National Waffle Day

National Waffle Day in the United States is celebrated every year on August 24. This holiday honors the beloved American waffle, which differs from traditional European waffles. While European waffles are typically thin and crispy, made from a yeast-based dough, American waffles are thicker, square, and have a deep grid pattern resembling honeycombs. They are made with a batter leavened with baking soda and cooked in a special appliance called a waffle iron.

History

National Waffle Day is celebrated on August 24 because this is the date when Cornelius Swarthout of Troy, New York, was granted the first U.S. patent for a waffle iron in 1869. Swarthout’s invention featured two metal plates with handles that enclosed the batter and could be held over a stove or fire. The popularity of waffles in America soared after this, and the American-style waffle became a classic dessert and breakfast dish.

Interesting Facts

• The Waffle House restaurant chain, famous for serving waffles around the clock, opened its first location in Georgia in 1955.
• The waffle cone for ice cream was invented accidentally at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis when an ice cream vendor ran out of bowls and teamed up with a waffle maker next to his booth.
• The first electric waffle iron was manufactured by General Electric and appeared on the market in 1911, making it even easier for families to enjoy homemade waffles.
• In 1971, Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman used his wife’s waffle iron to experiment with rubber shoe soles, which led to the development of Nike’s signature lightweight running shoes.

How to Take Part

To celebrate National Waffle Day, you can buy a waffle iron and try making homemade waffles, experimenting with different batters and toppings. Treat your family and friends, visit a local diner, or share your creations on social media with the hashtag #NationalWaffleDay.

When is National Waffle Day in 2025?

National Waffle Day is observed on August 24 each year.

Observations