), eggs, and a variety of vegetables like bean sprouts, cabbage, and celery, stir-fried in a savory sauce and typically served over rice or noodles, chop suey is a testament to culinary adaptation and innovation, encouraging people to enjoy or learn about its unique history.
How do people celebrate National Chop Suey Day?
Post a story with #national-chop-suey-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.

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