National Clams on the Half Shell Day

National Clams on the Half Shell Day is an annual American holiday dedicated to shellfish. It is an unusual and healthy food that some people praise and others dislike. Seafood lovers, get ready to celebrate because this holiday is for you! It is observed on March 31.

History

The exact history of National Clams on the Half Shell Day is unknown. It was likely created by shellfish enthusiasts to promote these delicacies and enjoy the taste of seafood!

Bivalve mollusks are used as food. Inside their shells is the meat that is eaten. There are many varieties of mollusks that live in both freshwater and saltwater environments, including seas and oceans.

The first widely recognized clam dish was Clams Casino, prepared in 1917 in Rhode Island at a small casino in the town of Narragansett. The dish featured clam meat on the half shell, topped with a filling of bacon and peppers, and finished with a breadcrumb crust. It became very popular with guests and soon began to be served in many restaurants, inspiring the creation of new and interesting clam dishes!

Interesting facts

• There are giant South Pacific clams that are not edible. However, their weight—about 200 kg—is striking. Today, they are on the verge of extinction and are listed in the Red Book.
• There are about 12,000 varieties of mollusks on the planet, and more than 150 of them are edible.
• Clams are often farmed for food at specialized farms. They must be properly cleaned and cooked, as they are natural “filters” and can contain dangerous metal compounds and toxins.

How to celebrate

Visit your favorite cafe or restaurant that serves great clam dishes. Test your culinary skills by cooking them yourself!

Spread the word on social media. Ask users if they like clams. If not, why not?

When is National Clams on the Half Shell Day in 2025?

National Clams on the Half Shell Day is observed on March 31 each year.

Observations