International Chefs Day

International Chefs Day is celebrated annually on October 20. This day honors chefs around the world, celebrating their creativity, dedication, and the vital role they play in shaping food culture.

History of International Chefs Day

International Chefs Day was founded in 2004 by Chef Dr. Bill Gallagher, who at the time was president of the World Association of Chefs Societies (WorldChefs). Its purpose was to recognize and elevate the global culinary profession, while also inspiring chefs to share their knowledge and commitment, especially with the next generation.

Since its establishment, the day has gained international reach. Each year, WorldChefs supports the celebration by providing resources, tools, and a theme to guide activities—often around education, healthy eating, or sustainability. Chefs, culinary institutions, associations, and food lovers participate by organizing cooking events, workshops, or community outreach.

Why International Chefs Day matters

Chefs often work behind the scenes, turning raw ingredients into experiences that nourish, delight, and bring people together. International Chefs Day gives them a moment of visibility and appreciation, reminding the world that food isn’t just fuel—it’s culture, connection, creativity. It’s a chance to shine a light on how much skill, care, and passion go into every dish.

The day also carries a responsibility: to promote ethical cooking, food access, nutrition, and sustainability. Chefs can use their platform to encourage better food systems, to mentor young talent, and to make good food more inclusive. When chefs unite on this day, they share ideals as well as techniques, helping to shape the future of cuisine in positive ways.

• It highlights the artistry, skill, and creativity of chefs
• It inspires younger people to consider culinary careers
• It pushes for healthier, more sustainable food practices
• It builds a sense of global community among food professionals
• It encourages chefs to give back through education and outreach

How to Celebrate International Chefs Day

If you’re a chef or food lover, you can mark the day by hosting or attending a cooking demo, class, or tasting event. Chefs might share a signature recipe free of charge or offer special menus that spotlight local or sustainable ingredients. Culinary schools and restaurants can open their kitchens or host tours to invite the public behind the scenes.

At home or in your community, you could cook a special meal using new techniques or ingredients, invite friends to a cooking challenge, or support local chefs by dining out or ordering from small establishments. Sharing food stories, recipes, or kitchen experiments on social media with the theme of the day can further amplify its reach. For chefs especially, mentoring or giving a mini-workshop to aspiring cooks can make the day meaningful.

Some ways to observe:

• Host or attend a chef-led cooking demo or workshop
• Share a chef’s signature recipe or experiment with new cuisine
• Support local restaurants or chefs (dine in, order takeout, promote them)
• Post photos or videos of your cooking adventures on social media
• Help mentor an aspiring chef or share your culinary knowledge

International Chefs Day Dates Table