Food Day Canada Date in the current year: August 2, 2025

Originally known as the World’s Longest Barbecue, Food Day Canada was an initiative to support Canadian beef farmers and ranchers in the wake of the 2003 BSE crisis. Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as mad cow disease, is a fatal brain disease in cattle that can be transmitted to humans through consumption of contaminated beef.

In May 2003, a single case of BSE was reported in Alberta, Canada. In response, the United States imposed a trade embargo on Canadian beef, making it impossible for Canadian farmers to export their products. To support the farmers, Stewart, her family, and a number of supporters encouraged Canadians to host barbecues and grill Canadian beef.

Since its inception, Food Day Canada has evolved into a nationwide celebration of Canadian products, inspiring everyone to shop, cook, and dine Canadian. Each year, home cooks and professional chefs from across the country support Canadian farmers and fishers by cooking with local ingredients.

Stewart was actively involved with Food Day Canada until her death in 2020. Despite her death, the celebration lives on. The not-for-profit organization Food Day Canada organizes the event, and its mission is to raise awareness of Canada’s diverse ingredients and rich food history through the celebration. In 2023, the government of Canada officially recognized the celebration.

Food Day Canada celebrates Canadian ingredients, dishes, and the people behind them: farmers, fishers, chefs, food researchers, and home cooks. The event also aims to raise awareness of sustainability, including responsible consumption and reducing food waste, as well as food security.

Adequate nutrition and food security are essential to child development and overall health outcomes. They support economic stability by providing livelihoods through agriculture and food-related industries. They also foster social cohesion and promote environmental sustainability. In short, food security is vital for ensuring the well-being of communities and future generations. Food Day Canada encourages Canadians to support food security by buying local, preventing food waste, supporting food sovereignty, donating to or volunteering at food banks or community gardens, and raising awareness about the importance of food security and sustainability.

One of the easiest ways to celebrate Food Day Canada is to shop locally and cook dinner with the ingredients you’ve bought. You can also eat at a local restaurant participating in the campaign that offers a special menu showcasing the best locally sourced ingredients. Other ways to celebrate include hosting a potluck, picnic, or barbecue or finding other creative ways to honor Canadian food and cuisine. Don’t forget to post about the holiday on social media with the hashtag #FoodDayCanada to spread the word!