National Cheese Lover’s Day: How to Celebrate (& What to Eat)

National Cheese Lover’s Day is celebrated every year on January 20, landing right in the heart of winter—AKA peak cheese season. While its origins are more festive than historical, the spirit of the day is clear: celebrate the joy, comfort, and craftsmanship of cheese in all its forms.

There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate National Cheese Lover’s Day, as long as you’re eating something delicious. You might start by enjoying a winter-ready cheese board anchored by aged, cozy styles that shine this time of year, or by cooking something unapologetically cheesy, whether that’s a bubbling baked pasta or a skillet-friendly grilled cheese. It’s also a perfect excuse to gift cheese to someone who truly appreciates it (that includes you—no judgment), or to branch out and try a style you’ve never tasted before. However you mark the day, the goal is simple: slow down, savor, and let cheese do what it does best: bring comfort, pleasure, and a little joy to the table.

Need inspiration? Murray’s Certified Cheese Lover’s Collection brings together expertly selected favorites and hidden gems from our cheese case—perfect for celebrating at home or sending as a gift. Explore the collection.

Winter cheeses tend to be richer in flavor and deeply satisfying, thanks in part to seasonal milk and longer aging times. Alpine styles, aged cheddars, washed rinds, and bold blues all come into their own this time of year, offering nuttiness, savory depth, and plenty of meltability. Some of these cheeses beg to be served warm, tucked into fondue pots, layered onto toast, or enjoyed slowly with a glass of wine on a cold night. When the weather turns chilly, cheese gets heartier—and all the more comforting.

Shop our winter picks to find your cold-weather favorites.

In the United States, cheddar reigns supreme. Loved for its balance of tang and comfort, cheddar appears everywhere from grilled cheese to charcuterie boards. Its versatility and the sheer range of styles, from mild to clothbound and aged, keep it at the top.

Globally, mozzarella often takes the crown. Thanks to its starring role on pizza and in countless comfort foods, mozzarella is one of the most widely consumed cheeses worldwide. Fresh or low-moisture, it’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest cheeses have the biggest impact.

National Cheese Lover’s Day is about more than just eating cheese—it’s about appreciating the stories, craft, and joy behind every bite. Whether you’re stocking up for a winter gathering, planning a gift, or just treating yourself, Murray’s is here to help you discover something new (or fall back in love with an old favorite).

Discover all the ways to celebrate National Cheese Lover’s Day in NYC and at home. Or shop Murray’s in NYC or at a store near you. Because if there’s one thing we know for sure: it’s always a good day to love cheese.