National French Fry Day
National French Fry Day is celebrated in the United States every year on July 13. It is a day for crispy, golden fries in every style, from thin shoestrings to thick steak fries. Dates for food holidays can vary by source, so confirm the details before you plan. This guide covers the date, a short history of the fry, fun ways to celebrate and topping ideas.
To get ideas, see our pages on Freddy’s Chili Cheese Fries and Freddy’s Fry Sauce, and our guide to the types of fries.
National French Fry Day at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | July 13 each year in the United States |
| Theme | Celebrating fries of every style |
| Popular activities | Fry tastings, home cooking and restaurant offers |
| Common hashtag | #NationalFrenchFryDay |
A Short History of French Fries
The exact origin of the fry is debated, with Belgium and France both claiming credit. American history records that Thomas Jefferson served potatoes cooked in the French manner at the White House in the early 1800s, and fries spread widely in the United States during the twentieth century as fast food grew. Today fries are one of the most popular side dishes in the country.
Ways to Celebrate National French Fry Day
You can celebrate National French Fry Day with a simple fry tasting. Order or cook several cuts, such as shoestring, crinkle, waffle and wedges, and compare crunch and flavor. Set out dips like ketchup, fry sauce, ranch and cheese sauce so everyone can choose a favorite.
Another idea is a build-your-own fry bar with toppings like chili, cheese, bacon bits, jalapeños and green onions. Many restaurants post special offers around the date, so check their official websites or apps for details.
You can also treat the day as a cooking challenge. Try the double-fry method at home with russet potatoes, or bake a tray of seasoned wedges and compare the results with takeout fries.
Fry Topping Ideas for National French Fry Day
| Style | Toppings |
|---|---|
| Chili cheese | Chili, cheese sauce, jalapeños |
| Garlic parmesan | Garlic, parmesan, parsley |
| Ranch bacon | Ranch, bacon bits, green onions |
| Spicy | Hot sauce, pepper jack, pickled jalapeños |
Tips for Hosting a Fry Party
Keep fries hot in a 200°F oven on a sheet pan, and fry or bake in small batches so every plate is crisp. Offer a lighter side, such as fruit or a salad, for balance, and label any dips that contain dairy, egg or other allergens. If fries get cold, our guide on how to reheat fries explains how to crisp them again.
Allergen Information
Fries can be affected by shared fryers and seasonings, and dips often contain milk, egg or soy. Review the official Nutrition & Allergen Information before ordering.
Fun Fry Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Popular dips | Ketchup, fry sauce, ranch and cheese sauce |
| Common cuts | Shoestring, crinkle, waffle, steak and curly |
| Best potato | Russet, for a crisp outside and fluffy center |
| Best cooking method | Double frying or a very hot oven |
Fries are eaten around the world with different seasonings, from vinegar in the United Kingdom to curry sauce in parts of Europe and gravy and cheese curds in Canada. Trying a new topping is a simple way to enjoy the day. Fry lovers often rank crispiness, seasoning and dipping sauce as the three things that matter most.
Healthier Ways to Enjoy Fries
Baking or air frying uses less oil than deep frying, and sharing a portion keeps servings reasonable. Pair fries with a salad or fruit, and enjoy them in moderation.
Conclusion
National French Fry Day is a fun excuse to enjoy your favorite fries, try a new cut or topping and share them with friends. Mark July 13 on your calendar and pick a few dips to try.
