National Bagel and Lox Day (Jan 15 or Feb 9)
Bagels and lox are a classic combination, bringing together chewy, freshly baked bagels with rich, salty cured salmon.
Whether you enjoy them with cream cheese and capers or as part of a full brunch spread, National Bagel and Lox Day is the perfect excuse to indulge.
Originally celebrated on February 9, the holiday was moved to January 15 to avoid competing with National Pizza Day.
Keep reading to learn more about the history, fun facts, and ways to celebrate this delicious day. Weird holidays in January keep things interesting!
When is National Bagel and Lox Day?
National Bagel and Lox Day is celebrated annually on January 15th.
Before 2018, it was observed on February 9, but Thomas’ Bagels changed the date to bring more attention to the holiday.
Who Invented the Holiday?
There isn’t a single inventor credited with establishing the delicious holiday, but the holiday gained recognition as a way to celebrate the beloved New York-style dish.
The change in date was initiated by Thomas’ Bagels in 2018.
The History of National Bagel and Lox Day
Bagels have a long and rich history, dating back to 14th-century Poland, where they were a staple in Jewish communities.
The chewy, ring-shaped bread made its way to New York City in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe.
The combination of bagels and lox became popular in Jewish delis, especially in New York, where bagel culture flourished.
Lox, derived from the Yiddish word “laks” (meaning salmon), has been a staple in Jewish cuisine for centuries.
Top 5 Facts About Bagels
- Bagels were originally hand-rolled and boiled before being baked to create their signature chewy texture.
- In 1907, New York bagel bakers formed the International Beigel Bakers’ Union to protect their craft.
- The bagel machine was invented in the 1960s, making mass production possible.
- In 1999, Americans spent more on bagels than on donuts for the first time.
- The most popular bagel flavor remains plain, despite the rise of specialty flavors.
Activities to Celebrate the Holiday
- Enjoy a bagel brunch with friends and family, featuring a spread of bagels, lox, cream cheese, capers, onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes. For an added touch, try making a DIY bagel bar with different toppings and spreads.
- Try a new bagel recipe and bake your own fresh bagels at home. Whether you go for classic plain bagels, everything bagels, or a more adventurous flavor, homemade bagels bring a fun challenge to your kitchen.
- Visit a local bagel shop and support small businesses by trying out different bagel varieties and spreads.
- Experiment with toppings, from classic smoked salmon to creative plant-based alternatives, such as cashew-based cream cheese or marinated carrot “lox.”
- Host a bagel taste test, comparing different bagel flavors and toppings to find your favorite combination.
Related Recipes for National Bagel and Lox Day
- New York-Style Bagels – Authentic and chewy bagels just like the ones from NYC.
- Bagels and Lox Breakfast Spread – A quick and easy brunch favorite with fresh lox, cream cheese, and capers.
- Vegan Bagels – Perfect for those looking for a plant-based option with delicious homemade flavors.
- Everything Bagels – Classic bagels with the perfect seasoning blend, a must-have for bagel lovers.
- Bagel Egg Boats – A fun twist on breakfast where hollowed-out bagels are stuffed with scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon.
- Montreal-Style Bagels – A sweeter, denser take on the classic bagel, perfect for those who enjoy a slightly different texture.
- Keto Everything Bagels – A low-carb, grain-free option made with almond flour and seasonings.
- Homemade Whole Wheat Bagels – A healthier option using whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**
Links to Resources
- Everything Bagel Seasoning. The perfect blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt to add a delicious crunch to homemade bagels, avocado toast, and more.
- Bagel Mold. A must-have for baking perfectly round bagels at home, ensuring even shaping and consistent baking results.
- Lox. High-quality, pre-sliced lox perfect for creating the ultimate bagel and lox breakfast or brunch spread.
- Bagel Guillotine. A handy kitchen tool that makes slicing bagels effortless and safe, preventing uneven cuts and minimizing mess.
Related Holidays
- National Pizza Day on February 9th is a day to enjoy all things pizza, from classic cheese to gourmet toppings.
- National Croissant Day on January 30th Celebrate the buttery, flaky perfection of croissants, whether plain, chocolate-filled, or almond-topped.
- Brunch for Lunch Day on the Saturday before Mother’s Day is a day to enjoy the best of breakfast and lunch together, featuring favorites like bagels, eggs, and mimosas.
- International Waffle Day on March 25th is a great day to celebrate waffles in all their forms, from classic Belgian waffles to creative toppings and flavors.
Pin it!
Share this post about Bagel Day on Pinterest!
