It can be easy to get in a rut of constantly ordering takeout, heating-up frozen meals, or settling for a dinner of apples and cheese. But if you want to feel truly nourished, nothing beats a home-cooked meal. It’s nice to slow down and enjoy the process of preparing your own food — and the joy of eating it! That’s why we’re celebrating National Cooking Day on September 25. National Cooking Day encourages and inspires each of us to discover something new and enjoyable in the kitchen. It’s a time to learn a knew skill by preparing something delicious for loved ones — and ourselves. So put on your aprons and let’s get cooking!
National Cooking Day timeline
- 2009
Julie & Julia
"Julia & Julia," a film about a NYC-based writer who decides to cook all of Julia Child's recipes, premieres.
- 1963
Bon Appetit
Julia Child's "The French Chef" debuts on Boston public television
- 1810
Canned Food
The tin can is patented by Englishman Peter Durand.
National Cooking Day Activities
Cook your favorite meal
We all have one dish that speaks to us, whether it’s our grandmother’s meatloaf or the first dish we learned to cook. So put your twist on the recipe and make it yours. And don’t forget to post your meal on social media!
Throw a potluck party
But don’t let anyone pass off store-cooked food as their own—have everyone bring their own favorite home cooked dish. It’s a great opportunity to share recipes and cooking tips, and you’ll learn just how talented all your friends are in the kitchen.
Cook with a friend
Celebrate this tasty holiday with a friend and cook a meal together. You’ll get to hang out, bond, and enjoy a delicious meal. What could be better?
Why We Love National Cooking Day
You can experiment with new recipes
Is there a new chicken recipe you’ve been dying to try? Have you been dying to recreate your favorite dish from your favorite restaurant? Today’s the perfect day to experiment, since National Cooking Day is designed to inspire cooks to try something new.
You get to connect with family and friends
Family time is so important, but with everyone's bustling schedules, connecting with family has become harder than ever before. That’s why National Cooking Day is a great opportunity to gather the family or friends and catch up while someone chops the onions and another stirs the sauce.
Home cooking is healthier
Home-cooked meals tend to be healthier and have less sugar, which can result in higher energy levels and better mental health. So next time you’re craving your favorite restaurant food, see if you can duplicate it at home! You’ll know exactly what you’re putting in your body, and you’ll feel good about it.
National Cooking Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | September 25 | Friday |
| 2021 | September 25 | Saturday |
| 2022 | September 25 | Sunday |
| 2023 | September 25 | Monday |
| 2024 | September 25 | Wednesday |