National Chicken Wing Day

National Chicken Wing Day on July  29, celebrated annually, honors the iconic Buffalo-style chicken wing and its rise from humble pub snack to beloved global comfort food.

History of National Chicken Wing Day

The story begins at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, where in 1964, Teressa and Frank Bellissimo invented what we now know as Buffalo wings—deep-fried chicken wings tossed in spicy butter sauce, served with celery and blue cheese dressing. Thirteen years later, in 1977, Buffalo’s mayor, Stan Makowski formally declared July 29 as National Chicken Wing Day to celebrate this local invention and uplift city spirit after a devastating blizzard.

What started as a regional tribute has since wingspread across the U.S. and beyond—bars, restaurants, and fans organize wing festivals, offer day specials, and share wings-themed contests in Buffalo and other cities.

Why is National Chicken Wing Day important?

Buffalo wings symbolize ingenuity—transforming a once-discarded chicken part into a cultural phenomenon. Thanks to care and creativity at Anchor Bar, wings elevated from cheap scraps to star appetizers that bring people together.

Moreover, this day reminds us of how food fosters community. Whether around a game day table or at a crowded bar during wing specials, chicken wings bring connection, nostalgia, and sometimes competition. From backyard gatherings to festivals, wings unite friends, families, and fans in shared flavor and fun.

• wings came from humble beginnings yet unite us all
• sharing wings feels like bonding over comfort food
• they show how simple ingredients can spark innovation
• festivals and specials give everyone a reason to celebrate
• eating wings at home or a bar sparks memories

Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe

Ingredients:

For the wings:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
• 1 tbsp baking powder (NOT baking soda)
• 1 tsp salt

For the Buffalo sauce:

• 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. Prep the wings:
   Pat the wings completely dry with paper towels. This is essential for crispiness.
2. Coat with baking powder and salt:
   In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder and salt. This helps them get extra crispy when baked.
3. Bake the wings:
   Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
   Place a wire rack over a baking tray and arrange the wings in a single layer.
   Bake for 45–50 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the Buffalo sauce:
   While the wings bake, melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.
   Add hot sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir until smooth. Do not boil.
5. Toss and serve:
   Once the wings are done, let them rest for a few minutes, then toss in the Buffalo sauce until fully coated.
   Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing.

How to Observe National Chicken Wing Day

Fire up your fryer, oven, or grilling station and make wings your way. Go classic Buffalo, experimenting with cayenne and butter, or try a new twist—like Korean BBQ, honey garlic, or lemon-pepper. Think of this day as permission to get messy and creative.

If cooking isn’t your thing, check local bars or restaurants for wing deals or events. Many offer free wings or combo specials on July 29. Hosting a wing-tasting party—complete with pairings like beer, ranch, blue cheese, or veggies—turns a simple snack into a celebration.

• cook classic or creative wings at home with friends
• find a local wing special or promotion
• host a tasting night, pairing wings with dips and drinks
• share mouthwatering photos and recipes using #ChickenWingDay
• try a new wing sauce or flavor you’ve never had

National Chicken Wing Day Dates Table