National Chili Dog Day

National Chili Dog Day falls on the last Thursday of July. While chili dogs may not seem like a traditional summer meal, they’re a favorite comfort food for many. This indulgent combination of a sausage, bun, and spicy chili sauce is hard to resist. Fans of this dish claim it’s one of those rare foods that finds you—and once it does, there’s no turning back.

History

The origin of the chili dog is one of the most debated topics in American food history. Some believe it was first created on Coney Island in Brooklyn, while others credit Los Angeles or even Chicago. It’s no surprise that the exact birthplace remains unclear.

Most historians agree, however, that the original hot dog was introduced by Charles Feltman in the mid-19th century. He started selling sausages in rolls from a cart, and his business grew rapidly—eventually serving around 4,000 hot dogs from his own shop. As concerns about meat quality increased, especially with street food, many vendors began adding chili sauce to enhance both the flavor and the perceived quality of the product.

Interesting Facts

• Sausages are mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey.
• Mustard and ketchup are the most common hot dog toppings in the U.S.
• Hot dogs are included in the list of foods eaten in space.
• In America, summer is considered “hot dog season.”
• The current world record for hot dog eating is 62 in 10 minutes.

How to Take Part

Celebrate by enjoying a chili dog, whether homemade or store-bought. Summer and fast food are a great pairing, so host a cookout or casual party with chili dogs as the star dish. Don’t worry about the calories—today is about savoring a guilty pleasure.

When is National Chili Dog Day in 2025?

National Chili Dog Day is observed on the last Thursday in July each year.

Observations