- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Tags:
- Food
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every October 16
- Holiday emoji:
- 🍖
National Veterans BBQ Day fires up the grills every October 16, inviting communities to honor local veterans with delicious barbecue meals. It’s a day to gather, share stories, and express gratitude for their service in a friendly, relaxed setting. Plan a backyard cookout, visit a veteran-owned BBQ joint, or organize a community event to show your appreciation.
Want to sponsor National Veterans BBQ Day? Learn how
History of National Veterans BBQ Day
For those who may be unaware, a veteran is an ex-member of the armed forces. The need to honor and respect veterans cannot be overemphasized. They have played valuable roles in the services of their countries. In 1919, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day to honor fallen heroes.
In 1945, World War II veteran Raymond Weeks from Birmingham, Alabama, suggested that Armistice Day should be extended to celebrate all veterans, not just those who died in World War I. In 1954, ‘Armistice’ was replaced with ‘Veterans,’ based on a bill passed by the U.S. Congress. In that same year, the National Veterans Award was formed, with Congressman Rees of Kansas receiving the first National Veterans Award.
National Veterans BBQ Day was created in April 2021 by Smoke & Bacon Media L.L.C. The private company was born from a veteran’s vision of patriotism and togetherness. It has a social platform open to veterans and civilians worldwide, a radio station, and some charities under its operation.
Although National Veterans BBQ Day differs from Veterans Day, they share the same spirit of honoring and celebrating our veterans. On National Veterans BBQ Day, people celebrate their local military veterans by either cooking them some BBQ or by inviting them out for a BBQ meal at a steakhouse. Some veteran communities also host BBQ parties, and some steakhouses treat veterans and troops to a meal on the house.
National Veterans BBQ Day timeline
U.S. President Woodrow Wilson proclaims National Armistice Day.
Armistice Day is to be known as Veterans Day, following a bill passed by Congress.
Smoke & Bacon Media L.L.C. is launched by a veteran.
Smoke & Bacon Media L.L.C. creates National Veterans BBQ day.
National Veterans BBQ Day FAQs
When is National Veterans BBQ Day?
National Veterans BBQ Day 2026 falls on Friday, October 16. It’s a perfect end-of-week opportunity to fire up the grill and show appreciation for our veterans.
How many veterans are in the United States?
As of recent data, there are approximately 18 million veterans living in the United States. This day helps recognize their collective service and sacrifice through a shared meal.
Is National Veterans BBQ Day a federal holiday?
No, National Veterans BBQ Day is not a federal holiday. It is an observance dedicated to community appreciation, distinct from federal holidays like Veterans Day.
What is the difference between National Veterans BBQ Day and Veterans Day?
National Veterans BBQ Day, on October 16, is a day for informal, community-led celebrations centered around barbecue to thank veterans. Veterans Day, on November 11, is a federal holiday honoring all military veterans, often marked by parades, ceremonies, and government office closures.
National Veterans BBQ Day Activities
Be part of the online celebration
Use the hashtag #veteransbbq to interact with veterans and others participating in the holiday. Join in with others (veterans and civilians alike) as they share their favorite recipes, stories, and deployment experiences.
Host a veteran BBQ party
Host a veteran BBQ party with veterans, friends, and neighbors. Have fun trying to recreate the Smoke & Bacon Veterans BBQ Day Bacon Recipe.
Invite a veteran out for a BBQ
Take a veteran you know out for a BBQ meal at a local steakhouse on this holiday. Show them that you respect and appreciate their services to the country.
5 Facts About Veterans
Alaska has the highest proportion of veterans
In 2019, Alaska was the state with the highest proportion of veterans in its population at 11%.
11% of veterans are women
Women make up 11% of veterans.
Over 17 million U.S veterans
According to the 2019 U.S. Census Bureau, there were more than 17 million veterans in the United States.
50% of veterans suffer from P.T.S.D.
Statistics show that 50% of veterans live with mental illnesses like post-traumatic stress disorder (P.T.S.D.).
The military draft ended in 1973
The number of veterans has declined in recent years due to the military draft ending in 1973.
Why We Love National Veterans BBQ Day
A chance to show appreciation
The holiday presents the chance to demonstrate public appreciation for veterans and those still serving in the armed forces. Everyone is encouraged to show gratitude and love.
A good meal
A good BBQ, some beer, and good company make the day a cheerful, wholesome one. This holiday delivers an occasion for that.
An opportunity for veterans to bond
The event offers a chance for veterans to bond over conversations and good festivity. It helps people connect and share experiences.
National Veterans BBQ Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | October 16 | Friday |
| 2027 | October 16 | Saturday |
| 2028 | October 16 | Monday |
| 2029 | October 16 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | October 16 | Wednesday |
