May 10 National Shrimp Day: History, Recipes, Deals, and Everything You Need to Know in 2026

Last updated: May 10, 2026

Quick Answer: May 10 National Shrimp Day is an unofficial but widely celebrated American food holiday observed every year on May 10. It honors one of the most consumed seafood items in the United States, giving home cooks, restaurants, and seafood lovers a reason to prepare, share, and celebrate shrimp in all its forms. No government body created it, but restaurants and retailers across the country mark the day with deals, specials, and promotions.

Key Takeaways

• May 10 National Shrimp Day falls every year on May 10 and is one of the most popular seafood food holidays in the U.S.
• Shrimp is the top-selling seafood in America by volume, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
• The day is unofficial but widely recognized by major restaurant chains, grocery stores, and seafood brands.
• Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food with meaningful amounts of iodine, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Common shrimp varieties include white shrimp, brown shrimp, pink shrimp, tiger shrimp, and rock shrimp, each with distinct flavor profiles.
• People with shellfish allergies should avoid shrimp entirely, as reactions can be severe and even life-threatening.
• Sustainable sourcing matters: look for certifications from the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) when buying shrimp.
• Popular ways to celebrate include cooking shrimp at home, dining out at seafood restaurants, and hunting for May 10 shrimp deals.
• Shrimp can be boiled, grilled, sauteed, fried, or baked, and cooks in as little as two to three minutes.

What Is National Shrimp Day?

National Shrimp Day is an annual food observance dedicated to celebrating shrimp as a culinary staple. It is not a federal holiday, but it functions as a cultural food moment that encourages people to cook, eat, and appreciate shrimp in its many preparations.

The day draws attention to shrimp’s versatility, from backyard shrimp boils to elegant restaurant dishes, and gives the seafood industry a marketing moment that benefits both consumers (through deals) and businesses (through increased traffic and sales).

If you enjoy other food holidays throughout the year, you might also appreciate January 25 National Fish Taco Day or January 21 National New England Clam Chowder Day as companion seafood celebrations.

When Is National Shrimp Day Celebrated?

National Shrimp Day is celebrated on May 10 every year. The date does not shift or rotate, it is always May 10, regardless of the day of the week.

In 2026, May 10 falls on a Sunday, which makes it an ideal day for a home shrimp feast, a backyard cookout, or a family seafood dinner. Restaurants that participate typically run their specials on May 10 itself, though some extend promotions through the surrounding weekend.

Why Is May 10 National Shrimp Day?

The exact origin of why May 10 was chosen for National Shrimp Day is not documented in any single authoritative source. Like many American food holidays, it appears to have emerged from food industry promotion and popular culture rather than a formal proclamation.

What is clear is that May 10 sits at the start of peak shrimp season in the Gulf of Mexico, where brown shrimp and white shrimp runs begin in late spring. Celebrating shrimp in early May aligns naturally with the season when fresh domestic shrimp becomes most available and affordable. That timing likely contributed to the date’s staying power.

Is National Shrimp Day a Real Holiday?

National Shrimp Day is a real cultural observance, but it is not a public or federal holiday. No act of Congress or presidential proclamation established it.

That said, “real” is relative when it comes to food holidays. Millions of Americans observe it each year, major restaurant chains promote it, grocery stores run sales tied to it, and food media covers it extensively. By those measures, it functions as a genuine food celebration even without official government recognition. The same is true of dozens of other beloved food days throughout the year, from National Dark Chocolate Day on February 1 to National Pizza Day on February 9.

Fun Shrimp Facts and History

Shrimp have been eaten by humans for thousands of years, with evidence of shrimp consumption dating back to ancient coastal civilizations in Asia and the Mediterranean. Here are some notable facts:

• Shrimp are crustaceans, closely related to crabs and lobsters.
• The United States is one of the world’s largest consumers of shrimp. NOAA data consistently ranks shrimp as the number-one seafood in the U.S. by pounds consumed.
• The Gulf of Mexico shrimp industry has operated commercially since the late 1800s.
• Shrimp can swim backward by rapidly flexing their abdomen and tail.
• The word “shrimp” comes from Middle English and is related to a Low German word meaning “to shrink.”
• In the famous “Forrest Gump” (1994) film, Bubba Blue lists over a dozen shrimp preparations, a scene that became one of American pop culture’s most quoted food moments.

What’s the Difference Between Types of Shrimp?

Not all shrimp taste or cook the same. Choosing the right variety for your recipe makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.

Choose white or pink shrimp if you want a mild flavor that works in most recipes. Choose brown shrimp if you want a more pronounced, savory taste for Southern-style dishes. Choose tiger shrimp when you need a firm texture that holds up on the grill.

Shrimp Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits

Shrimp is a nutrient-dense, low-calorie protein source. A 3-ounce (85g) serving of cooked shrimp contains approximately:

• Calories: 84
• Protein: 18 grams
• Fat: under 1 gram
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: around 166 mg

(Source: USDA FoodData Central)

Shrimp is also a meaningful source of iodine (important for thyroid function), selenium (an antioxidant mineral), and vitamin B12. It contains small but useful amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.

A note on cholesterol: Shrimp is high in dietary cholesterol, which concerned health professionals for decades. Current dietary guidance from the American Heart Association acknowledges that dietary cholesterol has less impact on blood cholesterol for most people than previously believed, though individuals with specific cardiovascular conditions should consult a doctor before eating shrimp frequently.

Shrimp Allergy Symptoms and Safety

Shellfish allergy, which includes shrimp, is one of the most common and most serious food allergies in adults. It affects an estimated 2.9% of the U.S. population, according to research published in the journal JAMA Network Open (Gupta et al., 2019).

Common symptoms of a shrimp allergy include:

• Hives, itching, or eczema
• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Anaphylaxis (a severe, potentially life-threatening reaction)

Critical safety note: Unlike some other food allergies, shellfish allergy rarely resolves with age. Most people who develop it keep it for life. Anyone with a known shellfish allergy must avoid shrimp entirely on May 10 National Shrimp Day and every other day. Always carry an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed by a doctor.

Sustainable Shrimp Sourcing and Farming

Buying shrimp responsibly matters for ocean health. Shrimp farming and wild-catch operations vary widely in their environmental impact.

What to look for when buying shrimp:

• MSC certification (Marine Stewardship Council) on wild-caught shrimp indicates the fishery meets sustainability standards.
• BAP certification (Best Aquaculture Practices) on farmed shrimp signals responsible aquaculture.
• Country of origin: U.S. wild-caught Gulf shrimp is generally held to higher environmental and labor standards than some imported farmed shrimp.
• Avoid: shrimp from operations with documented issues around mangrove destruction or forced labor, which have been flagged by environmental NGOs in certain Southeast Asian supply chains.

When in doubt, ask your fishmonger or check the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch guide, which rates shrimp by source and method.

How Do People Celebrate May 10 National Shrimp Day?

Celebrations range from simple home meals to full restaurant events. The most popular ways people mark May 10 National Shrimp Day include:

• Cooking shrimp at home, a shrimp boil, shrimp tacos, garlic butter shrimp, or shrimp scampi are all common choices.
• Dining out, seafood restaurants and chains often run specials; call ahead or check social media for promotions.
• Hosting a shrimp-themed gathering, a backyard shrimp boil with corn, potatoes, and sausage is a classic crowd-pleaser.
• Trying a new recipe, the day is a natural prompt to experiment with a preparation you haven’t tried before.
• Sharing on social media, the hashtag #NationalShrimpDay sees heavy activity on May 10 each year.

Shrimp Deals and Discounts on May 10

Retailers and restaurants frequently offer shrimp deals around May 10 National Shrimp Day. Here is how to find them:

• Check major seafood chain websites (Red Lobster, Joe’s Crab Shack, and similar) in the days leading up to May 10.
• Sign up for grocery store loyalty programs, Kroger, Publix, Whole Foods, and Costco often discount shrimp in the week of May 10.
• Follow brands on social media, many seafood brands announce flash deals on Instagram and Facebook specifically on May 10.
• Check restaurant apps, several chains push exclusive in-app deals on food holidays.

Deals vary by year and location, so check early. The best discounts tend to appear one to two days before May 10 and sell out quickly.

Where to Buy Shrimp on National Shrimp Day

Fresh, frozen, and pre-cooked shrimp are available at most grocery stores, warehouse clubs, and seafood markets year-round. On and around May 10, supply is typically strong and prices competitive.

Best places to buy shrimp:

• Warehouse clubs (Costco, Sam’s Club): Large bags of frozen shrimp at competitive per-pound prices.
• Grocery store seafood counters: Fresh or fresh-thawed shrimp, often with knowledgeable staff who can advise on variety and preparation.
• Specialty seafood markets: Best for premium or locally sourced options.
• Online seafood retailers: Companies like Gulf Shrimp Co. ship fresh Gulf shrimp directly; order a few days before May 10 to ensure delivery.

Buying tip: Frozen shrimp is often fresher than “fresh” shrimp at the counter, because most shrimp is frozen at sea shortly after harvest. Buying frozen and thawing at home is a reliable strategy.

How to Cook Shrimp at Home

Shrimp is one of the fastest proteins to cook, and one of the easiest to overcook. The key rule: shrimp is done when it turns pink and curls into a loose C shape. If it curls into a tight O, it is overcooked.

Basic cooking methods:

1. Saute: Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1-2 minutes per side. Season with garlic, lemon, and parsley.
2. Boil: Bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add shrimp. Cook 2-3 minutes until pink. Drain and serve immediately.
3. Grill: Skewer shrimp, brush with oil, and grill over high heat for 2 minutes per side.
4. Bake: Arrange shrimp on a sheet pan with butter and seasoning. Bake at 400°F for 6-8 minutes.
5. Air fry: Toss shrimp in oil and seasoning. Air fry at 400°F for 5-6 minutes, shaking halfway.

Common mistake: Cooking shrimp from frozen without thawing first leads to uneven cooking, the outside overcooks before the inside is done. Always thaw shrimp in cold water for 15-20 minutes before cooking.

Best Shrimp Recipes for National Shrimp Day

These five recipes cover a range of skill levels and flavor profiles, making them ideal for celebrating May 10 National Shrimp Day at home:

1. Classic Shrimp Cocktail, Boiled shrimp chilled and served with horseradish cocktail sauce. No cooking skill required.
2. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, Sauteed in butter, garlic, white wine, and lemon, served over pasta. Ready in under 20 minutes. For pasta inspiration, check out our National Fettuccine Alfredo Day guide.
3. Gulf-Style Shrimp Boil, Shrimp, corn, red potatoes, and andouille sausage boiled together with Old Bay seasoning and served on newspaper. Perfect for groups.
4. Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw, Grilled or pan-seared shrimp in corn tortillas with a bright citrus slaw. If you love seafood tacos, also see our National Fish Taco Day guide.
5. Shrimp Tempura, Battered and fried shrimp served with a dipping sauce. For technique tips on tempura batter, see our National Tempura Day guide.

FAQ: May 10 National Shrimp Day

What day is National Shrimp Day? National Shrimp Day is always on May 10. In 2026, that falls on a Sunday.

Is National Shrimp Day an official holiday? No. It is an unofficial food observance with no government recognition, but it is widely celebrated by restaurants, retailers, and home cooks across the United States.

Who started National Shrimp Day? The precise origin is unknown. Like most American food holidays, it grew organically through food industry promotion and popular culture over several decades.

How much shrimp do Americans eat? NOAA consistently lists shrimp as the most consumed seafood in the United States by volume, with Americans eating an estimated 4+ pounds per person per year (NOAA Fisheries data).

Can you eat shrimp if you have a shellfish allergy? No. Shrimp is a shellfish, and anyone with a shellfish allergy must avoid it. Reactions can be severe and potentially life-threatening.

What is the healthiest way to cook shrimp? Grilling, boiling, or sauteing with minimal oil are the healthiest cooking methods. Deep-frying adds significant calories and fat.

What does “deveined” mean on shrimp packaging? Deveining refers to removing the dark digestive tract (the “vein”) that runs along the shrimp’s back. It is safe to eat but many people prefer the cleaner appearance and slightly milder flavor of deveined shrimp.

How do you thaw frozen shrimp quickly? Place frozen shrimp in a colander and run cold (not warm) water over them for 10-15 minutes. Never thaw shrimp at room temperature or in warm water, as this can promote bacterial growth.

What wine pairs well with shrimp? Crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and unoaked Chardonnay pair well with most shrimp dishes. A dry rosé also works well with grilled shrimp.

Are farmed shrimp safe to eat? Yes, when sourced from certified, responsibly managed farms. Look for BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) or ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) certification on the label.

What is the difference between shrimp and prawns? Biologically, shrimp and prawns are different crustaceans with slight anatomical differences. In everyday American usage, the terms are often used interchangeably. True prawns are typically larger and have a slightly different flavor.

How long does cooked shrimp last in the refrigerator? Cooked shrimp stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator is safe to eat for up to three days, according to USDA food safety guidelines.

Conclusion

May 10 National Shrimp Day is more than a calendar quirk, it is a genuine celebration of one of America’s most beloved seafood staples. Whether the goal is to try a new recipe, hunt down a restaurant deal, or simply appreciate the nutritional value and culinary range of shrimp, May 10 offers a clear reason to make it happen.

Actionable next steps for 2026:

• Mark May 10 on your calendar now and decide whether you will cook at home or dine out.
• Check your local grocery store’s weekly ad the week of May 10 for shrimp discounts.
• Choose one recipe you have never tried before, shrimp tempura, a Gulf-style boil, or shrimp tacos are all strong options.
• If buying shrimp, look for MSC or BAP certification to support sustainable sourcing.
• If you or anyone in your household has a shellfish allergy, plan an alternative meal and keep emergency medication accessible.

For more food holiday inspiration throughout the year, explore the full national food holidays calendar at StillCooking.com.