National Sidewalk Egg Frying Day
National Sidewalk Egg Frying Day is observed on July 4th in the United States.
While the economy is touching the sky and expenses are at an all-time high, we humans have to improvise.
With the way our gas and electricity bills are skyrocketing, it seems like the only solution is to turn back the clock and start relying on natural resources like in the good old days.
So why not kick things off by frying eggs on the sidewalk? Who needs a stove when the sun's got our backs (and our breakfast)?
We have already witnessed several such experiments going viral on social media over the years, and the results are sometimes shocking. Well, to be honest, experts say the idea really works.
If the sun's hot enough to fry eggs on the sidewalk, imagine what it could do to your skin! So, go ahead and cut costs where you can, but don't skimp on the sunscreen—unless you want to end up looking like a crispy breakfast special!
Did You Know This Wacky Day Even Exists?
This super fun holiday first started in the United States in July as it was in the middle of summer in Oatman, Arizona where they took this fun tradition quite seriously with a Solar Egg Frying Contest.
The competition, which was founded in 1983, has been a huge hit ever since and continues to rock every year on the Fourth of July.
The goal is to fry an egg using only solar energy in less than 15 minutes. The fastest one to do so wins!
Many states and places were influenced by this idea, and they started celebrating this day too during the scorching summer heat.
The Interesting Story Behind This Day
It is said that one of the first mentions of frying an egg on the sidewalk was in an 1899 issue of the Atlanta Constitution, found in the Library of Congress.
Dr. Francis Henry Wade, advised readers, in a column called “How to Keep Cool?”,
With the thermometer soaring into the nineties, the sidewalks are hot enough to fry eggs. With heat prostrations and sunstrokes causing pain and fear, the question 'How to keep cool?' is on everyone’s mind, regardless of their occupation.”
Although, Wade made some seriously questionable advices, the idea of frying an egg on the sidewalk struck a chord in the hearts of people.
But, using a concrete platform as a cooking surface, no matter how hot it is, cooking anything is nearly impossible. However, using a frying pan or any other metal surfaces, people tried cooking eggs in the sun.
The Los Angeles Times reported record-breaking temperatures of 102-112 degrees Fahrenheit in Van Nuys in October 1993.
The article noted,
“Sidewalks were so hot the heat could be felt through shoe soles. Nobody tried to fry eggs in the sun in the street, but discussions on every corner suggested it could be done if the eggs and frying pan were handy.”
How to Join in on the Fun of This Day?
Well, the obvious answer is: fry eggs on the sidewalk. But, you have to pick a really hot day for doing that.
Go out of your home and try frying eggs on a sidewalk
Apply plenty of sunscreen, put on a hat, carry your favorite cold beverage, and embark on this journey for a once in a lifetime experience.
Also, prepare the ingredients- an egg, a frying pan, add some oil to the pan and let it heat, Oh and don't forget the salt and your favorite seasonings as well.
When you think the oil is hot enough, crack an egg on to the pan, add the seasonings and wait for the magic to unfold.
You can do it alone or invite your friends. Bring a plate, cutlery and, perhaps, a piece of bread to eat with this delicious egg.
Make a video, snap some fun photos, and share them on social media. Who knows, you might even start a neighborhood competition! Call it“ Frying with the Sun: the hottest competition in the city.” Fun is guaranteed, and Frying Eggs on the Sidewalk Day has everything you need for a fantastic time.
How About A School Contest?
You can also try to organize a contest at any school. Maybe talk to the authorities and ask them for help with it. Teachers and students both can participate in this competition and make it a fun activity day.
How about suggesting the experience at school? Talk to a teacher and ask them to accompany the students and explain how everything happens.
Try frying eggs on both the sidewalk and the asphalt. Compare the differences, noting factors like cooking time, texture, and temperature. Document everything like a thorough investigator to capture the full experience.
Now, if you are having a blast by doing this fun activity, please do not complain about the heat anymore. This is a way of making the best out of the worst. Enjoy!
