Colonel's Day

What Is Colonel's Day?

September 9th is "Colonel's Day" in Japan, established by KFC's Japanese operator, Kentucky Fried Chicken Japan, Ltd., to commemorate the birthday (September 9, 1890) of KFC founder Colonel Harland Sanders.

Who Was Colonel Sanders?

Sanders developed his signature fried chicken recipe at a roadside restaurant attached to a gas station, which he started in his 40s, and later went on to build a worldwide restaurant chain through franchising.

• The secret recipe: his Original Recipe is famously said to use "11 herbs and spices," kept a closely guarded secret to this day
• A late-blooming challenge: he didn't begin franchising in earnest until after age 65, and kept taking on new challenges for the rest of his life
• What "Colonel" means: it isn't a military rank — it's an honorary title bestowed on him by the state of Kentucky

A Day That Honors a Life of Persistent Challenge

Sanders' path was anything but smooth; he's remembered as someone who overcame repeated setbacks to achieve late-blooming success. Through this anniversary, KFC also shares a message about the value of continuing to take on new challenges at any age.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Celebrate Colonel's Day with a taste of KFC's Original Recipe chicken
• Learn about Colonel Sanders' life and the long road to his eventual success
• Reflect on the idea that "it's never too late to try something new" as it applies to your own life
• Check out KFC's limited-time Colonel's Day promotions

A Late Bloomer's Success, Proving It's Never Too Late

Colonel Sanders developed his recipe after 40 and built the foundation of a global company after 65 — his life still carries a powerful message today: it's never too late to take on a new challenge. Let September 9th give you the nudge you need for a new step of your own.