Charcuterie boards are artfully arranged platters featuring a variety of cured meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and accompaniments that create a visually appealing and delicious spread for sharing and entertaining.
Quick Facts
When is it?: August 26th annually
Tagged as: Food & Beverage Holiday
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalCharcuterieDay
When was it founded?: 2024
Who founded it?: Corinne Sweet
History of Charcuterie
Charcuterie originated in 15th-century France, where it described pork butcher shops selling salted and smoked meats. The traditional French charcuterie emphasized pates, rillettes, boudin, sausages, and salamis as preserved foods. Today, it has evolved into an art form of food presentation.
Timeline
• 15th Century: Origins in French butcher shops
• 2024: First official National Charcuterie Board Day established
• Present: Modern interpretation includes diverse ingredients beyond meats
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | August | 26 | Monday |
| 2025 | August | 26 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | August | 26 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | August | 26 | Thursday |
| 2028 | August | 26 | Friday |
| 2029 | August | 26 | Saturday |
Observed
People celebrate by creating their own charcuterie boards, hosting parties, supporting local artisans, and sharing their creations on social media.
Fun Facts About Charcuterie
• The word “charcuterie” comes from French terms “chair” (flesh) and “cuit” (cooked)
• Traditional boards were focused solely on preserved meats
• Modern boards can include sweet and savory elements
• Each region has its own traditional cured meats
Quiz
- When was National Charcuterie Board Day established?
- What is the traditional focus of charcuterie?
- Who founded this national day?
Answers: 1) 2024 2) Cured meats 3) Corinne Sweet
FAQs
• How many people does a board serve? Depends on whether it’s an appetizer or meal
• Can items be customized? Yes, boards can be personalized
• Should you use utensils? Always use tongs, toothpicks, or forks
• Is the board reusable? Most boards are yours to keep
Related Celebrations
• National Cheese Lover’s Day
• National Wine Day
• National Picnic Day
• International Food Day
• National Appetizer Day