National Chicken Wing Day

Prepare those wet wipes and put your bib on, because it's nearly National Chicken Wing Day! Gathering momentum over the last couple of years, there's no doubting that people love their chicken wings. With 33,119 recorded mentions back in 2016 alone, this is one finger-licking holiday that just keeps on growing besides the sauce stains on our shirts.

When is Chicken Wing Day?

It's national chicken wing day on the 29th July.

A Brief History of National Chicken Wing Day

It's no mere coincidence that National Chicken Wing Day falls in the midst of summer. Established by the Mayor of Buffalo, NY in 1977, this day's main goal was to aid those family BBQs and the picnic afternoons on sunny days. Buffalo has a historic love affair with chicken wings, with even its signature 'Buffalo Wings' named after it!

From then on, chicken wings weren’t just the football buddy or party starter, they became something more dear. They became worthy of their own national day.

Fire Up the Grill!

Over the years, the popularity of this day skyrocketed, and no day demonstrates that better than July 29, 2016. With 33,119 mentions online, it was obvious that people's love for this dish just kept growing. Every year, cook-offs, contests, and discounts fly around the country and even across borders as people celebrate this joyous day.

Not Just the Wings

Just as the wings carry a chicken, National Chicken Wing Day carries a spirit of celebration and unity through shared love for food. More than the wings themselves, it's about coming together and standing elbow-to-elbow at the counter, stopping for a moment to enjoy the simple pleasures of life... such as a good, tasty wing!

History behind the term 'Chicken Wing'

1964

Origin of Buffalo-style chicken wings

In 1964, the owner of the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, Teressa Bellissimo, came up with the idea of deep-frying chicken wings and tossing them in a spicy sauce. This marked the birth of Buffalo-style chicken wings, which would go on to become a beloved American food staple.

1977

Chicken wings gain popularity at the Super Bowl

In 1977, the popularity of chicken wings skyrocketed when they were served at the annual Super Bowl in Miami. The combination of the deliciously crispy wings and the exciting football game made it a winning combination. Since then, chicken wings have become a staple food during Super Bowl parties, consumed by millions of Americans every year.

1980s

Expansion of chicken wing flavors

During the 1980s, the popularity of chicken wings expanded beyond the classic Buffalo-style. Different flavors such as barbecue, teriyaki, honey mustard, and garlic parmesan started to emerge. This diversification of flavors made chicken wings even more enticing to a wider audience.

1994

First National Chicken Wing Day

In 1994, the mayor of Buffalo, Stan Makowski, proclaimed July 29th as National Chicken Wing Day. This day was dedicated to celebrating the deliciousness of chicken wings and honoring their origin in Buffalo. Since then, chicken wing enthusiasts across the nation join in the celebration every year.

2000s

Global popularity and variations

By the 2000s, chicken wings had gained international popularity. Restaurants and food establishments worldwide started offering their own unique variations of chicken wings, incorporating local flavors and spices. From Asian-inspired soy-glazed wings to Caribbean jerk wings, the possibilities became endless, showcasing the versatility of this beloved finger food.