National Bacon Lover's Day

Celebrated on 08/20/2026

Quick Fact

Bacon is one of the oldest processed meats, with records dating back to 1500 BC in China. The word 'bacon' comes from the Old High German 'bacho', meaning 'buttock', which evolved through Old French to refer to the cured meat from a pig's back or sides.

Origins and Establishment of National Bacon Lover's Day

National Bacon Lover's Day is observed annually on the Saturday before Labor Day in the United States. The holiday was created in 2000 by Danya "Bacon Queen" Goodman and her friend Jason Daily, who wanted to celebrate their shared love for bacon. They chose the Saturday before Labor Day to allow for weekend barbecues and gatherings centered around bacon. The day quickly gained popularity through word of mouth and social media, becoming a recognized food holiday.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Bacon Lover's Day has grown from a small, informal celebration into a widely recognized food holiday. In 2007, the day was officially registered with Chase's Calendar of Events, a comprehensive list of special events and holidays. Today, it is celebrated with bacon-themed parties, restaurant specials, and social media campaigns. Enthusiasts enjoy bacon in various forms—from classic strips to bacon-wrapped dishes, bacon-infused desserts, and even bacon-flavored cocktails. The holiday has also inspired bacon-centric festivals and cook-offs across the country.

Facts & General Observations

• Americans consume approximately 2 billion pounds of bacon annually, with the average American eating about 18 pounds of bacon per year.
• Bacon is a major economic driver: the U.S. bacon market was valued at over $6 billion in 2020, with demand consistently rising.
• The world's largest bacon cheeseburger weighed over 200 pounds and was created in 2012 by a Michigan restaurant to celebrate National Bacon Lover's Day.

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