Cow Appreciation Day

Cow Appreciation Day is celebrated on the second Tuesday of July in the United States. This quirky and fun holiday was created by the Chick-fil-A restaurant chain as part of a clever marketing campaign. On this day, customers are invited to show appreciation for cows—and enjoy chicken sandwiches as a beef alternative. As a bonus, Chick-fil-A offers a free sandwich to anyone dressed like a cow!

History

Cow Appreciation Day officially began in 2004, but it was inspired by a humorous advertising campaign launched in 1995. The idea behind it was that cows would much prefer people eat more chicken instead of beef. The ads featured cows holding signs with messages like “Eat Mor Chikin,” becoming instantly recognizable.

Beyond the humor, the day also highlights how important cows are to humans—not just for meat, but for dairy products like milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. Statistically, people consume dairy more often than beef, and Cow Appreciation Day is a reminder to respect these gentle animals.

Interesting Facts

• Dairy farming took off in the early 1900s with the introduction of pasteurization to make milk safer for consumption.
• About 65% of the global population is lactose intolerant; in some regions, this figure is as high as 90%.
• Large-scale farms often face criticism for their treatment of cows, while small local farms tend to care for their animals with more compassion and attention.
• Cows are social and emotional animals that form bonds, create family groups, and show affection—especially between mothers and calves.
• Happy cows produce more nutritious and better-tasting milk, proving that good treatment makes a difference.

How to Take Part

Celebrate Cow Appreciation Day by visiting a local farm or rural area to spend time with cows and learn more about their behavior and needs. Prepare a dessert using milk or dairy products. And of course, stop by your nearest Chick-fil-A—if you show up in cow-themed attire, you’ll get a free chicken sandwich. Don’t forget to share your costume and celebration on social media using the hashtag #CowAppreciationDay.

When is Cow Appreciation Day in 2025?

Cow Appreciation Day is observed on the second Tuesday of July each year.

Observations