National Cuban Sandwich Day

Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Dec 22, 2023 By Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Originally Published on Feb 18, 2022
Fact-checked by Sakshi Raturi
National Cuban Sandwich Day celebrates America's favorite meal.

Where is National Cuban Sandwich Day celebrated?

This day is celebrated widely in Tampa Bay in Florida and across the US.

Who is National Cuban Sandwich Day celebrated by?

This day is celebrated by everyone who loves a good sandwich.

When did National Cuban Sandwich Day first start?

The first National Cuban Sandwich Day was an event that was launched in 2016 in Tampa Bay.

Who started National Cuban Sandwich Day?

This event was started by Christopher Spata, who originally wanted to see how many news agencies would rush to cover a story of a fictional food holidays celebration.

History And Timeline

The first Cuban sandwich was created with casabe bread ages ago by the Cuban Taino tribe, and instead of pork, they added a bird and fish meat.

As soon as Europeans spread out, pork and ham became available for the diet of the people and were used in sandwiches.

The sandwich was originated in the Key West and was appreciated all across the USA. Later, Miami fell in love with it and introduced it in their area as well. This sandwich has gained a lot of popularity over time.

First Record Of A Cuban Sandwich

The Cuban sandwich that we all love was actually first recognized by Cuban immigrants in Ybor City and West Tampa.

1900

Love For Sandwiches Become International

The Cuban sandwich was mentioned in a travel magazine, calling it a perfect meal made with Swiss cheese, sliced roast pork, ham, and bread.

1934

Sandwich Mentioned In Cookbooks

The popular cookbook, 'The Gasparilla Cookbook,' mentioned the Cuban sandwich in its first and all other editions.

1991

Signature Sandwich Of Tampa

Miami and Tampa competed for the influence of this sandwich across America. The competition was such that Miami listed it as 'Signature sandwich of Tampa.'

2012

A Day Allotted To The Sandwich

Reporter Christopher Spata made up this day and issued a press release which was acknowledged by people all across America, and this day was recognized.

2016

Traditions And Customs

Bake this bread or visit cafes catering to it and enjoy this day with family and friends.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate National Cuban Sandwich Day

Enjoy this day with your perfect Cuban sandwich made with ham/black forest ham, Swiss cheese, roast pork/roast beef, yellow mustard, and the bread lightly buttered switch olive oil, just like the sandwich popularized in Ybor City. The most appealing thing about a Cuban sandwich is the slow-roasted pork; the flavor is remarkable!

You can also celebrate this day with family visits to cafes catering Cuban sandwiches. You can be sure it's going to be better than cheese sandwiches!

Facts And Stats

  • This day was founded as an experiment in 2016 but has been celebrated every year since.
  • Tampa renamed its sandwich 'Tampa's historic Cuban sandwich' in honor of this day.
  • People celebrate National Cuban Sandwich Day by getting together with families and friends and trying new recipes of Cuban bread or Cuban cheese sandwich.

What state is known for Cuban sandwiches?

Tampa Bay, Florida, is known for the best Cuban sandwiches.

Why is National Sandwich Day celebrated?

This day is celebrated in honor of the most special meal throughout the country.

Who originally directed National Cuban Sandwich Day?

The event held every year in Tampa is organized by Victor Padilla and Jolie Gonzalez-Padilla.

Who inspired National Cuban Sandwich Day?

The collective love of the sandwich inspired the day.

What limits celebrating National Cuban Sandwich Day?

There are no limitations to this day.

When was the first-time National Cuban Sandwich Day came into actual reality?

National Cuban Sandwich Day has been celebrated annually since 2012 in Tampa.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Saturday, August 22, 2020
  • Sunday, August 22, 2021
  • Monday, August 22, 2022
  • Tuesday, August 22, 2023
  • Thursday, August 22, 2024

We Want Your Photos!
We Want Your Photos!

We Want Your Photos!

Do you have a photo you are happy to share that would improve this article?
Email your photos

More for You

See All

Written by Rajnandini Roychoudhury

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

Rajnandini Roychoudhury picture

Rajnandini RoychoudhuryBachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

With a Master of Arts in English, Rajnandini has pursued her passion for the arts and has become an experienced content writer. She has worked with companies such as Writer's Zone and has had her writing skills recognized by publications such as The Telegraph. Rajnandini is also trilingual and enjoys various hobbies such as music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading classic British literature. 

Read full bio >
Fact-checked by Sakshi Raturi

Postgraduate Diploma in Management

Sakshi Raturi picture

Sakshi RaturiPostgraduate Diploma in Management

Sakshi has experience in marketing strategy, social media planning, and recruiting industry experts for capstone projects, she has displayed a commitment to enhancing their skills and knowledge. She has won multiple awards, including a Certificate of Appreciation for Creative Writing and a Certificate of Merit for Immaculate Turut, and is always seeking new opportunities to grow and develop.

Read full bio >