National Buffet Day celebrates the beloved dining style where people can enjoy unlimited portions from a variety of dishes served in a self-service format. This food-focused holiday honors the buffet system that has become a popular dining choice worldwide.
Quick Facts
When is it?: January 2nd annually
Tagged as: Food Holiday
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalBuffetDay
When was it founded?: 2007
Who founded it?: Unknown
History
The buffet concept originated in 16th century Sweden as “brännvinsbord” (schnapps table), where pre-dinner drinks and appetizers were served. It evolved into the smörgåsbord, gaining international recognition at the 1939 New York World’s Fair. The modern American buffet emerged in Las Vegas during the 1940s when Herb McDonald created the Buckaroo Buffet to keep casino patrons inside longer.
Timeline
- 16th Century: Swedish brännvinsbord introduced
- 1939: Smörgåsbord debuts at New York World’s Fair
- 1940s: First Las Vegas buffet opens
- 1960s: Casino buffets become popular at $1.50 per person
- 2007: National Buffet Day established
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January | 2 | Thursday |
| 2026 | January | 2 | Friday |
| 2027 | January | 2 | Saturday |
| 2028 | January | 2 | Sunday |
| 2029 | January | 2 | Tuesday |
Observed
The day is celebrated by visiting buffet restaurants, hosting buffet-style gatherings, or creating themed buffet spreads at home. Many restaurants offer special promotions and expanded selections on this day.
Fun Facts About
- The Rio in Las Vegas holds the title for biggest buffet in the US
- Cold foods at buffets must be kept below 40 degrees Fahrenheit
- Swedish smörgåsbords traditionally must include pickled herring
- Buffets often use smaller plates and larger drink glasses as a strategy
Quiz
- Where did the modern buffet originate?
- What year was National Buffet Day established?
- What was the original name for Swedish buffet tables?
(Answers: 1. Sweden 2. 2007 3. Brännvinsbord)
FAQs
- What is a buffet?: A dining system where various foods are displayed and guests serve themselves
- Why January 2nd?: It follows New Year’s Day, offering a festive way to continue holiday celebrations
- Are buffets still popular?: While trending down slightly, buffets remain popular for group dining and special occasions
Related
- National Food Service Workers Day
- National Restaurant Day
- International Food Day
- All You Can Eat Day
- World Cuisine Day