Sinkie Day

National Sinkie Day is observed in the United States on the day after Thanksgiving. Created by the International Association of People Who Dine Over the Kitchen Sink, the day celebrates informal eating, simple meals, and an easier cleanup after Thanksgiving.

History of National Sinkie Day

National Sinkie Day was established in 1991 by Norm Hankoff, founder of the International Association of People Who Dine Over the Kitchen Sink. Hankoff reportedly came up with the idea while eating tuna salad over his kitchen sink and using potato chips as a spoon.

The association defines a “Sinkie” as someone who occasionally eats while standing over the kitchen sink or enjoys food without setting a formal table. The day after Thanksgiving was chosen because many households have plenty of leftovers and little interest in preparing another elaborate meal.

The observance is not meant to promote laziness. Instead, it encourages people to enjoy food without unnecessary formality, reduce cleanup, and use some of the time or money they save to support charitable causes, including hunger-relief organizations.

Interesting Facts About National Sinkie Day

• IAPWDOTKS stands for the International Association of People Who Dine Over the Kitchen Sink.
• Norm Hankoff founded National Sinkie Day in 1991.
• The association’s motto is “Everybody does it. Sinkies proudly admit it.”
• The Sinkie concept can include eating directly from the refrigerator, drinking from a carton, or having a quick meal without setting the table.
• Hankoff published The Official Sinkies Don’t Cook Book in 1994.
• National Sinkie Day marked its 30th anniversary in 2021.

How to Take Part in National Sinkie Day

• Enjoy Thanksgiving leftovers while standing over the kitchen sink.
• Skip formal place settings and choose a simple meal that requires little preparation or cleanup.
• Try an easy snack combination using food already available in your kitchen.
• Use some of the time or money you save to volunteer or support a hunger-relief organization.
• Share your informal meal with other Sinkies using the hashtag #SinkieDay.

When Is National Sinkie Day in 2026?

National Sinkie Day is observed on the day after Thanksgiving each year.

Observations