September 3

National Welsh Rarebit Day

Celebrate National Welsh Rarebit Day with a delicious cheesy dish - it's the perfect way to show your love for this classic comfort food!

Yearly Date
September 3
Observed in
United States
Subcategory
Global Cuisines
Holiday Calendar
Last updated February 7, 2026 by the Holiday Calendar Team
Have an update or spot an error?

Introduction

On September 3, it's time to celebrate National Welsh Rarebit Day! This holiday is all about the classic dish of cheese-based sauce served over toast. The origins of this dish can be traced back to 18th century Wales, where it was often enjoyed as a hearty supper meal. Since then, it has become popular in countries around the world and there are many delicious variations of this classic dish. So grab some cheese, toast and your favorite beer and get ready to enjoy a delicious Welsh Rarebit feast!

National Welsh Rarebit Day Timeline

1700s
Origins of Welsh Rarebit
Welsh rarebit, a dish of cheese sauce over toast, originates in Wales as a popular supper meal, primarily among the working class.
1800s
Recipe Standardization
Recipes for the dish, initially known as “Welsh rabbit”, are standardized in several cookbooks throughout Britain.
1861
First Printed Recipe
The first printed recipe for what is now called Welsh rarebit appears in Beeton’s Book of Household Management by Isabella Beeton.
1916
American Popularity
Welsh Rarebit gains popularity in America, becoming a staple dish at several upscale New York restaurants.
1951
Featured in Classic Film
The dish features prominently in the classic film A Streetcar Named Desire, further promoting its popularity.
2000s
National Welsh Rarebit Day
The inception of National Welsh Rarebit Day, celebrated on September 3rd, reaffirms the dish as a comforting favorite in many households worldwide.

How to Celebrate National Welsh Rarebit Day

1

Make your own Welsh Rarebit

Making your own Welsh Rarebit is easy and fun! All you need is some cheese, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, beer, butter and a toasted slice of bread. Mix together the cheese, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and beer and spread it on the toast. Place it under the broiler until it's melted and bubbly.

2

Go out for Welsh Rarebit

Check out your local pubs or restaurants and look for Welsh Rarebit on the menu. You may be surprised at how many places have started serving this classic dish.

3

Host a Welsh Rarebit party

Gather your friends and family for a Welsh Rarebit themed party. Have everyone bring their favorite ingredients and make your own Welsh Rarebits together.

4

Visit Wales

What better way to celebrate National Welsh Rarebit Day than to visit the land where it originated? Visit Wales and explore the culture, history and cuisine of this beautiful country. Don't forget to sample some Welsh Rarebit while you're there!

5

Research the origins of Welsh Rarebit

Take some time to research the origins of Welsh Rarebit. Where did it come from? How did it evolve over time? How has it been adapted in different countries? You might be surprised at what you learn!

Why We Love National Welsh Rarebit Day

A

Welsh Rarebit is comforting

Tucking into a plate of Welsh Rarebit is one of the most comforting feelings. It's creamy, hearty and full of flavour. Paired with some crusty bread or a side salad, it makes a delicious lunch or dinner that will satisfy even the most stubborn of appetites!

B

It's fast and easy to make

Unlike other dishes, Welsh Rarebit takes only minutes to make. All you need to do is mix together cheese, butter, milk and seasonings until you get a thick sauce. Spread the mixture over toast, top with tomatoes and bake for a few minutes - dinner is served!

C

Welsh rarebit goes with almost anything

Whether you're serving up Welsh rarebit as a main course or have it as an accompaniment to your family favourite recipes - such as sloppy joes, shepherd’s pies or lasagnes - it will add a unique flavour that everyone will love. Plus, it can be easily adapted to any dietary requirements.

Holiday Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Sep 3
Sunday
2024
Sep 3
Tuesday
2025
Sep 3
Wednesday
2026
Sep 3
Thursday
2027
Sep 3
Friday