National Fudge Day celebrates the beloved confectionery that originated as a delightful accident when someone “fudged” a batch of caramels. This sweet treat has evolved into countless flavors and variations, becoming a cherished part of American candy-making tradition.
Quick Facts
When is it?: June 16th annually
Tagged as: Food Holiday, Sweet Celebration
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalFudgeDay
When was it founded?: Late 19th century
Who founded it?: No specific founder; emerged from American confectionery tradition
History of National Fudge Day
The story begins in Baltimore, where the first documented sale of fudge occurred in 1886 for 40 cents per pound. The treat gained popularity through women’s colleges like Vassar, where students would make it late at night. Mackinac Island in Michigan later became known as the fudge capital of the world, with over a dozen fudge shops on its tiny 4.35-square-mile area.
Timeline
- 1886: First documented fudge sale in Baltimore
- 1887: Murdick’s Candy Kitchen opens on Mackinac Island
- 1890: Vassar student makes 30 pounds for Senior Auction
- 1921: First fudge shops establish on Mackinac Island
- 2010: World record set for largest fudge slab (5,760 pounds)
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 16 | Monday |
| 2026 | June 16 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | June 16 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | June 16 | Friday |
| 2029 | June 16 | Saturday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by making homemade fudge, visiting local candy shops, or hosting fudge-tasting parties. Many participate in fudge-making contests or share their favorite recipes with friends and family.
Fun Facts About Fudge
- Mackinac Island produces over 10,000 pounds of fudge daily during peak season
- First Lady Mamie Eisenhower had her own famous recipe called “Million-Dollar Fudge”
- Properly stored fudge can last up to a year when frozen
- The world’s largest fudge slab contained 705 pounds of butter
Quiz
- Where was the first documented fudge sale?
- How much did fudge cost per pound in 1886?
- Which island is known as the fudge capital?
(Answers: 1. Baltimore 2. 40 cents 3. Mackinac Island)
FAQs
Q: Can fudge be frozen?
A: Yes, it can be frozen for up to a year.
Q: What’s the most popular fudge flavor?
A: Chocolate remains the most popular flavor.
Importance of National Fudge Day
This day celebrates not just a beloved confection but also preserves an important piece of American culinary history and tradition. It promotes local businesses and brings communities together through shared love of this sweet treat.
Related
- National Candy Month
- National Chocolate Day
- National Dessert Day
- World Chocolate Day
- National Ice Cream Day