National Hot Dog Day: What is it and why is it celebrated in the US?

Throughout the year, the United States has a myriad of informal festivities, one of which is National Hot Dog Day. Through this celebration, Americans pay tribute to one of the most famous dishes in their cuisine: the hot dog.

Hot dogs are a dish consisting of a cooked sausage served on a bun, accompanied by garnishes and/or condiments. Hot dog sausages, popularly known as frankfurters, were brought to the United States in the 19th century by German immigrants. Over time, they became ingrained in the culture and are now part of one of the most popular dishes in the country.

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National Hot Dog Day: Origin and why it is celebrated in the USA

According to various online records, National Hot Dog Day originated in the early 1990s, when the American Meat Institute created the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council. As its name suggests, this association represents the U.S. meat and poultry industry, while the council is responsible for providing necessary information on nutrition, quality and preparation of such foods to consumers.

It was this Council that established the celebration of National Hot Dog Day in 1994. The date was determined to coincide with a hot dog luncheon held on Capitol Hill. The celebration is held every third Wednesday in July.

To commemorate the holiday, the Council often organises hot dog events across the country, with proceeds donated to charity. However, any citizen can be part of the celebration by grilling at home with family and friends to enjoy this delicious dish.

Across the country, various restaurants and food vendors partake in the celebrations with special menu items and promotional offers, culminating in a US-wide festival of the nation’s favourite sausage.