June 1-30

National Soul Food Month

Let's honor the rich flavors and history of soul food this National Soul Food Month - indulge in delicious dishes and celebrate culture!

Yearly Date

June 1

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Get ready to indulge in some delicious and heartwarming dishes as we celebrate National Soul Food Month throughout the entire month of June! This celebration started in 2012, when the US House of Representatives officially recognized soul food as a vital part of our country's history and culture. Originating from African American communities in the southern United States, soul food is known for its rich flavors and comforting dishes that bring people together. So let's pay tribute to this beloved cuisine and feast on some fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, and other iconic dishes.

National Soul Food Month Timeline

1800s

Soul Food Origins

During the 1800s, enslaved African Americans began creating dishes with leftover and undesirable ingredients, giving rise to what is now known as soul food.

1960s

Soul Food Goes Mainstream

In the 1960s, during the civil rights and Black Power movements, soul food saw a surge in popularity and cultural significance, both within and outside the African American community.

2004

Soul Food Recognition

In 2004, “soul food” was added to the Oxford English Dictionary, reflecting its cultural significance and importance.

2010

Soul Food on Television

In 2010, Food Network aired "Down Home with the Neelys", a famous cooking show focusing on soul food, further spreading its popularity.

2012

National Soul Food Month Recognition

In 2012, the US House of Representatives recognized soul food as an essential part of the country's history and culture and declared June as National Soul Food Month.

How to Celebrate National Soul Food Month

1 Host a soul food cook-off

Invite friends and family over to showcase their best soul food dishes in a friendly competition. Have everyone vote on their favorite dish and award the winner with a prize.

2 Visit a soul food restaurant

Support a local soul food restaurant or try out a new one during National Soul Food Month. Enjoy classic dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese.

3 Learn how to make traditional soul food dishes

Take a cooking class or watch online tutorials to learn how to make popular soul food dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and peach cobbler.

4 Attend a soul food festival

Check for local soul food festivals happening during National Soul Food Month. These events are a great opportunity to try a variety of soul food dishes and learn about the culture behind them.

5 Host a soul food themed game night

Combine two fun activities by hosting a game night with a soul food twist. Serve traditional dishes while playing games like trivia or charades with a soul food theme.

Why We Love National Soul Food Month

Soul food is a celebration of culture and history

Soul food is deeply rooted in African American history and culture. It's a cuisine that has been passed down for generations, often symbolizing love, community, and resilience. National Soul Food Month is an opportunity to honor and celebrate this rich heritage.

Soul food is comforting and hearty

There's nothing quite like the warm and satisfying feeling of eating a plate of delicious soul food. From fried chicken to collard greens to peach cobbler, these dishes are sure to make your taste buds sing - and leave you feeling satisfied and content.

Soul food brings people together

In many cultures, food is a way of bringing people together. And soul food is no exception - it's meant to be shared with loved ones over good conversation and laughter. So gather your friends and family, and celebrate National Soul Food Month with a delicious meal that will fill both your stomachs and your hearts.