Oyster Day
Food DaysWhat Is Oyster Day?
November 23rd is "Oyster Day" in Japan. It was established in June 2003 by the National Federation of Fisheries Co-operative Associations (JF Zengyoren). The idea is for people to eat nutritious oysters on Labor Thanksgiving Day and recover from the fatigue of their daily work.
Labor Thanksgiving Day, Just Before Peak Demand
Demand for oysters peaks in December, when they are used in hot pots and as gifts. The date was set on Labor Thanksgiving Day, the national holiday just before that peak. It links a holiday for honoring workers with a seasonal delicacy.
- Established by: the National Federation of Fisheries Co-operative Associations (Zengyoren), in June 2003
- Date origin: Labor Thanksgiving Day, the national holiday just before December's peak oyster demand
- The idea: eating nutritious oysters to recover from the fatigue of work
- Nickname: oysters are called the "milk of the sea" for their rich nutrition
A Series of Oyster Days in November
Oysters are called the "milk of the sea" because of their nutritional value. Pacific oysters, the most commonly eaten kind, are in season from autumn to winter, while rock oysters are in season from spring to summer. November 21st, just two days earlier, is "Fried Oyster Day," so November brings a run of days suited to oyster season. Hot pots, frying, and grilling show how many ways there are to enjoy them.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Have an oyster hot pot or grilled oysters for dinner
- Enjoy your favorite style, such as fried oysters or oyster rice
- Learn about oyster-producing regions and the difference between Pacific and rock oysters
- Gather around the table to thank your family, and yourself, for a year of hard work
A Day to Treat Yourself with a Seasonal Delicacy
Oyster Day was born from pairing Labor Thanksgiving Day, which honors working people, with oysters coming into season. November 23rd is a day to relieve everyday fatigue with the bounty of the sea and to reward yourself and your family.