National Bao Day is celebrated on August 22 every year. It’s a day to savor the deliciousness of the famed dumpling. It’s also a day dedicated to learn more about the bao, also known as ‘baozi’ or ‘hot Asian buns,’ and the culture that surrounds them. Do you know that baos come in a variety of tastes and fillings, such as pork, veggies, sweet custard, chocolate, Chinese sausage, and more?
History of National Bao Day
The bao or ‘baozi’ is a kind of dumpling that originated in China. It is safe to say that baozi evolved from the word ‘mantou,’ which was used as an all-inclusive expression for buns.
The beginnings of ‘mantou’ are largely tied to the military leader Zhuge Liang, who is believed to have invented the buns. Bao later came to become the word used for filled buns, while ‘mantou’ remained the word for unfilled buns.
Bao takes root in Asia first, then spreads to other regions of the globe. Since 2003, when Wow Boa established their first restaurant in Chicago, baozi has grown in prominence in the United States. Since then, bao has captivated a large number of people. It has a wide range of filling options, making it appealing to a wide range of people.
Wow Bao has over 200 locations across the United States. They provide both physical and virtual services, allowing them to reach a wider audience. Wow Bao, by the way, was the one who started National Bao Day.
People have turned to the holiday as a reason to satisfy their appetites for the delectable bao. The rich Chinese tradition behind the popular dumpling is celebrated on National Bao Day.
We test out the many different fillings available with a sense of excitement and discovery. Even if we only ate different bao tastes and fillings, it’s unlikely that we’d never become bored.
Even vegetarians who prefer not to consume meat can enjoy the variety of fillings. Similarly, when it comes to bao, you have a plethora of healthful options.
National Bao Day timeline
The evolution of bao dates back to this time period.
The term ‘baozi’ becomes the main expression for filled buns.
The first Wow Bao Restaurant opens in Chicago, making the bao a popular food.
Wow Bao pushes for a holiday to celebrate the popularity of bao and National Boa Day is established.
National Bao Day FAQs
Can you make your own bao at home?
The making of bao requires special techniques. But you can master them in no time.
Who should celebrate National Bao Day?
Everyone can celebrate National Bao Day, including children.
Is there a vegan choice for bao?
Yes, there’s a variety of vegan options.
National Bao Day Activities
Visit your favorite restaurant
Go to your local restaurant and enjoy one or two — or maybe three different flavors of bao.
Make your own bao
Invite your friends over, and watch the tutorials on the internet. Then, make your own bao, and as many dumplings as you can.
Learn more about other cultures
There's always the possibility of discovering new joys along the route.
5 Fun Facts About Bao
Dumpling with several fillings
With bao, there is a wide range of flavors and fillings.
It is more than a snack
Because they are so nutritious, 'baozis' are eaten as a whole meal
There's a vegan choice
It is easy to get and make your own vegan-themed bao.
These dumplings are carefully made
It is a matter of honor to be able to make a good bao.
Wow Bao’ made bao popular
Wow bao has more than 200 restaurants across the U.S.
Why We Love National Bao Day
Bao is fun to make
Trying to create your own bao is an adventure. But it's also a lot of fun and satisfying.
Different types of fillings
We won't mind three different baos for the day. With different fillings each time, there's always the appetite.
Enjoy a good time
On National Bao Day, we can have a good time with our families and also go to a restaurant and enjoy the holiday.
National Bao Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August 22 | Friday |
| 2026 | August 22 | Saturday |
| 2027 | August 22 | Sunday |
| 2028 | August 22 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | August 22 | Wednesday |
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