Every year on March 7th, the United States pays homage to one of the most beloved breakfast staples: cereal. National Cereal Day is a celebration of the crunchy, delicious, and sometimes sugary goodness that has been a part of American mornings for generations.
The Origins of National Cereal Day
National Cereal Day was first celebrated in 2014, thanks to the efforts of cereal enthusiasts and bloggers who wanted to recognize the importance of this breakfast favorite in American culture. Since then, the day has gained popularity, with cereal lovers across the nation coming together to share their favorite brands, recipes, and memories.
As comedian Jerry Seinfeld once quipped, “I love breakfast cereal. I eat it every morning, and if I could, I’d eat it every night. I love all the different kinds, and I love that you can just pour milk on it and eat it. It’s like a legal form of drugs for kids.”
The History of Cereal: From Bland to Grand
Cereal has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the late 19th century. Originally created as a health food by Dr. John Harvey Kellogg and his brother Will Keith Kellogg, cereal was a far cry from the colorful, sugary delights we know today.
As cereal evolved, so did its popularity. Today, the cereal industry is a multi-billion dollar business, with countless brands and varieties available to suit every taste and preference.
Comedian Jim Gaffigan perfectly encapsulated the allure of cereal when he said, “Cereal is the only food you can eat at any time of the day and it’s completely acceptable. You can have it for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a midnight snack. It’s like the Switzerland of food.”
The Best Cereals, According to Cereal Connoisseurs
With so many cereals to choose from, it can be hard to pick a favorite. However, some cereals have stood the test of time and remain beloved by generations of fans. Here are a few classic cereals that have earned their place in the cereal hall of fame:
- Frosted Flakes: “They’re grrreat!” as Tony the Tiger would say.
- Lucky Charms: Magically delicious, with colorful marshmallows and a mischievous leprechaun mascot.
- Cinnamon Toast Crunch: The perfect balance of cinnamon and sugar, with a satisfying crunch.
- Cheerios: A wholesome classic that has been a staple in American households for decades.
As comedian Brian Regan joked, “I love Grape Nuts. They’re like gravel, but with a hint of grape. It’s like eating a driveway, but in a good way.”
Cereal-ously Fun Facts
- The average American consumes around 160 bowls of cereal per year.
- The first breakfast cereal, Granula, was invented in 1863 by James Caleb Jackson. It was so hard that it had to be soaked overnight before eating.
- The iconic Cheerios cereal was originally called Cheerioats when it was first introduced in 1941.
- In 2011, a man named Bam Childress set the world record for the tallest stack of cereal boxes, reaching a height of 13 feet and 10 inches.
As comedian Stephen Colbert once remarked, “I’m not sure about the health benefits of cereal, but I do know that if you mix enough of them together, you can make a pretty decent trail mix.”
Celebrating National Cereal Day
National Cereal Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge in your favorite breakfast treat and share your love of cereal with others. Here are some fun ways to celebrate:
- Host a cereal-tasting party with friends and family, featuring a variety of classic and new cereals.
- Create a cereal-inspired dessert, such as Rice Krispies Treats or a Fruity Pebbles cheesecake.
- Donate cereal to your local food bank or shelter to help those in need.
- Share your favorite cereal memories and photos on social media using the hashtag #NationalCerealDay.
As comedian John Oliver once said, “There’s something incredibly satisfying about pouring a bowl of cereal. It’s like you’re the master of your own tiny, crunchy universe.”
Conclusion
National Cereal Day is a fun and lighthearted celebration of a beloved breakfast staple that has been a part of American culture for over a century. Whether you prefer classic brands or new, innovative flavors, there’s no denying the simple joy of sitting down to a bowl of cereal in the morning. So, on March 7th, raise your spoon and join the nation in celebrating the crunch, the flavor, and the nostalgia of cereal.
National Cereal Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day of the Week |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | March 7 | Monday |
| 2023 | March 7 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | March 7 | Thursday |
| 2025 | March 7 | Friday |
| 2026 | March 7 | Saturday |
| 2027 | March 7 | Sunday |
| 2028 | March 7 | Tuesday |