Do you celebrate food holidays with your guests? October offers some fun food days to note, along with some actual holidays that will get you and your guests in the holiday spirit. Taking part in observing some of October’s best holidays can draw attention to your restaurant, give you the chance to try out new menus, and set you apart from your competition.

Here are some of the holidays you might choose to celebrate this month:

Oktoberfest: Ending October 6

Go global on this holiday with a German-inspired menu that includes soft pretzels, schnitzel, Bratwurst sausage, and other favourite delicacies. This is the perfect time for beer flights or including the traditional beer boot as a fun way to embrace the holiday.  Go the extra mile with themed décor and music for a truly immersive experience.

Thanksgiving: October 14

Rather than cooking a large dinner at home, many families are choosing to celebrate by letting their favourite restaurants do the work. Offer a prix fixe menu for all the fixin’s, create a takeout version for guests who want to stay home, or create a family-style dinner that will encourage families to gather at your tables. Promote your feature menus ahead of time to give guests enough notice so they can include your restaurant in their holiday plans.

World Food Day: October 16

With global inspiration trending on restaurant menus this year, this holiday provides the perfect opportunity to get in on the trend. Choose a theme to focus on or mix it up with dishes from around the world. Consider popular items like pad thai, spicy tacos, or carne asada. Use this time to test our recipes and dishes that you might want to make permanent features on your menu.

National Potato Day: October 27

Potatoes are a side dish that everyone loves but make spuds the star for this holiday. Consider adding pierogies, offering a french fry sampler, trying potato pancakes, or creating your personal take to feature potatoes for the day.

Halloween: October 31

This holiday is well-loved and is a great way to draw in families with spooky-themed kids’ menus, fun family activities, and more. Want to make it more adult? Host a dress-up Halloween party with themed cocktails and mocktails, costume contests, and scary decorations to get everyone feeling festive. Take reservations for the festivities so you can staff accordingly and plan ahead in the kitchen.

Celebrate October with these holidays to offer something new, attract larger crowds, and raise your restaurant’s revenues for the month.