NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Shawarma Day

Join us in honoring this iconic dish with a rich history.

OCT15

Thursday, October 15Every year on October 15

days to go

Roots: Founded by Osmow's in 2020
Vibe: Casual, communal dining experience
Also on Oct 15: International Shakeout Day · International Day of Rural Women · Fossil Day™
Hashtag: #NationalShawarmaDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Make shawarma wraps

Season chicken or beef and wrap it warm.

WITH FRIENDS

Try a new spot

Visit a shawarma shop none of you have tried.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Order shawarma lunch

Get a shawarma platter for the team.

Plan ahead

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

2026Thu, Oct 15this year

2027Fri, Oct 15

2028Sun, Oct 15

2029Mon, Oct 15

2030Tue, Oct 15

2031Wed, Oct 15

2032Fri, Oct 15

2033Sat, Oct 15

2034Sun, Oct 15

2035Mon, Oct 15

2036Wed, Oct 15

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Fast facts

1895The word appears in an 1895 Egyptian Arabic-English dictionary.

Shawarma is one of the most popular street foods globally.

The story

National Shawarma Day, celebrated on October 15, brings together food enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. Shawarma, a dish of marinated meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, has its roots in the Middle East, particularly in countries like Lebanon and Turkey. The dish has transcended its origins, becoming a staple in cities across the United States, where it is enjoyed in various adaptations.

Read the full story

The popularity of shawarma in America can be attributed to its rich flavors and versatility. Typically served in a wrap or as a plate with sides, shawarma allows for endless customization, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and a range of sauces, including tahini and garlic sauce. This adaptability makes it a favorite among diverse communities and a go-to option for quick, satisfying meals.

In cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, shawarma shops have popped up, often run by immigrants bringing their culinary traditions with them. The vibrant street food scene showcases the dish's evolution, with food trucks and restaurants offering unique takes on traditional shawarma, catering to local tastes while honoring the dish's heritage.

Celebrating National Shawarma Day is not just about indulging in delicious food; it is also an opportunity to appreciate the cultural exchanges that shawarma represents. As Americans continue to embrace culinary diversity, shawarma stands as a delicious symbol of globalization, melding flavors and traditions from around the world into one beloved dish.