National Craft Jerky Day
National Craft Jerky Day, celebrated each year on November 27, honours the art and flavour of small-batch, handcrafted jerky and its makers. In 2026, this date falls on a Friday.
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History of National Craft Jerky Day
The day is thought to have been established around 2016 by Long Beach Jerky Co. to recognise artisan jerky makers who take care in marinating, smoking and drying meat (or plant-based alternatives) in unique, flavour-driven ways.
The holiday appears on numerous “food holiday” calendars and is observed annually on November 27.
Why is National Craft Jerky Day important?
This day celebrates a snack that is both traditional and innovative. While jerky has roots in meat-preservation techniques used for centuries, modern craft jerky focuses on flavour, quality of ingredient and artisanal process—bringing something beyond the convenience snack to something memorable and bold.
It also offers a way to support local producers, experiment with texture and taste, and share in the community around food. Whether beef, turkey, exotic game or plant-based jerky, the day invites curiosity and appreciation for the craft behind the snack.
- It shines a light on artisan jerky producers and show-their-craft efforts.
- It encourages trying jerky beyond traditional flavours—think spicy, sweet, smoky.
- It connects snack-lovers with the process behind their food.
- It offers a fun food-holiday excuse to try a new jerky or support a small business.
- It adds a savoury, bold flavour moment to the late-November calendar.
How to Celebrate National Craft Jerky Day
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National Jerky Day
Celebrating National Craft Jerky Day can be as simple as buying a small-batch jerky you’ve never tried and savouring the flavour—perhaps sharing it with a friend or family member. It can also be more hands-on: try making your own jerky at home if you have a dehydrator or smoker, experiment with marinades or visit a craft jerky shop.
On an emotional level, it’s a chance to appreciate the transformation from raw meat (or plant-protein) to flavour-packed snack; to talk about food, provenance, texture—and to enjoy something bold together.
- Purchase a small-batch or craft jerky flavour you’ve never tried before.
- Host a jerky tasting at home with different makers or flavour profiles.
- Attempt making your own jerky: marinade, dehydrate/dry, and share the results.
- Support a local jerky producer or an independent shop offering artisan varieties.
- Share on social media your favourite jerky flavour and why it stands out, using #NationalCraftJerkyDay.
National Craft Jerky Day Dates Table
| Year | Date | Day of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 next | November 27 | Friday |
| 2027 | November 27 | Saturday |
| 2028 | November 27 | Monday |
| 2029 | November 27 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | November 27 | Wednesday |
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