National Bao Day
National Bao Day: A Celebration of Steamed Delights
National Bao Day is a fun and flavorful celebration dedicated to bao, the beloved Chinese steamed buns filled with a variety of delicious ingredients. Known for their soft, fluffy texture and versatility, bao has become a global favorite, enjoyed by people of all cultures.
Quick Facts
- When is it? August 22 (annually)
- Tagged as: Food & Drink, Snacks & Desserts
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalBaoDay
- When was it founded? 2017
- Who founded it? Wow Bao
History of National Bao Day
The origins of National Bao Day trace back to Wow Bao, a restaurant that first opened in Chicago in 2003. In 2017, Wow Bao established this holiday to celebrate bao’s rich Chinese heritage and its growing popularity in the United States. The date, August 22, marks the anniversary of their first restaurant opening. Bao itself dates back to the third century CE and is attributed to Zhuge Liang, a Chinese military strategist who also invented mantou, the unfilled version of bao.
Timeline
- 3rd Century CE: Zhuge Liang invents mantou, the precursor to bao.
- 2003: Wow Bao opens its first restaurant in Chicago.
- 2017: National Bao Day is officially established by Wow Bao.
- 2020s: Bao gains widespread popularity across the U.S., with restaurants offering creative fillings.
Dates by Next Year (2025 to 2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August 22 | Friday |
| 2026 | August 22 | Saturday |
| 2027 | August 22 | Sunday |
| 2028 | August 22 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | August 22 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | August 22 | Thursday |
Observed
National Bao Day is celebrated by indulging in bao at restaurants or making them at home. Many establishments, including Wow Bao, offer special deals and discounts. Social media buzzes with #NationalBaoDay as people share their bao experiences.
Fun Facts About National Bao Day
- The word baozi means “steamed bun” in Chinese.
- Two main types of bao exist: Dàbāo (big buns) and Xiǎobāo (small buns).
- Traditional fillings include pork, vegetables, sweet custard, and even chocolate.
- The round shape of bao symbolizes prosperity in Chinese culture.
Quiz
- What does the word baozi mean?
- Who founded National Bao Day?
- What year was National Bao Day established?
- What are the two main types of bao?
(Answers:)
- Steamed bun
- Wow Bao
- 2017
- Dàbāo and Xiǎobāo
FAQs
Q: What is bao?
A: Bao is a steamed bun filled with various ingredients like meat, vegetables, or sweet fillings.
Q: Is National Bao Day celebrated worldwide?
A: While it originated in the U.S., many people worldwide enjoy celebrating it due to bao’s global popularity.
Q: Can I make bao at home?
A: Yes! Many recipes are available online for making traditional or modern versions of bao.
Importance of National Bao Day
National Bao Day not only celebrates a delicious food but also honors Chinese culinary heritage and its influence on global cuisine. It fosters cultural appreciation and brings people together over a shared love for food.
Related
- International Dumpling Day
- Chinese New Year Celebrations
- Dim Sum Festivals