National Bagelfest Day

National Bagelfest Day is a celebration dedicated to honoring the beloved bagel, a versatile bread that has become a staple in breakfasts worldwide. This day brings together bagel enthusiasts to enjoy its rich history, diverse flavors, and cultural significance.

Quick Facts

When is it? July 26
Tagged as: Food, Celebration, Cultural Heritage
What’s the hashtag? #NationalBagelfestDay
When was it founded? 1986
Who founded it? Murray Lender, owner of Lender’s Bagels

History of National Bagelfest Day

National Bagelfest Day began in Mattoon, Illinois, in 1986 when Murray Lender hosted a free bagel breakfast for the town’s residents to celebrate the opening of the world’s largest bagel factory. Over time, this one-day event evolved into a multi-day festival featuring parades, live music, contests like Miss Bagelfest and Bagel Baby, and of course, plenty of bagels. The celebration highlights the cultural journey of bagels, which originated in Jewish communities in Poland and became a global phenomenon.

Timeline

14th Century: Early forms of bagels appear in Poland.
1800s: Polish-Jewish immigrants introduce bagels to America.
1907: The Bagel Bakers Local 338 union is formed in New York.
1960s: Automated bagel production begins.
1986: National Bagelfest Day is officially celebrated for the first time.

Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	July 26	Saturday
2026	July 26	Sunday
2027	July 26	Monday
2028	July 26	Wednesday
2029	July 26	Thursday
2030	July 26	Friday

Observed

National Bagelfest Day is observed with activities such as enjoying bagels with unique toppings, baking homemade bagels, attending the festival in Mattoon, Illinois, or sharing your love for bagels on social media using #NationalBagelfestDay.

Fun Facts About Bagels

The word “bagel” originates from the German word bougel, meaning “bracelet.”
Bagels are boiled before being baked, giving them their unique texture.
The most expensive bagel costs $1,000 and is served at the Westin Hotel.
Astronaut Gregory Chamitoff brought sesame bagels to space.
Bagels were once called “cement doughnuts” due to their density.

Quiz

Where did National Bagelfest Day originate?
(Answer: Mattoon, Illinois)
Who founded National Bagelfest Day?
(Answer: Murray Lender)
What year was National Bagelfest Day first celebrated?
(Answer: 1986)

FAQs

What makes bagels unique?
Bagels are boiled before baking, giving them a chewy texture and shiny crust.

Why is Mattoon called the “Bagel Capital of the World”?
It houses the world’s largest bagel factory and hosts the annual Bagelfest.

Are bagels healthier than bread?
Yes, they are denser and often have fewer calories than regular bread.

Importance of National Bagelfest Day

This day celebrates a culinary icon that has transcended cultures and generations. It promotes community bonding through shared love for food and highlights the historical journey of an immigrant delicacy that became a global favorite.