Pasta is so universally loved that it’s no surprise there are multiple pasta days throughout the year dedicated to celebrating this versatile dish. National Pasta Day, celebrated on October 17th, is a chance to honor the role pasta plays in cuisines around the world, from comforting weeknight meals to fancy restaurant dishes.
ℹ️ National Pasta Day is celebrated in October, which is also National Pasta Month. This day should not be confused with World Pasta Day, which occurs a little later in the month. If you’re a true pasta enthusiast, check out our separate post with all the various pasta-themed holidays you can enjoy!
With over 62,257 Instagram posts already using the hashtag #NationalPastaDay, it’s clear that people love showing off their pasta creations! This day isn’t just about indulging in your favorite noodles—it’s also a time to appreciate the history, creativity, and endless possibilities that pasta offers.
When is National Pasta Day celebrated?
If pasta had its way, every day would be dedicated to its deliciousness—but for now, October 17th holds the official title of National Pasta Day. Wondering when you can twirl that fork in celebration over the next few years? Check out these dates to keep your calendar filled with pasta-inspired joy:
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2024 | October 17, Thursday |
| 2025 | October 17, Friday |
| 2026 | October 17, Saturday |
| 2027 | October 17, Sunday |
| 2028 | October 17, Tuesday |
| 2029 | October 17, Wednesday |
| 2030 | October 17, Thursday |
History of Pasta
The origins of pasta are a bit of a culinary debate. Some attribute its invention to the ancient Chinese, while others say it originated in the Mediterranean region, particularly in Italy. Regardless of its beginnings, pasta became deeply rooted in Italian cuisine and eventually spread worldwide. By the 19th century, pasta had cemented itself as a staple in many cultures, thanks to its affordability, versatility, and long shelf life. Today, pasta is a symbol of comfort, and National Pasta Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate its delicious history.
Fun Facts About Pasta
Pasta’s rich history and diversity make it a food worth celebrating. Here are some fun facts to savor on #NationalPastaDay:
- There are over 600 different shapes of pasta, ranging from well-known ones like spaghetti and penne to less common varieties like strozzapreti and orecchiette.
- In Italy, each region often has its own preferred pasta shape and sauce combination.
- The average Italian consumes over 50 pounds of pasta per year, compared to the global average of around 15 pounds!
- Pasta is surprisingly healthy! It’s low in fat and a great source of complex carbohydrates, which provide energy.
Ways to Celebrate National Pasta Day
There are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy National Pasta Day. If you’re in the mood for something traditional, you could cook up a classic dish like spaghetti with marinara sauce. Hosting a pasta party is also a fun way to share your love for pasta—set up a pasta bar where guests can mix and match different noodles, sauces, and toppings. If relaxation is more your style, visit an Italian restaurant and let the experts serve up their finest creations. However you choose to celebrate, just remember—on National Pasta Day, the only wrong way to enjoy pasta is with an empty plate!
Before You Go:
We have many more national days lists for you to explore.
- Food-related national days: complete list of national food days, pasta & noodles days, vegan & vegetarian days, mushroom days, ice-cream days, pizza days, coffee days, chocolate days, wine days, alcohol & drinking days.
- Non-food national days: National Days Calendars 2024-2025 (check out the printable calendars in my Etsy shop), National Days for Teachers, and a wide array of special lists such as cat days, dog days, animal days, cleaning & organizing days, book days, music days, family & relationships days, national days for women, stationery days and even Harry Potter days.
- Country-specific national days: Australian national days, more coming soon.
