If you can smell that mouth-watering aroma wafting from the kitchen, you know something delicious is happening! Every year on April 19th, foodies and chefs across the country come together to celebrate National Garlic Day. This day is all about honoring the "stinking rose"—that tiny but mighty bulb that brings a punch of flavor to almost every dish we love. Whether you’re a fan of creamy garlic mashed potatoes, sizzling garlic shrimp, or a classic slice of buttery garlic bread, today is the perfect excuse to double the cloves in your favorite recipe. Beyond its amazing taste, garlic has been a staple in medicine and folklore for centuries. So, don't worry about your breath today; just grab a head of garlic and let’s get cooking!
🧄 National Garlic Day Countdown
Monday
19
April 2027
Loading...
National Garlic Day Timeline
4000 BC
Garlic Cultivation Begins
Humans are believed to have started cultivating garlic in Central Asia over 6000 years ago, spreading to ancient civilizations like Egypt.
1800s
Spread to America
French, Spanish, and Portuguese colonizers brought garlic to the Americas during the 18th and 19th centuries where it has since become a staple in many dishes.
1940
Garlic as Health Supplement
During World War II, soldiers used garlic as a substitute for antibiotics, highlighting its potential health benefits.
1975
Gilroy Garlic Festival Begins
The popular Gilroy Garlic Festival in California, USA started, celebrating all things garlic with food, entertainment, and crafts every summer.
1990s
National Garlic Day Initiated
In the United States, National Garlic Day is established and first commemorated to celebrate the versatile bulb.
How to Celebrate National Garlic Day
1
Eat garlic
Head to the store and stock up on garlic. Whether you like it in a dish or raw, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it.
2
Grow garlic
Growing your own garlic is a great way to celebrate National Garlic Day. Pick up some garlic bulbs and get started.
3
Make garlic bread
Garlic bread is an easy and delicious way to celebrate National Garlic Day. Just spread butter onto a baguette, add minced garlic, and bake for about 15 minutes.
4
Cook with garlic
Garlic is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many recipes. Try adding garlic to your favorite dishes or create something new.
5
Host a garlic party
Invite friends over and plan a menu focused around garlic dishes. You can also make it a potluck by asking each guest to bring their favorite dish with garlic as the star ingredient.
Why We Love National Garlic Day
A
Garlic has health benefits
Garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to boost your immune system and fight off illnesses like colds and the flu. It also has antibacterial and antioxidant properties which can help to protect your body from damage caused by free radicals.
B
Garlic adds flavor
Garlic is a staple of many dishes and it adds an amazing depth of flavor that can't be beat. Whether you're using it in dressings, marinades, or pizzas, garlic will add a complex savory taste that enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
C
Garlic is easy to use
One of the best things about garlic is how simple and easy it is to incorporate into recipes. It's incredibly versatile so you can use it in almost anything - from stir fry to mashed potatoes! Plus, it only takes minutes to prepare so you can have delicious meals without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Garlic Day?
National Garlic Day is a fun food holiday dedicated to celebrating the history, health benefits, and incredible flavor of garlic in our cooking.
When is next National Garlic Day?
Mark your calendars and get your breath mints ready, because we celebrate the stinking rose on April 19th, a Monday in 2027.
Why do we celebrate National Garlic Day?
We celebrate it to recognize garlic as one of the most versatile ingredients in the world, used for both its culinary punch and its medicinal properties.
How should I celebrate National Garlic Day?
The best way to celebrate is by cooking a meal with extra garlic, trying a new garlic-based recipe, or even visiting a local garlic festival.
Is garlic actually good for your health?
It definitely is! Garlic is known as a superfood that can help boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, and improve heart health.
What are some popular garlic dishes in the United States?
Some of the most loved dishes include garlic knots, roasted garlic cloves, chicken piccata, and the classic garlic butter shrimp.
Why is garlic called the stinking rose?
It’s a poetic nickname that describes garlic's strong, pungent aroma combined with its beautiful, flower-like bulb structure.
How can I get the garlic smell off my hands?
A pro tip is to rub your hands against a stainless steel surface, like your kitchen sink or a steel spoon, under cold water.
Does garlic really keep vampires away?
While it’s just a fun myth from old folklore, people love to joke that eating garlic on this day keeps the spooky monsters at bay.
What is the best way to store fresh garlic?
Keep your garlic bulbs in a cool, dry, and dark place with plenty of air circulation to keep them fresh and flavorful for longer.
Can I grow my own garlic at home?
Yes! Garlic is surprisingly easy to grow in most climates. You usually plant the cloves in the fall and harvest them in mid-summer.
What is the difference between white and purple garlic?
Purple garlic often has a slightly milder flavor and a longer shelf life, while white garlic is the classic, sharp variety found in most grocery stores.
How do you make roasted garlic?
Simply cut the top off a whole bulb, drizzle it with olive oil, wrap it in foil, and bake it until the cloves are soft and spreadable like butter.
Are there any National Garlic Day events near me?
Many restaurants offer special "garlic-heavy" menus on April 19th, and some cities host garlic festivals featuring everything from garlic fries to garlic ice cream!
Top Emojis for National Garlic Day
🧄
The Garlic Superstar
This is the ultimate icon for the day! It’s the best way to show everyone you’re celebrating the star ingredient of the kitchen.
🍞
Garlic Bread Dreams
Everyone loves a warm, buttery slice of garlic bread. Use this to share your favorite side dish or comfort food cravings.
🍝
Pasta Night Vibes
Garlic is the heart and soul of a great Italian meal. This emoji is perfect for tagging your delicious garlic-infused dinner photos.
🍕
Extra Toppings Please
From garlic sauce to roasted cloves, garlic makes every pizza better. Use this when you're ordering a savory slice today.
🧛♂️
No Vampires Allowed
A playful and funny way to joke about how much garlic you’re eating. It’s a classic nod to garlic's legendary protective powers.
😋
The Yummy Face
This is for that feeling when the sautéed garlic hits the pan and smells incredible. It captures the joy of a truly flavorful meal.
🥘
Home Chef Mode
Since garlic is the foundation of so many recipes, this emoji represents the magic of cooking a fresh, garlicky meal from scratch.