National Bao Day
National Bao Day on August 22 is for Chinese steamed buns — baozi — filled with pork, vegetables, or custard. It is a U.S. food-calendar date, not a traditional lunar festival.
About National Bao Day
History & origins
August 22 is listed as National Bao Day on U.S. food calendars. The founder of the named day is unclear. Baozi as food are a longstanding part of Chinese cooking, far older than the American calendar label.
Why it matters
The day is an entry point to steamed buns as a category, not a substitute for regional Chinese festival dates.
How to celebrate
Steam or pan-fry bao from a Chinese bakery, or make a simple filling and wrap dough at home if you already cook bao.
Facts
- Baozi are filled steamed buns; the word bao is used loosely in English menus
- Soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) are related but not identical
- August 22 is an informal U.S. food date
Upcoming dates
- Saturday, August 22, 2026
- Sunday, August 22, 2027
- Tuesday, August 22, 2028
- Wednesday, August 22, 2029
- Thursday, August 22, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Bao Day in 2026?
National Bao Day in 2026 falls on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
What is bao?
In English menus it usually means a filled steamed bun (baozi).
Who started the day?
No verified founder is documented.
How do you celebrate?
Eat bao from a bakery or steam a batch at home.
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