National Shawarma Day

National Shawarma Day is celebrated annually on October 15. It’s a day dedicated to honoring shawarma—a flavorful Middle Eastern dish built around seasoned meat cooked on a vertical spit, shaved off in thin slices, and typically served with flatbread, vegetables, and sauces.

History of National Shawarma Day

National Shawarma Day was launched in 2020 by the shawarma chain Osmow’s as a way to shine a spotlight on this beloved street food and encourage wider appreciation of its flavors and cultural roots. Over time, the day has gained traction in restaurants and food‑lover circles, especially in North America.

Although the official observance is recent, the roots of shawarma stretch much deeper. The technique of cooking meat on a vertical rotisserie evolved from Ottoman and Levantine traditions (related to döner kebab, for example). Shawarma has been adapted and embraced in many regions, becoming itself a symbol of culinary exchange and migration.

Why is National Shawarma Day important?

More than just a food holiday, National Shawarma Day celebrates cultural connection through cuisine. Shawarma is a dish that crosses borders—it’s a bridge between regions, immigrant communities, and flavor traditions. By dedicating a day to it, we recognize how food can be a way to share stories, identities, and experiences.

It also gives chefs, food entrepreneurs, and home cooks a moment to experiment, innovate, and celebrate their version of shawarma—whether traditional or modern. When people try different meats, sauces, or presentation styles, it keeps the dish alive and evolving. And for diners, it’s an invitation to try something new or deepen their love for something familiar.

• It honors a dish with deep regional and cultural roots
• It encourages awareness and appreciation of Middle Eastern cuisine
• It gives food creators an occasion to innovate with ingredients and styles
• It brings communities together around shared meals
• It helps introduce shawarma to new audiences

How to Observe National Shawarma Day

One of the simplest and most satisfying ways to celebrate is to eat shawarma. Visit a local Middle Eastern or Mediterranean restaurant and try their version—whether chicken, lamb, beef, or even vegetarian. Ask about their marinade, spice mix, and how they assemble their wrap or plate.

If you enjoy cooking, try making shawarma at home. Get a good spice blend, marinate meat (or a plant‑based alternative), and mimic the rotisserie method (or use the oven or grill). Serve with flatbread, fresh vegetables, pickles, and sauces like garlic sauce or tahini. You could also host a shawarma night where friends bring toppings or side dishes. Share photos, tips, or recipes to inspire others.

• Try shawarma from a local restaurant you’ve never visited
• Make your own shawarma (or variation) at home
• Host a shawarma night with friends and share toppings
• Experiment with different sauces, meats, or vegetarian options
• Share shawarma pics or recipes online

National Shawarma Day Dates Table