A vibrant, shimmering bowl of colorful jello in various layers, surrounded by fresh fruit, elegantly arranged on a rustic wooden table, bathed in soft, natural light

National Eat Your Jello Day is a delightful celebration dedicated to the wiggly, jiggly dessert that has been an American household staple since the 1800s. This fun holiday encourages everyone to enjoy this beloved gelatin treat in all its colorful glory.

Quick Facts

When is it: July 12th annually
Tagged as: Food & Drink, Snacks & Desserts
What’s the hashtag: #EatYourJelloDay
When was it founded: Unknown specific date
Who founded it: Origins unclear

History of Jello

Jello’s journey began in 1897 when Pearl Bixby Wait trademarked it in New York. The original formula was later sold to Orator Francis Woodward for $450. The dessert gained popularity through innovative marketing strategies, including door-to-door salesmen distributing free samples at fairs and church socials.

Timeline

  • 1897: Jello trademark registered in New York
  • 1930: Introduction of lime flavor
  • 1950s: Invention of Jello shots
  • 2001: Utah declares Jello as official state snack
  • 2024: Still remains America’s favorite gelatin dessert

Dates by Next Year

YearMonth and DateDay
2025July 12Saturday
2026July 12Sunday
2027July 12Monday

How It’s Observed

People celebrate by making homemade Jello creations, hosting Jello-themed parties, creating Jello art, and participating in Jello-making contests. Many also experiment with different flavors and creative recipes.

Fun Facts About Jello

  • Jello is the world’s largest-selling prepared dessert
  • More than 450 million packages are sold annually
  • Gelatin comes from collagen extracted from animal bones
  • The word gelatin comes from Latin “gelatus” meaning “jellied, frozen”
  • Early gelatin desserts were symbols of wealth due to lengthy preparation

Quiz

  1. When was Jello first trademarked?
  2. Which state made Jello its official snack?
  3. What year was lime Jello introduced?
    -(Answers: 1897, Utah, 1930)

FAQs

Q: What gives Jello its signature wiggle?
A: Gelatin protein gives Jello its distinctive texture.

Q: Can Jello be made sugar-free?
A: Yes, sugar-free versions are available.

Q: How long does it take Jello to set?
A: Typically 4 hours in a refrigerator.

Related

  • National Ice Cream Pie Day
  • National Devil’s Food Cake Day
  • National Dessert Day
  • World Gelatin Day