- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- AppreciationCookingHobby
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every August 24
- Holiday emoji:
- 🔪
National Knife Day celebrates the enduring utility and craftsmanship of knives every August 24. From ancient flint to modern steel, knives are essential tools for cooking, crafting, and countless daily tasks. Sharpen your skills, explore new designs, and join fellow enthusiasts in appreciating this fundamental instrument.
Want to sponsor National Knife Day? Learn how
Expected National Knife Day Deals
While we wait for official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows retailers often offer deals on National Knife Day. Expect major brands like Wüsthof, Shun Cutlery, and Victorinox to feature discounts on kitchen knives. Outdoor and tactical brands such as Benchmade and Kershaw Knives may also roll out special offers on folding and fixed-blade models. Specialty shops like Blade HQ and general retailers such as Amazon often run sales on knife sets and accessories. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as August 24 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Knife Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalKnifeDay. Share photos of your favorite knives, whether they’re for cooking, camping, or collecting.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalKnifeDay. Film a quick video showcasing your knife skills, a knife collection, or proper knife care.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalKnifeDay. Join discussions in knife enthusiast groups and share stories about your most cherished blades.
National Knife Day Hero
Joseph Rodgers
History of National Knife Day
It is difficult to say who started National Knife Day or when they started it, but it seems like the celebrations have been in place since 2011. The knife is one of the earliest tools known to humankind, that was invented from the need for survival. Initially, knives were used as primitive tools for digging and construction, as weapons, and to hunt, fish, and gather food. Unlike today, it was common for prehistoric humans to carry a knife with them at all times. The first knives were made of stones as sharpened stone tools became more advanced during the late Lithic periods. During the Copper and Bronze Ages, metal blades appeared, which quickly replaced knives made of stone. However, these knives weren’t as durable as their predecessors.
During the Iron age, tools became stronger and more durable. Iron knives were followed by steel blades, and they have remained pretty much the same since then. Steel blades made of iron alloys are the most common today, while cobalt alloys and titanium are also popular choices. Early knives didn’t have a separate handle and blade. For decorative purposes and easy use, handles began being made out of carved bone, wood, and metal. Today, wood is one of the most popular materials used for knife handles. There’s also been an advent of a separate handle with the invention of folding knives. Knives serve a host of different purposes in the present day. We use knives to prepare and eat food, for medical purposes, and carving. There are various types of kitchen knives such as chef’s, utility, paring, and bread knives. Most knives are affordable to just about anyone, but there are high-end custom knives that sell for a whopping $400 or more!
National Knife Day timeline
The Karl Elsener Company makes the Swiss Army's Modell 1890 knife.
Two British members of the Shanghai Municipal Police develop modern tactics for knife combat.
The book outlines some innovative ways on how to win in a knife fight.
Rian Johnson’s movie starring some of the biggest Hollywood actors becomes an instant hit.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Knife Day
Local businesses, especially kitchen supply stores, outdoor outfitters, and culinary schools, can embrace National Knife Day. Offer sharpening services at a discount, host a knife skills workshop, or showcase a curated selection of specialty blades. Restaurants can highlight dishes prepared with precision cuts, perhaps offering a ‘chef’s special’ that demonstrates superior knife work. Share behind-the-scenes content of your team’s favorite knives or offer a small discount on knife-related accessories.
National Knife Day FAQs
When is National Knife Day?
National Knife Day 2026 falls on a Monday, August 24. This annual observance is a fixed date, allowing enthusiasts to mark their calendars well in advance for celebrations.
What are knives used for?
Knives are incredibly versatile tools used for a vast array of tasks, from precise culinary preparation and intricate crafting to essential survival activities like hunting and fishing. They are fundamental in countless professions and hobbies.
How old are knives as tools?
Knives are among the oldest tools known to humankind, with archaeological evidence suggesting their use dates back millions of years. Early knives were crafted from natural materials like flint, obsidian, and bone, evolving alongside human civilization.
What materials are knives made from?
Modern knives are predominantly made from various types of steel, including stainless, carbon, and Damascus steel, chosen for their balance of hardness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. Handles can be crafted from wood, synthetic polymers, or composites.
National Knife Day Activities
Throw some knives
Bring out your dartboard and practice some knife throwing on National Knife Day. Remember to be careful about it.
Clean, oil, and sharpen your knives
Shower your knives with affection today. Bring out all your knives to clean, oil, and sharpen them.
Cut something
Practice all safety measures and get started on cutting something. You could cut paper, ropes, cloth, or even learn a new chopping style.
5 Facts About Knives That Will Blow Your Mind
Pen knives are what the name suggests
A penknife was used for sharpening a quill to make a pen nib.
Swiss Army Knives are not entirely Swiss-made
The corkscrew tool of a Swiss Army Knife is made in Japan.
Knives made from extraterrestrial material
King Tutankhamun’s dagger was made of meteoric iron.
Carrying around some knives is legal
An amputee can carry around a switchblade in the U.S.
Some knives can be very expensive
The Gem of the Orient knife was originally sold for more than $1 million.
Why We Love National Knife Day
Knives are our useful companions
On National Knife Day, we celebrate a tool that’s not just made life easier but has also protected early humans from mortal dangers. Knives are our old friends and this is the perfect day to celebrate the friendship.
A day to show off our skills
From chopping and slicing to fighting and throwing, knives can come in handy to show off a range of skill sets. Celebrate this day as a way of showing off some unusual skills.
A day to celebrate history
Over the centuries, knives have emerged into fine tools that aid in medical procedures and cutting paper-thin fillets. You can use the day to learn more about the incredible technologies that have shaped knives over the years.
Social Media Tips for National Knife Day
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