March 3

Canadian Bacon Day

A food observance on March 3 celebrating Canadian bacon, a lean cured pork loin cut used in breakfast dishes, Eggs Benedict, and sandwiches.

Yearly Date

March 3

Observed in

Canada

Introduction

Get ready to satisfy your cravings for delicious and savory Canadian bacon on March 3, also known as Canadian Bacon Day! This popular breakfast meat is actually not from Canada, but rather a term coined by the American meat industry in the late 19th century. It is also referred to as "back bacon" in Canada and is made from the leaner part of the pig's back. Whether you enjoy it on a stack of pancakes or as a topping on your pizza, this day gives you the perfect excuse to indulge in this tasty treat guilt-free. So grab some friends and celebrate with a hearty Canadian bacon feast!

Canadian Bacon Day Timeline

1861

Peameal Bacon Origins

The 'peameal bacon' method of brining pork loins in pea meal is first mentioned in English cookbooks, predating what we now know as 'Canadian Bacon'.

1890s

Term Coined

The American meat industry coins the term 'Canadian Bacon' for their salt and smoke cured pork loin product.

1930s

Popularity Increases

"Canadian Bacon" grows in popularity within the U.S., especially as a breakfast meat used in eggs benedict and similar dishes.

1960s

Pizza Topping Choice

Canadian bacon becomes a popular topping choice on pizza, particularly in combination with pineapple for a "Hawaiian" style pizza.

2015

National Canadian Bacon Day

The US starts observing National Canadian Bacon Day on March 3rd annually, further popularizing the meat.

How to Celebrate Canadian Bacon Day

1 Host a Canadian bacon-themed brunch

Invite friends and family over for a delicious Canadian bacon-inspired brunch. Serve up dishes like Canadian bacon eggs benedict, maple glazed Canadian bacon, and Canadian bacon and cheddar quiche.

2 Go on a Canadian bacon tasting tour

Visit different local restaurants or delis and try out their versions of Canadian bacon. Compare and contrast the flavors, textures, and preparation methods to find your favorite.

3 Make your own Canadian bacon

Challenge yourself by making your own Canadian bacon at home. You can find recipes online or take a cooking class to learn the proper techniques. Then enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious homemade breakfast sandwich.

4 Attend a Canadian bacon festival

Check out if your city or a nearby town hosts a Canadian bacon festival. These events often have live music, games, and of course, lots of delicious Canadian bacon dishes to try.

5 Play Canadian bacon-themed games

Gather some friends for a game night and play games with a Canadian bacon twist. You could play charades using Canadian bacon dishes as prompts, or create your own version of "pin the tail on the donkey" using a picture of a pig with a slice of Canadian bacon as the tail.

Why We Love Canadian Bacon Day

It's different from regular bacon

Canadian bacon, also known as back bacon, is a leaner and meatier alternative to traditional pork bacon. It also has a slightly different taste and texture, making it a unique delicacy that many people love.

It's versatile in cooking

Despite its name, Canadian bacon can be used in a variety of dishes beyond the quintessential breakfast platter. It can be incorporated into appetizers, sandwiches, casseroles, and more - adding a delicious and unique twist to traditional recipes.

It's a staple in Canadian cuisine

Canadian bacon has been enjoyed in Canada for centuries and holds great cultural significance. Celebrating Canadian Bacon Day is a way to honor this beloved food and the culture behind it while also enjoying its delectable flavor.