National Candy Cane Day is a festive holiday celebrated on December 26th, right after Christmas. It’s a day dedicated to enjoying one of the most iconic holiday treats—the candy cane. These red and white striped, peppermint-flavored candies have become synonymous with the holiday season, evoking nostalgia and bringing joy to people of all ages.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: December 26th
- Tagged as: Holiday, Food, Christmas
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalCandyCaneDay
- When was it founded?: Exact origins unknown, but the candy cane tradition dates back to the 17th century.
- Who founded it?: The creator of National Candy Cane Day remains unknown.
History of National Candy Cane Day
The candy cane has a long and fascinating history. Originally believed to have been created in Germany in the 1600s, the candy was shaped like a shepherd’s crook as a way to keep children quiet during church services. The treat made its way to America in the mid-19th century, where it became a popular Christmas decoration and snack. Over time, candy canes evolved from being handmade to mass-produced thanks to innovations like the Keller Machine, which allowed for automated production.
Timeline
- 1670: The first candy canes are said to have been created by a German choirmaster.
- 1847: August Imgard decorates his Christmas tree with candy canes in Ohio.
- 1921: The first candy cane-making machine is invented by Brasher O. Westerfield.
- 1950s: Bob McCormack and Gregory Keller revolutionize candy cane production with automated machines.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Dec | 26 | Thursday |
| 2025 | Dec | 26 | Friday |
| 2026 | Dec | 26 | Saturday |
| 2027 | Dec | 26 | Sunday |
| 2028 | Dec | 26 | Tuesday |
Observed Traditions
On National Candy Cane Day, people celebrate by indulging in these sweet treats. Whether you enjoy them straight from the tree or add them to hot chocolate, there are countless ways to partake in the festivities. Some families even use this day to stock up on discounted candy canes for next year!
Fun Facts About Candy Canes
- The average candy cane is about five inches tall.
- Striped red and white candy canes were first introduced in the early 1900s.
- Over 1.76 billion candy canes are produced annually in the U.S.
- The longest candy cane ever made was over 51 feet long!
Quiz
- When is National Candy Cane Day celebrated?
- What shape is a traditional candy cane?
- Who helped automate candy cane production?
- What flavor is most associated with candy canes?
- How tall is the average candy cane?
(Answers: 1. December 26th; 2. A shepherd’s crook; 3. Gregory Keller; 4. Peppermint; 5. Five inches)
FAQs
- How many calories are in a standard candy cane?
A typical six-inch candy cane contains about 50–60 calories per serving. - What are some unusual flavors of candy canes?
Aside from peppermint, you can find flavors like pickle, bacon, and even rotisserie chicken!
Importance of National Candy Cane Day
National Candy Cane Day serves as a reminder of holiday traditions and brings people together through shared memories of Christmas past. It also highlights the cultural significance of this simple yet beloved treat that has become an enduring symbol of holiday cheer.
Related Holidays
- Christmas (December 25)
- Saint Nicholas Day (December 6)
- National Peppermint Bark Day (December 1)