NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Seafood Bisque Day

On National Seafood Bisque Day, celebrate the rich flavors of this classic dish.

OCT19
Monday, October 19Every year on October 19
 days to go
Roots
France
Vibe
Warm, comforting, and creamy
Hashtag
#NationalSeafoodBisqueDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Simmer your own bisque

Blend shrimp or lobster shells into a creamy bisque. A pinch of paprika takes it over the top.

WITH FRIENDS

Host a bisque showdown

Each friend brings a different bisque, crab, lobster or tomato. Taste them all and crown a winner.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Organize a lunch swap

Everyone brings a thermos of bisque for the break room. Sip, swap and vote on your favorite.

Plan ahead

National Seafood Bisque Day is observed on October 19 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, Oct 19this year
2027Tue, Oct 19
2028Thu, Oct 19
2029Fri, Oct 19
2030Sat, Oct 19
2031Sun, Oct 19
2032Tue, Oct 19
2033Wed, Oct 19
2034Thu, Oct 19
2035Fri, Oct 19
2036Sun, Oct 19

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Bisque dates back to the 17th century.
A traditional bisque is made with shellfish.

The story

Seafood bisque is a luxurious soup that has captivated palates for centuries. Originating in France, the term 'bisque' is believed to derive from the Bay of Biscay, though some link it to 'bis cuites,' or twice-cooked shellfish. Traditionally, bisque is made with lobster, crab, or shrimp, simmered to perfection and blended to a silky smoothness that delights the senses.

Read the full story

In America, seafood bisque has evolved to reflect regional ingredients and culinary preferences. Coastal cities such as New Orleans and Boston have embraced the dish, often adding local seafood varieties and spices that lend unique flavors. Restaurants across the nation now feature signature bisques that showcase their culinary creativity, appealing to both locals and tourists alike.

Celebrated annually on October 19, National Seafood Bisque Day encourages culinary exploration and appreciation for this classic dish. Families gather to prepare homemade bisque, while food enthusiasts may visit local eateries to sample the finest bisque recipes. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, a warm bowl of seafood bisque brings comfort during the cool autumn months.

As you partake in National Seafood Bisque Day, consider the journey of this dish, from its humble beginnings in French kitchens to its place on American dinner tables. Sharing recipes and enjoying bisque with loved ones fosters a sense of community and tradition, making this celebration a wonderful opportunity to explore the artistry of seafood cuisine.

Did you know?

01

Culinary Origins

La Varenne's 1651 cookbook included bisque recipes.

02

Shellfish Secrets

Bisque is traditionally made by simmering shells.

03

Popular Variations

Chowder is a thicker, chunkier alternative.

04

Festivals

Some regions host bisque festivals celebrating local seafood.

05

Cultural Impact

Bisque has inspired countless adaptations worldwide.

06

Cooking Techniques

Blending is key to achieving a smooth texture.

07

Gourmet Appeal

High-end restaurants often feature bisque on their menus.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesSeafood bisque is popular along coastal regions.
  • FRFranceThe birthplace of the original bisque recipe.
  • CACanadaLocal variations include lobster bisque from the Atlantic provinces.
  • MXMexicoExplore bisque with a Mexican twist using local seafood.
  • ITItalyItalian seafood soups often share similarities with bisque.
  • ESSpainSpanish cuisine features rich seafood soups reminiscent of bisque.

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2027 Wall Calendar, signed by Marlo Anderson2027 Wall Calendar, signed by Marlo AndersonSigned by the founder of National Day Calendar.
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