National Shawarma Day is a delightful celebration dedicated to one of the most beloved Middle Eastern dishes—shawarma. This dish, made from marinated meat that is slow-roasted and thinly sliced, has become a global favorite, enjoyed in various forms around the world. The name “shawarma” is derived from a Turkish word meaning “turning,” which refers to the cooking method of rotating meat on a vertical spit.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: October 15th
- Tagged as: National Shawarma Day
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalShawarmaDay
- When was it founded?: 2020
- Who founded it?: Osmow’s Shawarma
History of National Shawarma Day
National Shawarma Day was established to honor the rich heritage of shawarma and its cultural significance. Although shawarma has roots in the Ottoman Empire, its modern popularity has soared thanks to its introduction in various countries, particularly in North America. The day was founded by Osmow’s, a popular Canadian restaurant chain known for its delicious shawarma offerings.
Timeline
- 2011: The first National Shawarma Day is celebrated in the United States.
- 2020: Osmow’s officially declares October 15th as National Shawarma Day in Canada.
- 2021: The first Canadian National Shawarma Day is celebrated with significant participation from restaurants across the country.
- 2022: Osmow’s expands its celebrations and promotions for National Shawarma Day.
- 2023: Continued growth and popularity of the event, with special deals and community engagement.
- 2024: Anticipated celebrations with new promotions and events planned.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October | 15 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October | 15 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October | 15 | Friday |
| 2028 | October | 15 | Sunday |
| 2029 | October | 15 | Monday |
| 2030 | October | 15 | Tuesday |
Observed
National Shawarma Day is observed by food lovers across North America, especially in Canada where it has gained significant traction. Many restaurants offer special deals on shawarma dishes, encouraging both loyal fans and newcomers to indulge in this flavorful cuisine.
Fun Facts About Shawarma
- Shawarma can be made from various meats including chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey.
- It is often served wrapped in pita bread with toppings like tomatoes, cucumbers, and sauces such as tahini or garlic sauce.
- The dish has become a staple at food festivals and cultural events celebrating Middle Eastern cuisine.
Quiz
- What day is National Shawarma Day celebrated?
- Answer: October 15th
- Who founded National Shawarma Day?
- Answer: Osmow’s Shawarma
- What is the meaning of “shawarma”?
- Answer: “Turning” (in Turkish)
- What type of meat is traditionally used for shawarma?
- Answer: Various meats including chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey.
- What is a popular hashtag for this celebration?
- Answer: #NationalShawarmaDay
FAQs
What is shawarma?
Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish consisting of marinated meat that is roasted on a vertical spit and served in a wrap or platter with various accompaniments.
Can I find shawarma outside of Middle Eastern restaurants?
Yes, shawarma has gained international popularity and can be found in many fast-casual dining establishments worldwide.
Is shawarma suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! Many places offer vegetarian options like falafel wraps that mimic the flavors and textures of traditional shawarma.
Related
- International Hummus Day
- National Pita Bread Day
- Mediterranean Food Month