National Pickle Day 🥒

Overview

National Pickle Day, observed annually on November 14th, is a celebration dedicated to the beloved pickled cucumber. This day encourages pickle enthusiasts and food lovers alike to enjoy the tangy, crunchy snack in its various forms, from dill and bread-and-butter to sweet and sour, acknowledging its long-standing role as a popular food preservation method and a flavorful culinary addition across cultures.

Origin and story

Pickles are one of the oldest known foods, with evidence suggesting cucumbers were pickled in Mesopotamia as early as 2030 BC.

The word 'pickle' comes from the Dutch word 'pekel,' which means brine.

Quick facts

• DateNovember 14
• TypeFood / Dessert
• Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

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Ways to celebrate

Pickling started as a way to survive a hot climate, not as a snack — and Cleopatra reportedly credited it with something else entirely.

Trace pickling to ancient Mesopotamia

Archaeologists believe Mesopotamians were pickling food as far back as 2400 BC, brining cucumbers native to India in the Tigris Valley specifically to solve the problem of preserving food in a hot climate.

Know the ancient celebrity endorsements

Cleopatra reportedly credited pickles in her diet with contributing to her health and famous beauty, while her lover Julius Caesar and other Roman emperors fed pickles to their troops believing they made soldiers stronger.

Read the fuller history

Helpful resources:

• The Juicy 4,000-Year History of Pickles (HISTORY)

Did you know?

The brining technique that started in Mesopotamia — a simple mix of water and salt — spread quickly to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, embedding itself in multiple civilizations' cuisines within a few centuries.

Fun facts

• Pickles are one of the oldest known foods, with evidence suggesting cucumbers were pickled in Mesopotamia as early as 2030 BC.
• The word 'pickle' comes from the Dutch word 'pekel,' which means brine.
• During World War II, the U.S. government rationed pickles because of their importance to soldiers' diets, believing they helped combat scurvy and kept troops hydrated.

Sources and attribution

The Juicy 4,000-Year History of Pickles (HISTORY)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

Continue your streak

Open one more holiday before you go to build daily momentum.

• Yesterday: Indian Pudding DayQuick context from the day before.
• Tomorrow: Clean Out Your Refrigerator DayKeep the streak going with tomorrow's pick.
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• Popular: National Pie DayA fan favorite with broad appeal.

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FAQ

When is National Pickle Day?

It is observed on November 14 each year.

What is National Pickle Day?

National Pickle Day, observed annually on November 14th, is a celebration dedicated to the beloved pickled cucumber. This day encourages pickle enthusiasts and food lovers alike to enjoy the tangy, crunchy snack in its various forms, from dill and bread-and-butter to sweet and sour, acknowledging its long-standing role as a popular food preservation method and a flavorful culinary addition across cultures.

How do people celebrate National Pickle Day?

Enjoy a pickle and consider its 4,000-year history — Mesopotamians were brining cucumbers by 2400 BC, and Cleopatra herself reportedly credited pickles with her health and famous beauty.

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