National Tamole Day
National Tamale Day celebrates the beloved Latin American dish made of corn dough (masa) filled with various ingredients, wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves, and steamed to perfection.
Quick Facts
When is it: March 23rd annually
Tagged as: Food & Drink, History & Culture, Snacks & Desserts
What’s the hashtag: #NationalTamaleDay
When was it founded: October 14th, 2014
Who founded it: Richard Lambert
History of National Tamale Day
Richard Lambert, owner of Tamales-to-Go in Santa Barbara, established this day to promote year-round enjoyment of tamales. He chose March 23rd strategically, as Melba Toast was the only other food celebration on that date, and it was far enough from the traditional holiday tamale season.
Timeline
- 7000 BC: First appearance of tamales in the Aztec Empire
- 1612: First documented tamales in North America by Captain John Smith
- 1800s: Tamales gain popularity across US border cities
- 2015: First official National Tamale Day celebration
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 23 | Sunday |
| 2026 | March 23 | Monday |
| 2027 | March 23 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | March 23 | Thursday |
| 2029 | March 23 | Friday |
| 2030 | March 23 | Saturday |
Observed
The holiday is celebrated annually on March 23rd since 2015, with various tamale festivals, cooking demonstrations, and special events across the country.
Fun Facts About Tamales
- The word “tamal” comes from Nahuatl “tamalli” meaning “wrapped”
- Former President Gerald Ford once tried eating tamales without removing the husks
- Tamales can be sweet or savory
- They’re considered the original “to-go” meal
- Some tamales in Mexico can be up to 10 feet long
Quiz
- What does the word “tamalli” mean?
- When was the first National Tamale Day celebrated?
- Who founded National Tamale Day?
(Answers: 1. Wrapped 2. March 23, 2015 3. Richard Lambert)
FAQs
- Are tamales healthy? Yes, they contain vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- How long do tamales steam? 20-30 minutes
- How to know when tamales are ready? When the corn dough feels firm
Related
- Día de la Candelaria (February 2nd)
- Mexican Independence Day
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- World Food Day
- International Taco Day