Every year on July 20th, food lovers and fun seekers across the United States and other parts of the world come together to celebrate National Fortune Cookie Day. A symbol of mystery, inspiration, and delightful indulgence, fortune cookies have become more than just a meal-ending treat — they spark curiosity, laughter, and sometimes, deep reflection. This special day honors the quirky, crisp cookie that cracks open to reveal a short, often cryptic message that stirs the imagination. Whether humorous or profound, the fortunes inside have amused and inspired millions — and this day is all about celebrating that unique joy.
History of National Fortune Cookie Day
The origins of National Fortune Cookie Day are closely tied to the fascinating backstory of the cookie itself. Although commonly associated with Chinese cuisine, the fortune cookie has American roots, believed to have been created in early 20th-century California. There is still a playful debate between two men — Makoto Hagiwara of San Francisco and David Jung of Los Angeles — over who invented it.
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Makoto Hagiwara, a Japanese immigrant and designer of the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, is believed to have served cookies containing thank-you notes around 1914.
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On the other hand, David Jung, a Chinese immigrant and founder of the Hong Kong Noodle Company in Los Angeles, is said to have created similar cookies in 1918, handing them out to the poor with Bible verses.
Regardless of the exact origin, fortune cookies quickly became a staple of Chinese-American restaurants across the U.S.
National Fortune Cookie Day as a formal observance began being celebrated by enthusiasts and food bloggers in the early 2000s, although there’s no officially recorded founder. It has since grown organically through social media and restaurant promotions.
Importance of Fortune Cookie Day
National Fortune Cookie Day may seem lighthearted, but its cultural and emotional significance runs deeper:
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Celebrates Cultural Fusion: It highlights the beautiful blending of Asian traditions with American innovation.
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Promotes Positivity: The fortunes often carry messages of hope, wisdom, and inspiration.
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Encourages Joy: Opening a fortune cookie brings a moment of fun and anticipation.
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Recognizes Small Businesses: The day also supports local eateries and restaurants, especially Asian-American ones.
This day reminds us how even the smallest things — like a cookie with a paper message — can bring smiles and meaningful insights.
Significance of National Fortune Cookie Day
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A Symbol of Optimism: The core of this day lies in anticipation and belief. People open fortune cookies with the hope of discovering something that resonates.
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A Nod to Immigrant History: It acknowledges the contributions of Asian immigrants who shaped American culinary culture.
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Unites People Through Food: Whether in restaurants, offices, or homes, people from different walks of life come together to share a light moment.
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Pop Culture Relevance: Fortune cookies have appeared in movies, TV shows, and memes, making them a pop symbol of quirky wisdom.
Why National Fortune Cookie Day is Celebrated
National Fortune Cookie Day is celebrated to:
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Honor the creativity of the original cookie makers.
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Recognize the fortune cookie as a fun and unique cultural artifact.
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Encourage happiness and surprise — the key feelings associated with opening a fortune cookie.
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Support local Asian restaurants and businesses who continue the tradition.
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Spread joy through words — short messages often leave a lasting impact.
This celebration reminds us that joy often lies in the simplest of things — and a humble fortune cookie delivers that joy perfectly.
How Fortune Cookie Day Is Celebrated
Here’s how people across the country and beyond mark this unique celebration:
1. Dining Out
Many visit their favorite Chinese or Asian-fusion restaurants and end their meals with fortune cookies. Some restaurants offer customized or extra fortune cookies on this day.
2. Baking at Home
Food enthusiasts try their hand at making fortune cookies at home with personalized fortunes — perfect for parties and fun family time.
3. Social Media Sharing
People share their cookie fortunes using hashtags like #NationalFortuneCookieDay. Many post photos of their cookies, fortune slips, and celebrations.
4. Office Celebrations
Companies celebrate the day by distributing fortune cookies to employees, often with motivational quotes or personalized fortunes for morale boosting.
5. Workshops and Events
In some places, cultural centers and schools organize events exploring the history of the cookie and DIY fortune cookie-making classes.
Countries & Regions Where Fortune Cookie Day is Celebrated
Though rooted in the U.S., National Fortune Cookie Day is slowly gaining attention worldwide due to pop culture and international interest in food holidays.
Countries Where It’s Commonly Celebrated:
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United States (widely celebrated in most states)
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Canada
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Australia
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United Kingdom
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Philippines
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Singapore
In these regions, people celebrate the day through online posts, fun giveaways in restaurants, and even cross-cultural food events.
How Citizens Make Fortune Cookie Day a Success
Ordinary people play a vital role in keeping this day alive and joyful:
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Home Bakers create customized cookies with heartfelt messages for friends and family.
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Food Bloggers and Influencers promote the day with creative content.
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Restaurant Owners run fortune cookie-themed promotions and discounts.
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Educators use the day to teach kids about different cultures and creativity through fortune writing.
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Social Media Users create viral content around their cookie fortunes, keeping the celebration trending.
The real magic lies in active participation and spreading positivity, making the celebration unique and community-driven.
Theme for Fortune Cookie Day 2025
🎉 Theme for National Fortune Cookie Day 2025: “Crack Open Positivity!”
The 2025 theme focuses on sharing hope, laughter, and joy through every little message found inside a fortune cookie. Whether it’s a quote, a proverb, or a joke — every message aims to lift spirits and connect people.
10 Famous Quotes for National Fortune Cookie Day
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“The best way to predict your future is to create it.” – Abraham Lincoln
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“Fortune favors the bold.” – Latin Proverb
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“Even the smallest cookie can hold the biggest dream.” – Anonymous
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“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“Your fortune is not in a cookie. It’s in your actions.” – Anonymous
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“A wise man knows he knows nothing — but he still checks the cookie.” – Fortune Cookie Humor
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“Happiness is a warm cookie with a sweet message inside.” – Unknown
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“Good luck is when preparation meets opportunity.” – Seneca
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“Crack open the cookie. Open up your heart.” – Inspirational Saying
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“Behind every cookie is a message the universe wants you to hear.” – Food Philosopher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When is National Fortune Cookie Day celebrated?
A: It is celebrated every year on July 20th.
Q2. Who invented the fortune cookie?
A: It’s debated — either Makoto Hagiwara (San Francisco) or David Jung (Los Angeles) in the early 1900s.
Q3. Why is it called a “fortune” cookie?
A: Because it contains a short fortune or prophetic statement on a slip of paper inside the cookie.
Q4. Is the fortune cookie originally Chinese?
A: No, it is an American invention, though it is associated with Chinese cuisine in the U.S.
Q5. How do people celebrate National Fortune Cookie Day?
A: By dining out, baking at home, sharing messages on social media, and participating in fun events.
Q6. Can you write your own fortune for cookies?
A: Absolutely! Many people create custom fortunes for parties or special occasions.
Q7. Are fortune cookies eaten in China?
A: Surprisingly, no — they are mostly unknown in mainland China.
Q8. Do fortune cookies really predict the future?
A: They’re meant for fun and inspiration, not actual prediction.
Q9. Where can I buy fortune cookies?
A: At most Asian restaurants, online marketplaces, and even some grocery stores.
Q10. What’s the theme for Fortune Cookie Day 2025?
A: “Crack Open Positivity!”, focusing on joy, hope, and togetherness.
Conclusion
National Fortune Cookie Day 2025 is more than just an excuse to enjoy a crunchy, sweet treat. It’s a celebration of cultural fusion, positive thinking, and the simple joys of life. Whether you’re reading your fortune in a restaurant, baking your own cookies, or sharing a quote online, you’re part of a bigger movement — one that spreads laughter, hope, and connection across cultures. So this July 20th, go ahead — crack open a cookie, read your fortune, and celebrate the little surprises that make life sweeter!
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My name is Subhajit Bhattacharya , I am a Instrumentatin Engineer and working as a content writer for this site, All the information of this site is only for educational purpose.
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