National Peppermint Patty Day celebrates the beloved chocolate-covered peppermint confection known for its crisp, refreshing center enrobed in dark chocolate.
Quick Facts
When is it?: February 11th annually
Tagged as: Food & Drink, Snacks & Desserts
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalPeppermintPattyDay
When was it founded?: Not documented
Who founded it?: Origin unclear
History
The peppermint patty’s story began around 1920 when Henry Kessler founded the York Cone Company in York, Pennsylvania. The company initially sold ice cream cones before venturing into candy-making. The York Peppermint Pattie, introduced in 1940, distinguished itself with a firmer, crisper texture compared to its softer, gooier competitors.
Timeline
• 1920: York Cone Company founded
• 1940: York Peppermint Pattie introduced
• 1972: Peter Paul acquires York Cone Company
• 1975: National distribution begins
• 1988: Hershey acquires the brand
• 2009: Production moves to Mexico
2025 Dates
| Year | Month | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February | Tuesday, 11 |
| 2026 | February | Wednesday, 11 |
| 2027 | February | Thursday, 11 |
| 2028 | February | Friday, 11 |
| 2029 | February | Sunday, 11 |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by enjoying their favorite peppermint patties, whether store-bought or homemade. The day honors both the classic York variety and other chocolate-covered mint confections.
Fun Facts About Peppermint Patties
• The original quality test involved snapping the patty in half
• Early cream patties came in flavors like wintergreen, lemon, and pistachio
• The Peanuts character Peppermint Patty wasn’t named after the York candy
• York’s famous “Get the Sensation” campaign began in the 1970s
Quiz
- In what year was York Peppermint Pattie introduced?
- Who founded the York Cone Company?
- What was the company’s original product?
(Answers: 1940, Henry Kessler, Ice cream cones)
FAQs
Q: What makes York Peppermint Patties unique?
A: Their firm, crisp texture versus softer competitors
Q: Where were they originally made?
A: York, Pennsylvania
Importance of the Day
This celebration highlights an iconic American candy that has remained popular for over 80 years, representing innovation in confectionery and brand longevity.
Related Holidays
• National Chocolate Day
• National Candy Day
• National Mint Day
• National Dark Chocolate Day