Saint Lawrence (Lorenzo) Feast Day

"Italians celebrate San Lorenzo (Saint Lawrence), patron saint of cooks, brewers and vintners, butchers, bakers, confectioners, restaurateurs and more. Lorenzo’s involvement in what was considered a heretical, anti-establishment religion led to his martyrdom: on August 10 in year 258 CE, Roman officials sentenced Lorenzo to death, as punishment for his refusal to hand over various goods and treasures he oversaw as a church deacon. According to Christian lore, Lorenzo was placed on a gridiron to “cook” over hot coals, a tale that accounts for the saint’s now-legendary final words: “I’m well-done on this side. Turn me over!”

"He is patron saint of barbecues and barbecuing. . . and cooks are known to invoke his protection in the kitchen, where burns by heat or fire are a very real threat. Italian kitchens commonly feature small Lorenzo statues, plaques or holy cards.

In Tuscany, San Lorenzo feasting usually means enjoying a traditional bistecca fiorentina (or other grilled meat). The role of the grill is central as the symbolic link to Lorenzo’s martyrdom on the gridiron."

National Day of Ecuador

"Common foods at cultural festivals include ‘ceviche,’ yucca bread, ‘encebollado,’ ‘patacones,’ and a goat stew called ‘Seco de Chivo.’" 

Unofficial

S’mores Day (US)