National Rhubarb Pie Day

National Rhubarb Pie Day is a delightful celebration dedicated to one of the most unique and tangy desserts in American cuisine. Observed annually on January 23, this day encourages pie lovers to indulge in the sweet and tart flavors of rhubarb pie, a dish that has roots tracing back to colonial times.

Quick Facts

When is it?: January 23
Tagged as: National Food Holiday
What’s the hashtag?: #RhubarbPieDay
When was it founded?: The first mention of National Rhubarb Pie Day appeared in a horseracing column in London in 2002.
Who founded it?: The specific founder is not documented, but it gained popularity through various food celebrations.

History of National Rhubarb Pie Day

Rhubarb has been cultivated since ancient times, primarily for its medicinal properties. It made its way to England in the 1600s and was later introduced to America by Benjamin Franklin in the 18th century. Over time, rhubarb became a cherished ingredient in pies, particularly in New England, where it flourished. National Rhubarb Pie Day serves to honor this versatile vegetable and its transformation into a beloved dessert.

Timeline

14th Century: Rhubarb is used for medicinal purposes in Asia.
1600s: Rhubarb is cultivated in England.
1772: Benjamin Franklin sends rhubarb seeds from Scotland to Pennsylvania.
2002: The first recorded mention of National Rhubarb Pie Day appears.

Dates by Next Year

Year	Month	Date	Day
2025	January	23	Thursday
2026	January	23	Friday
2027	January	23	Saturday

Observed

National Rhubarb Pie Day is celebrated across the United States, with many people baking their own pies or visiting local bakeries to enjoy this seasonal treat.

Fun Facts About Rhubarb Pie

Rhubarb is technically a vegetable, although it is often treated as a fruit in culinary contexts.
The combination of rhubarb and strawberries is popular, leading to the creation of strawberry-rhubarb pie.
Fresh rhubarb is typically harvested from mid-May to early June, making January an interesting time for this celebration.

Quiz

What type of plant is rhubarb?
When did Benjamin Franklin introduce rhubarb to America?
What is a common pairing with rhubarb in pies?

Answers:

Vegetable
1772
Strawberries

FAQs

What ingredients are needed for rhubarb pie?

Rhubarb pie typically includes rhubarb, sugar, lemon juice, and a pastry crust.

Can you freeze rhubarb pie?

Yes, rhubarb pie can be frozen for up to 6-8 months.

Do you need to peel rhubarb before using it in pies?

No, peeling is not necessary unless the stalks are particularly thick or tough.

Importance of National Rhubarb Pie Day

This day highlights the joy of baking and enjoying homemade desserts while also encouraging people to appreciate seasonal ingredients. It serves as a reminder of the culinary traditions that connect us to our history and culture.