NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Pasta Day

October 17 is a day to celebrate pasta in all its forms.

OCT17

Saturday, October 17Every year on October 17

days to go

Roots: The first reference to pasta dates to 1154 in Sicily.
Vibe: Warm, inviting, and deliciously satisfying.
Also on Oct 17: International Day for the Eradication of Poverty · World Anesthesia Day · World Trauma Day
Hashtag: #NationalPastaDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Roll fresh pasta

Mix flour and eggs into dough, roll it thin and cut your own noodles. Sauce it simply.

WITH FRIENDS

Throw a pasta potluck

Everyone cooks a different shape and sauce. Share bowls and steal recipes.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Run a pasta lunch

Set up a build-your-own pasta bar in the break room. Donate leftovers to a shelter.

Plan ahead

National Pasta Day is observed on October 17 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, Oct 17this year

2027Sun, Oct 17

2028Tue, Oct 17

2029Wed, Oct 17

2030Thu, Oct 17

2031Fri, Oct 17

2032Sun, Oct 17

2033Mon, Oct 17

2034Tue, Oct 17

2035Wed, Oct 17

2036Fri, Oct 17

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Fast facts

Americans consume over 20 pounds of pasta per person annually.

Over 310Kinds of pasta have been documented.

The story

Pasta, a staple of Italian cuisine, has transcended borders to become a beloved dish in many parts of the world, especially in the United States. National Pasta Day, observed on October 17, celebrates this versatile food that can be served in countless ways. From creamy fettuccine Alfredo to hearty lasagna, pasta has become synonymous with comfort food and family gatherings.

Read the full story

Noodles have ancient roots in Asia, but it was in Italy that pasta truly flourished. Italian immigrants brought their pasta traditions to America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to a boom in pasta consumption. Today, pasta is an integral part of American culinary culture, with Americans eating about 20 pounds per person each year.

As we commemorate National Pasta Day, it is important to appreciate the diversity of pasta dishes available. Each region of Italy offers unique variations, from the thin, delicate strands of angel hair to the robust shapes of rigatoni. This day serves as a reminder to explore different recipes and flavors, whether it be a simple spaghetti with marinara sauce or an extravagant seafood linguine.

Celebrating National Pasta Day can be as simple as preparing a favorite dish at home or dining out at a local restaurant. Many establishments offer special promotions or pasta-themed events. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, this day provides the perfect opportunity to experiment with new ingredients and share the joy of pasta with others.

Did you know?

Pasta Shapes

Pasta is known by over 1,300 different names.

First Recorded Recipe

The first known reference to pasta in Italy dates to 1154.

World Pasta Day

October 25 is celebrated as World Pasta Day.

Pasta in Space

Cavatelli is known by 28 names depending on region.

Pasta Consumption

Italy consumes the most pasta per capita in the world.

Pasta Museum

The Museo della Pasta near Parma showcases pasta history.

Pasta and Health

Whole grain pasta offers added health benefits.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

ITItalyThe birthplace of pasta, offering an array of traditional dishes.
USUnited StatesHome to a vibrant pasta culture influenced by Italian immigrants.
MXMexicoExperiencing a fusion of flavors with pasta in Mexican cuisine.
FRFranceKnown for its gourmet pasta dishes and culinary techniques.
ESSpainIntegrating pasta into traditional Spanish recipes.
INIndiaInnovative pasta dishes that blend spices and flavors.