In Spanish cuisine, tapas are appetizers that can be served hot or cold and are often enjoyed as a snack or combined to create a full meal. They originated as food served in bars and restaurants in Spain to accompany alcoholic beverages and have since evolved into a cuisine that is enjoyed worldwide.

The name “tapas” comes from the Spanish verb “tapar,” which means “to cover” or “to top.” Tapas have been so successful that they have even reached Mexico and Central America. In Mexico, they are known as “Botanas,” and in Central America, as “Bocas.” Consequently, there is now an international holiday known as World Tapas Day, observed annually on June 15th.

The History of World Tapas Day

Tapas can be traced back to 19th-century Spain when bartenders would offer their patrons small slices of bread to place over their sweet wines to prevent fruit flies from getting into the glasses.

Over time, this practice evolved, with some bartenders also serving salty meats and cheeses to encourage patrons to drink more. Eventually, this led to the serving of appetizers and snacks with drinks, marking the beginning of the evolution of tapas—a cuisine that is now more sophisticated and well-known outside of Spain than ever before. Although tapas have been around for over 100 years, World Tapas Day did not emerge as a holiday until 2010.

It was then that the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment established the holiday to promote and celebrate Spanish cuisine globally. Tapas culture is significant, and this holiday aimed to spread that passion to those who had not yet experienced it.

Thus, this holiday is celebrated not only in Spain but also in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the U.K., and other countries where tapas are served and enjoyed.

Observing World Tapas Day

The best way to observe World Tapas Day is, naturally, by enjoying tapas. While there are too many different types to list here, some favorites that pair well with this holiday include Calamares (rings of battered squid), Croquetas, Fried Cheese, and Tortillas de Camarones (shrimp fritters). All of these are excellent choices for the holiday. Just be sure to accompany them with a good Spanish wine and share your experience using the hashtag #WorldTapasDay online.