National Glazed Spiral Ham Day

Celebrated on 04/15/2026

Quick Fact

National Glazed Spiral Ham Day is celebrated on March 19th each year. The spiral-cut ham was popularized in the 1940s by Harry J. Hoenselaar, who invented the spiral-slicing machine to make carving easier. This holiday encourages people to enjoy the sweet, savory glaze that caramelizes perfectly on the ham's surface.

Origins and Establishment of National Glazed Spiral Ham Day

National Glazed Spiral Ham Day was created to celebrate the unique and flavorful preparation of ham that has become a staple at holiday gatherings and special occasions. The exact origins of the holiday are unclear, but it is believed to have been established by ham producers or food enthusiasts in the early 2000s to promote the convenience and taste of spiral-sliced ham. The day was chosen for March 19th, likely to fall after St. Patrick's Day and before Easter, providing a reason to enjoy ham during the spring season.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over time, National Glazed Spiral Ham Day has grown in popularity, with food bloggers, chefs, and home cooks sharing recipes and tips for perfecting the glaze. Modern celebrations often involve preparing a glazed spiral ham with a variety of sweet and savory glazes, such as honey, brown sugar, maple, or pineapple. The holiday is also marked by social media campaigns, where users post photos of their ham creations using hashtags like #GlazedSpiralHamDay. Many families use this day as a trial run for Easter ham preparations.

Facts & General Observations

• Spiral-sliced ham accounts for approximately 70% of all ham sales in the United States during the holiday season.
• The invention of the spiral-slicing machine in 1942 made it possible to produce uniform slices, reducing waste and making ham easier to serve.
• A typical 10-pound spiral ham can serve 12-16 people, making it a popular choice for large gatherings.

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