National Peking Duck Day

Celebrated on 01/18/2026

Quick Fact

National Peking Duck Day is celebrated on January 18th each year, honoring one of China's most famous dishes. The dish dates back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) and was originally reserved for the imperial court. Today, the authentic preparation involves inflating the duck's skin to separate it from the fat, then roasting it in a closed oven until the skin is crispy.

Origins and Establishment of National Peking Duck Day

National Peking Duck Day was established to celebrate the iconic dish known as Peking duck, which has a history spanning over 600 years. The exact origins of the holiday are unclear, but it is believed to have been created by food enthusiasts and culinary organizations in the United States to honor the dish's cultural significance. The date, January 18th, may have been chosen arbitrarily or to coincide with a notable event in Peking duck's history.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Initially celebrated in Chinese communities, National Peking Duck Day has gained broader recognition through social media and food festivals. Today, restaurants across the US offer special menus or discounts on this day, and food bloggers share recipes and histories. The holiday has also sparked interest in the traditional carving techniques and the importance of the crispy skin, which is often served with pancakes, spring onions, and hoisin sauce.

Facts & General Observations

• The most famous restaurant for Peking duck is Quanjude in Beijing, which has been serving the dish since 1864 and roasts over 200 ducks daily.
• Authentic Peking duck requires a multi-day process: inflating the duck, air-drying, and roasting in a closed oven at high temperatures to achieve the signature crispy skin.
• In 2021, a single Peking duck was sold for $1,000 at a charity auction in New York, highlighting its status as a luxury dish.

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