National Ravioli Day

Celebrated on 03/20/2026

Quick Fact

National Ravioli Day, celebrated on March 20th, honors the stuffed pasta that dates back to 14th-century Italy. The name 'ravioli' comes from the Italian word 'riavvolgere,' meaning 'to wrap,' perfectly describing the pasta's filled nature.

Origins and Establishment of National Ravioli Day

National Ravioli Day was created in the early 2000s by the National Pasta Association to celebrate one of Italy's most beloved pasta varieties. The date, March 20th, was chosen to coincide with the beginning of spring, symbolizing freshness and new culinary adventures. While the exact year of its first observance is unclear, it has gained popularity through social media and food industry promotions.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Initially observed mainly by pasta enthusiasts and Italian restaurants, National Ravioli Day has grown into a nationwide celebration with grocery stores offering discounts, cooking demonstrations, and ravioli-making contests. In recent years, the holiday has embraced modern twists, such as gluten-free and vegan ravioli, reflecting changing dietary preferences. Today, people celebrate by making homemade ravioli, trying new fillings like butternut squash or lobster, and sharing their creations on social media using #NationalRavioliDay.

Facts & General Observations

• Ravioli is one of the oldest filled pasta types, with references dating back to the 14th century in Italian cookbooks.
• The world’s largest ravioli, weighing over 1,000 pounds, was made in 2010 in New York City.
• In the United States, over 1.5 billion pounds of pasta are consumed annually, with ravioli being a significant contributor.

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