National Day
National Lard Day
Celebrated on 12/08/2026
Quick Fact
National Lard Day is celebrated on December 5th, recognizing the culinary and historical importance of rendered pig fat. Despite its fall from grace during the low-fat craze, lard is making a comeback among chefs for its flaky pastry and high smoke point.
Origins and Establishment of National Lard Day
National Lard Day was established in 2015 by the Lard Club, a group dedicated to preserving the use of traditional animal fats in cooking. The date December 5th was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the first documented use of lard in the United States, though the exact origin of lard itself dates back centuries. The holiday aims to celebrate lard's role in classic cuisines and challenge misconceptions about its health effects.
Evolution and Modern Commemoration
Initially a niche observance, National Lard Day has grown through social media campaigns and events hosted by food bloggers and artisan producers. Today, it is celebrated with cooking demonstrations, lard-themed dinners, and educational content about its benefits. The holiday has gained traction as part of the broader revival of traditional fats, with many restaurants featuring lard-based dishes on December 5th.
Facts & General Observations
- Lard has a smoke point of 370°F (188°C), making it ideal for frying and high-heat cooking.
- It contains 50% monounsaturated fat, similar to olive oil, and is naturally trans-fat-free.
- The United States produces over 1 billion pounds of lard annually, primarily as a byproduct of pork processing.