National Cheese Fondue Day
April 11, Friday
Origins of Cheese Fondue
Cheese fondue dates back to 18th-century Switzerland, where villagers would melt cheese with wine and enjoy it with bread during the colder months. Though it's a Swiss classic, the iconic image of people gathering around a pot of melted cheese quickly caught on in the United States during the 1960s and 70s, often linked with entertaining and sociable dining experiences.
How Americans Celebrate
On National Cheese Fondue Day, people across the country take part in celebrations that might include:
- Hosting fondue parties with friends and family.
- Dining at fondue restaurants like The Melting Pot, which often runs special promotions for the holiday.
- Sharing fondue recipes and photos on social media using hashtags like #NationalCheeseFondueDay.
- Trying creative variations on the traditional recipe, such as incorporating American cheeses or dipping locally sourced ingredients.
Popular Cheese Fondue Ingredients
Traditional Swiss fondue often blends cheeses like Gruyère and Emmental, but American versions may include:
- Cheddar
- Monterey Jack
- Colby
- Brie
Common dipping items include:
- Cubed bread (baguette or sourdough)
- Apples or pears
- Steamed vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, carrots)
- Roasted potatoes
- Cooked meats or sausages
Fun Facts
- The word "fondue" comes from the French word “fondre,” meaning “to melt.”
- National Cheese Fondue Day is one of several fondue-themed celebrations — there's also National Chocolate Fondue Day (celebrated on February 5th).
- Dedicated fondue pots, often using flame or electric heating elements, help maintain the right temperature and consistency.