National Great American Pot Pie Day celebrates America’s beloved comfort food – the pot pie, a savory dish consisting of a flaky crust filled with meat, vegetables, and gravy.
Quick Facts
- When is it: September 23rd annually
- Tagged as: Food & Drink Holiday
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalGreatAmericanPotPieDay
- When was it founded: 2002
- Who founded it: Marie Callender’s
History of Pot Pies
Pot pies trace their origins to the Neolithic Age, with Greeks and Romans making early versions using meat in open pastry shells. The dish evolved through the Middle Ages, where pies were called “coffins,” and eventually became a staple of American cuisine. The first American pot pie recipe appeared in print in 1785.
Timeline
- Neolithic Age: First pies created
- 1785: First American pot pie recipe published
- 1951: Swanson introduces first frozen chicken pot pie
- 1992: Marie Callender’s launches pot pie line
- 2002: National holiday established
Dates for Next Years
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Sept 23 | Monday |
| 2025 | Sept 23 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | Sept 23 | Wednesday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by making homemade pot pies, enjoying frozen varieties, or dining at restaurants that serve this classic dish. Many share their creations on social media and gather with family for pot pie meals.
Fun Facts About Pot Pies
- Originally, pie crusts weren’t meant to be eaten
- The first frozen pot pies were exclusively chicken
- Pot pies can be made with or without bottom crusts
- They’re considered a distinctly American variation of meat pies
Quiz
- When was the first frozen pot pie introduced?
- Who established National Great American Pot Pie Day?
- What year was the holiday founded?
(Answers: 1951, Marie Callender’s, 2002)
FAQs
Q: What makes it an American pot pie?
A: American pot pies typically feature a flaky top crust and can include various meats and vegetables in gravy.
Q: Can pot pies be vegetarian?
A: Yes, they can be made with vegetables or meat substitutes.
Importance of Pot Pies
Pot pies represent American culinary innovation and the evolution of comfort food. They’ve transformed from a practical preservation method to a beloved family meal that combines tradition with convenience.
Related Holidays
- National Pie Day
- National Chicken Pot Pie Day
- National Baking Day
- Comfort Food Day