NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Meatball Day

Join us in celebrating meatballs, a dish loved across many cultures.

MAR9
Tuesday, March 9Every year on March 9
 days to go
Roots
Italy, with variations worldwide
Vibe
Casual, joyful, and communal
Hashtag
#NationalMeatballDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Roll your own

Mix beef, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then simmer in your favorite sauce.

WITH FRIENDS

Build a meatball sub bar

Set out rolls, sauces, and cheese for a DIY sub night.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Share a meatball lunch

Bring a slow cooker of meatballs for the break room.

Plan ahead

National Meatball Day is observed on March 9 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, Mar 9this year
2027Tue, Mar 9
2028Thu, Mar 9
2029Fri, Mar 9
2030Sat, Mar 9
2031Sun, Mar 9
2032Tue, Mar 9
2033Wed, Mar 9
2034Thu, Mar 9
2035Fri, Mar 9
2036Sun, Mar 9

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Meatballs are a beloved comfort food enjoyed across the United States
Record-setting meatballs have weighed well over a thousand pounds

The story

National Meatball Day, marked on March 9, celebrates one of the most versatile and cherished comfort foods in American cuisine. From the iconic spaghetti and meatballs that have become a staple in Italian-American households to the unique flavors of Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce, this day invites everyone to indulge in their favorite versions of this savory treat. The meatball transcends cultural boundaries, embodying the joy of sharing a meal with family and friends.

Read the full story

The history of meatballs can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where ground meat was seasoned and shaped into small balls. In Italy, meatballs emerged as a way to make use of leftover meat, evolving into a beloved dish that paired perfectly with pasta. Today, meatballs are celebrated not just in Italian cuisine but also in various forms around the world, including Middle Eastern kofta, Asian meatballs infused with ginger, and Latin American albondigas.

On National Meatball Day, food enthusiasts across the nation take the opportunity to explore different recipes and cooking techniques. Whether you prefer traditional beef meatballs, turkey options, or even vegetarian varieties made from lentils or chickpeas, the possibilities are endless. Many families have their own secret recipes, passed down through generations, and this day serves as a reminder to cherish those culinary traditions while also being adventurous in the kitchen.

Local restaurants often embrace the spirit of National Meatball Day by featuring special meatball dishes or discounts. Communities might host events such as meatball cook-offs or tastings, encouraging participants to showcase their best recipes. As you celebrate this day, consider sharing your favorite meatball moments on social media, connecting with others who share your passion for this delightful dish.

Did you know?

01

Meatball Origins

The concept of the meatball dates back to ancient Rome.

02

Food Pairing

Meatballs are often served with pasta, rice, or bread.

03

Global Influence

Every culture has its own version of meatballs.

04

Record Size

Giant meatballs have set impressive world records.

05

Comfort Food

Meatballs are considered a quintessential comfort food.

06

Unique Ingredients

Some meatball recipes include unusual ingredients like fruit.

07

Famous Films

Meatballs have been featured in various movies, including 'Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs'.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesHome to countless meatball variations and recipes.
  • ITItalyThe birthplace of the modern meatball.
  • SESwedenFamous for its iconic Swedish meatballs.
  • MXMexicoKnown for spicy meatball soups called albondigas.
  • BRBrazilWhere meatballs are often enjoyed in hearty stews.
  • JPJapanHome to unique meatball dishes like tsukune.

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