What Day Is It?National Nachos Day falls on November 6 every year. It is an unofficial fun day in the United States that celebrates a snack named after a real person: Ignacio "Nacho" Anaya.
Who invented nachos?
The usual story takes place in the 1940s, most often dated to 1943, in Piedras Negras, a Mexican town across the border from Eagle Pass, Texas. A group of visitors from the Texas side came into the restaurant where Ignacio Anaya worked and asked for a snack. With the kitchen short of options, he cut tortillas into triangles, added cheese and sliced jalapeños, and warmed them. The plate became known as "Nacho’s special."
The details vary between tellings, including the exact year and the name of the restaurant. The man behind the dish is not in much doubt, though: "Nacho" is a common nickname for Ignacio.
Two nacho days
November 6 is the date used by American holiday calendars. Piedras Negras has its own celebration, and October 21 is marked as the International Day of the Nacho.
Ways to mark the day
- Make the original: tortilla chips, melted cheese and jalapeños, nothing else.
- Set up a toppings bar for a movie night.
- Try a version from your own kitchen, with whatever cheese you have at home.
Nacho Day dates
| Year | Date | Day of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | November 6 | Friday |
| 2027 | November 6 | Saturday |
| 2028 | November 6 | Monday |
Frequently asked questions
Is Nacho Day on November 6 or October 21?
Both exist. National Nachos Day in the United States is November 6, and the International Day of the Nacho is October 21.
Why are they called nachos?
They are named after Ignacio "Nacho" Anaya, who is credited with making the first plate in Piedras Negras, Mexico.