The phrase “Bring home the bacon” or Flitch Day comes from the 12th century when a church in Dunmow, England offered a half a pig (or Flitch) to any married couple who could prove to a mock court with a jury of bachelors and maidens, that they have ‘not wished themselves unwed.
The details are not certain, but references to it go back to 1104. It has been a regular civic event in Dunmow since 1855. Now held every 4 years, and frequently televised.