Get Your Grits On! A Haberdashery Cryptid Preserve Gritsday Celebration!

Here at the Haberdashery Cryptid Preserve, we take our holidays seriously, and that definitely includes some lesser-known gems like Gritsday! This delightful day, falling on the first day of July, is all about celebrating the delicious, down-home Southern staple: grits.

But Gritsday isn't just about indulging in a hearty breakfast (although, let's be honest, a steaming bowl of cheesy grits is a pretty fantastic way to start the day). Grits have a long and fascinating history, dating back to indigenous peoples in Mesoamerica who cultivated maize, the main ingredient in grits. In fact, the word "grits" itself comes from a Muskogean word for "coarsely ground corn."

Over time, grits became a staple food in the Southern United States, particularly among African American communities. Enslaved people brought their knowledge of corn cultivation and preparation with them from Africa, and grits became a way to make a nutritious and satisfying meal from simple ingredients.

Now, here at the Haberdashery Cryptid Preserve, we know you might be wondering what Gritsday has to do with cryptids. Well, buckle up, because we're about to delve into a lesser-known Southern legend: the τρογλοδύτης (pronounced troglodytes), or "cave dweller."

These creatures are said to be small, humanoid figures with pale skin and glowing eyes. They're said to inhabit caves and swamps throughout the South, and some believe they have a particular fondness for – you guessed it – grits! According to legend, leaving a bowl of grits outside on Gritsday might just appease these shy creatures.

Of course, there's no scientific evidence to support the existence of troglodytes. But that doesn't mean we can't celebrate the legend and the delicious tradition of grits!

So this Gritsday, head down to the Haberdashery Cryptid Preserve Cafe. We'll be whipping up a special Gritsday menu featuring all sorts of creative grits dishes, from savory to sweet. And who knows, maybe you'll even leave a bowl out for the local troglodytes – just in case!