National Lobster Day

The story

National Lobster Day is a crustacean celebration observed on both June 15 and September 25, providing seafood enthusiasts with an opportunity to explore diverse lobster dishes beyond the traditional boiled and butter-dipped delicacy. The dual celebration stems from the original date of June 15, sharing the stage with the more recent September 25, strategically chosen by the Maine Lobster Dealers' Association to align with the peak of the lobster harvesting season. In the mid-19th century, lobsters, once considered food for the lower classes and even served in prisons, underwent a transformation in taste among New Yorkers and Bostonians. In 2015, with the support of senators Angus King and Susan Collins, September 25 officially became National Lobster Day, recognizing the economic and cultural significance of the lobster industry in the United States. The date shift serves as more than a symbolic gesture; it strategically boosts lobster sales during a time when awareness and economic support are crucial. Businesses leverage September 25 for promotions and deals, making lobster more accessible to a wider audience. Once viewed as a ”poverty food,“ lobster has evolved into a symbol of luxury and refinement, with the day emphasizing sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation. As you celebrate National Lobster Day on September 25, take a historical journey through the evolution of lobsters from overlooked colonial-era fare to a celebrated delicacy. Explore the versatile marine crustacean in various dishes, recognizing its nutritional richness in protein, selenium, calcium, iron, and vitamins A, B-12, and E. Delve into intriguing lobster facts, from the first Thanksgiving when lobsters were so abundant they washed ashore to modern lobstermen's unique language, referring to lobsters as ”chickens,“ ”hens,“ and even ”pistols.“ Despite their commonly known bright red appearance, lobsters come in hues like green, yellow, and blue, challenging perceptions. Learn about their extended lifespan of up to 100 years in the ocean and notable instances, such as the record-breaking 44-pound lobster caught off Nova Scotia in 1977.