National Bouillabaisse Day, celebrated on December 14, honors the famous French fish stew that originated in the coastal city of Marseille. Bouillabaisse is traditionally made with various types of fish and seafood, simmered with a mix of Mediterranean herbs, tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables. The dish is unique because it uses specific varieties of fish found in the Mediterranean, such as rascasse and conger.
Historically, bouillabaisse was considered a humble meal for fishermen, who would use the fish they couldn’t sell. Over time, it evolved into a signature dish of Provençal cuisine, enjoyed by people worldwide. Today, the recipe has many variations, but it remains rooted in its Mediterranean origins.
National Bouillabaisse Day is an opportunity to enjoy this flavorful dish and explore the culinary traditions of southern France. Many restaurants offer special menus on this day, while home cooks may try their hand at preparing it with local seafood. Whether you’re dining out or cooking at home, it’s a great time to appreciate the rich flavors and history behind this iconic stew.
When Is National Bouillabaisse Day?
If you’re planning ahead for National Bouillabaisse Day on December 14th, you’re in good company. This dish has inspired not only chefs but also food lovers worldwide, with some even traveling to Marseille just to experience an authentic bowl. Here’s a handy table of upcoming dates to help you celebrate bouillabaisse through 2030:
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2024 | December 14, Saturday |
| 2025 | December 14, Sunday |
| 2026 | December 14, Monday |
| 2027 | December 14, Tuesday |
| 2028 | December 14, Thursday |
| 2029 | December 14, Friday |
| 2030 | December 14, Saturday |
Fun Facts About Bouillabaisse
If you’re fascinated by bouillabaisse, there’s even more to discover. From its unique ingredients to its preparation method, here are some intriguing facts that highlight why this dish remains a French classic:
- The name “bouillabaisse” combines the words “bouillir” (to boil) and “abaisser” (to reduce), highlighting its cooking technique.
- Traditionally, bouillabaisse is served with rouille, a garlic and saffron sauce spread over crusty bread.
- Some chefs insist that a true bouillabaisse must include at least three specific fish: scorpionfish, sea robin, and European conger.
Ways to Celebrate National Bouillabaisse Day
One great way to celebrate is by making bouillabaisse at home. Find a recipe that includes Mediterranean fish like monkfish, scorpionfish, and mussels, along with saffron, garlic, and fennel for an authentic touch.
Alternatively, visit a seafood restaurant that serves bouillabaisse and experience a gourmet version of this classic dish. You could also celebrate with a seafood-themed dinner party, showcasing other classic French seafood dishes alongside bouillabaisse. However you choose to celebrate, National Bouillabaisse Day offers a chance to savor this iconic dish in all its flavorful glory.
Before You Go:
We have many more national days lists for you to explore.
- Food-related national days: complete list of national food days, pasta & noodles days, vegan & vegetarian days, celiac & gluten-free days, mushroom days, ice-cream days, pizza days, coffee days, chocolate days, wine days, alcohol & drinking days.
- Non-food national days: National Days Calendar 2025 (check out the printable calendars in my Etsy shop), National Days for Teachers, and a wide array of special lists such as cat days, dog days, animal days, cleaning & organizing days, book days, music days, family & relationships days, national days for women, stationery days and even Harry Potter days.
- Country-specific national days: Australian national days, more coming soon.
