Ceviche Day celebrates Peru’s iconic dish – fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices, typically lime or lemon, mixed with onions, chili peppers, and other seasonings. This refreshing dish represents Peru’s rich culinary heritage and coastal culture.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: June 28th
- Tagged as: National Food Holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalCevicheDay #CevicheDay
- When was it founded?: 2008
- Who founded it?: Peru’s Ministry of Production
History
Ceviche’s origins trace back to the ancient Mochica civilization on Peru’s coast around 2,000 years ago. Initially, they preserved fish using chicha (fermented corn beverage) and salt. The modern version emerged after Spanish colonists introduced citrus fruits, transforming the dish into what we know today.
Timeline
- 2000 BCE: Ancient Mochica civilization begins preserving fish
- 2004: Peru declares ceviche as Cultural Heritage of the Nation
- 2008: June 28th officially designated as National Ceviche Day
Dates for Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June | 28 | Saturday |
| 2026 | June | 28 | Sunday |
| 2027 | June | 28 | Monday |
| 2028 | June | 28 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | June | 28 | Thursday |
| 2030 | June | 28 | Friday |
How It’s Observed
The celebration is particularly vibrant in Lima, Peru, where over 11,000 cevicherias serve various interpretations of this national dish. People gather for ceviche tastings, cooking demonstrations, and festive meals.
Fun Facts About Ceviche
- The name possibly derives from the Quechua word “siwichi” meaning fresh fish
- The citrus juice’s acidity “cooks” the fish without heat
- Each Latin American country has its unique variation
- Peru considers it a symbol of national identity
- Lima is known as the ceviche capital
Quiz
- Which country officially established National Ceviche Day?
- What is the main ingredient that “cooks” the fish in ceviche?
- In what year was ceviche declared Peru’s Cultural Heritage?
-(Answers: 1. Peru, 2. Citrus juice, 3. 2004)
FAQs
Q: Is ceviche raw fish?
A: While it starts raw, the citrus juice chemically “cooks” the fish.
Q: What fish is traditionally used?
A: Sea bass, corvina, or any fresh white fish.
Related Celebrations
- National Seafood Day
- International Food Day
- Peru Independence Day
- Latin American Food Festival
- World Food Heritage Day