National Onion Ring Day

National Onion Ring Day: A Celebration of Deep-Fried Deliciousness

This food holiday celebrates the beloved batter-dipped, deep-fried onion rings that have become a staple appetizer and side dish across the globe. These golden-brown circles of joy combine the sweetness of onions with a crispy exterior that’s impossible to resist.

Quick Facts

When is it?: June 22nd annually
Tagged as: Food Holiday
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalOnionRingsDay
When was it founded?: Unknown
Who founded it?: Origin unclear

History

The history of onion rings dates back to 1802 when British chef John Mollard published the first known recipe in “The Art of Cookery Made Easy and Refined.” The dish gained widespread popularity in the 1960s when A&W added them to their drive-in menu, cementing their place in fast-food culture.

Timeline

1802: First recipe appears in Mollard’s cookbook
1910: “French Fried Onions” recipe published in Middletown Daily Times
1933: Crisco advertises onion rings recipe in New York Times
1920s: Kirby’s Pig Stand claims to invent modern onion rings
1960s: A&W popularizes onion rings in fast food

Dates by Next Year

Year	Date	Day
2025	June 22	Sunday
2026	June 22	Monday
2027	June 22	Tuesday
2028	June 22	Thursday
2029	June 22	Friday

Observed

Celebrated worldwide, particularly in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and parts of Asia.

Fun Facts About Onion Rings

Americans consume over 2.8 billion rings annually
Yellow onions are considered ideal for making rings
The largest onion ever grown weighed 10 pounds 14 ounces
75% of US fast food restaurants include onion rings on their menus

Quiz

When was the first onion ring recipe published?
Which restaurant chain first popularized onion rings in fast food?
How many onion rings do Americans consume annually?
(Answers: 1802, A&W, 2.8 billion)

FAQs

Q: What type of onion is best for rings?
A: Yellow onions are preferred for their natural sweetness.

Q: Can onion rings be baked instead of fried?
A: Yes, there are numerous healthy baked alternatives.

Importance of National Onion Ring Day

This celebration highlights culinary innovation and the evolution of simple ingredients into beloved comfort foods. It also recognizes the cultural impact of this popular side dish across different cuisines.