National Pie Day is a delightful celebration dedicated to honoring one of America’s favorite desserts – pie. Whether sweet or savory, this unofficial holiday encourages everyone to indulge in this beloved dish.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: January 23rd annually
- Tagged as: Food Holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalPieDay
- When was it founded?: Mid-1970s
- Who founded it?: Charlie Papazian
History of National Pie Day
The holiday originated when Charlie Papazian, a nuclear engineer in Boulder, Colorado, declared his birthday (January 23) as National Pie Day. In 1986, the American Pie Council officially began sponsoring the celebration, coinciding with Crisco’s 75th anniversary.
Timeline
- 6000 BC: First evidence of pies traced in ancient civilizations
- 1623: Pumpkin pie introduced at Thanksgiving
- 1644: Oliver Cromwell banned pies in England
- 1975: First National Pie Day observed
- 1986: American Pie Council begins sponsorship
Dates for Next Year
| Year | Month | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January | 23 |
| 2026 | January | 23 |
| 2027 | January | 23 |
| 2028 | January | 23 |
| 2029 | January | 23 |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by baking homemade pies, visiting local bakeries, sharing slices with friends and family, or participating in pie-tasting events. Many bakeries offer special discounts or free pie slices on this day.
Fun Facts About Pie
- 186 million pies are sold annually in America
- The largest pie ever baked weighed 10,540kg
- 47% of Americans consider pie comforting
- 1 in 5 Americans have eaten a whole pie alone
- The world’s most expensive pie costs $9,500
Quiz
- Who founded National Pie Day?
- What year did the American Pie Council begin sponsoring it?
- How many Americans have eaten a whole pie alone?
(Answers: 1. Charlie Papazian 2. 1986 3. 1 in 5)
FAQs
- Is this different from Pi Day? Yes, Pi Day (March 14) celebrates the mathematical constant π
- Who brought pies to America? British settlers
- Why do we say “easy as pie”? The phrase emerged in the 19th century
- Are pies popular globally? Yes, with regional variations worldwide
Importance of National Pie Day
This celebration brings people together, preserves culinary traditions, and recognizes pie’s significant role in American culture and history.
Related
- Pi Day (March 14)
- National Dessert Day
- American Pie Week
- National Baking Day
- International Pastry Day