Maize Day

National Maize Day is observed in the United States on the day after Thanksgiving. Maize is a remarkable crop used for food, animal feed, fuel, and countless manufactured products. The observance recognizes its cultural, historical, and agricultural importance.

History of National Maize Day

Maize was domesticated by Indigenous peoples in what is now southern Mexico around 9,000 years ago. Over many generations, farmers transformed its wild ancestor, teosinte, into plants with larger ears and softer, more useful kernels.

Maize spread throughout the Americas and became essential to many Indigenous cultures and food systems. Christopher Columbus brought maize to Europe after his voyages to the Americas, and the crop later spread to Africa, Asia, and other regions.

Native peoples introduced European colonists in North America to numerous ways of growing and preparing maize. The crop eventually became one of the most widely cultivated and economically important plants in the United States.

Interesting Facts About National Maize Day

• Popcorn pops because moisture inside the kernel turns to steam until pressure breaks the hard outer shell.
• Maize is also commonly called corn in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
• Some maize plants can grow several meters tall under suitable conditions.
• Maize kernels can be yellow, white, red, blue, purple, black, or multicolored.
• Indigenous farmers developed many varieties suited to different climates, soils, and culinary uses.
• Sweet corn, popcorn, flour corn, flint corn, and dent corn are different types of maize.
• Maize is used to make foods such as tortillas, polenta, grits, cornbread, and popcorn.

How to Take Part in National Maize Day

• Prepare corn using a favorite recipe, such as corn on the cob, cornbread, tortillas, polenta, or popcorn.
• Try several varieties of maize and compare their colors, textures, and flavors.
• Learn about the Indigenous peoples who domesticated maize and continue to preserve traditional varieties.
• Visit a farmers’ market, farm, or agricultural museum to learn how maize is cultivated.
• Share recipes or photographs with the hashtag #NationalMaizeDay.

When Is National Maize Day in 2026?

National Maize Day is observed on the day after Thanksgiving each year.

Observations