National French Fry Day Is "Fryday," July 13

There's more than one reason to celebrate the end of this week.

Friday the 13th (don't let the date spook you) is not only the start of another beautifully sunny weekend in the Pacific Northwest, it's also "Fryday" as is National French Fry Day.

To celebrate, is dishing out complimentary side of fries to any customer who prints a coupon from its Facebook page. 

The deal is limited to the 5,000 coupons downloaded, so print yours off now.

(Ivar's is located right on the University Place-Tacoma border, at 1820 S. Mildred)

The first French fries are said to date back to the 17th century in Belgium, according to punchbowl.com, where reginal inhabitants often ate small fried fish as part of their meals. If weather conditions were too dangerous to fish, these crafty culinary pioneers “julienned” potatoes to resemble their beloved "fish fries." 

French journalist Jo Gerard is credited with first reporting this version of the origin of French fries, which is now widely accepted. The origin of the name; however, remains hazy. 

Either way, these crispy golden morsels are now a global phenomenon.

Regardless of the name: “pommes frites” in France, “patatas fritas” in Spain, “chips” in the UK, or (briefly) "Freedom Fries" is the United States (circa 2003), French fries are a worldwide favorite. 

Do you plan to enjoy some French fries on July 13? Where is your favorite place to pick up a basket of these beauties?