National Fried Scallops Day

Observed annually on October 2nd, National Fried Scallops Day is a holiday that encourages everyone to try one of the most beloved bivalves currently being served by restaurants all over the world.

In the U.S. and Canada, these mollusks are usually served without their coral, but in other parts of the world, they’re served with their shell. No matter how you like them, however, be sure to visit a restaurant that serves them on this day or try your hand at frying your own.

Facts About Scallops

We’ve harvested quite a collection of sweet scallop facts, and we’d like to share with you what we’ve caught. The following facts are the perfect complement to any National Fried Scallops Day celebration and will give you plenty of facts to share with friends as you enjoy your meal. Bon appétit!

  • Scallop shells are lightweight and thin. The shell also provides camouflage for the scallop.
  • Scallops are the cleanest shellfish available because their adductor muscle isn’t used to filter water.
  • The top scallop ports in the U.S. are in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and Cape May, New Jersey.
  • Scallops have a row of bright blue eyes that are used to detect light and movement.
  • The Bay Scallop is the official state shell of New York.
  • One scallop is capable of producing up to 2 million eggs.
  • Scallops are more than 80% protein and are low in saturated fats and sodium.

Observing National Fried Scallops Day

If you’re going to serve scallops on National Fried Scallops Day, then you’re going to want to make sure that you serve an appropriate side dish with them. We recommend that you serve your fried scallops with Brussels sprouts, fettuccine Alfredo, Tuscan beans, or mashed potatoes with garlic.

While you’re enjoying your meal, be sure to take a picture of your scallops and post it online using the hashtag #NationalFriedScallopsDay.

When is it?
This year (2024)
October 2 Wednesday
Next year (2025)
October 2 Thursday
Last year (2023)
October 2 Monday
Topic
Food & Drinks