National Waffle Day celebrates the beloved breakfast treat that has won hearts worldwide. It commemorates the first US patent for a waffle iron and serves as a day to indulge in this crispy, golden delight.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: August 24th annually
- Tagged as: Food Holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalWaffleDay
- When was it founded?: 1869
- Who founded it?: Originated from Cornelius Swarthout’s waffle iron patent
History of National Waffle Day
The celebration stems from August 24, 1869, when Cornelius Swarthout of Troy, New York, received the first U.S. patent for a waffle iron. However, waffles themselves date back to ancient Greece, where they made flat cakes between hot metal plates. The Dutch later introduced waffles to America in the 1620s.
Timeline
- 1620: Pilgrims bring waffles to America
- 1725: First printed use of “waffle” in English
- 1869: First waffle iron patent
- 1953: Introduction of Eggo frozen waffles
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | August 24 | Saturday |
| 2025 | August 24 | Sunday |
| 2026 | August 24 | Monday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by enjoying waffles at home or restaurants, hosting waffle-themed parties, trying new recipes, and sharing their creations on social media. Many restaurants offer special promotions and discounts.
Fun Facts About Waffles
- Nike’s first sneaker sole was inspired by a waffle iron
- Waffle House serves 145 waffles every minute
- The word “waffle” comes from the Dutch word “wafel”
- There are three main types: Belgian, American, and Liege
Quiz
- When was the first waffle iron patented?
- What company sells 145 waffles per minute?
- Which country introduced waffles to America?
(Answers: 1869, Waffle House, The Netherlands)
FAQs
- Should waffles be crispy? Yes, on the outside but soft inside
- Where did chicken and waffles originate? Harlem, New York, in the 1930s
- What are waffles made of? Typically flour, eggs, milk, sugar, oil, and baking soda
Importance of National Waffle Day
This celebration promotes culinary creativity, supports local businesses, and brings communities together through shared appreciation of this versatile food item.
Related Days
- National Pancake Day (September 26)
- International Waffle Day (March 25)
- National Breakfast Day (September 26)
- National French Toast Day (November 28)
- National Maple Syrup Day (December 17)