- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Tags:
- Fast Food
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every November 27
- Holiday emoji:
- 🥩
National Craft Jerky Day celebrates the art of homemade jerky and the simple, savory recipes passed down through generations every November 27. Indulge in thinly sliced, dried meats, explore exotic protein options, and discover new artisanal flavors. Share your favorite jerky creations, try a new recipe, or support a local craft jerky maker.
Want to sponsor National Craft Jerky Day? Learn how
Expected National Craft Jerky Day Deals
While we wait for official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that National Craft Jerky Day often brings savory deals from various brands. Expect discounts from specialty jerky producers like Jerky.com and Oberto, offering bundles or percentage off sales. Retailers such as Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods Market may feature in-store promotions on their craft jerky selections. Online gourmet food shops like Goldbelly might highlight artisanal jerky makers. Keep an eye on sporting goods stores like REI and Bass Pro Shops for deals on jerky, a favorite trail snack. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as November 27 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Craft Jerky Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalCraftJerkyDay. Share mouth-watering photos of your favorite jerky flavors or homemade creations.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #CraftJerky. Film a ‘taste test’ video reviewing different craft jerky brands or a quick tutorial on making your own.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #JerkyDay. Share your family’s favorite jerky recipe or ask for recommendations for new craft jerky to try.
National Craft Jerky Day Hero
Indigenous Meat Preservers
History of National Craft Jerky Day
National Craft Jerky Day was created by the ‘Long Beach Jerky Co.’ The company was founded by Alex Naticchioni and Richie Beckman in 2013, but its legacy can be traced far beyond that. It all began with Albert Naticchioni, fondly called ‘Gramps,’ Alex’s grandfather. Albert made his own jerky and stuffed it into the stockings of family members during Christmas.
This holiday tradition morphed into a business idea decades later, when Alex and his friend Richie hit on the inspiration in their small Long Beach apartment one night. The duo decided to take Gramps’ old recipe and stay true to that while experimenting with other recipes. After several trial runs, Long Beach Jerky Co. took off. Their menu now includes jerky flavors such as ‘Gramps’ Original.’ ‘Buffalo Wing,’ ‘Cracked Black Pepper,’ and ‘Spicy Teriyaki.’
According to historians, jerky originated in the Andes Mountains of modern-day Peru. Jerky is any kind of lean meat that has been sliced into strips and dried. The word ‘jerky’ owes its origin to ‘ch’arki,’ a word from the Quechua language meaning ‘dried, salted meat.’ The earliest records of ch’arki date back to the 1550s. Jerky is usually prepared by salting thinly sliced meat parts and leaving them to dry under the sun, over a fire, or in an electric dehydrator. When the meat is completely dehydrated, it can be eaten without cooking. The salting process prevents the growth of bacteria, and if properly done, jerky can last for months without spoiling.
Modern manufactured jerky typically contains preservatives, fat and may even contain brown sugar for taste.
National Craft Jerky Day timeline
Evidence exists of the earliest records of ch’arki.
Jerky becomes a common protein source in pioneer America.
Long Beach Jerky Co. is founded by Alex Naticchioni and Richie Beckman.
Craft Jerky Day is proclaimed a national holiday
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Craft Jerky Day
Local butcher shops and specialty food stores can host jerky tasting events, showcasing different craft brands and meat types. Restaurants might introduce limited-time jerky-infused dishes, such as jerky-crusted chicken or a jerky-topped salad. Breweries could offer special beer pairings with various jerky flavors. Online retailers can run promotions on artisanal jerky bundles, encouraging customers to explore new tastes. Highlight the versatility and nutritional benefits of craft jerky to attract health-conscious consumers.
National Craft Jerky Day FAQs
When is National Craft Jerky Day?
National Craft Jerky Day 2026 is celebrated on Friday, November 27. It’s the perfect occasion to appreciate the savory snack and its rich history.
What is 'craft' jerky?
Craft jerky refers to high-quality, often artisanal jerky made with premium cuts of meat, unique marinades, and traditional drying or smoking methods. It emphasizes flavor, texture, and often uses all-natural ingredients, distinguishing it from mass-produced varieties.
How popular is jerky in the U.S.?
Jerky remains a highly popular snack in the U.S., with the market valued at over $3 billion annually. Its appeal spans various demographics, from outdoor enthusiasts to health-conscious consumers seeking protein-rich options.
What are some popular types of craft jerky?
Popular types of craft jerky include beef jerky, known for its classic texture and robust flavor, as well as turkey jerky, a leaner alternative. Exotic options like venison, bison, and even alligator jerky are also gaining traction among adventurous snackers.
How To Celebrate National Craft Jerky Day
Make your own jerky
Craft Jerky Day is all about small-batch, homemade recipes. Celebrate by making your very own unique jerky. Search for recipes online and make your own variations.
Support a craft jerky business
If you just can’t find time to make your own, support a small craft jerky business by purchasing jerky from them. Your support might go a long way.
Use the hashtag
Let everyone know why we’re celebrating by using the hashtag #craftjerkyday. Spread awareness!
5 Important Facts About The Weirdest Jerky Flavors
Kangaroo jerky
This weird jerky flavor is exactly what its name implies — it’s made from kangaroo meat!
Alligator jerky
You might not be brave enough to face one, but alligator jerky might just suit your palate.
Caffeinated jerky
The meat is spiced up with guarana, a plant ingredient that contains about twice as much caffeine as coffee.
Cheese jerky
These cheese sticks shot through with beef are perfect for all cheese lovers.
Hawaiian jerky
This special jerky is made from meat, soy sauce, Hawaiian salt, garlic, ginger, and pepper.
Why We Love National Craft Jerky Day
It’s delicious
We love jerky because of its delicious taste. So it’s no wonder the delicacy has been passed down from generation to generation. All the way from the 16th century!
That homemade goodness
We love craft jerky because it has that touch of homemade goodness that just can’t be reproduced. Every family has their own special recipe, which is what makes craft jerky so unique.
The simplicity
Craft jerky is one of the few treats that’s simple yet perfect. All it contains is salt and meat, which buttresses the saying that “less is more.”
National Craft Jerky Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | November 27 | Friday |
| 2027 | November 27 | Saturday |
| 2028 | November 27 | Monday |
| 2029 | November 27 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | November 27 | Wednesday |
Social Media Tips for National Craft Jerky Day
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