National Baklava Day 2023: Activities and Dates

National Baklava Day 2023: What comes to mind when you hear “baklava”? Greek festivals, sweet pastry, honey, and nuts? This Mediterranean confection has been enjoyed for centuries, through invasions, economic woes, and even world wars, so we’re going to plunge into the history of this fascinating dessert on November 17. Learn about local baklava customs, how the ancients created the original versions, and how you can make your own baklava — sticky fingers and all. Opa!

National Baklava Day 2023 Activities

Experience the customs of baklava

Baklava, once a dish so special it was only considered fit for the rich, is popular around the world today. Many countries, including Lebanon, Armenia, Turkey, and Greece have their own regional variations of baklava, and prepare it for festivals and other special occasions. Choose a country whose baklava style you respond to, and adopt one of their festivals or customs for your own pleasure. For example, Muslims in the Balkan region typically prepare baklava during Ramadan, while Christians in the same area make it for Easter and Christmas; for the Easter version, baklava is made with 40 layers of dough to represent the 40 days of Lent.

Attend a Greek, Turkish, or Middle Eastern festival

During this time of the year, there is a multitude of cultural festivals to enjoy, including many where baklava can be found in abundance. A simple Internet search will quickly tell you when the next one is happening near you.

Learn baklava-eating etiquette

Think of the baklava experience in much the same way as tasting a fine wine. First, contemplate the beauty that is baklava on your plate, then pierce it with your fork so that one third of the piece is behind the fork and the other two thirds are facing you. (This should prevent the piece from breaking in half.) Take time to notice the aroma as you lift your baklava-filled fork, slowly take a bite, then savor the taste as it melts on your palate. Cardinal social sin: cutting through the layers of baklava.