National Microwave Oven Day

National Microwave Oven Day is on December 6 each year in the United States. Microwave ovens are now an integral part of many homes, heating food in seconds and effortlessly steaming leftovers. On this day, people celebrate the invention and its inventors.

History

The use of high-frequency radio waves for heating was first explored in 1943, leading to the development of the cavity magnetron. That technology was transferred to the U.S. government and then licensed to Raytheon. Percy Spencer, a Raytheon engineer, discovered microwave cooking in 1945 when he noticed a chocolate bar in his pocket had melted during radar tests. Intrigued, he experimented with popcorn kernels, which popped, and then devised a metal enclosure to contain the microwaves safely. Raytheon was granted the first microwave oven patent in 1945, and the first unit was installed in a Boston restaurant the same year. The appliance reached the consumer market in 1947, and by the 1970s, microwave ovens had become ubiquitous.

Interesting facts

• The earliest commercial microwave ovens weighed over 350 pounds and cost several thousand dollars.
• Microwave ovens are safe when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and meet strict safety standards.
• Many models include a “grill” function that browns and crisps food, acting as a small oven.

How to take part

On National Microwave Oven Day, experiment with new recipes: try poached eggs in the microwave, microwave mug cakes, or steamed vegetables. Share photos of your creations on social media and tag friends to challenge them to microwave culinary feats.

When is National Microwave Oven Day in 2025?

National Microwave Oven Day is observed on December 6 each year.

Observations