September 23

Za’atar Day

Cultural food observance on September 23 to celebrate za'atar, a Levantine herb and spice blend central to Middle Eastern cuisine.

Yearly Date
September 23
Subcategory
Global Cuisines
Founding Entity

Tina Chamoun, Your Lebanon

First Observed
2019
Origin

Corporate Initiative

Tina Chamoun, founder of the culinary platform Your Lebanon, established this observance in 2019 to promote the Levantine herb and connect the global community through shared recipes.

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Holiday Calendar
Last updated February 11, 2026 by the Holiday Calendar Team
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Introduction

Get ready to spice up your day with Za'atar on September 23, also known as Za'atar Day! This flavorful herb and spice blend has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Egypt. Made from a combination of dried herbs like thyme, oregano, and marjoram, along with sumac and sesame seeds, za'atar adds a unique and delicious flavor to dishes. Whether you sprinkle it on hummus, use it as a seasoning for meats or vegetables, or mix it into olive oil for dipping bread, za'atar is a versatile ingredient that deserves its own special day of celebration. So let's get creative in the kitchen and honor this tasty tradition!

Za’atar Day Timeline

3000 BC
Za'atar In Ancient Egypt
Earliest records of using za'atar spice blend date back to Ancient Egypt, found in recipes painted on tomb walls.
Middle Ages
Medicinal Uses
Za'atar was frequently used for its medicinal properties during the Middle Ages, typically for its antiseptic and antimicrobial qualities.
1940s-1950s
Post-War Popularity Surge
As Middle Eastern immigrants settled in different parts of the world post World War II, they introduced za'atar to new cultures, increasing its popularity.
1990s
Culinary World Embraces Za'atar
Renown Chefs started embracing za'atar in their recipes, increasing awareness and preference for this spice blend in a global scale.
2010s
Za'atar Enters Superfood List
During the 2010s, za'atar was recognized as a superfood for its health benefits, including improving skin health and increasing bone strength.
2020
First Za'atar Day
The first Za'atar Day was celebrated acknowledging the important role this spice blend plays in global cuisines.

How to Celebrate Za’atar Day

1

Create your own Za'atar blend

Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique blend of Za'atar. You can use it to season meats, vegetables, or even as a dip for bread.

2

Have a Za'atar-themed dinner party

Invite friends over for a Za'atar-themed dinner party. Serve dishes that incorporate Za'atar, such as Za'atar crusted chicken or roasted vegetables with Za'atar seasoning.

3

Learn about the history of Za'atar

Take some time to research the origins and cultural significance of Za'atar. Share your findings with others and have a discussion about how this spice is used in different cultures.

4

Try new Za'atar recipes

Challenge yourself to try new recipes that use Za'atar in unique ways. You might discover a new favorite dish or a new way to incorporate this delicious spice into your cooking.

5

Organize a Za'atar tasting event

Gather some friends or family members and have a Za'atar tasting event. Compare different brands and blends of Za'atar and discuss the flavors and differences between them.

Why We Love Za’atar Day

A

Za'atar is a delicious spice blend

Za'atar, a popular Middle Eastern spice mix, is known for its distinct and savory flavor. It often contains a combination of ingredients like thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac - giving dishes a unique and tasty twist.

B

It's versatile in the kitchen

Za'atar can be used in a variety of ways - as a dry rub on meats, sprinkled over hummus or dips, or mixed with olive oil as a marinade. Its versatility makes it a go-to spice for many chefs and home cooks alike!

C

It has health benefits

Aside from its delicious taste, Za'atar also has potential health benefits. The herbs and spices in its blend are rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a great addition to any diet.

Holiday Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Sep 23
Saturday
2024
Sep 23
Monday
2025
Sep 23
Tuesday
2026
Sep 23
Wednesday
2027
Sep 23
Thursday