National Split Pea Soup Week
National Split Pea Soup Week begins on November 8 and celebrates a comforting soup made from dried peas. It’s a good time to cook a pot at home, try a new version, or learn why this humble dish has remained a familiar meal in many kitchens.
How the week started
The exact origin of National Split Pea Soup Week isn’t well documented, so it’s best understood as an observance honoring split pea soup rather than a holiday with a confirmed founder or starting year. November 8 is listed as the beginning of the week, but its reason for being chosen isn’t documented.
The soup itself has a much longer history than the observance. Dried peas are practical pantry ingredients: they store well, and they soften into a hearty meal when simmered with liquid. Recipes differ from place to place and from family to family, so there isn’t one single version that defines the dish.
What makes split pea soup special
Split peas are dried peas that have been hulled and split. Green and yellow varieties are both used in soup. As they cook, they break down and thicken the broth, often creating a smooth, substantial texture without needing cream. Some cooks blend the soup; others leave it rustic, with pieces of vegetables and other ingredients still visible.
Common additions include onion, carrot, celery, herbs, and stock or water. In some recipes, ham or another smoked meat adds a savory flavor; vegetarian versions can be made with vegetable stock and seasonings instead. A squeeze of lemon, a little vinegar, or fresh herbs at the end can brighten a rich bowl. The best approach is to season gradually, since broth and smoked ingredients may already contain salt.
Split pea soup is also adaptable to what’s on hand. A leftover ham bone can flavor a pot, while potatoes or extra vegetables can make it more substantial. Dried peas generally need simmering until tender, and cooking time can vary by recipe and by the age of the peas. Check the package instructions, and add more liquid if the soup becomes thicker than you like.
Ways to celebrate
- Make a pot from scratch. Rinse the split peas, then simmer them with chopped onion, carrot, celery, and stock or water until tender. Stir now and then so the peas don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
- Try a version that suits your table. Use vegetable stock for a meat-free soup, or add ham if you enjoy its smoky flavor. Adjust herbs and seasonings to taste.
- Serve it with something crisp or crusty. Bread, crackers, or a simple green salad pair nicely with the soup’s thick texture.
- Cook extra and store leftovers safely. Cool the soup promptly, refrigerate it in a covered container, and reheat it thoroughly. It may thicken as it sits, so loosen it with a little water or stock.
- Share the recipe. Ask a relative or friend how they make split pea soup, then compare ingredients and techniques. A small change, such as a different herb or a splash of lemon, can make the next pot your own.
When is National Split Pea Soup Week?
National Split Pea Soup Week: Every year on the second Sunday of November.
| Year | Date | Day of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | November 8 – November 14 | Sunday – Saturday |
| 2027 | November 14 – November 20 | Sunday – Saturday |
| 2028 | November 12 – November 18 | Sunday – Saturday |
| 2029 | November 11 – November 17 | Sunday – Saturday |
| 2030 | November 10 – November 16 | Sunday – Saturday |
Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on November 4, 2026 · Last updated November 4, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
When is National Split Pea Soup Week in 2026?
National Split Pea Soup Week is on Sunday, November 8, 2026. After that, it falls on Sunday, November 14, 2027. Every year on the second Sunday of November.
Is National Split Pea Soup Week a public holiday?
No. National Split Pea Soup Week is an observance, not an official public holiday, so schools and businesses stay open as usual.
What is National Split Pea Soup Week?
National Split Pea Soup Week honors split pea soup, a hearty dish made with dried green or yellow peas. The peas thicken the broth as they cook, and recipes often include vegetables, herbs, stock, or smoked meat.
How did National Split Pea Soup Week start?
The exact origin of National Split Pea Soup Week isn't well documented, and no confirmed founder or starting year is known. The reason November 8 was chosen as its beginning isn't documented either.
How can I celebrate National Split Pea Soup Week?
Make a pot of soup by simmering rinsed split peas with onion, carrot, celery, and stock or water until tender. Add ham or use vegetable stock, then serve it with bread, crackers, or a green salad.
