A mouthwatering slice of Detroit-style pizza, perfectly golden crust, gooey cheese, rich tomato sauce, fresh basil, and vibrant toppings, elegantly displayed on a rustic wooden table

National Detroit Style Pizza Day is celebrated annually to honor the unique square-cut pizza style that originated in Detroit. This day not only showcases the deliciousness of Detroit-style pizza but also recognizes its cultural significance and the history behind it.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: June 23
  • Tagged as: National Detroit Style Pizza Day
  • What’s the hashtag?: #DetroitStylePizzaDay
  • When was it founded?: 2021
  • Who founded it?: Buddy’s Pizza

History of National Detroit Style Pizza Day

Detroit-style pizza has its roots in the post-World War II era, specifically in 1946 when Gus Guerra introduced this unique style at Buddy’s Rendezvous. The pizza features a thick, airy crust baked in steel pans borrowed from the automotive industry, with toppings layered in a distinctive manner. In 2011, June 23 was officially declared “Buddy’s Pizza Day” by the city of Detroit, later evolving into National Detroit Style Pizza Day to commemorate its 75th anniversary.

Timeline

  • 1946: First square-pan pizza made at Buddy’s Rendezvous.
  • 2011: June 23 proclaimed “Buddy’s Pizza Day” by former Mayor Dave Bing.
  • 2021: National Detroit Style Pizza Day established to celebrate the pizza’s legacy.

Dates by Next Year

YearMonthDateDay
2025June23Monday
2026June23Tuesday
2027June23Wednesday
2028June23Friday
2029June23Saturday

Observed

National Detroit Style Pizza Day is observed by pizzerias across the nation, particularly those specializing in this unique style. Many establishments participate by offering special deals, promotions, and events that celebrate this culinary delight.

Fun Facts About Detroit Style Pizza

  • The cheese is spread all the way to the edges of the pan, creating a crispy caramelized crust.
  • The pizza is typically topped with pepperoni and finished with a layer of tomato sauce on top.
  • Detroit-style pizza has gained popularity beyond Michigan, with many restaurants across the U.S. adopting this style.

Quiz

  1. What year was National Detroit Style Pizza Day founded?
  2. What is the signature feature of Detroit-style pizza crust?
  3. Which city is recognized as the birthplace of this pizza style?

Answers:

  1. 2021
  2. Thick and airy
  3. Detroit

FAQs

What makes Detroit-style pizza unique?

Detroit-style pizza is known for its thick crust, square shape, and unique layering of toppings, which includes cheese all the way to the edges for a crispy finish.

Can I find Detroit-style pizza outside of Michigan?

Yes, many pizzerias across the United States now serve Detroit-style pizza, reflecting its growing popularity.

Importance of National Detroit Style Pizza Day

This day celebrates not only a beloved food but also highlights the cultural heritage of Detroit as a culinary hub. It fosters community engagement and supports local businesses while also raising awareness for charitable causes.

Related Topics

  • History of American pizza styles
  • Popular pizza toppings and combinations
  • The rise of regional pizza trends across the U.S.