International Waffle Day on March 25 and celebrates waffles, their history, and a surprising religious holiday. A holiday that is best celebrated by eating waffles is our kind of holiday. Unsurprisingly the day has become a bit of a hit. It was originally celebrated in Sweden but now eager stomachs all over the world embrace International Waffle Day. Plug in your waffle maker and tuck into some mouth-watering treats.
History of International Waffle Day
Waffles came to Sweden near the early 1600s and quickly spread to nearby lands. They were often eaten with jams and fruits, establishing themselves as a beloved treat to be eaten at all times of the day. The event in celebration of them was called Våffeldagen which sounded remarkably close to the religious Vårfrudagen and the traditions merged.
As time passed a wider variety of waffles emerged. They became sweeter in the 1700s after more butter and sugar were added to the recipes. In 1839, the Belgian waffle was created much thicker than regular waffles and with deeper grids. The Belgian variation was more filling and held more jam and cream too.
International Waffle Day itself is the result of a mispronunciation that brought two holidays together. In Sweden, this Waffle Day is known as Våffeldagen, which sounded a lot like Vårfrudagen (Our Lady Day), a day that celebrated the Virgin Mary’s conception. Because of this lingual connection, it became customary for Swedish families to celebrate Vårfrudagen with waffles on Our Lady Day. That’s how International Waffle Day ended up being celebrated on March 25.
International Waffle Day timeline
- 2000s
Waffle Takeover
International Waffle Day is a worldwide sensation where people make or eat waffles and share their love on social media.
- 1839
The Waffle Evolves
Waffles become sweeter and the Belgian waffle is created.
- 1600s
Waffle Invasion
Waffles come to Sweden and the similar-sounding Våffeldagen and Vårfrudagen unites the two holidays.
- 1400s
Our Lady Day
Vårfrudagen celebrates the archangel Gabriel telling the Virgin Mary that she would be the mother of Jesus Christ.
International Waffle Day FAQs
Is there a waffle day?
Yes, International Waffle Day is on March 25.
How long until waffles expire?
Waffles that are properly stored can last 3-4 months.
Is there a National Waffle Day?
Yes, there is also a National Waffle Day on August 24.
Five Facts About International Waffle Day
Sweet Swedes
Swedes are known for having a sweet tooth with their numerous candies and pastries.
Brussels to Belgium
Belgian waffles were known originally as Brussels waffles
Pilgrimage
The Pilgrims brought the first waffles to America.
L’Eggo the Eggo
Eggo Waffles were available for consumer purchase in 1953.
Presidential waffles
Thomas Jefferson came back from France with the first waffle irons.
How To Celebrate International Waffle Day
Do it like the Swedes
If you can’t go to Sweden then try the next best thing and make traditional Swedish waffles! Use a heart-shaped waffle maker, pair it with your favorite jam and whipped cream, and top it all with some fresh berries. The end result is that authentic feel.
Dine out at a waffle house
Dine at your local waffle house and eat as many waffles as your stomach will allow. Many waffle houses have deals for International Waffle Day so it’s worth doing your research beforehand.
Play a waffle app
On “My Waffle Maker,” you can create, decorate, and eat sweet dessert pastries in the digital world. It's an addictive game and is great fun to play with friends.
Why We Love International Waffle Day
You can appreciate Swedish culture
Våffeldagen gives you a chance to celebrate Sweden and its traditions. Our Lady Day has many implications when it comes to Scandinavian history and so does all of their Marian Feast Days. These days celebrate her birth, her assumption into heaven, her motherhood of Jesus, her queenship, and others. These stories give you a deeper understanding of the country.
Variety is the spice of life
There are so many variations of waffles to try that you’ll never run out of ideas. From Hong Kong egg waffles that are cooked in a special mold to waffles from Mexico that use corn, cilantro, and feta, topped with an egg and salsa verde, waffles are a treat that is to be experimented with.
Waffles bring everyone together
If they’re good enough for Leslie Knope from “Parks and Recreation” they’re good enough for us. The comedic deputy director says that friends, waffles, and work are the most important things in life. There’s nothing like gathering around and having a nice, warm breakfast with your loved ones with waffles as the main course.
Also on Tue Mar 25, 2025...
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