10/12/2026
Did You Know? National Gumbo Day
1. Gumbo gets its name from an African word.
The name is widely believed to come from ki ngombo, a West African word for okra, an ingredient traditionally used to thicken gumbo.
2. Native Americans helped shape gumbo.
The Choctaw people contributed filé powder, made from dried and ground sassafras leaves, which adds flavor and helps thicken the dish.
3. Gumbo has been enjoyed for over 200 years.
One of the earliest documented appearances of gumbo was at a Louisiana governor's reception in 1803, although the dish existed before then.
4. Not all gumbo contains meat or seafood.
A traditional variation called gumbo z'herbes is made with leafy greens such as collards, mustard greens, and kale. Some versions are completely meatless.
5. Gumbo is Louisiana's official state cuisine.
In 2004, Louisiana officially designated gumbo as its state cuisine, recognizing the dish's importance to the state's history and culture.
1. Explore Louisiana. “Everything You Need to Know About Louisiana Gumbo.” Louisiana Office of Tourism.
2. PBS. “Gumbo as History.” American Experience.
3. Elie, Lolis Eric. “Best. Gumbo. Ever..” Smithsonian Magazine, June 2012.
4. Explore Louisiana Editorial Team. “Louisiana Gumbo: A Guide to the Iconic Dish.” Louisiana Office of Tourism.
5. National Today. “National Gumbo Day — October 12.
