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National Italian Beef Day

Savor the juicy delight of National Italian Beef Day! Enjoy this classic, mouth-watering sandwich and be part of a delicious tradition!

Saturday
22
May 2027
Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
Have an update or spot an error?
YEARLY DATEFourth Saturday in May
OBSERVED INUnited States
CATEGORYFood
SUBCATEGORYGlobal Cuisines
INTRO

Introduction

Get your appetites ready! National Italian Beef Day, celebrated every year on May 25 is almost upon us. Did you know that the much-loved Italian Beef sandwich has its roots firmly planted in the heart of Chicago? It's said that Italian immigrants in the Windy City invented the sandwich in the 1930s, becoming a popular staple in local weddings and parties. Since then, it has traveled far and wide, delighting those seeking a mouthful of savory, juicy deliciousness. So let's not hold back, it’s time to honor this culinary masterpiece, one bite at a time!

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See who celebrated this year, and browse offers from past years.

Offers wrapped for 2026

National Italian Beef Day ran on May 24. Here’s who celebrated with offers this year.

1 brand offered a deal this year

TIMELINE

National Italian Beef Day Timeline

Invention of the Italian Beef Sandwich

Italian immigrants in Chicago created the Italian Beef sandwich, a deliciously juicy combination of thinly sliced roast beef and Italian-style spices.

Rise of Italian Beef Shops

Small, specialized shops catering to the popularity of the Italian beef sandwich began popping up around the city of Chicago in the 50s.

National Popularity Begins

The Italian beef sandwich began gaining popularity beyond Chicago's city limits, with restaurants across the country adding it to their menus.

Italian Beef Culture in Media

The Italian beef sandwich became recognized in pop culture after being featured in various TV shows, movies and food travel shows throughout the 90s.

First National Italian Beef Day

The Italian beef industry established the first National Italian Beef Day, celebrated every year on May 25, to honor this tasty sandwich's rich history and widespread popularity.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Italian Beef Day

EDITOR'S PICK

Cook your own Italian Beef sandwich

Try your hand at making an authentic Italian Beef sandwich from scratch. There are numerous recipes available online. The feeling of satisfaction at taking your first bite of a sandwich you prepared yourself is simply unbeatable.

VISIT

Visit a local Italian deli

Treat yourself by heading over to your community's Italian delicatessen or any place known for its delicious Italian Beef sandwich. Make sure to go with an empty stomach!

HOST

Host an Italian Beef Sandwich party

Invite your friends over for an Italian Beef Sandwich party. Everyone can bring their homemade sandwiches or supplies to create them together. It's a delicious way to celebrate while having fun.

TRAVEL

Travel to Chicago

The Windy City is known for its delicious Italian Beef sandwiches. Make a trip to Chicago and enjoy a real, authentic Italian Beef in the city where it originated create the ultimate Italian beef experience.

MAKE

Make an Italian Beef cooking video

Share the Italian Beef love with the world by making a cooking video. Record as you prepare your own sandwich, share your favorite recipe, and post it online. It's a great way to celebrate and to spread awareness about this day!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Italian Beef Day

Allows us to appreciate our cultural heritage

National Italian Beef Day also helps us connect to our cultural roots. It serves as a reminder of how this delicious dish was invented by Italian immigrants and has evolved to become a beloved sandwich in the US. It is a delicious testament to the cultural and culinary diversity that defines America.

We get to enjoy a delicious meal

One of the main reasons why we love National Italian Beef Day is because it gives us an excuse to indulge in this scrumptious sandwich. This day is all about savoring the succulent beef, flavorful herbs, and juicy gravy of an Italian Beef sandwich, making it a treat for all food lovers.

It allows us to engage in fun activities

The day is not just about eating; it’s about sharing and creating memories. We can celebrate by cooking our own Italian beef sandwiches, visiting a local deli, or even hosting a sandwich party! If you're up for it, you can even share your cooking process online and spread the Italian Beef love globally!

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