National Tater Day

Celebrated on 03/31/2026

Quick Fact

National Tater Day, celebrated on March 31, honors the humble potato, which is the world's fourth-largest food crop after rice, wheat, and corn. The potato was the first vegetable to be grown in space, aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1995 in collaboration with NASA.

Origins and Establishment of National Tater Day National Tater Day was first observed in the early 20th century, with roots tracing back to the United States. It is believed to have been established by potato growers and enthusiasts to celebrate the versatility and importance of the potato. The exact origin is unclear, but the holiday gained traction in the 1970s when agricultural organizations promoted it to boost potato consumption.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration Initially a regional celebration in potato-growing states like Idaho and Maine, National Tater Day has grown into a nationwide event. Today, it is marked by special potato-themed menus at restaurants, cooking contests, and educational events about potato farming and nutrition. Social media campaigns and hashtags like #NationalTaterDay help spread awareness and encourage home cooks to share their favorite potato recipes.

Facts & General Observations - Americans consume an average of 117 pounds of potatoes per person per year, with about 45% of that in the form of fresh potatoes. - The potato was first domesticated in the region of modern-day southern Peru and northwestern Bolivia between 8,000 and 5,000 BCE. - There are over 4,000 varieties of potatoes worldwide, though only a fraction are commonly cultivated.

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