National Microwave Oven Day is a holiday that’s observed annually on December 6th and honors an appliance that was once considered a marvel of modern cooking technology but is now just another way for us to warm our food up in our kitchens. The microwave oven was first introduced in 1955 and was created from radar technology that was developed during World War II.

Although the initial models were too expensive for general home use, over time the price of them fell, and they soon became a key component in kitchens all over the world. So take the time to pay homage to this ubiquitous box and how it has transformed modern cooking.

A Quick History of the Microwave Oven

Since we were unable to find a history of National Microwave Oven Day, we thought that we’d cover the history of the microwave oven. Or, to be more precise in our wording, a quick history of the microwave oven.

The microwave oven was first invented by American engineer Percy Spencer in 1946. He used radar technology that was developed during WWII to create it, and he named it the “Radarange.” He would go on to license the patents used for the creation of the Radarange to Tappan, and they would introduce the first home-use microwave in 1955—although at this time it was too expensive and too large for most homes.

In 1964, the Sharp Corporation introduced the first microwave oven with a turntable, and in 1967, Amana introduced the first countertop microwave oven. During the 1970s and 1980s, microwave oven prices would continue to drop until they became more affordable for the average household.

Observing National Microwave Oven Day

Anyone interested in observing this holiday can do so by taking some time to learn more about its history and the technology used to create it. While you’re observing this holiday, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalMicrowaveOvenDay to spread the word about this holiday.