From celebrating American traditions to enjoying great food outdoors, national days that call for a cookout bring people together to share delicious meals and unforgettable memories. Here’s a guide to every major cookout-worthy day, complete with themes, menu ideas, and tips for hosting an unforgettable gathering.

---

1. Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)

Theme: Patriotism and Remembrance
Memorial Day honors those who served, marking the unofficial start of summer. It’s the perfect time for a laid-back outdoor gathering with a patriotic twist.

Foods to Serve:

• Main Dish: Grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, an all-American favorite.
• Sides: Creamy potato salad, coleslaw, and grilled corn.
• Dessert: Red, white, and blue berry parfaits.
• Drinks: Lemonade, iced tea, and patriotic-themed mocktails.

---

2. Father’s Day (Third Sunday in June)

Theme: Dad’s Favorites on the Grill
Celebrate dads with a feast that highlights bold flavors and hearty dishes. Make the day extra special by grilling dad’s favorite meals.

Foods to Serve:

• Main Dish: T-bone steak or ribs with a smoky barbecue glaze.
• Sides: Loaded baked potatoes, grilled asparagus, and Caesar salad.
• Dessert: Grilled pineapple with cinnamon sugar.
• Drinks: Ice-cold beer or bourbon cocktails.

---

3. Independence Day (July 4th)

Theme: A Star-Spangled Celebration
The Fourth of July is the ultimate outdoor cookout day, complete with fireworks, games, and patriotic decorations.

Foods to Serve:

• Main Dish: BBQ chicken, pulled pork, or brisket.
• Sides: Mac and cheese, watermelon slices, and baked beans.
• Dessert: Firecracker popsicles or red, white, and blue cupcakes.
• Drinks: Sparkling sodas and festive cocktails.

---

4. National Hot Dog Day (Third Wednesday in July)

Theme: Hot Dogs Your Way
Dedicated to America’s favorite cookout staple, National Hot Dog Day is all about creative toppings and fun combinations.

Foods to Serve:

• Main Dish: Grilled hot dogs with a toppings bar (chili, cheese, onions, relish).
• Sides: Chips and salsa, coleslaw, and pasta salad.
• Dessert: Ice cream sandwiches.
• Drinks: Soda floats and lemonade.

---

5. Labor Day (First Monday in September)

Theme: End of Summer Picnic
Labor Day signals the end of summer and is the perfect occasion for one last big outdoor meal with friends and family.

Foods to Serve:

• Main Dish: Grilled sausages or bratwurst with caramelized onions.
• Sides: Grilled vegetables, potato salad, and corn on the cob.
• Dessert: Apple pie or cobbler.
• Drinks: Local craft beers and sparkling water with fresh fruit.

---

6. National Cheeseburger Day (September 18th)

Theme: Build-Your-Own Cheeseburger
Celebrate the iconic cheeseburger with a cookout that lets everyone build their perfect burger.

Foods to Serve:

• Main Dish: Juicy beef patties with a variety of cheeses and toppings.
• Sides: French fries, onion rings, and a simple side salad.
• Dessert: Milkshakes or brownies.
• Drinks: Sodas and root beer floats.

---

7. Thanksgiving (Fourth Thursday in November)

Theme: Thanksgiving, Grilled Edition
Who says you can’t grill on Thanksgiving? Take your feast outdoors with a smoked turkey and grilled sides.

Foods to Serve:

• Main Dish: Smoked turkey or grilled turkey breast.
• Sides: Grilled stuffing, roasted Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes.
• Dessert: Pumpkin pie or grilled apple crisp.
• Drinks: Mulled cider and spiced wine.

---

8. National Barbecue Day (May 16th)

Theme: Barbecue Showcase
Celebrate the art of barbecue by firing up the grill and slow-smoking your favorite meats.

Foods to Serve:

• Main Dish: Pulled pork, ribs, or brisket.
• Sides: Coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.
• Dessert: Pecan pie or banana pudding.
• Drinks: Sweet tea and craft beer.

---

9. National Bacon Day (December 30th)

Theme: Everything Bacon
Even in winter, National Bacon Day gives you a reason to fire up the grill and indulge in crispy, smoky bacon treats.

Foods to Serve:

• Main Dish: Bacon-wrapped steaks or grilled bacon cheeseburgers.
• Sides: Bacon-wrapped asparagus and baked potatoes.
• Dessert: Candied bacon or chocolate-dipped bacon strips.
• Drinks: Smoky bourbon cocktails.

---

10. New Year’s Day

Theme: Fresh Start Feast
Kick off the new year with a cookout that celebrates fresh beginnings and hearty meals.

Foods to Serve:

• Main Dish: Grilled pork chops or black-eyed pea-stuffed peppers.
• Sides: Collard greens and cornbread.
• Dessert: Grilled peaches with honey and yogurt.
• Drinks: Sparkling cider or champagne.

---

Make Every Cookout Memorable

Each of these holidays offers a unique way to celebrate with food, family, and friends. By embracing the themes and tailoring the menu to the occasion, you’ll create a year full of unforgettable cookouts. Whether you’re grilling burgers on Independence Day or smoking turkey on Thanksgiving, every meal is a chance to savor the joy of outdoor cooking. 🌭🍔🍗