NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Shrimp Scampi Day

National Shrimp Scampi Day turns a familiar meal into a small celebration — the kind of dish you remember by who was there.

APR29

Thursday, April 29Every year on April 29

days to go

Roots: Italian-American cuisine
Vibe: Casual and joyful dining experience
Also on Apr 29: International Guide Dog Day · Denim Day · International Dance Day
Hashtag: #NationalShrimpScampiDay

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate National Shrimp Scampi Day.

Host a low-stakes dinner — everyone brings one thing.
Cook shrimp scampi the way a family member taught you, if you can.
Order from a locally owned spot that could use the business.
Make a double batch and drop half off to a friend.
Eat together without screens — even for 20 minutes.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Pick a recipe together, assign jobs, and serve it family-style. The cooking is the conversation.
Kids
Let the kids build their own version — tacos, pizzas, sandwiches. Their plate, their rules.
Couples
Pick one recipe you've both never made and cook it together, no outside help.
Office
Do a shared lunch instead of the usual — team potluck, takeout from a local spot, or a catered tray.
School
Tie the meal into a cultural or geography lesson — ingredients, origins, stories.
Community
Organize a neighborhood potluck or contribute to a community meal at a shelter or church.
Just me
Cook one real meal for yourself. Plate it like company's coming.

Plan ahead

National Shrimp Scampi Day is observed on April 29 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Wed, Apr 29this year

2027Thu, Apr 29

2028Sat, Apr 29

2029Sun, Apr 29

2030Mon, Apr 29

2031Tue, Apr 29

2032Thu, Apr 29

2033Fri, Apr 29

2034Sat, Apr 29

2035Sun, Apr 29

2036Tue, Apr 29

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Fast facts

Americans consume large amounts of shrimp every year.

Shrimp scampi became popular in the U.S. in the 20th century.

The story

Shrimp scampi, with its buttery garlic sauce and succulent shrimp, has become a staple in many American households. Though its origins are traced back to Italian-American cuisine, it has transcended cultural boundaries to become a beloved dish enjoyed by many. The dish typically features large shrimp sautéed in a mixture of garlic, white wine, and lemon juice, often served over pasta or with crusty bread.

Read the full story

The history of shrimp scampi reveals its evolution from a simple Italian seafood dish to a popular menu item in upscale restaurants. The term 'scampi' originally referred to small crustaceans from the Mediterranean, but in the U.S., it has come to signify shrimp prepared in a rich sauce. This transformation highlights the adaptability of cultural cuisine and the influence of Italian immigrants on American food culture.

April 29 serves as a reminder to appreciate not only the flavors but also the history behind shrimp scampi. From casual family dinners to elegant restaurant meals, this dish brings people together. As shrimp scampi continues to gain popularity, many chefs are experimenting with different ingredients, such as adding spicy elements or incorporating seasonal vegetables, to create their unique interpretations.

On National Shrimp Scampi Day, culinary enthusiasts are encouraged to indulge in this flavorful dish, whether by cooking at home or dining out. Sharing recipes and experiences on social media can enhance the celebration, allowing food lovers to connect and explore variations of this classic dish. Ultimately, it’s a day to celebrate not just shrimp scampi but the joy of good food and good company.