Friday Fish Fry Day is observed annually on the first Friday of Lent, which falls on February 24 this year. This day is celebrated primarily in the Midwest, but anyone in the United States may observe this uniquely American custom. Friday Fish Fry Day is a time when friends and families gather in their favourite restaurants, whether fast food joints or pubs, to enjoy their favourite fried fish dish with a couple of beers. It’s a great opportunity to support your local fishing community and food establishments, as well as a day for bonding over delicious food and engaging conversation.
The background of Friday Fish Fry Day
As you may believe, Friday Fish Fry Day did not originate as an American cultural tradition. In 30 A.D., when Jesus Christ began fasting and abstaining from the consumption of warm-blooded animals, the practise of eating fish at the beginning of Lent originated. Prior to his crucifixion, he only consumed fish, a cold-blooded animal. Christ’s sacrifice is honoured by abstaining from the consumption of warm-blooded meat. In addition to becoming a fundamental aspect of Catholicism, this eventually became a major driver of the global fishing industry.
German Catholic settlers who arrived in Wisconsin in the 19th century began the custom. At the time, the Church was strict and only permitted Catholics to consume fish on Fridays, and not just during Lent. This was quickly adopted by the locals of Wisconsin, who began to serve fish in inventive ways. Fried fish became popular because it was both simple and tasty to prepare.
Because of beer, Friday fish nights in Wisconsin have become a cultural tradition outside of Lent. Breweries like Blatz, Miller, Pabst, and Schlitz were based in Wisconsin. Not only does fried fish pair well with beer, but beer-battered fish fry has also gained popularity. The state’s fishing industry flourished in the 1920s.
Caleb Westphal, a Wisconsin native and fish enthusiast, organised the first annual Friday Fish Fry Day, which took place on February 19, 2021.
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FRIDAY FISH FRY DAY ACTIVITIES
Visit pubs and eateries.
Visiting your favourite pubs and restaurants with your friends and family is the traditional way to celebrate Friday Fish Fry Day. Order your preferred fried fish dish with a round of local beer. In this manner, you are not only supporting the local fishing industry, but also the local food establishments.
Explore various fried fish recipes
If you’re in the mood for a peaceful Friday Fish Fry Day at home, you might want to experiment with different fried fish recipes. There are numerous batters and seasonings available for cooking fish. Alternate your side dishes, whether you prefer mashed potatoes, peas, rice, or corn — the choice is yours!
Make a contribution to Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin.
You can participate in the Feeding America donation drive by simply voting for your favourite fish. Visit their website and make today a day of charity.
5 FACTS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT FRIED FISH
Because it contains at least 500 calories, fried fish should not be consumed frequently.
McDonald’s popular Fillet-O-Fish was created in Cincinnati, Ohio, as a special for Lent.
Cod from Alaska is frequently used for frying because it can withstand high temperatures.
Annually, the average American consumes 16 pounds of fish.
Although Friday Fish Fry Day originated in Wisconsin, Alaska remains the nation’s leader in fish production.
FRIDAY FISH FRY DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | March 4 | Friday |
| 2023 | February 24 | Friday |
| 2024 | February 16 | Friday |
| 2025 | March 7 | Friday |
| 2026 | March 20 | Friday |