National Garlic Day

National Garlic Day comes on April 19, and it promises to be flavorful! No need to worry about kissing—just relax and enjoy your favorite garlic-infused dishes. Do you love garlic bread and spicy fried potatoes? Great! Take a double portion in honor of the holiday.

History

In Ancient Egypt, garlic was believed to possess divine qualities. It was placed in tombs alongside the bodies of deceased pharaohs as part of their journey to the afterlife. In Ancient Greece, warriors carried garlic into battle, and athletes consumed it during competitions to achieve success, invulnerability, and victory over their enemies. In the Middle Ages, garlic was used to treat smallpox. During World War I, soldiers utilized garlic as a disinfectant for wounds. In the modern world, garlic is an essential ingredient in salads, soups, main courses, and sauces, and is often used by renowned chefs to create new flavor profiles.

Interesting Facts

Americans love garlic. About 10% of people eat it raw, and only half of them feel embarrassed to kiss afterward!

1. Garlic becomes sweet when fried or cooked with sugar.
2. In ancient civilizations, garlic was used as currency in trade transactions.
3. Throughout history, garlic has been known for its protective properties, believed to ward off vampires and protect girls from evil spirits.
4. Garlic has numerous health benefits: it lowers blood pressure, normalizes cholesterol levels, boosts the immune system, and reduces inflammation in the body.

Prepare an unusual dish for this holiday: try garlic ice cream, lollipops, candies, or cakes. Add almonds or herbs for an extra twist. While children might not love garlic, adults are often willing to experiment!

When is National Garlic Day in 2025?

National Garlic Day is observed on April 19 each year.

Observations