International Falafel Day - International Falafel Day is here! Falafel fans are overjoyed to learn that there is a day dedicated to their favorite chickpea snack.

International Falafel Day 2025 – June 12, 2025

On International Falafel Day, which takes place on June 12, fans of the healthy treat gather. It’s also a day to encourage folks who haven’t tried falafel to do so. For those who don’t know what it is, falafel is a deep-fried ball made from ground chickpeas. It’s occasionally cooked using fava beans. Onions and spices, such as cumin or coriander, may also be included, depending on your preferences. Falafel can be eaten on its own or put into a pita for a wrap. Falafel is a vegan favorite since it contains no meat or dairy.

History of International Falafel Day

The origins of the falafel concept are a point of contention. There is a tale that was first popularized in Egypt when the Coptic Christians ate a fava bean variant during Lent as early as the 4th century, although there is no documented proof for this. Falafel appears to have originated with fava beans. Chickpeas are unlikely to have entered the scene until later, once the dish had traveled further north. Some speculate that this supper may have originated in Pharaonic Egypt, although no one knows for sure.Falafel is a popular street snack in the Middle East. It’s frequently served as part of a meze, which is a collection of tiny plates of food. Falafel was first served in North America in a few Jewish eateries and neighborhoods. It acquired popularity among North Americans in 1970, and it quickly became one of the most popular street foods. Falafel is now available in many eateries as a meat-free choice for vegetarians. In the twentieth century, the falafel became well-known in Germany.Falafel is now a popular dish served in many nations throughout the world. Falafel has become popular among vegetarians and vegans as a meat-free alternative to fast food, and it is also sold in health food stores as packaged mixes. In 2012, the co-founder of Innovation Israel created International Falafel Day. Regardless of where this meal is thought to have originated, International Falafel Day is the ideal day to celebrate it.

International Falafel Day timeline

1941
The First Record of Falafel

Falafel is a name that is used all over the world and is first recorded in English in this year.

1970s
Falafel Locations in North America

During these years, Falafel can only be found in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Jewish communities and restaurants in North America.

2012
International Falafel Day

The co-founder of Innovation Israel creates International Falafel Day.

2022
The 10th Anniversary Celebration

International Falafel Day marks its 10th year of celebration in June.

International Falafel Day FAQs

Is it possible to freeze falafel?

The falafel can be frozen before or after frying.

What is the accompaniment to falafel?

Falafel is frequently served with hummus and tahini sauce by Middle Eastern caterers.

Falafel is what language?

It’s Arabic.

International Falafel Day Activities

  1. Share on social media

    Enjoy falafels today and spread love. Use the hashtag #InternationalFalafelDay to share your experience with Falafel on this day through social media.

  2. Visit falafel restaurants

    Today, falafels are recommended for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Visit restaurants that specialize in Middle Eastern cuisine and order the falafel special. You can dine alone or with friends.

  3. Make falafels

    If you can't get falafel at a nearby restaurant, you can try making it on your own. It's surprisingly easy to mix up a variety of excellent falafel variations. The Egyptian recipe will solely include fava beans, but in the West, chickpeas are more commonly used. Regardless, either version will be delicious. You may take it a step further by using more ingredients.

5 Mouthwatering Facts About Falafels

  1. Falafel is a national cuisine

    Egypt, Palestine, and Israel all regard falafel as their national cuisine.

  2. Yemeni Jews popularized falafels

    Falafel was first popularized by Yemeni Jews in the 1950s.

  3. The world's largest falafel

    In 2012, one of the hotels in Amman made the world's largest falafel disc, weighing approximately 165 pounds.

  4. The meaning of ‘falafel’

    ‘Falafel’ is thought to derive from the Arabic word ‘falfil,’ which means "long pepper.

  5. McFalafel is created

    Falafel became so popular that McDonald's offered a ‘McFalafel’ as part of its breakfast menu in Egypt for a time.

Why We Love International Falafel Day

  1. Anyone can eat a falafel

    Falafel is an all-inclusive yet delicious treat. It can be eaten by vegetarians, vegans, and non-vegans alike. Falafels can be made according to an individual's specifications or the traditional recipes.

  2. Falafels are a nutritious snack.

    Falafels produced from chickpeas include a significant amount of soluble fiber, protein, and complex carbs, and are low in fat and cholesterol. They're also chock-full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can be consumed at any hour of the day.

  3. Falafels can be eaten anytime

    Falafels are commonly consumed as snacks at any time of day, from breakfast to dinner, and even at midnight. Falafel stands and cafes may be found throughout Qatar, and they are open 24 hours a day to serve hungry clients.

International Falafel Day dates

Year Date Day
2023 June 12 Monday
2024 June 12 Wednesday
2025 June 12 Thursday
2026 June 12 Friday
2027 June 12 Saturday