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National Fried Scallops Day

Celebrate National Fried Scallops Day in delicious style - enjoy a tantalizing seafood feast with your friends and family!

Friday

October 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEOctober 2

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYDining

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to celebrate National Fried Scallops Day on Oct. 2! Fried scallops are a classic seafood dish that has been around for centuries, originating in the United Kingdom and then becoming popular in the United States during the late 19th century. The dish is made by lightly breading scallops with flour and then deep-frying them until golden brown and crispy. It's a delicious way to enjoy this seafood delicacy and it's easy to make too! So grab some scallops, some oil, and get ready to fry up a delicious meal that your family will love.

TIMELINE

National Fried Scallops Day Timeline

Early Scallop Dishes

British cookery manuscripts from the 14th century list recipes for scallops, marking some of the earliest known preparations of this sea delicacy.

Fried Scallops in America

Fried scallops gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century as part of the broader adoption of British cookery traditions.

First Scallop Fisheries

The United States established their first scallop fisheries in the 1930s, further popularizing scallop dishes, including fried scallops.

Fried Scallops in Fast Food

Fast food chains start offering fried seafood options, including scallops, in the 1960s making this delicacy readily available to the public.

Gourmet Fine Dining

In the 1990s, fried scallops started gaining prominence in fine dining establishments, showcasing the versatility of this dish.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Fried Scallops Day

Order Fried Scallops

Order some fried scallops to celebrate National Fried Scallops Day. You can order them from your favorite seafood restaurant or purchase frozen scallops from the store and cook them at home.

MAKE

Make Fried Scallop Po' Boys

Make a classic po' boy sandwich filled with fried scallops. Slather on some tartar sauce, lettuce, tomatoes and pickles for an extra punch of flavor.

FRY

Fry up a Batch of Scallops

Fry up a batch of scallops for a delicious meal or appetizer. Dip them in egg, then dredge in flour and fry them until golden brown.

THROW

Throw a Fried Scallop Party

Invite your friends over for a fried scallop feast. Make some homemade dips and sauces to accompany the scallops and you have yourself a party.

BRING

Bring Scallops to a Potluck

Bring your own batch of fried scallops to the next potluck dinner you attend. Everyone will love this delicious and unique dish.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Fried Scallops Day

Scallops cook quickly

Unlike other seafood, scallops cook very quickly - usually just a few minutes per side. This makes them perfect for busy weekday nights when you don't have much time to prepare a meal but still want something that's tasty and satisfying. So next time you're looking for a quick dinner option, try fried scallops - you won't be disappointed!

Scallops are delicious

Fried scallops are juicy, succulent and flavorful. They can be served as is or added to a main course for an extra kick of flavor. Plus, when paired with the right sauce, it's sure to make your taste buds dance with joy!

Scallops are nutritious

Not only do fried scallops taste good, they're also packed with essential nutrients like protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, they're a great source of potassium, zinc and magnesium - important minerals that play an important role in keeping our bodies healthy.