NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Crouton Day

On National Crouton Day, we make a little room on the calendar for the thing that makes us who we are.

MAY13

Thursday, May 13Every year on May 13

days to go

Roots: Croutons trace back to the 17th century in France.
Vibe: Casual, comforting, and flavor-packed
Also on May 13: International Hummus Day · Receptionists Day · Third Shift Workers Day
Hashtag: #NationalCroutonDay

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate National Crouton Day.

Do one small thing that makes the day feel marked.
Tell someone what you're celebrating and why.
Share a post, a photo, or a memory connected to it.
Make a tiny tradition — something you could do again next year.
Let it be simple. Not every celebration has to be a production.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Do one small thing together that everyone will remember.
Kids
Turn it into a craft, a story, or a snack — meet them where they are.
Couples
Use the day as an excuse for a little intentional time together.
Office
Acknowledge the day in the team chat or at a stand-up. Small, sincere, fast.
School
Anchor a short lesson or activity around the day.
Community
Share, volunteer, or donate to make the day mean something locally.
Just me
Celebrate quietly and completely. One person can still mark a day.

Plan ahead

National Crouton Day is observed on May 13 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Wed, May 13this year

2027Thu, May 13

2028Sat, May 13

2029Sun, May 13

2030Mon, May 13

2031Tue, May 13

2032Thu, May 13

2033Fri, May 13

2034Sat, May 13

2035Sun, May 13

2036Tue, May 13

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Fast facts

Most Americans enjoy croutons in salads.

The average American consumes a modest amount of croutons each year.

The story

Croutons, those delightful little cubes of toasted bread, have become a staple in American kitchens, often accompanying salads, soups, and other dishes. Their origins can be traced back to France in the 17th century, where they were first created as a way to use up stale bread. Over the years, they evolved into a beloved topping that adds both flavor and crunch, enhancing the dining experience.

Read the full story

In the United States, croutons have taken on a life of their own, with countless variations available in grocery stores. From garlic and herb to cheese and spicy flavors, there is a crouton for every palate. Many home cooks also enjoy making their own, allowing for personalization and creativity in the kitchen. This has led to a resurgence in interest in homemade croutons, especially among culinary enthusiasts.

As we celebrate National Crouton Day, it’s essential to recognize the versatility of croutons in various cuisines. While they are often associated with salads, croutons can also be a fantastic addition to soups, casseroles, and even as a crunchy topping for baked dishes. This adaptability has made croutons a favorite not just in the U.S., but in many cultures around the world.

So, whether you prefer them store-bought or homemade, take a moment to appreciate the humble crouton this May 13. Celebrate by trying new recipes, experimenting with flavors, and sharing your love for this versatile ingredient with friends and family.

Did you know?

Historical Roots

Croutons date back to 17th century France, originally used to prevent food waste.

Global Variations

Many cultures enjoy toasted bread toppings, each with unique flavors and uses.

Commercial Success

Croutons are a significant segment of the U.S. salad-topping market.

Perfect Pairing

Croutons are often paired with creamy dressings, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Culinary Creativity

Home cooks are encouraged to experiment with different bread types and seasonings.

Nutritional Note

While croutons add flavor, they can also increase the calorie count of salads.

Fun Fact

The word 'crouton' comes from the French word 'croute', meaning 'crust'.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesCroutons have become a staple in American cuisine, often found in salads and soups.
FRFranceThe birthplace of croutons, where they were originally created to avoid waste.
ITItalySimilar toasted bread pieces are known as 'crostini', often served with toppings.
DEGermanyCroutons are used in German soups like 'Suppe', enhancing flavor and texture.
MXMexicoIn Mexican cuisine, croutons can be found in traditional soups like 'pozole'.
ESSpainSpanish cuisine features croutons in dishes like 'gazpacho', adding a delightful crunch.