NATIONAL DAY

National Ketchup Day

On National Ketchup Day, we make a little room on the calendar for the thing that makes us who we are.

MAY5

Wednesday, May 5Every year on May 5

days to go

Roots: Ketchup originated in 17th century China as a fermented fish sauce.
Vibe: A day to enjoy and share ketchup in various dishes.
Also on May 5: Hoagie Day · Silence the Shame Day · Totally Chipotle Day
Hashtag: #NationalKetchupDay

Add to my calendar Send a card Email a friend

Apple or Outlook calendar

Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate National Ketchup Day.

Do one small thing that makes the day feel marked.
Tell someone what you're celebrating and why.
Share a post, a photo, or a memory connected to it.
Make a tiny tradition — something you could do again next year.
Let it be simple. Not every celebration has to be a production.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Do one small thing together that everyone will remember.
Kids
Turn it into a craft, a story, or a snack — meet them where they are.
Couples
Use the day as an excuse for a little intentional time together.
Office
Acknowledge the day in the team chat or at a stand-up. Small, sincere, fast.
School
Anchor a short lesson or activity around the day.
Community
Share, volunteer, or donate to make the day mean something locally.
Just me
Celebrate quietly and completely. One person can still mark a day.

Fast facts

Americans consume billions of ounces of ketchup each year.

Heinz produces hundreds of millions of bottles of ketchup annually.

The story

Ketchup, often thought of as a quintessential American condiment, has a fascinating origin story that dates back to 17th century China. Originally a fermented fish sauce known as 'kê-tsiap,' it made its way to the West through trade routes. By the 19th century, American variations began to emerge, with the tomato-based version gaining immense popularity.

Read the full story

The modern interpretation of ketchup took shape in the United States, particularly with the introduction of Heinz Tomato Ketchup in 1876. Its unique blend of tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and spices set the standard for ketchup as we know it today. Heinz has become synonymous with ketchup, and the brand's iconic glass bottle has made it a staple in households across America.

On National Ketchup Day, enthusiasts celebrate the condiment's versatility and its ability to elevate a variety of dishes. Whether it's slathered on a hot dog, served with fries, or used as a secret ingredient in recipes, ketchup has secured its place in American cuisine. It even has its own museum, the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

As you celebrate this day, consider the ways ketchup has permeated cultures around the world. From the spicy variations found in Asia to the gourmet artisanal brands popping up in gourmet shops, ketchup continues to evolve. So grab a bottle, whether it's classic or a unique flavor, and enjoy a taste of this enduring favorite.

Did you know?

World Record

The largest bottle of ketchup was created in 2017, measuring over 12 feet tall.

Heinz History

Heinz holds the record for the largest ketchup packet, which weighed over 2,000 pounds.

Popular Brands

Heinz is the most popular ketchup brand in the U.S., making up about 60% of the market.

Ketchup and Health

Ketchup contains lycopene, an antioxidant that may provide health benefits.

Ketchup in Space

Astronauts have taken ketchup to space, enjoying it with their meals on the International Space Station.

Ketchup in Art

Andy Warhol famously featured Campbell's Tomato Ketchup in his pop art, celebrating everyday products.

Ketchup Day

National Ketchup Day is celebrated on June 5, a day dedicated to this iconic condiment.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesKetchup is a beloved condiment in American households, often found on dining tables.
GBUnited KingdomIn the UK, ketchup is commonly paired with chips and is a staple in many pubs.
DEGermanyGermany offers curry ketchup, a spiced variation popular with fries and sausages.
FRFranceFrench cuisine often incorporates ketchup in sauces and dressings, showcasing its culinary flexibility.
CACanadaCanada enjoys a love for ketchup, often served with poutine, a national dish.
JPJapanIn Japan, ketchup is used in unique dishes like omurice, a rice omelet popular in casual dining.