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National Reuben Day

Calling all Reubens! It's your day to shine on National Reuben Day - enjoy a delicious sandwich and celebrate with others who share your name.

Tuesday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATENovember 17

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYBurgers

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Calling all Reubens! Get ready to celebrate your namesake on National Reuben Day on November 17. This day is dedicated to all the people out there who share this iconic name, which originated from the Hebrew word "Reuven" meaning "behold, a son". The famous sandwich, made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing, was also named after a man named Reuben in the early 20th century. So whether you're a Reuben by birth or by choice, this is the perfect day to embrace your unique identity and indulge in some delicious food. Let's toast (with a Reuben sandwich of course) to all the amazing people named Reuben out there!

TIMELINE

National Reuben Day Timeline

Name Reuben Originates

The name Reuben starts gaining popularity in Western societies, stemming from the Hebrew name "Reuven".

Reuben Sandwich Invention

The iconic Reuben sandwich, named after a man named Reuben, was believed to be invented in Omaha, Nebraska during a poker game.

Reuben Sandwich National Win

The Reuben sandwich wins the National Sandwich Idea Contest, hosted by the National Restaurant Association, increasing its popularity nationwide.

First Reuben Day Celebration

The first celebration of naming a day after all Reubens took place, uniting individuals with this distinctive name in mutual recognition and celebration.

National Reuben Day Recognition

The holiday of National Reuben Day started gaining recognition and became increasingly celebrated by people named Reuben around the world.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Reuben Day

Host a Reuben-themed potluck

Invite friends and family with the name Reuben to a potluck where all the dishes must be inspired by the classic sandwich. From Reuben sliders to Reuben casserole, there are endless variations to try!

VISIT

Visit a deli for a Reuben sandwich

Take a trip to your favorite deli or sandwich shop and treat yourself to a delicious Reuben sandwich. Don't forget to snap a picture with your sandwich and post it on social media to celebrate National Reuben Day!

THROW

Throw a Reuben-themed party

Gather friends and family with the name Reuben for a fun and festive party. Decorate with images of the classic sandwich, play games inspired by the name, and of course, serve plenty of Reuben sandwiches.

CREATE

Create a Reuben-inspired cocktail

Put a creative spin on the classic Reuben by making a Reuben-inspired cocktail. You can use ingredients like rye whiskey, sauerkraut juice, and pickle brine to create a unique and delicious drink.

WATCH

Watch a movie or TV show featuring someone with the name Reuben

Celebrate National Reuben Day by watching a movie or TV show that features a character with the name Reuben. Some options include "Meet the Parents," "Crazy, Stupid, Love," and "Ocean's Eleven."

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Reuben Day

It's a fun excuse to treat yourself

On National Reuben Day, why not indulge in some of your favorite things? Whether it's treating yourself to a delicious Reuben sandwich, watching your favorite movie, or spending time with loved ones, this holiday is the perfect excuse to do something special for yourself.

It's a day to celebrate your unique name

If your name happens to be Reuben, then this holiday is dedicated just for you! On National Reuben Day, you can take pride in your name and all of its uniqueness. It's a day to celebrate yourself and all the things that make you who you are.

It's a conversation starter

Having a unique name like Reuben can often lead to interesting conversations and connections. On National Reuben Day, you can use your name as a conversation starter and share stories about its origin or any funny anecdotes associated with it.