National Corn Dog Day

Young girl holding a corn dog, smiling happily, wearing a striped t-shirt, carnival atmosphere, summer fun.. — National corn dog day illustration

Are you ready to relish in the crispy, delicious delight of corn dogs? Well, get your taste buds prepared because National Corn Dog Day is here to satisfy your craving for all things corny and doggy!

When is Corn Dog Day?

It's national corn dog day on the 18th March.

Internet History of National Corn Dog Day

National Corn Dog Day has become a beloved annual celebration of one of America's favorite fair foods - the corn dog. But how did this mouthwatering creation become so popular?

The first mention of National Corn Dog Day on the internet can be traced back to 1139 online mentions. The event gained a lot of attention on March 18, 2017, with people sharing their love for corn dogs and indulging in this deep-fried treat.

While it's unclear who officially declared National Corn Dog Day, it's clear that corn dogs have been a staple at state fairs and carnivals for decades. The combination of a delicious hot dog, encased in a sweet cornmeal batter, deep-fried to golden perfection, has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of countless food lovers.

Whether you prefer your corn dog with mustard, ketchup, or something more adventurous like cheese or BBQ sauce, there's no denying the joy and nostalgia that comes with biting into a warm, crispy corn dog.

Why Celebrate National Corn Dog Day?

Corn dogs are more than just a tasty treat; they're a symbol of fun, indulgence, and the joy of childhood. Celebrating National Corn Dog Day is a great way to relive those carefree days of wandering the fairgrounds, clutching a corn dog in one hand and a stuffed animal in the other.

By honoring this beloved deep-fried snack, we pay homage to the countless food vendors who have delighted us with their culinary skills at fairs and festivals across the country. National Corn Dog Day is a day to appreciate the simple pleasures in life and relish in the wonders of a perfectly cooked corn dog.

Did You Know?

Did you know that corn dogs are not only a hit at fairs and festivals but also at sports events? In stadiums and arenas nationwide, you'll find fans cheering on their favorite teams with a corn dog in hand. It's the perfect finger food for enjoying the game and getting your snack on at the same time!

History behind the term 'Corn Dog'

1929

The Invention of the Corn Dog

The term 'corn dog' originates from the invention of this delicious snack on an eventful day in 1929. Two brothers, Neil and Carl Fletcher, were operating a food booth at the Texas State Fair when they came up with the idea of combining a hot dog with a cornmeal batter. They perfected their unique recipe by dipping the hot dog in the batter and deep-frying it to perfection. This innovative creation quickly became a crowd favorite.

1941

Patent and Popularization

In 1941, Neil Fletcher received a patent for his corn dog invention, solidifying its place in culinary history. The patent described the method of cooking a frankfurter on a stick, coating it in cornmeal batter, and then deep-frying it. This patent contributed to the spread of corn dogs across the United States as other food vendors could now replicate and sell this delightful treat. The popularity of corn dogs continued to grow, especially at state fairs and carnivals, where they became a staple food.

1950s

Corn Dog Name Adoption

The term 'corn dog' gained widespread usage starting in the 1950s. The name perfectly encapsulated the ingredients - a hot dog on a stick coated in a delicious cornmeal batter. The portability and unique presentation of corn dogs made them a hit at county fairs, amusement parks, and sporting events. Soon, 'corn dog' became the standard term to refer to this deep-fried delight.

1963

Corn Dogs Hit the Supermarket

In 1963, the corn dog made its way into supermarkets thanks to the efforts of the Pronto Pup Company. They developed a frozen corn dog on a stick, enabling anyone to enjoy this tasty treat at home. The convenience and accessibility of store-bought corn dogs further boosted their popularity, making them a go-to snack for many families.

Present

Cultural Icon and Variations

Today, the corn dog has become a cultural icon and a beloved comfort food in the United States. It has even gained international recognition in various forms, such as the 'pogo' in Canada and 'dagwood dog' in Australia. Over the years, creative variations and adaptations of the corn dog have emerged, incorporating diverse ingredients and flavors. From bacon-wrapped corn dogs to vegan alternatives, this classic carnival food continues to evolve while maintaining its delicious core concept.