National Grilling Month
Observed
the month of July
Dates
July 1st, 2024 to July 31st, 2024
July 1st, 2025 to July 31st, 2025
July 1st, 2026 to July 31st, 2026
July 1st, 2027 to July 31st, 2027
July 1st, 2028 to July 31st, 2028
Tags
Family & Friends
Food & Drink
Hashtags
Sources
National Grilling Month celebrates outdoor cooking throughout July. It invites people to fire up charcoal, gas, or other grills, try different foods and techniques, and enjoy relaxed meals with family and friends. Burgers and hot dogs may be cookout favorites, but vegetables, seafood, fruit, and even pizza can also be prepared on the grill.
The holiday’s precise origin is unclear. One account says the Barbecue Council launched National Grilling Month in 1963, while other accounts identify no founder or source. The observance is associated with July’s warm weather and the increased opportunity for backyard gatherings. Grilling itself became especially common in American backyards after World War II, as suburban living and outdoor entertaining grew more popular.
How to Observe National Grilling Month
Celebrate by cleaning your grill, inviting friends or family to a backyard cookout, and trying something new—such as grilled vegetables, fruit, seafood, or a new marinade. You can also experiment with a new grilling technique or share recipes with other home cooks.
Grill safely by washing your hands after handling raw meat, keeping raw and cooked foods separate, using a food thermometer, and never leaving a lit grill unattended. For more food-safety guidance, see these outdoor cooking tips from North Dakota State University Extension and the University of Illinois Extension’s grilling recommendations.


