Toasted marshmallow, melting chocolate and crunchy graham crackers: the s'more is the ultimate campfire treat. National S'mores Day, on August 10, celebrates this gooey dessert that's a highlight of camping trips, backyard bonfires and summer nights. The name says it all: after one, you'll want 'some more'.
History of National S'mores Day
The ingredients of the s'more each have their own history. Marshmallows were originally made from the sap of the marsh mallow plant, used in ancient Egypt as a treat. Modern marshmallows are made with sugar and gelatin. Graham crackers were inspired by Sylvester Graham, a 19th-century minister who promoted whole wheat flour.
The first known recipe for s'mores appeared in a 1927 Girl Scout handbook, 'Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts'. It was called 'Some More' and is often credited to Loretta Scott Crew, who reportedly made them for Girl Scouts around a campfire. The name was later shortened to 's'mores'.
S'mores became a classic camping tradition, and today they inspire everything from s'mores cookies and pies to ice cream flavors. Who created National S'mores Day is not documented.
Why National S'mores Day Matters
S'mores are part of American camping culture and summer memories, bringing families and friends together around a fire.
The Girl Scouts' role in popularizing them is a fun piece of history.
Making s'mores also teaches fire safety and patience, as toasting a marshmallow to golden perfection takes practice.
S'mores are also a reminder of the simple joys of being outdoors. Sitting around a fire, telling stories and sharing food are traditions that go back thousands of years. Whether at a campsite, a backyard fire pit or an indoor kitchen, s'mores turn an ordinary evening into a memorable one.
How to Celebrate National S'mores Day
- Make classic s'mores: toast a marshmallow and sandwich it with chocolate and graham crackers.
- Try indoor s'mores: use the oven or microwave.
- Swap ingredients: try peanut butter cups or cookies.
- Bake s'mores bars: make a s'mores dessert.
- Learn fire safety: practice safe campfire habits.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a s'mores bar with a tabletop burner (where allowed) or microwave s'mores makes a fun treat. In classrooms, students can build solar ovens from pizza boxes to make s'mores, learning about solar energy. At home, families can make s'mores over a backyard fire pit or grill, or in the oven. Supervise children closely around fire, use long roasting sticks and keep water nearby.
Fun Facts About National S'mores Day
- The first known s'mores recipe appeared in a 1927 Girl Scout handbook.
- Marshmallows were originally made from the marsh mallow plant.
- Graham crackers are named after Sylvester Graham.
National S'mores Day FAQs
When is National S'mores Day?
National S'mores Day is August 10.
Who invented s'mores?
The first known recipe appeared in a 1927 Girl Scout handbook.
Why are they called s'mores?
From 'some more'.
Can I make s'mores indoors?
Yes, using an oven or microwave.