National Men Make Dinner Day is celebrated on the first Thursday in November, challenging men who rarely cook to take over the kitchen for a full evening meal, start to finish.
History of National Men Make Dinner Day
National Men Make Dinner Day was created in 2001 by Sandy Sharkey, a Canadian radio broadcaster from Ottawa. Sharkey reportedly created the observance so she could finally enjoy a meal cooked by her own husband, framing it as a lighthearted challenge specifically for men who rarely, if ever, set foot in the kitchen. As she’s noted, the day isn’t intended for men who already cook regularly, it’s aimed at those who need a nudge to try.
Though playful in tone, the observance touches on a genuine conversation about sharing domestic responsibilities at home. Sharkey published a detailed list of rules on her website to keep participants honest, ensuring the day involves a genuine cooking effort rather than a shortcut.
Rules of National Men Make Dinner Day
- The man must agree to participate without coercion or the promise of a reward
- He must choose a recipe himself, not from his partner’s cookbooks
- The meal must include at least four ingredients and require more than just a fork to prepare
- He must personally shop for all the ingredients
- No grilling on the barbecue, no reheating leftovers, and no ordering takeout
- He must clean as he cooks, keeping the kitchen tidy throughout
- He’s responsible for setting the table and serving the meal to family members
Fun Facts About National Men Make Dinner Day
- National Men Make Dinner Day was created in 2001 by Canadian radio broadcaster Sandy Sharkey.
- The observance has its own official website with a full list of rules for participants to follow.
- The day specifically targets men who are inexperienced in the kitchen, not those who already cook regularly.
- Barbecuing doesn’t count under the official rules, since it’s considered too easy an out for many men.
- The holiday has sparked broader conversations about how domestic responsibilities, including cooking, are shared at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Men Make Dinner Day?
National Men Make Dinner Day is observed on the first Thursday in November each year.
Who created National Men Make Dinner Day?
Sandy Sharkey, a Canadian radio broadcaster from Ottawa, created the observance in 2001.
Is this day meant for men who already cook regularly?
No, the observance is specifically aimed at men who rarely or never cook, encouraging them to take on a full meal from planning to cleanup.