NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Bagel Day

Join us in celebrating the joy of bagels and their place in American culinary history.

JAN15

Friday, January 15Every year on January 15

days to go

Roots: Believed to have originated in Poland in the 17th century
Vibe: A blend of nostalgia and culinary creativity
Also on Jan 15: Get to Know Your Customers Day · Booch Day · Hat Day
Hashtag: #NationalBagelDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Boil and bake bagels

Try making bagels from scratch with everything seasoning on top.

WITH FRIENDS

Bagel brunch spread

Lay out bagels, schmears and lox; everyone builds a stack.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Bagel run morning

Surprise the office with assorted bagels and cream cheese.

Plan ahead

National Bagel Day is observed on January 15 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Thu, Jan 15this year

2027Fri, Jan 15

2028Sat, Jan 15

2029Mon, Jan 15

2030Tue, Jan 15

2031Wed, Jan 15

2032Thu, Jan 15

2033Sat, Jan 15

2034Sun, Jan 15

2035Mon, Jan 15

2036Tue, Jan 15

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Fast facts

1610First mentioned in Kraków, Poland, in 1610

1907Bagel bakers in New York organized a union in 1907

The story

Bagels, with their unique shape and chewy texture, trace their roots back to Eastern Europe, particularly Poland. They were brought to America in the late 19th century by Jewish immigrants. Over the years, bagels have evolved, incorporating various toppings and flavors that reflect regional tastes across the United States.

Read the full story

In New York City, the bagel quickly became a cultural icon. The city boasts some of the best bagel shops, where the traditional water-boiling method is still used to create that perfect bagel bite. New Yorkers often debate passionately about which bakery serves the best bagel, making it a delightful topic of conversation.

On National Bagel Day, enthusiasts celebrate this beloved food by indulging in their favorite varieties. From classic plain bagels to everything bagels topped with seeds and spices, there’s a flavor for everyone. Many also enjoy cream cheese spreads, lox, or innovative toppings like avocado and hummus, a testament to the bagel's versatility.

As we mark this day, consider exploring bagel shops in your area, or perhaps trying your hand at making them from scratch. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with friends, every bite of a bagel tells a story of tradition, creativity, and community.

Did you know?

The First Bagel Shop

Polish-Jewish immigrants brought bagels to the United States, building thriving businesses in New York City.

Bagel Day Origins

National Bagel Day once shared its observance with lox before branching out on its own in 2020.

Bagel Shapes

Bagels can come in various shapes, and some shops even create seasonal or themed designs.

Bagel Flavors

Popular bagel flavors include everything, sesame, poppy seed, and cinnamon raisin.

Bagel Nutrition

Bagels are often lower in fat than many other breakfast options, but toppings can add calories.

Bagel Competitions

Some cities hold bagel-eating contests, showcasing the love for this chewy bread.

Bagel Festivals

Various cities across the U.S. celebrate bagels with festivals featuring tastings and contests.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesIn the U.S., bagels are a breakfast staple, enjoyed in various styles across the country.
CACanadaMontreal-style bagels are smaller, denser, and sweeter than their New York counterparts.
GBUnited KingdomBagels have gained popularity in Britain, often found in cafes and bakeries.
ILIsraelIn Israel, bagels are often served with a variety of toppings, reflecting local flavors.
DEGermanyBagels can be found in bakeries throughout the country.
AUAustraliaBagels are increasingly popular in Australia, with many cafes offering them as a breakfast option.