National Shrimp Day – May 10

Each year on May 10, National Shrimp Day casts a spotlight on one of America’s most beloved seafood staples. Shrimp, consumed more than any other seafood in the United States, is celebrated not just for its culinary adaptability—from shrimp scampi and gumbo to the classic cocktail—but also for its nutritional value and rich cultural history.

Low in calories and packed with protein, omega-3s, and essential minerals, shrimp has earned a prominent place on dinner tables across the country. As home cooks, chefs, and food lovers embrace this holiday, it’s a chance to honor a small creature with an outsized presence in global cuisine.

The History and Origins of National Shrimp Day

Though its origins are not widely documented, National Shrimp Day is widely embraced by seafood lovers across the U.S. as a chance to pay tribute to the crustacean that stars in some of the country’s most iconic dishes.
Popularized in part by cultural references like Forrest Gump, where the character Bubba lists countless shrimp recipes, the holiday grew organically through food culture and online enthusiasm. Today, it’s a fixture on the food holiday calendar — a day to cook, share, and appreciate shrimp in all its forms.

Why Shrimp Is So Popular in the U.S.

Shrimp tops the list of seafood consumed in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. It’s affordable, available year-round, quick to cook, and pairs well with global flavors. From coastal regions to landlocked cities, shrimp is embraced in Cajun stews, Asian stir-fries, and Mediterranean pastas. It’s a canvas for both comfort food and elegant plating — equally at home in a backyard boil or a white tablecloth restaurant.

Classic Shrimp Dishes to Make at Home

Shrimp is one of those ingredients that shines in both quick weeknight meals and impressive dinner party dishes. If you’re looking to cook something timeless and tasty, here are a few classic shrimp recipes that are easy to make at home:

Shrimp Scampi
This buttery, garlicky dish is a favorite for a reason. Shrimp scampi comes together quickly in a pan with butter, garlic, white wine (or broth), and a squeeze of lemon juice. Toss it with pasta, serve it over rice, or enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It’s simple, elegant, and always satisfying.

Seafood Gumbo
A staple of Southern cooking, gumbo is a hearty stew packed with deep, savory flavor. Shrimp teams up with ingredients like crab, andouille sausage, okra, and a dark roux for a bowl that’s rich, comforting, and full of soul. It takes a bit more time to prepare, but the results are well worth the effort.

Shrimp Cocktail
Looking for something cool and classic? Shrimp cocktail is the ultimate retro appetizer. Chilled shrimp are served with a tangy cocktail sauce made from ketchup, horseradish, lemon, and Worcestershire sauce. It’s a no-cook option that’s great for entertaining or adding a touch of vintage flair to your table.

Shrimp DeJonghe
This lesser-known dish hails from Chicago and is made with baked shrimp in a garlicky, breadcrumb-topped butter sauce. Rich and savory, it’s perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Serve it with rice, pasta, or on its own with a side salad.

These dishes show just how versatile shrimp can be — quick to cook, easy to flavor, and always crowd-pleasing. Whether you prefer it spicy, buttery, or chilled, there’s a classic shrimp recipe for every craving.

8 Interesting Facts About Shrimp

Unique Ways to Celebrate National Shrimp Day

National Shrimp Day is the perfect excuse to enjoy one of the sea’s most delicious and versatile ingredients. Whether you’re a long-time shrimp lover or just looking for a fun reason to cook something new, here are some creative and enjoyable ways to celebrate:

1. Host a Shrimp Tasting Party
Invite friends or family over for a shrimp-themed get-together. Serve a variety of shrimp dishes — like coconut shrimp, shrimp tacos, garlic butter shrimp, and shrimp ceviche — and let everyone vote on their favorite. It’s a fun, flavorful way to try new recipes and enjoy time together.

2. Try a New Shrimp Recipe
Step outside your comfort zone and cook a shrimp dish you’ve never made before. Ever tried shrimp curry, shrimp and grits, or Vietnamese shrimp spring rolls? Use National Shrimp Day as a reason to explore a new cuisine or cooking technique.

3. Visit a Seafood Restaurant
Support a local seafood restaurant or food truck by ordering their best shrimp dish. It’s a great way to discover new flavors and support local chefs who know how to make shrimp shine.

4. Teach Kids to Cook with Shrimp
Shrimp is quick to cook and fun to work with, making it a great ingredient for beginner chefs. Use this day to get kids involved in the kitchen — maybe let them help peel shrimp, stir in sauce, or build shrimp tacos with their favorite toppings.

5. Share Your Shrimp Creations on Social Media
Make your own shrimp masterpiece? Post a photo with the hashtag #NationalShrimpDay. It’s a fun way to join the celebration and connect with other food lovers online.

6. Pair Shrimp with a Themed Drink
Take things up a notch with a drink pairing! Whip up a spicy Bloody Mary to go with shrimp cocktail, or enjoy a chilled white wine with shrimp scampi. Make it a mini celebration right at home.

7. Learn About Shrimp Sustainability
National Shrimp Day isn’t just about eating — it’s also a chance to learn more about where your seafood comes from. Take a moment to read about sustainable shrimp farming or wild-caught practices, and make choices that support ocean health.

From cooking up new dishes to learning something new, there are plenty of fun and meaningful ways to enjoy National Shrimp Day. However you celebrate, just be sure it involves plenty of shrimp!

National Shrimp Day Calendar

National Shrimp Day on May 10 is more than a celebration of a single ingredient — it’s a recognition of shrimp’s deep culinary roots, cultural significance, and its remarkable versatility. Whether tossed in a gumbo, seared on the grill, or served chilled with cocktail sauce, shrimp is a testament to how something small can deliver bold, unforgettable flavor.
As you savor today’s crustacean-inspired dishes, consider what the rest of May has to offer: fire up the grill for National BBQ Day on May 16, bake a batch for National Chocolate Chip Day on May 15, or slow-roast something indulgent for National Brisket Day on May 28. Shrimp may take center stage today — but the month is full of flavorful encores.