An elegantly arranged feast showcasing a variety of indulgent foods, including decadent desserts, savory dishes, and vibrant fruits, all under natural lighting, centered in the frame

National Eat What You Want Day

National Eat What You Want Day is a fun, indulgent holiday celebrated annually on May 11. Created by Thomas and Ruth Roy, it encourages people to set aside diet restrictions and enjoy their favorite foods guilt-free for a day.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: May 11
  • Tagged as: Food, Indulgence, Freedom
  • What’s the hashtag?: #EatWhatYouWantDay
  • When was it founded?: Early 2000s
  • Who founded it?: Thomas and Ruth Roy

History

Thomas and Ruth Roy created National Eat What You Want Day as a response to the growing obsession with diets and food restrictions. Their aim was to provide a day of freedom from calorie counting, allowing everyone to enjoy the simple pleasure of eating whatever they desire.

Timeline

  • 1558: Luigi Cornaro writes The Art of Living Long, considered the first diet book.
  • 1863: William Banting introduces the first popular diet.
  • 1921: The ketogenic diet emerges but gains popularity a century later.
  • 2000s: Thomas and Ruth Roy establish National Eat What You Want Day.

Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)

YearMonth and DateDay
2025May 11Sunday
2026May 11Monday
2027May 11Tuesday
2028May 11Thursday
2029May 11Friday
2030May 11Saturday

Observed

National Eat What You Want Day is observed by indulging in your favorite meals without guilt. People often host potlucks, dine out at their favorite restaurants, or simply treat themselves to long-desired dishes.

Fun Facts About

  • Pizza is the top food Americans would eat daily if there were no consequences.
  • Other popular choices include pasta, ice cream, burgers, and chocolate.
  • It’s a great day for trying new cuisines or recipes you’ve been hesitant to explore.

Quiz

  1. Who founded National Eat What You Want Day?
    (Answer: Thomas and Ruth Roy)
  2. When is National Eat What You Want Day celebrated?
    (Answer: May 11)
  3. What is the most popular food choice for this day in America?
    (Answer: Pizza)

FAQs

Q: Can anyone celebrate this day?
A: Yes! It’s an inclusive holiday for anyone who loves food.

Q: Is there a specific way to celebrate?
A: No rules—just eat what you want! Whether it’s dessert for breakfast or trying something new, it’s all about enjoying yourself.

Q: Does this day promote unhealthy habits?
A: Not at all! It’s about balance and taking one day to relax dietary restrictions.

Importance

National Eat What You Want Day highlights the joy of food and reminds us to occasionally pause from strict routines. It promotes mental well-being by encouraging people to indulge guilt-free.

Related

  • National Pizza Day (February 9)
  • National Ice Cream Day (Third Sunday of July)
  • National Chocolate Day (October 28)

On This Day: