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National French Fried Shrimp Day

Get ready to indulge in crispy, flavorful shrimp on National French Fried Shrimp Day! Don't miss out on this tasty holiday.

Monday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEDecember 21

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYDining

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to indulge in some delicious fried shrimp on National French Fried Shrimp Day on Dec. 21! This holiday celebrates the crispy, flavorful dish that has become a staple in many seafood restaurants and homes across the country. Did you know that fried shrimp originated in Louisiana and became popular during the early 20th century? Today, there are countless variations of this tasty dish, from Cajun-style to coconut-crusted. So whether you prefer them as an appetizer or a main course, make sure to celebrate this special day by treating your taste buds to some scrumptious French fried shrimp!

TIMELINE

National French Fried Shrimp Day Timeline

Introduction to Shrimp Fishing

Shrimp fishing began in the 1800s in the Gulf of Mexico, laying the foundation for Louisiana's seafood culture.

Fried Shrimp Popularity Rise

Throughout the early 20th century, dishes featuring fried shrimp gained popularity for their delightful flavor and ease of preparation.

First Shrimp Festival

The first National Shrimp Festival was held in Gulf Shores, Alabama, attracting seafood lovers from around the country.

Publication of 'Forrest Gump'

The novel 'Forrest Gump', popularizing shrimping as one of its main storylines, was published and later adapted into a movie in 1994.

Creation of Unique Variations

The 90s saw the creation of unique variations of fried shrimp dishes, like coconut-crusted shrimp, catering to a variety of taste preferences.

National French Fried Shrimp Day's Recognition

In 2005, National French Fried Shrimp Day was officially recognized as a food holiday, celebrated annually on December 21.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National French Fried Shrimp Day

Throw a shrimp fry party

Invite your friends over for a shrimp fry party! Serve up some delicious fried shrimp with all the fixings and have a great time celebrating National French Fried Shrimp Day together.

TRY

Try a new fried shrimp recipe

Challenge yourself to try a new fried shrimp recipe on this special day. You could go for traditional southern-style fried shrimp or mix it up with a different seasoning or dipping sauce.

VISIT

Visit a seafood restaurant

Celebrate National French Fried Shrimp Day by treating yourself to a meal at a seafood restaurant. Order some delicious fried shrimp and enjoy the flavors of the ocean.

HOST

Host a seafood potluck

Gather your friends and family for a seafood potluck to celebrate this tasty holiday. Encourage everyone to bring a dish featuring fried shrimp and enjoy trying different variations.

CREATE

Create a fried shrimp tasting menu

Get creative and create a tasting menu featuring different types of fried shrimp. You could have a classic breaded version, a coconut shrimp option, and even a spicy Cajun style. Have fun experimenting with different flavors and styles of fried shrimp.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National French Fried Shrimp Day

There are endless ways to enjoy it

Fried shrimp can be served in so many different ways - tossed in a spicy Cajun sauce, dipped in tangy tartar sauce, or even wrapped in lettuce leaves as a low carb option. With so many variations, there's a fried shrimp recipe for every palate!

It's a delicious seafood treat

Fried shrimp is a classic dish that many people love and National French Fried Shrimp Day gives us an opportunity to indulge in this tasty seafood treat. Whether they're served as an appetizer or as part of a main course, fried shrimp are sure to satisfy your cravings for something crispy and flavorful!

It's the perfect way to celebrate seafood

If you're a fan of seafood, then National French Fried Shrimp Day is a perfect holiday for you. It's a great opportunity to show off some culinary skills and impress your friends and family with your deep-frying abilities!

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