January 2 is National Buffet Day.

The buffet concept has its origins in 16th century  Swedish schnapps table or brännvinsbord, where hors d’oeuvres and schnapps were served from a side table prior to the meal. By the 20th century, the buffet evolved into a main course. Also, it no longer required schnapps. For example, Colonel Sanders’ Do-It-Yourself Buffet circa 1978 included salads, bread, and finger-licking’ good chicken—but no schnapps!

Kentucky Fried Chicken commercial for Colonel Sanders’ Do-It-Yourself-Buffet (1978)

Whenever 30 or more hungry people get together, let Colonel Sanders make everyone happy with his Do-It-Yourself Buffet.

Well, what if you don’t have 30 people? What if it’s just you? Maybe you’d like to heat up a Banquet Buffet Supper. (I don’t understand how a frozen dinner constitutes a buffet. In fact, isn’t it the opposite of a buffet, since you only get to eat one thing?)

In this 1968 commercial (created by Stan Freberg) that spoofs a movie trailer, Banquet Buffet Supper wins awards for “Best Sliced Turkey,”” Best Performance by a Giblet Gravy in a Supporting Role,” and “Best Performance by a Housewife.”

Commercial for Banquet Buffet Supper Giblet Gravy and Sliced Turkey (1968)

If you’re eating a frozen dinner “buffet” by yourself, chances are you live alone with your cat. Why shouldn’t Kitty also get to celebrate National Buffet Day?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUnM1fNY89I

Friskies Buffet commercial (late 1960s)

Ready for dinner, darling? Got fish and chicken. Friskies Buffet Fish & Chicken.

So whether you’re hosting a dinner party for 30 or eating alone with your cat, have a happy National Buffet Day!