National Bagelfest Day

National Bagelfest Day is a delightful celebration of freshly baked bagels. If you’re tired of the usual store-bought bread, head to your local bakery—where the air smells like comfort—and treat yourself to a warm, chewy bagel. Fun fact: bagels are the only type of bread that’s first boiled and then baked.

History

National Bagelfest Day began in Mattoon, Illinois, in 1986, thanks to Murray Lender, the owner of a bagel factory. He decided to serve breakfast to local residents—and from that generous act, a full-fledged festival was born. Every year on July 26, the town hosts a parade, live music, and even a Miss Bagelfest contest to honor this beloved breakfast staple.

Though often associated with Jewish communities in Poland, the bagel may have even earlier roots. The first written reference to a similar bread appears in 13th-century Arabic culinary texts. Bagels arrived in Europe and the U.S. during the 19th century, gradually increasing in size. In 1915, a typical bagel weighed 3 ounces; by 2000, it had doubled in weight.

Interesting Facts About Bagels

• The word “bagel” comes from German and means “bracelet.”
• Astronaut Gregory Chamitoff brought 18 sesame bagels into space with him.
• In slang, a bagel is sometimes jokingly called a “cement donut.”
• The most expensive bagel ever served costs $1,000 and is available at the Westin Hotel in New York City.

How to Take Part

Celebrate by enjoying your favorite bagels—plain, sesame, poppy seed, or topped with cream cheese and lox. Visit a bakery, order from your favorite café, or bake them yourself. Host a breakfast with friends, share pictures on social media, and use the day to collect new bagel recipes for your personal cookbook.

When is National Bagelfest Day in 2025?

National Bagelfest Day is observed on July 26 each year.

Observations