National Pupusa Day

National Pupusa Day is celebrated in the United States on the second Sunday in November each year. If you haven’t heard of this holiday, get ready for a treat—today is the perfect excuse to enjoy delicious pupusas! You definitely don’t want to miss out.

History

A pupusa is a stuffed corn tortilla that originates from El Salvador and is traditionally served with tomato salsa and curtido (pickled cabbage slaw), though the fillings are truly endless. While most consider El Salvador to be the birthplace of the pupusa, some argue it came from Honduras. Some historians believe pupusas have been prepared for over 2,000 years, though early versions used vegetables as a filling. It wasn’t until around 1570 that meat became a common ingredient. The dish was known mostly at the local level until the 1980s, when Salvadoran immigration to the United States helped popularize pupusas throughout North America.

Interesting Facts

• In 2005, El Salvador officially declared pupusa the national dish.
• Early versions of the dish were highly inventive, with many types of fillings being tried over time.
• In 2007, El Salvador set a record for the world’s largest pupusa, measuring 33 feet wide and 200 feet long at a local fair.
• Pupusas have been named the best street food in New York City by The Guardian.

How to Take Part

To celebrate National Pupusa Day, visit a local restaurant that serves this Salvadoran classic. You might be surprised by how many cozy spots offer fresh pupusas in your city. Or, try making them at home—find a recipe, invite friends and family, and experiment with different fillings. Be sure to snap some photos of your creations and share them on social media!

When is National Pupusa Day in 2025?

National Pupusa Day is observed on the second Sunday of November each year.

Observations