7 Flavorful National Holidays: Venezuela is a country that celebrates life with sazón (seasoning)—a place where food is not just a necessity but an experience that connects us to our roots, our families, and our identity. Our gastronomy is a melting pot formed by Indigenous, African, European, and even Asian influences. And as Venezuelans, we love to celebrate everything, especially our food!
It’s no surprise, then, that we have specific dates dedicated to our most iconic dishes. Let’s discover these 7 Flavorful National Holidays.
1. MAY 22: NATIONAL VENEZUELAN GASTRONOMY DAY
Established in 2008 by the Venezuelan Academy of Gastronomy, this date honors the richness of our diverse kitchen. From the fresh coastal flavors to the hearty Andean stews, this day is about preserving our recipes.
“Our cuisine is a legacy we must protect. Every dish tells a story,” says renowned chef Helena Ibarra.
2. FOURTH SATURDAY OF AUGUST: WORLD CACHAPA DAY
Created in 2022, this day coincides with the corn harvest season. It celebrates the cachapa, a corn pancake that encapsulates the essence of the Venezuelan countryside. Whether thick and fluffy with queso de mano or served with cochino frito, it is a tribute to our Indigenous roots.
3. OCTOBER 21: TEQUEÑO DAY
This date honors the beloved cheese stick that has conquered the world. October 21st was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of its birthplace: the city of Los Teques. Today, you can find gourmet versions filled with guava, chocolate, or even chistorra.
4. APRIL 8: INTERNATIONAL EMPANADA DAY
While this holiday celebrates all Latin American empanadas (including Colombian and Argentine), Venezuela has plenty of reasons to join. From the wheat-based Andean empanadas to the corn-based coastal versions filled with fresh seafood, it’s a “piece of Venezuela” in every bite.
5. JULY 17: WORLD HALLACA DAY (CELEBRATED IN COLOMBIA)
Initiated in 2018 by the Venezuelan diaspora in Colombia, this day keeps the tradition of the hallaca alive outside of the typical Christmas season. It’s a symbol of family unity and cultural resilience for those who have found a new home across the border.
6. NOVEMBER: ZULIAN PATACÓN MONTH
Since 2015, November has been dedicated to the patacón to highlight its versatility. Originating from the Zulia region, this fried, flattened green plantain serves as a base for beef, chicken, cheese, and salsas. It’s a true symbol of Zulian ingenuity.
7. SECOND SATURDAY OF SEPTEMBER: WORLD AREPA DAY
Coming up in just two weeks! Born in 2012 from the “Arepazo Mundial” in Madrid, this celebration has spread to over 50 cities, with Miami being one of its major epicenters. The arepa is the ultimate symbol of the Venezuelan people: versatile, simple, and resilient.
CELEBRATING AT PANNA
Celebrating Venezuelan gastronomy is celebrating our identity. Each of these dishes represents a piece of who we are as a nation. At PANNA New Food Latino, we are proud to be part of these traditions, offering authentic flavors that make you feel right at home.
Which of these “flavorful holidays” are you celebrating next? Visit us at PANNA and let’s toast to our heritage!
