Annual observance

National Tortilla Chip Day

February 24 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-17

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Overview

National Tortilla Chip Day, observed annually on February 24th, celebrates the versatile and beloved corn-based snack food. This day encourages enthusiasts to enjoy tortilla chips in all their forms, whether as a crunchy accompaniment to dips like salsa, guacamole, or queso, or as the foundation for popular dishes such as nachos. It's a tribute to their distinctive crunch, adaptability, and significant contribution to global cuisine and social gatherings.

Observed each year on February 24, National Tortilla Chip Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Tortilla Chip Day on February 24 celebrates the cultural significance and culinary versatility of tortilla chips, highlighting their role in social gatherings and popular dishes like nachos.

Origin and story

The commercial tortilla chip was widely popularized in Los Angeles in the late 1940s by Rebecca Webb Carranza, who ingeniously repurposed discarded tortillas from her family's tortilleria by cutting and frying them.

Tortilla chips are traditionally made from corn tortillas, which are cut into various shapes, most commonly wedges, and then fried or baked until they achieve a crisp texture.

Quick facts

  • DateFebruary 24
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Enjoy chips with salsa, guacamole, or queso.
  • Make nachos with your favorite toppings.
  • Use tortilla chips as a crunchy soup or salad topping.
  • Bake or fry corn tortillas to make chips at home.
  • Experiment with seasoning blends for different flavors.
  • Learn the difference between corn and flour tortillas.

Fun facts

  • Tortilla chips were popularized in the United States in the mid-20th century using leftover tortillas.

Sources and attribution

History of Tortilla Chips (Smithsonian Magazine)

Tortilla Chips Explained (Encyclopaedia Britannica)

External links may lead to third-party websites.


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FAQ

When is National Tortilla Chip Day?
It is observed on February 24 each year.
What is National Tortilla Chip Day?
National Tortilla Chip Day, observed annually on February 24, celebrates the versatile and beloved corn-based snack food. This day encourages enthusiasts to enjoy tortilla chips in all their forms, whether as a crunchy accompaniment to dips like salsa, guacamole, or queso, or as the foundation for popular dishes such as nachos. It's a tribute to their distinctive crunch, adaptability, and significant contribution to global cuisine and social gatherings.
How do people celebrate National Tortilla Chip Day?
Enjoy tortilla chips with dips, make nachos, or try homemade chips with new seasonings.

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