National Fried Rice Day

National Fried Rice Day on September 20 is for wok-fried leftover rice with egg, vegetables, and often meat. It is a Chinese and Chinese American staple date, informal on the U.S. calendar.

fried riceSeptemberChinese food

About National Fried Rice Day

History & origins

September 20 is listed as National Fried Rice Day. Origin is undocumented. Fried rice as a technique is much older than the American calendar label.

Why it matters

The date is a specific rice dish in a day packed with other food holidays.

How to celebrate

Fry day-old rice in a hot pan with egg and whatever vegetables you have. Day-old rice fries better than fresh.

Facts

Fried rice is a leftover-rice dish across many Asian cuisines
September 20 is an informal U.S. food date
The named day’s founder is unclear

Upcoming dates

Sunday, September 20, 2026
Monday, September 20, 2027
Wednesday, September 20, 2028
Thursday, September 20, 2029
Friday, September 20, 2030

Frequently asked questions

When is National Fried Rice Day in 2026?

National Fried Rice Day in 2026 falls on Sunday, September 20, 2026.

Why day-old rice?

Drier rice fries instead of steaming into mush.

Who started the day?

No verified founder is documented.

How do you celebrate?

Make fried rice.

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