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National Hot Dog Day

Food · The third Wednesday in July

A day for the hot dog, the grilled or steamed sausage in a soft bun, and the many ways Americans top it.

National Hot Dog Day falls on Wednesday, July 21, 2027. That is 267 days away.

A hot dog is a cooked sausage tucked into a long, split bun. It is usually made from beef, pork or a mix, and it arrives already cooked, so grilling, boiling or steaming mostly warms it and adds flavor. It falls on the third Wednesday in July, right in the middle of grilling season.

The sausage is only half the story. Toppings carry most of the personality, and people hold firm opinions about them. Mustard is the classic. Ketchup has loyal fans and loyal critics. Relish, chopped onions, sauerkraut, chili and cheese all show up depending on who is cooking and where they grew up. Some regional styles pile on pickles, peppers and tomatoes until the bun gives up.

Most people mark the day the easy way, by eating one. Backyard grills, ballpark stands and street carts all count. A hot dog is a food that rarely needs a plate or a plan, which is a large part of its appeal.

It can be fun to try a style you have never had, or to set out a row of toppings and let everyone build their own. Plant-based versions are easy to find for anyone who skips meat, and they take toppings just as well.

Buns matter more than people expect. A bun that is lightly toasted holds up better under wet toppings like chili or kraut.

Ways to celebrate

• Grill a few hot dogs and set out a spread of toppings.
• Try a regional style you have never tasted before.
• Toast your buns lightly before adding the sausage.
• Share your favorite topping combination with a friend.
• Visit a local hot dog stand or cart for lunch.

Dates

All national days on July 21

Also on July 21

• National Junk Food Day
• Take a Monkey to Lunch Day
• National Be Someone Day

Categories: Food days