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National Meatball Day

A food observance on March 9 celebrating meatballs and their global culinary history, from Italian spaghetti and meatballs to Swedish meatballs and countless cultural variations.

Tuesday

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMarch 9

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYMeat

ORIGIN

Community Origin

FOUNDING ENTITY

Not documented

FIRST OBSERVED

Not documented

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

Multiple reputable sources state that the origin is unknown, describing it as an unofficial food holiday with no records of its establishment.

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INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate National Meatball Day on March 9 by doing the best thing possible with them... eating them! Meatballs have been around for centuries, with recipes dating back to ancient Rome. Today, meatballs are enjoyed all over the world and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. From classic Italian-style beef or pork meatballs to vegan versions made from quinoa and beans, there's something for everyone!

DEALS & OFFERS

2026’s deals have wrapped

See who celebrated this year, and browse offers from past years.

Offers wrapped for 2026

National Meatball Day ran on March 9. Here’s who celebrated with offers this year.

4 brands offered a deal this year

Sheetz, Inc.

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings

Subway

PrimoHoagies

See past offers

TIMELINE

National Meatball Day Timeline

Meatballs in Roman Cookbook

Meatball recipes are found for the first time in an ancient Roman cookbook named "Apicius".

Arab Cuisine Influence

The Arabs introduced meatballs, known as "kofta," to Persia, North Africa, and eventually Moorish Spain.

Swedish Meatballs Origins

The first written recipes for Swedish meatballs, known as "kottbullar," appeared, a classic dish in Sweden today.

Italian-American Migration

Italian immigrants brought their traditional meatball recipes with them to America during the great wave of immigration.

Meatball Sub Introduction

The meatball submarine sandwich, or "meatball sub," gained popularity within the American fast food industry.

First National Meatball Day

National Meatball Day was celebrated for the first time in the United States on March 9.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Meatball Day

Make your own meatballs

Mix together ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley and eggs until everything is combined. Roll the mixture into balls and bake them in the oven for about 25 minutes.

HIT

Hit up a local eatery

Support a local restaurant and enjoy some delicious homemade meatballs. Whether you choose Italian, Swedish, Greek or Mexican, there are so many different types and flavors of meatballs to explore.

CREATE

Create a meatball recipe book

Take the time to research different recipes for classic and creative meatballs. Gather as many as you can find online or from friends and family, create your own cookbook filled with all your favorite recipes.

Go to a Meatball Fest

Check out a Meatball Festival in your city or surrounding area. You'll get to sample tons of different recipes all at once! Plus you'll get to meet some new people who share your same love of meatballs.

THROW

Throw a Meatball Party

Invite some friends over for an evening of celebration and delicious food! Have everyone bring their favorite recipes or create some yourself for everyone to enjoy.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Meatball Day

Meatballs can go with almost anything

Whether they're served in a classic Italian dish like marinara sauce over pasta or used to make sandwiches and sliders, meatballs make a great addition to just about any meal. Make sure to serve your guests generous portions of these protein-packed dumplings - they won't regret it!

Meatballs are delicious

Meatballs can be made with any type of meat, from pork to beef to turkey. They have a juicy, savory flavor and are a crowd pleaser whether served as an appetizer or part of a main course. Meatballs can also be used in recipes such as spaghetti and meatball casserole for added flavor and texture!

Meatballs are easy to make

Making meatballs at home is actually quite simple! All you need is ground meat of your choice, some herbs, spices, and the right technique - it's that easy! Plus, you can mold them into any shape or size you want, so even if you don't think you're up for making something complicated like a lasagna, just prepare some tasty homemade meatballs instead!