National Pasta Day – October 17, 2026

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National Pasta Day arrives every October 17, inviting everyone to twirl their forks into a plate of deliciousness. From classic spaghetti to gourmet ravioli, pasta offers endless culinary possibilities. Gather your ingredients, try a new recipe, and share your favorite pasta creations with friends and family.

History of National Pasta Day

Spaghetti, fettuccini, macaroni, and ravioli: pasta is undoubtably one of our favorite comfort foods. But do we know how the dish became so popular here in the states? Or where it even came from? The origins of pasta are a little difficult to trace, but many researchers support the theory that Marco Polo brought noodles back to Italy upon returning from a trip to China in 1271.

Though this theory supports a tale of discovery and adventure, Marco Polo’s travels are all retold through second hand sources, making the accuracy questionable. However, if Marco Polo did bring pasta back to Italy, he certain wasn’t the first to do so. Pasta was already a popular dish in Italy by the early 13th century. Other historians have traced pasta back to ancient Etruscan civilizations, who would grind cereals and grains before mixing them with water to produce their own pasta-like carbohydrate.

Pasta was brought to America by early Spanish settlers, but wasn’t popular until Thomas Jefferson made a trip to Paris and fell in love with macaroni (which, at the time, referred to any pasta shape). Years later, when a large group of Italian immigrants moved from Italy to America, pasta became a staple and obtainable meal in the United States.

National Pasta Day timeline

400s

First Mentions of Pasta

Pasta is produced in large quantities in Palermo.

1600s

Pasta Becomes a Staple

In Naples, people became vociferous macaroni-eaters.

1740

First Pasta Factory Opened

Paolo Adami opened it in Venice, Italy.

Late 1700s

First Mentions of Red Sauce

The first mention of tomato sauce was in a 1790 cookbook called L'Apicio Moderno.

1914

Artificial Pasta Drying Invented

The process of creating dry pasta allowed it to be widely available in Italy.

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National Pasta Day FAQs

National Pasta Day Activities

Invent your own pasta shape
There are approximately 350 different types of pasta around the world, so mimic your favorite one or invent a unique pasta shape. Choose a basic pasta dough recipe and then let the creativity run wild!
Host a spaghetti dinner
For those of you who ever played a sport or have just grown up with pasta, there's nothing better than sharing a table with a group of teammates, friends, or family and bonding over a large plate of spaghetti and meatballs. Whatever the occasion, invite some friends over to rekindle the joy of this family-friendly classic.
Indulge in your favorite pasta dish
Craving those carbs? Today is your ultimate cheat day. Make a reservation at your favorite pasta place and indulge in oodles of noodles.

Why We Love National Pasta Day

It's good for all ages
Pasta is a timeless dish that evokes childhood memories, yet is still enjoyed far beyond childhood. It's not only ageless, but also enjoyed by both the seasoned chef and the less experienced foodie alike. Who knew that the pasta used in your top ramen could be used in a gourmet meal?
Pasta brings people together
Pasta crosses culture and dietary boundaries like almost no other single food. It's simple, accessible, and convenient, which makes it the perfect food to enjoy amongst many friends and family. In fact, pasta, meat, and rice are the three most popular foods enjoyed around the globe. So next time you're hosting a dinner party, keep in mind that pasta is a real crowdpleaser.
It comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors
Pasta shapes and colors vary due to cultural differences, ingredients, and the sauce they're paired with. Americans typically like more popularized shapes such spaghetti or fettuccine, whereas Italians prefer shapes that can hold more sauce. Kids can even get pasta in the shape of their favorite cartoon—Spongebob Mac & Cheese anyone?