National Chicken and Waffles Day

National Chicken and Waffles Day is celebrated annually on October 20. The day spotlights the beloved pairing of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles—a dish that balances savory and sweet—and invites people everywhere to enjoy, share, and celebrate this comfort‑food combo.

History of National Chicken and Waffles Day

The holiday was officially established in 2021 by Roscoe’s House of Chicken ’N Waffles to celebrate the dish and its cultural resonance. The intent was not only to honor a tasty food tradition, but also to tie in community engagement, charity, and the joy that comes with sharing good meals. Since then, the observance has gained recognition across food lover circles, local restaurants, and social media communities.

The pairing of chicken and waffles has a deeper culinary lineage. One version traces its roots to Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, where stewed chicken was served over waffles with gravy. Another version, more familiar today, emerged in African American culinary traditions, especially in Harlem and in soul food kitchens, combining fried chicken with sweet syrup and waffles. Over the years, the dish evolved and spread in popularity, with Roscoe’s in Los Angeles helping to amplify its iconic status.

Why National Chicken and Waffles Day matters

Food holidays like this do more than just offer an excuse to eat—they create moments for cultural connection, culinary curiosity, and shared delight. National Chicken and Waffles Day encourages people to explore regional versions, support local eateries, try new recipes, and reflect on how food traditions travel and change. It gives both chefs and home cooks a chance to get playful with flavors and presentation.

At a deeper level, the dish itself is a meeting of two food worlds—sweet and savory—and reminds us that great flavors often come from blending contrasts. Celebrating it shines light not only on flavor but on heritage, creativity, and community. It invites stories—of late‑night diners, brunch tables, family recipes, and neighborhood restaurants—that anchor food to memory and belonging.

• It highlights a beloved comfort food pairing
• It encourages experimentation and new recipes
• It supports local restaurants that offer the dish
• It prompts awareness of food traditions and their histories
• It brings people together over shared meals and tastes

How to Celebrate National Chicken and Waffles Day

Celebrate by going out to a restaurant that serves chicken and waffles, or try making your own version at home. You could experiment with classic southern styles (fried chicken + syrup + waffles) or historical versions (stewed chicken + gravy over waffles). Invite friends over for a brunch or dinner around the dish. Share photos, your recipe, or your twist on the combo on social media using the holiday’s hashtag. If you can, include a charitable angle—maybe offer to serve the meal at a community event or support a local food cause.

Some ideas:

• Go out and order chicken and waffles at a local eatery
• Cook your own version at home—classic or experimental
• Host a chicken & waffles brunch with friends or family
• Share photos or recipes on social media to inspire others
• Offer or donate meals or support to a community in need

National Chicken and Waffles Day Dates Table