National Fortune Cookie Day

Introduction

Celebrate National Fortune Cookie Day on July 20th with your friends and family! This fun holiday has been around since the early 1900s when they first appeared in Chinese restaurants across America. We all know that fortune cookies are delicious treats, but did you know that they can contain fortunes ranging from good luck to advice? Enjoy this special day by eating some fortune cookies and learning what your future holds!

National Fortune Cookie Day Timeline

1890s

Origins of Fortune Cookies

Fortune cookies, originally called "fortune tea cakes", were believed to be introduced by Japanese immigrants in California.

1915

California's World Fair

At the World Fair in San Francisco, CA, fortune cookies were served in a Japanese Tea Garden, increasing their popularity.

1918

Commercial Production Begins

David Jung, founder of Hong Kong Noodle Company, purportedly started the mass production of fortune cookies in Los Angeles.

1960s

Automated Production

The process of making fortune cookies became automated, thanks to Edward Louie of the Lotus Fortune Cookie Company, catapulting its mass production capacity.

1980s

Fortune Cookie in Pop Culture

Fortune cookies became a part of American pop culture, being featured in multiple TV shows, movies and literature, further increasing their popularity.

1990s

National Fortune Cookie Day

Though the exact origin and date is unclear, by the 1990s, July 20th has been widely recognized and celebrated as National Fortune Cookie Day.

How to Celebrate National Fortune Cookie Day

1 Make your own fortune cookies

Making your own fortune cookies is surprisingly easy. All you need is some sugar, butter, water, flour, vanilla and eggs. Mix the dough, form into circles, bake, add fortunes, and mold into cookie shapes!

2 Go out for fortune cookies

Check out your local Chinese takeout restaurant or bakery and enjoy some delicious fortune cookies. Not only will you get to savor the sweet treat but also find out what the future holds.

3 Host a Fortune Cookie Exchange

Invite friends over for a fun night of exchanging fortune cookies. Have each guest bring a pack of fortune cookies and exchange with each other. It’s a unique way to celebrate the day.

4 Make DIY Fortune Cookies

Create your own fortunes using construction paper and tape them onto store bought fortune cookies. This is a fun activity that can be done with kids or family.

5 Send Fortune Cookie Grams

Put together goodie bags with mini packages of fortune cookies and write special messages to loved ones. Send these out in the mail or hand deliver them to spread the cheer.

Why We Love National Fortune Cookie Day

A

Fortune cookies are fun

From cracking them open to see what awesome prediction you got, to sharing them with loved ones and friends, fortune cookies never cease to charm. Even if the fortunes themselves aren’t accurate or insightful, it’s just plain enjoyable finding out and laughing over the randomness of what you got inside!

B

They can be a source of inspiration

Though most of the messages are quite generic, sometimes you might get a piece of advice or an inspirational quote that actually encourages you to make changes in your life. They can even remind you to stay positive when faced with challenges or difficult decisions.

C

They're tasty treats

No matter how many times we munch on these crunchy delights, we never tire of their sweetness. Fortune cookies come in several different flavors - everything from traditional vanilla to innovative flavors like green tea and chocolate. So no matter your taste preference, you'll find something delicious!